Running in Support of MS Research

Dr. Brittany Heintz Walters, an assistant professor of neuromechanics and motor control in the Department of Kinesiology at Seattle University, is running a 161-mile segment of the California to New York MS Run the U.S. Ultra Relay, July 2–7. Dr. Heintz Walters is running in support of a good friend who was recently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and to inspire her students to find their passions to live out SU’s Jesuit mission.

“I’ve found that this run is a very unique way to combine my interest in running and movement impairments with something that is a benefit to the community,” explains Dr. Heintz Walters. “I hope to inspire students through this to get out into the community—to take what interests them—and find a way to make an impact and be leaders for a just and humane world.”

Dr. Heintz Walters is published in national science journals, including the Journal of Neurophysiology and speaks nationally at conferences such as the Society of Neuroscience Conference. She has received funding for her research from organizations such as the American Society of Biomechanics and is an accomplished amateur athlete, including playing AAA Women’s hockey and competing in the Ironman Triathlon.

Helping fight a disease like MS that takes away the ability to engage in athletic competition is important to Heintz Walters, both personally and professionally. She wants to play a role in continuously improving the quality of life for those with movement impairments.  

“Part of my work revolves around understanding changes in the nervous system and how those relate to movement impairments, like those living with MS,” says Dr. Heintz Walters. “I learned about this event through a friend of mine who was diagnosed with MS a few years ago. Seeing her perseverance and strength throughout the diagnoses and changes was really inspiring.”

Learn more about Seattle University’s Department of Kinesiology and MS Run the U.S.