Imagine a day where even the simplest tasks like walking, breathing, thinking and other essential functions were a struggle.

For people living with Multiple Sclerosis, this is reality.

This week is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week and the Bay of Plenty Multiple Sclerosis Society have four ways you can support people with MS in the Bay.

MS affects the central nervous system, which controls voluntary and involuntary muscle movements, such as walking, breathing, thinking and many other functions.

It affects three times as many women than men, typically is diagnosed between the age of 20 and 40 and is known as the 'Young Woman's Disease”.

It has no known cure but can be helped through exercise and medication.

The Bay of Plenty MS Society supports people within the region, who need help to access the care and support they need to live with the symptoms.

Today and tomorrow, Saturday September 8, collection stands will be located at Fraser Cove Countdown, Brookfield New World and Papamoa Pak'n'Save.

'You can collect brochures and talk to our volunteers about what we do – look for the orange shirt,” says a spokesperson for BOPMSS.

The organisation is also running a Quiz Night on Friday September 14; a Ladies Pamper Night on Wednesday October 10 (during school holidays) and a Fun Run on November 18.

'We have more than $5,000 of donations from our generous community for these events, which are mostly spot prizes – all age and capabilities are invited.”

The three events can be found on Facebook.