Earlier this year, I took the leap to go and see a neurologist about my migraines. Instead the MRI disclosed I have 2 brain lesions. The neurologist explained that this activity indicates RIS and that as a result there is unfortunately a potential to be diagnosed with MS in the future . This is an autoimmune disorder that I was unaware of the severity and had many misconceptions. Although I am lucky to not have been diagnosed with having MS, this is now something that potentially challenges my future and presents an uncertainty I haven’t experienced before. It was very scary to be told such news, when I went with intentions of finding out the solution of another cause, but instead came out with a new problem and one that I didn’t understand. I know many others are in my position and many more are suffering the full extent of MS and so I want to raise awareness to help others and give support to those who need it the most.

Running this marathon is more than a personal goal it’s a statement of resilience and community. I want to raise awareness about the early stages of MS and the disorder as a whole, and show others facing similar diagnoses that they are not alone and yes it can be scary and uncertain but there are many of us in the same boat. I hope to raise significant funds for the MS Society, whose support, research, and advocacy are lifelines for so many individuals and families.