NEWTOWN SQUARE–Jeff Brody decided to count down from three instead of the usual 10 to start the annual 5K walk for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Ridley Creek State Park Sunday morning. Brody, the development manager for the National MS Society's Delaware Valley chapter, knew that the hundreds of walkers would rather get moving than linger an extra seven seconds in the cool rain.

More than 1,000 people registered for the annual walk, which began at Picnic Area 14. Hundreds of them turned out despite damp, chilly weather to raise awareness and money for multiple sclerosis research and programs. The event was one of 18 walk sites in the region.

"Walk MS is an incredible experience despite this weather, because it's our chance to fight," Brody said to the crowd. "It's a show of strength and unity, and to show everyone how much we need a world free of MS."

Volunteers, including the girls' lacrosse team from Springfield High School, sliced oranges and bagels, set up water stations and helped at the registration tent.

See photos and videos of the event in the attached slide show.