You weren't seeing things on Sunday — Imperial Stormtroopers, the armored bad guys from the "Star Wars" movies, were out and about in the afternoon, walking the streets of Lancaster.

But in this particular case, they happened to be the good guys, among the 1,000 participants who took part in "Walk MS" for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in central Pennsylvania.

Costumes weren't mandatory for the teams of walkers who took part in the organization's signature fundraising event, as many chose to bundle up in jackets to protect themselves from Sunday's chilly winds.

Organizers, on the other hand, said it warmed their hearts to see so many participants turn up at Clipper Magazine Stadium in downtown Lancaster, the starting point for the walk.

"We aim to raise $1 million today," said Katie Grisbacher, a NMSS campaign manager. "There's nine walks going on in central Pennsylvania, and 60 percent of what we raise today will stay in the area to help those with MS to manage symptoms and improve the quality of their lives."

The other 40 percent supports national research, she said.

"Events like this make it possible for us to offer clients all kinds of services and programs," Grisbacher said. "If you're diagnosed with MS, there are different types of treatment and even classes like yoga and water aquatics to help keep you in shape. We want those services available for everyone."

Sunday's event in Lancaster will benefit more than 5,400 people with multiple sclerosis in central Pennsylvania.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that affects the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis is unpredictable and varies from one person to another.

Robin Unangst, a NMSS community specialist, said while there is still no cure for multiple sclerosis, treatment has advanced significantly over the years.

"The earlier you're diagnosed, the better your symptoms can be managed," she said. "For most people, that's between the ages of 20 and 50 — which also happens to be the prime of their lives. We encourage them to work and lead active, happy, productive lives."

Some participants of Sunday's event said they suffer from the disease, others were representing loved ones or relatives.

"My sister has it, and she lives in Chicago," Sarah Balk said. "But when the walk comes around here in Lancaster, I always take part. I do it for her and everyone you see today."

Corporate teams like Team GIANT were represented Sunday, in addition to local favorites like Team N3RD, the folks behind NeenerNeener.Net and founders of Gamers for a Cure.

This year's route began at the Clipper Magazine Stadium, then followed Harrisburg Avenue to Franklin & Marshall College. At Race Avenue, walkers had the option of following the 4.2-mile route through School Lane Hills or continue straight for the 2.7-mile route.

Walkers rejoined at Buchanan Park, to the James Street Improvement District and ended at the stadium for some celebrating.

"The great thing about the walk is that it also brings families together," Grisbacher said. "It's a great cause, and everyone feels like they accomplished something important when it's over."

E-mail: cdifonzo@lnpnews.com