Kraków to light Bernatek bridge orange for MS

28 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Kraków will light the Bernatek bridge orange on 30 May to mark World Multiple Sclerosis Day. The orange bridge for multiple sclerosis raises public awareness.

On 30 May, the Bernatek footbridge in Kraków will light up in orange to mark World Multiple Sclerosis Day. The orange bridge for multiple sclerosis will highlight the needs of people living with MS and show civic solidarity.

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Why Kraków chose the Bernatek footbridge

The city joins a national campaign by Fundacja StwardnienieRozsiane.info. Moreover, Kraków uses the bridge because many people cross it daily. Consequently, the lighting reaches residents and visitors. The gesture amplifies messages about access to care. Therefore the bridge becomes a public billboard for a health cause.

What the lighting means in practical terms

The coloured illumination does not create legal change. However, it draws attention to gaps in care. For example, some MS treatments require specialist drugs that the public payer may partially cover. In Poland, the National Health Fund (NFZ) manages public health coverage. In addition, disability and pension benefits come through the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). Many patients still face long waits for diagnostic scans and neurologist appointments. Consequently, awareness campaigns push for faster access and wider reimbursement for therapies.

Orange bridge for multiple sclerosis

The city coordinates the lighting with the foundation. Moreover, local NGOs and advocates will use the day to share patient stories. Thus the bridge becomes a visual symbol supporting those with MS. The campaign also asks policymakers to improve services. In addition, it encourages neighbours to recognise invisible disabilities. Therefore the initiative combines symbolism and civic pressure.

Local response and community actions

Hospitals, patient groups, and volunteers plan short events near the river. In addition, social media will carry the hashtag messages. The foundation offers resources about living with MS. Consequently, Kraków aims to spark conversations about everyday barriers. For instance, some buildings lack ramps or elevators. Moreover, employers may not fully understand the condition. Therefore visibility can lead to practical changes at workplaces and in public transport.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland and need medical care for multiple sclerosis, register with your local primary care doctor and the NFZ (the state health insurer). For disability benefits, apply to ZUS (the social insurer). You will often need a PESEL number (national ID) to access services. If you drive or park incorrectly during events, you risk a mandat (a fine). Therefore contact local patient groups for help with applications and translations.

For expats, Kraków’s lighting is an accessible signal. Moreover, it signals where to find support. Many groups publish English-language materials. In addition, the foundation may point to neurologists who take private patients. Consequently, you can combine awareness events with practical steps to get care.

The Bernatek footbridge lighting follows similar international actions. Therefore Kraków aligns with global advocacy for MS research and care. The city hopes the orange glow sparks policy attention and helps residents living with the disease.

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