Event raises money for multiple sclerosis

SANDPOINT — Skiing and multiple sclerosis are rarely mentioned together in the same sentence, but on Saturday, March 14 skiing and MS will not only be mentioned, they will actually merge for a single cause during the 2009 Vertical Express for Multiple Sclerosis.

This event challenges skiers and riders of every age and every ability level to form teams of three and raise a minimum of $450 ($150 for individuals) to complete in two events: the GS race on the extended Nastar course, and in the village, participants will be challenged to “surmount the obstacles” in a timed challenge course. The event will conclude with a party, dancing, auctions and prizes. Teams who raise over $15,000 will win an expense paid trip to Vail, Colorado to attend the April awards celebration. Those who can’t attend are invited to participate on-line by supporting another team. The awards party is free to competitors and those who did not compete and want to contribute can enjoy the fun for $50.

All proceeds benefit the Heuga  Center for Multiple Sclerosis, a leading international non profit organization on helping people and families living with MS. This year, the event will be even more exciting as Jimmy Heuga will be at Schweitzer for the event.

“Jimmie Heuga is such an inspiration — we are so pleased he will be coming to Schweitzer to share his ‘CAN DO’ spirit amidst living with all of the challenges that MS brings,” said VEMS event director, Pam Burke.

Huega is a 1964 Olympic medalist at the winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria. In 1970 Huega was diagnosed with MS and was told to avoid physical activity. He founded the Center, in 1984, challenging conventional medical advice and has since shared his program of physical activity, goal-setting and psychological motivation with many others.

For more information and to register visit www.verticalexpress.org or www.schweitzer.com or contact Mtn. Resort VEMS Event Directors; Pam Burke (208)660-0661, or Billy-Bob Goyen (509)994-5493.