Runner Pushes Through Driving Rain to Raise Funds to Fight Multiple Sclerosis
Runners in the nationwide relay crossed the rolling hills of southern Wisconsin despite heavy rain, bringing greater awareness to multiple sclerosis while raising thousands of dollars for research, financial assistance and support for those living with the disease.
As a downpour swept across the rolling hills of the New Glarus countryside, ultrarunner Kristie Kurtenbach kept moving. The rain came almost the moment she stepped onto the road last week, but the weather wasn't enough to slow her progress as she ran through one of Wisconsin's most scenic communities as part of the 2026 MS Run the US Ultra Relay, a 3,260-mile relay raising awareness and funds to fight multiple sclerosis.
The organization hopes its annual journey not only raises money for research and support programs but also sparks conversations in every town its runners pass through — including New Glarus.
According to MS Run the US, Kurtenbach encountered pouring rain and steep hills during her second day on the course before sunshine finally emerged later in the run. She completed 28 miles that day and dedicated the effort to a friend named Will, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis while in school but has continued to achieve remarkable accomplishments.
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