PARIS — The 8th Annual Arnold Dugmore Ride/Walk/Run for Multiple Sclerosis will be held in the morning of Sunday, Sept. 13. The event is organized and hosted by Kathy and Dan Deluca, owners of the Smilin’ Moose Tavern in Market Square.

The couple’s decision to start the ride for MS was the result of two life-changing events: the passing of a loved one and Dan Deluca’s diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

Deluca was diagnosed in July 2007 when he was 40 years old.

“I am blessed to be where I am at this point versus others that it has attacked a lot sooner and more aggressively,” he said.

Even though having MS has changed certain aspects of his life, Deluca admits that he has been fortunate in the past eight years. His efforts to maintain his health have always been about staying active — both physically and cognitively — and above all, keeping a positive outlook on life.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the immune system disease attacks the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.

“MS is part of my life now,” he said. “It’s all about mind over matter.”

As a local business owner, Deluca said he feels that it is his responsibility to “use his business as a means to promote important causes.”

The Arnold Dugmore Ride/Walk/Run for MS is something that is near and dear to both Kathy and Dan. Dugmore was Kathy Deluca’s father.

“We wanted to promote something that was in remembrance of someone who would be kept in the forefront while raising money that would go toward a good cause,” Dan Deluca said.

By reaching out to those who have also been affected by MS, the message Deluca is sending is clear: “They are not alone.”

Two months after Deluca was diagnosed, Kathy Deluca’s father — 74-year-old Arnold W. Dugmore — was the victim of a fatal motorcycle crash.

When Dugmore turned 70, he decided to get his motorcycle license. Once he passed his road test, he was out riding every chance he got, whether it was with a friend, with his daughter and son-in-law or with a large group of riders, according to his family.

Dugmore lived in Denmark. On the day he was killed, Sept. 6, 2007, he left his house on his motorcycle and headed east on Route 302 in Casco to a barbershop. As he was traveling, a truck pulled out in front of him.

According to Sun Journal archives, Dugmore tried to avoid the pickup truck, but collided with the right front corner of the vehicle. He was wearing a helmet.

Dugmore died from his injuries within minutes of his arrival at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

The following year, in September 2008, the Delucas hosted the first Arnold Dugmore Ride/Walk/Run for MS.

Over the past seven years, the annual ride/walk/run has raised over $30,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

On Sunday, registration opens at 9 a.m. for riders and 10:30 a.m. for walkers and runners. Cost to register is $20 per person.

The motorcycle group will leave the tavern at 10 a.m., taking a scenic ride up Route 26 through the Bethel area before stopping at Evans Notch. From Evans Notch, they will return to the tavern, motoring through Fryeburg, traveling 88 miles along the full route.

The 5K will start at the tavern at 11 a.m. Runners and walkers will go up Main Street, make a loop around the Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, and return to Main Street. From there, they will head toward the light by Rainbow Federal Credit Union, take a right onto Pine Street, and continue until they reach the back of the Smilin’ Moose Tavern.

Post-ride festivities include a barbecue with live entertainment by “Just Us,” as well as raffles and prizes.

All proceeds will be donated to the Greater New England Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

For more information, call the Delucas at 739-6006.

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