MS Made Me Take a Break—Then I Completed a Half-Marathon

In 2018, Karleen Roy, now in her mid-40s, began experiencing sudden, intense pain that felt like electric shocks, sometimes even causing her to collapse during high-profile events she was producing. After a year of inconclusive tests, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2019. By October 2025, she had completed her first half-marathon. Here, she shares how advocating for herself, changing her habits, and adapting to life with MS helped her reach the finish line.

Early Struggles

From the outside, Karleens life seemed glamorous: red carpets, international travel, and designer wardrobes. But internally, her body was signaling distress. Around 2018, she began experiencing short, unpredictable bouts of pain, which she timed at 11 to 17 minutes each. Over time, she noticed her face beginning to droop, resembling Bells palsy. Multiple doctorsprimary care physicians, neurologists, a sports medicine specialist, and even a chiropractoroffered different explanations, from stress to muscle spasms, but no one could provide a definitive answer.

The Diagnosis

After months of frustration, a neurologist finally ordered another MRI. While traveling for work, Karleen received the diagnosis over the phone: MS. Shocked and emotional, she initially feared losing her independence. Returning to New York, she met with a neurologist at Mount Sinai, who offered clear guidance: eat well, rest, and keep moving. This advice became the foundation for her new approach to living with MS.

Reclaiming Health

Karleen sought knowledge about MS, meeting others with the condition to understand its diverse effects. She learned that MS does not always lead to mobility loss and that many people maintain physical independence. In 2020, she began focusing on nutrition and fitness. A membership with Weight Watchers helped her adopt healthier eating habits, leading to a weight loss of about 80 pounds. She also started training with a personal trainer and used a Peloton bike, establishing a consistent exercise routine.

Taking on Running

Despite her history of being slower in races, Karleen was inspired when a friend signed them up for a half-marathon in June 2025. With her trainers guidance, she trained four days a week and joined a running group in Los Angeles called Keep It Run Hundred. She even completed a 5K beforehand to prepare. Training took her across various locations, from Brooklyns Prospect Park to trails in Jamaica and paths at Canyon Ranch.

Race Day

Race day in October was challenging. She arrived in New York early to help her body adjust, knowing that MS slows recovery. Despite feeling discouraged as others passed her, encouragement from her mothers text and a friend running the final mile with her motivated her to keep going. She finished the half-marathon in 3 hours and 44 minutes, one of the proudest moments of her life, proving her strength and resilience.

Reflections

Post-race, Karleen experienced fatigue, staying in bed for three days, but she does not regret it. MS forced her to slow down, listen to her body, and prioritize herself. Completing the half-marathon showed that her body remains capable and strong. She now shares a mantra with friends: Hot girls can do hard things, reflecting strength in spirit, body, and emotion. Running that finish line was a testament to her perseverance and to living fully despite MS.

Author: Sophia Brooks