Spring skiing is in full swing, and with the beautiful weather comes a bevy of great events to celebrate the season. On March 5, 2024, under bluebird skies, FREESKIER was lucky enough to kick off the spring fun by participating in one such event, the very impactful 2024 SKI for MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Vertical Challenge in Vail, CO.
Hosted by legendary Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley and Maine’s finest athlete and “best skier on the mountain” Donny Pelletier, the SKI for MS event brought together participants from all ages and abilities for a full day of skiing, après, prizes and fun–all with the goal of raising awareness and money for MS and helping to transform the lives of families living with the disease.
Hosts Moseley and Pelletier led the nearly 100 skiers around Vail for a day of moguls, steeps, groomers and plenty of comedic antics. Skiers as young as five years old shredded their way down the slopes and into the hearts of the participants, many of whom have a personal connection to MS. And while the skiing, costumes and après were fun, the real joy came from the significant impact the event and its participants made, raising almost $90,000 for families living with MS.
100 percent of SKI for MS proceeds directly support families living with MS through Can Do MS, a national nonprofit that provides education, resources and support for people with MS and their support partners. The nonprofit was founded in 1984 by former Olympic bronze medalist Jimmie Heuga, who was diagnosed with MS when he was 26. While he was advised against exercise, Heuga found that it improved his function and his outlook. His can-do attitude lives on in Can Do MS’s programs that help people see possibilities and take steps to reach their personal goals.
SKI for MS makes its second and final stop of the season at Palisades, Tahoe, CA, on March 23, 2024. If you’re looking for a great way to spend the day skiing with friends, family and legends while making a positive impact on families living with MS, here’s your ticket. Space is limited, so sign up soon.
To support Can Do MS, rally your team for future SKI for MS events.
