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WEST BRANCH — Heather Orlando said several experiences with multiple sclerosis has led her to organize a 5k run to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Michigan.

Orlando, a West Branch resident who works as a nurse at Bortz Nursing Home in West Branch, is spearheading the first-ever Riverbend 5k Run/Walk and Kids Fun Run, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 18, at the West Branch Senior Center. The 5k run is scheduled to start at 9 a.m., while the kids fun run is slated to start at 10 a.m.

She said she has seen several cases of MS at the nursing home, but, about 1 1/2 years ago, the disease hit home for her when her husband, Stefan, was diagnosed with the disease.

She said that physically, Stefan fatigues a little bit more than usual, but added that MS affects those who have the disease in different ways.

“He knows his limitations,” she said. “It affects one side of the body more than the other.”

For his part, Stefan said he has maintained a positive attitude since learning he has the disease.

“You play the cards God dealt,” he said. “You never know what’s going to happen. You just deal with it.”

Heather said between her dealing with MS patients at work and Stefan’s recent diagnosis, she has gained a determination to help fight MS.

“It’s kind of close to my heart,” Orlando said of that cause.

Orlando said about 40 participants have already preregistered for the event.

“Our committee is doing an awesome job with sponsorships,” she said.

In addition to the run and walk, Orlando said a health expo, geared toward presenting information on MS, is scheduled to take place at the back area of the Senior Center during the run.

Those people interested in participating in the race may sign up on the website active.com, mail in the registration form, or register the day of the event until 8:30 a.m. According to the registration form, the course takes the runner through the river trail and residential areas. Uniformed volunteers will patrol the intersections, and turns will be directed by volunteers/signs. There will be rest and water stations along the route.

Orlando said the registration cost for the 5k run is $30, and includes a T-shirt. For additional details, call Orlando at 989-225-9213 or visit the web at www.active.com.