The Fifth annual Walk & Roll for Research will be held on Saturday, April 5 at 10 a.m. The event benefits the Wilson Research Foundation at Methodist Rehabilitation Center and will be held on the grounds of Methodist Specialty Care Center, One Layfair Drive in Flowood, and the nearby walking trail around Mirror Lake. 

“We walk or roll to honor patients who have overcome disabling obstacles and achieved mobility and independence,” said Chris Blount, foundation director.

Proceeds will be given to MRC’s Center for Neuroscience and Neurological Recovery to help patients recover abilities after a stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation or other disabling condition.  

Nicole Marquez has walked unassisted at the Walk & Roll since its start in 2010. Marquez, a Jackson native and dancer, suffered a spinal cord injury after falling six stories from her New York apartment in 2008. She regained her ability to walk after intense therapy.

“I can sum up Methodist Rehab Center in one word—hope,” Marquez said. “Methodist Rehab helped me recover abilities and then some, and they gave me hope, helping me focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Walkers and rollers (those in wheelchairs) hope to raise $50,000 through the event. 

“These funds will go toward research to find better ways to improve walking, use of arms and hands, as well as cognitive recovery from a disabling illness or injury,” Blount said.

“With each research study, people like me are able to inch closer to a better quality of life. And if you are not in need, you should still support this life-changing mission in case you or your loved one should ever need Methodist Rehab,” Marquez said.    

There is no cost for registration, which can be done online at www.wilsonfoundation.org or by calling the foundation staff at 601-364-3598. Participants may walk individually, join a team, or form a team. Walkers and rollers of all ages are welcome. 

Registration opens at 9 a.m. in front of the Specialty Care Center. The Madison Central High School Jazz band will play at 9:30 and the walk will commence at 10. After the walk, local musician Chris Gill will provide entertainment.