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Marathon Runner Completes Inspirational Goal of 12 Races in 12 Months
Multiple Sclerosis Patient-Turned-Marathoner Sends Message of Health and Hope to Millions
Chicago, IL, October 10, 2005 – Fifty-one year-old Ramon Sepulveda accomplished his inspirational goal of running 12 marathons in 12 months when he crossed the finish line at the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon® this weekend. Sepulveda, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) seven years ago, initially took up running in order to maintain his active lifestyle and fight the effects of the unpredictable disease. He embarked on his year-long marathon challenge in order to inspire other MS patients to lead active, fulfilling lives despite the disease.
With the support of his family and sponsorship from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Betaseron® Champion of CourageTM program, Sepulveda began his marathon endeavor last November, when he ran in the New York City Marathon. Since then he has run one marathon each month, including the Boston Marathon in April. The Chicago Marathon on Sunday was Ramon's final marathon for the year and marked the completion of his goal.
"I'm really thrilled that I was able to run in the Chicago Marathon, my 12th race in the last year," said Sepulveda. "Many MS patients face difficulty walking, let alone running. But through determination and maintaining my treatment with Betaseron, I have been able to stay active, allowing me to live a full, productive life despite my disease."
MS is a disease that randomly attacks the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord, wearing away control over the body. Symptoms may range from numbness to paralysis and blindness. Though no cure yet exists, there are now therapies available that can impact underlying disease course as well as manage symptoms. MS affects more than a third of a million people in the U.S. alone, with someone being newly diagnosed virtually each hour.
"While MS is a serious disease, starting treatment early and staying on treatment can help to control the symptoms and often slows the progression of the disease," said Tony Reder, M.D., Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Chicago. "Studies show that it is important to start treating MS with a safe, tolerable treatment as early as possible upon diagnosis. Ramon is a great example of an MS patient who has learned to cope with the disease by adhering to treatment and maintaining an active lifestyle."
Funded by a grant from Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., co-developer of Betaseron and a leader in the field of multiple sclerosis therapy, the Betaseron Champions of Courage program recognizes the accomplishments of people with MS and provides grants to support programs that will empower the MS community and provide tools to help better manage the disease. Since its introduction in 1999, the Betaseron Champions of Courage program has awarded more than 40 grants to individuals with MS for initiatives ranging from awareness efforts and artistic endeavors to cross-country journeys.
For more information or to receive an application, visit www.championsofcourage.org or call 202/363-3378.
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Contact: |
Liz Garman Betaseron® Multiple Sclerosis Champions of CourageSM Telephone: 202/363-3378 E-Mail: info@championsofcourage.org |
