MS Resources of Central New York held its annual Mission Steps Walk and Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day Saturday.

The event brings awareness to the chronic disease of the central nervous system, which can affect the brain and spinal cord.

This year, three medical marijuana companies participated in the event.

Many who battle MS or help raise awareness of the disease said medical marijuana helps to relieve symptoms of the disease. 

"We're hoping more in the future will be put into research for marijuana and really open up a whole new stream for people to get off of these addictive drugs and onto something natural," said Annette Simiele, MS Resources of CNY associate director.

According to MS Resources of CNY, more than 350,000 Americans have MS. About 200 people are diagnosed weekly.