MEET JAX
Multiple Sclerosis can strike people in the prime of their lives. Diagnosed at just 22 years old, read Jax’s MS Story below:
The May50K is an amazing opportunity to spread awareness for multiple sclerosis while having fun and raising funds.
I’m tackling 100Ks in May to show that people with MS don’t let it hold them back, and that invisible illnesses can look different on everyone.
I was diagnosed with MS in 2018 at 22 years old, and it was a frightening and confusing time. As a young adult with the world at your feet, it’s confronting to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis as it impacts people so differently, and there’s uncertainty about how the condition might progress.
The biggest factor to bouncing back and getting on with life everyday was being around family and friends who lifted me up and helped me keep a positive growth mindset. I lived in the moment, stopped the “what ifs” about a future with MS, and started to appreciate everything my body could do for me in the moment!
I was also incredibly lucky to get started on MS treatment so early and have had no disease progression in my six years on Tysabri – I truly enjoy going to get MS treatment every four weeks and treat it as my personal downtime to read, watch TikToks or have a break and nap! I also got over my fear of needles reeaaallllyyy quickly.
“I take part in The May 50K to show that MS can look different on everyone. My symptoms are incredibly minimal and definitely not as scary as I’d once thought my life would be! I love sharing my active life with MS, and hope to use my platform to spread awareness of the illness, raise funds and have fun while doing it.”
Seven years on and I’ve run one marathon, six half marathons, enjoy going to the gym and keeping fit and healthy. I LOVE being active with my friends and sharing my fitness journey on TikTok for almost 60,000 people to follow along. I use my platform to educate and spread awareness for MS, and running the May50K is an amazing opportunity to do that!
I cannot wait to get underway and raise funds for MS research that can change lives. I’m so grateful I have the opportunity and platform to spread awareness, and connect with others on the same path.
Through supporting The May 50K, you are accelerating research into prevention, better treatments and ultimately cures for multiple sclerosis.
