The Sailing Sclerosis Foundation’s yacht Oceans of Hope was unveiled at a ceremony in Copenhagen, Denmark on World MS Day (Wednesday 28 May). Former Environment Minister and MEP Lone Dybkær officially named the 20-metre yacht which will set sail from the Danish capital on 15 June on the first ever global circumnavigation crewed by people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
The Oceans of Hope project aims to change the perceptions of the disease, inspiring people with MS to overcome their own personal challenges by telling the stories of those taking part – including the highs and the lows – and hosting sailing events in ports of call during the 17-month voyage around the world.
Dr Mikkel Anthonisen is the founder of the Sailing Sclerosis Foundation and creator of the Oceans of Hope project. He said, “Today’s naming ceremony is a huge milestone in our project. Our plan to sail around the world with a crew of people with MS is another step closer to being realised and we will be carrying the hopes and dreams of so many people with us. From the modest beginning when we took a small group of people sailing it shows what can be achieved when people with a chronic disease are empowered to conquer their individual challenges.”
Follow this adventure at: oceansofhope@seagrassuk.com