The Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign team would like to thank all of the Australians who supported them during May by holding events and ordering their red-lipped merchandise. 

So popular were all the items that many sold out!  Organiser, MS Australia, reports that the event raised over half a million dollars to assist services and research into the neurological disease, multiple sclerosis (MS).

‘We were very pleased at this result as it is the first year that we really went all out with a national branding campaign to actively fundraise and sell merchandise’ said Mandy Lee, Campaign Manager, for this and other MS Research Australia events.

Kiss Goodbye to MS gathered momentum as it was so easy to get involved. By wearing red items throughout the month – from lipstick to scarves and shoes – it was a simple and colourful way to show support and create a major success. 

Did you notice more people wearing red in your area in May? If so send images to kgtms@msaustralia.org.au. Red lipstick, lipstick-on-the-collar, nail polish and even hair dye seemed fashionable throughout May.  

‘There were many ways people got involved in the month long campaign, ranging from fundraising events, to donations and purchasing items such as mugs, t-shirts, umbrellas and pin badges. People really got creative in our online community, said Ms Lee.

She said it was also wonderful seeing people stretching their personal boundaries to help the cause, like the guys who said they would wear red lipstick if a certain amount of money was raised for the cause. And they did (see images on left). 

MS Australia is pleased that awareness of MS is now increasing. It is the most common neurological condition in young adults in Australia, and three out of every four people diagnosed are women with the average age of diagnosis between 20 to 40 years old.

In 2012 Australian researchers were acknowledged in their quest to find answers that may allow improvements in treatments and especially prevention. This campaign is aimed at ensuring their work continues – as well as providing assistance to people living with MS today.

The merchandise was sold online this year but it’s hoped that in 2013 some retail partners may come on board and a wider range of products will be available.  The Kiss Goodbye to MS team will do a shout-out closer to May next year.