How Emily Martin Turned an MS Diagnosis into a Marathon Mission

Credit: Adobe Stock/lzf

When Emily Martin was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), she never imagined she would one day run a marathon. At first, her symptoms felt like obstacles to overcome, not challenges to embrace. But through treatment, lifestyle changes and determination, she not only regained control of her body but also pushed it to new limits. Now, she shares her journey of resilience, from diagnosis to the finish line, proving that MS doesn’t have to define one’s limits — it can redefine what’s possible.

Can you share a little bit about your MS diagnosis? When did it happen, and what were your initial symptoms?

Emily Martin: I was diagnosed in November 2019, the week before Thanksgiving. I remember it vividly because it was just a day before I was flying home to the West Coast for the holidays. Looking back, I had been experiencing symptoms for about six months. The symptoms varied every few weeks, but none were severe enough to raise immediate concern.

The first symptom I noticed was a lightning bolt sensation down my spine when I moved my neck downward. Since I had recently taken on more responsibilities at work and spent a lot of time at my desk, I initially assumed it was a pinched nerve. That sensation eventually subsided, but I then experienced numbness in my legs, which I also dismissed, thinking I just needed more exercise.

Eventually, I started feeling a tightness in my chest and abdomen, which I later learned was the MS hug. But the turning point came when my left hand became so weak that I couldn’t close it into a fist, retrieve my keys from my pocket, or buckle my seatbelt. When that persisted for a couple of days, I went back to the doctor. As soon as I showed her my hand, she referred me to a neurologist, and within a week or two I was diagnosed with MS.

How did you feel when you first learned you had MS? Did you have any major concerns at that time?

EM: At first, I didn’t fully understand what MS was. I had heard of it but didn’t know the details. I had a feeling something was wrong when the MRI technician hinted that I should follow up with my doctor soon. Then, my neurologist, who had told me he’d only call if there was something concerning, phoned me at 10:30 PM. That’s when I knew it wasn’t good news.

One of my first thoughts was, “Isn’t this something older people get?” I had to process the news while also figuring out how to tell my family. They knew I was dealing with mysterious numbness and tingling, but none of us expected MS. It was overwhelming to both absorb the diagnosis and reassure my family while I was still coming to terms with it myself.

I was advised not to Google it, but of course, I did. That night, I stayed up reading everything I could — Reddit, WebMD, Google searches. It was terrifying. Fortunately, I was able to get steroid treatment, which worked quickly, restoring much of the function in my hand. Shortly after, I was referred to an MS specialist, who helped me develop a treatment plan. I remember my doctors telling me, “This might be the worst you’ll ever feel if the medication works.” That was hard to believe at the time, given how much pain I had been in, but it gave me hope.

What lifestyle adjustments or treatments have helped you manage your MS?

EM: My primary disease-modifying therapy (DMT) is Tysabri (natalizumab), which I receive as an infusion every four weeks. I’ve been on it for five years without any major issues.

At first, making lifestyle changes wasn’t my priority — I was focused on recovering from my initial symptoms. But over time, I started prioritizing sleep, hydration and vitamin D supplements. I also became more mindful of my diet.

Through Mount Sinai’s wellness program, I worked with a nutritionist, social worker and physical therapist to get a comprehensive approach to managing my MS. Exercise was something I hesitated to embrace at first. I worried my body would betray me again. But after my first positive MRI scan — showing no new lesions — I gained confidence in my ability to stay active. That’s what eventually led me to take on the challenge of running a marathon.

What inspired you to run a marathon?

EM: Running a marathon was something I had always admired but never thought I could do. I grew up playing soccer and running 5Ks, but I never imagined running 26.2 miles.

After my diagnosis, my family wanted to support me, so we participated in a virtual MS Walk in 2020. Through that, I learned about other opportunities and saw the chance to run a marathon for the MS Society. On a whim, I filled out the interest form, never expecting I would actually commit to it. When I was selected for the team, I felt both excited and panicked. Could I really train for this in nine months?

I started with short runs and gradually increased my distance. My biggest fear was that my body would fail me. But with structured training, I found that I could push myself further than I expected. Running became therapeutic. It was a way to take control of my body again.

The marathon was not just a physical challenge but a symbolic one — proving to myself that I could do something I once thought impossible.

What advice would you give to others with MS who are interested in running or taking on a physical challenge?

EM: First, believe in yourself! MS affects everyone differently, so it’s important to find what works for you. Work closely with your health care team and start slow — small steps can lead to big progress. Also, listen to your body and be kind to yourself. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay.

This transcript was edited for clarity.