Freeskier Tom Wallisch to walk for MS in ski boots

X Games gold medalist and U.S. Freeskiing athlete Tom Wallisch is used to performing impressive feats in his ski boot, but they are usually attached to his skis. Next week, Walisch will only need his boots to join around 4,000 Utahns at the 23rd annual Walk MS Salt Lake City on April 28.

Wallisch, whose aunt has Multiple Sclerosis, will walk the three-mile route in his ski boots to help demonstrate what it can feel like to walk in the shoes of someone living with MS.
 
“Helping to find a cure for multiple sclerosis is important to me,” said Wallisch. “My aunt has been living with the disease for many years and my family has participated in Walk MS events since I was a kid. I know these events make a difference.”
 
Walk MS aims to bring together those impacted by MS and those who want to help do something about the disease. According to the organization, every hour someone is newly diagnosed with 2.1 million people worldwide and more than 400,000 Americans suffering from the disease. Utah has one of the highest incidence rates in the country. It is believed one in 300 is affected. There is no cure for MS.
 
“MS can stop people from moving and it could be easy for all of us to take movement for granted,” said the 2014 Olympic hopeful. “I am fortunate to compete in an amazing action sport and want to lend my support to help not only my aunt but everyone impacted by this disease.”
 
Funds raised from Walk MS help support critical research as well as local programs and services for Utahns impacted by the disease.

For more information visit www.walkMSutah.org.