Australians are hitting the ground running, walking, dancing, and everything in between, as the 2025 May 50K challenge officially kicks off!
Since 2019, The May 50K has united thousands of Australians each May in a powerful movement to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS).
This national, fitness challenge invites participants to move 50km, 100km or 150km throughout the month of May, whenever and wherever they choose.
Whether it’s solo or in a team, this year’s challenge carries a mighty mission, to raise $2.5 million to help leave MS behind.
With over 33,000 Australians currently living with MS – the most common neurological condition diagnosed in young adults aged 20 to 40 – the funds raised will help us to support vital research into a cure, while also helping improve treatments, education and support services for people living with MS.
May 50k participant Niki Mihas is moving 50km for the month of May to honour her husband Yianni Mihas who lives with MS. Yianni is a client at the MS Society SA & NT and receives ongoing support from the team.
“Doing the May 50k is deeply personal for us”, said Niki.
“Yianni, was diagnosed with MS in 2013, and since then life has been a constant balancing act between managing challenges of the disease and holding onto the joy in everyday moments”.
“Walking each day throughout May is my way of showing up for him, for everything he’s endured and everything we still dream of doing together”.
Not only is Niki doing this for her husband Yianni, but she is also walking to raise funds so that we can one day find a cure for MS.
“It’s also a chance to contribute to a future where MS no longer has the final say”.
With a goal to raise $1,000, it’s safe to say Niki is well and truly on the way to reaching this goal and is excited for May to kick off so she can raise even more money for people living with MS.
As part of Niki’s May 50k challenge, she has been inviting the community to her walking events ‘Walk with me…and Koukla’. These peaceful walks are joined by her adorable golden retriever and ‘personal stress relief manager’, Koukla.
The next walk is due to take place Sunday 4 May from 10.30am, at the Michael Perry Botanic Reserve.
Niki is also encouraging anyone who is considering the challenge to just do it!
“Not just for them, but for yourself”.
“It doesn’t have to be perfect or polished, it just has to be real”
“Let your heart lead and let your community in”.
Whether it’s a lunch break stroll, a morning cycle or laps with a friend, every kilometre counts, and every step is a step closer to a future free from MS.
Let’s move. Let’s make it count.
Let’s leave MS behind.
To register, donate, or find out more, visit www.themay50k.org.
To find out more about Niki’s journey, visit https://www.themay50k.org/fundraisers/nikimihas/the-may-50k
For interviews and media enquiries:
- Tiana Colangelo
PR & Communications Specialist
M: 0401 254 329