Reading opens up the mind and every reader will have a completely different image embedded in their mind from the use of words. Read Anne Frank’s diary and everyone will have images of the wardrobe they used to keep their secret annex safe, how she looked as she spent years isolated in that tiny attic in Amsterdam, the clothes they wore and the sadness and emotion on their faces when they were eventually captured and threw in a concentration camp. I bet there are a million different images of the tree in Marita Conlon McKennas ‘Under the Hawthorn Tree’. However, the image one person has will vary greatly from that of another as one conveys words into images completely different. Such is the power of words.
Famous author Roald Dahl once said:
“So, please, oh please, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookcase on the wall.”
MS Ireland will be helping to create such wonderful pictures in the minds of children and adults alike with the launch of its annual READaTHON. The 2013 READaTHON will take place from 11th October – 11th November encouraging children from both National Primary and Secondary schools to read, while raising much needed funds for services to those living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Through reading books and receiving sponsorship each child will receive a gift for their efforts as well as a percentage of the money rose being returned to the school for their own development. The money raised will go towards research and development into new treatments and medication for people living with MS, the upkeep of our respite centre, home visits, counselling and physiotherapy.