Wild's Harding starts charity in support of MS

When Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he found it difficult to gather information about the disease.

In an effort to increase education and understanding, he has started the charity Harding's Hope.

"There is a poor perception of people diagnosed with MS. People immediately think wheelchair and death," Harding said in a statement on the website of the National Hockey League Players' Association. "I want to be a role model for others diagnosed with MS by showing that this will not come between me and my goals."

Harding was diagnosed in October 2012, one of 2.1 million people worldwide. He missed three months of the 2012-13 season due to complications with his medication.

Harding, 29 last month, played five regular-season games and all five of Minnesota's first-round Stanley Cup Playoff loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.

The native of Saskatchewan won the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded to the NHL player who "best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey."

The statement said, "In the United States, Harding's Hope will work with existing agencies to help support people faced with the expensive treatment costs. In Canada, the charity will support organizations that provide community services to people living with MS."

For information, visit www.hardingshope.org. (http://www.hardingshope.org/)