Colorado runner breaking through barriers after life-changing diagnosis
After a life-changing diagnosis, a Colorado woman is determined to live life to the fullest. Now, she's training for the biggest run of her life.
"If you would have said, 'You're going to be running to Nebraska,' I thought that was not on my bingo card," said Castle Rock resident Megan Gage.
Despite the 189-mile run she's preparing for, Megan is the first to admit she isn't an elite athlete.
"In the beginning, I almost felt like a liar. Where it was like I didn't have the right to call myself a runner," Gage said.
She has been running for less than five years, a hobby she picked up after receiving the worst news of her life.
"My future turned gray, where it's like, all the color is instantly sucked out," said Gage.
Gage was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, called MS. It's an autoimmune disease that has the potential to strip her of all movement and lead to her eventual death. So, she decided it was time to start crossing things off her bucket list.
One of those things was to run a half marathon.
"My original intention was like, I'm just going to do this. And now I did it, and it's over," said Gage. "I got it done. And at the end of that, my husband sent, gave me a little keychain that said 13.1 and a half crazy."
But little did she know that, like many runners, she had become hooked.
"I said, I think I got to go back for the big boy. Like, I got to do the whole thing," she explained.
After running her first marathon last year, both Gage and her coach wondered what was next.
That's when she saw the "
MS Run the US
" team. They were running a cross-country relay to raise money and awareness for MS. Gage thought she would like to join; all she had to do was tell her coach.
"When I told her this, there's almost shame to it that this is such a big stupid goal and somebody like me has no business even swinging at it. And her response was life-changing. And she said, 'As your coach, it's not my job to judge you. It's my job to hear your goals and to give you the tools to accomplish them,'" said Gage.
Now, she and her team are deep into training for the May run. Next month, Gage will make the trek from Denver's Sloan's Lake to Wray, CO, which sits next to the Colorado-Nebraska border. She says she's ready.
"I literally have showed up every day; there is a plan," said Gage.
All that's left is to run. A passion she may have never picked up if it wasn't for her MS diagnosis but has ultimately helped her become healthier than she ever could have imagined
"I live in such a mindful, intentional way," she said.
And she wants everyone to know that no matter what your challenge is, when you meet it head on, you can overcome.
"My hope is that somebody will see this story, and they will open their eyes to what's possible," said Gage. "Of course, it's a sad, dark day, but it's like it can also be an invitation for a new chapter."
Gage wants to raise $10,000. She's well on her way with nearly $7,000 already raised and one month left to donate.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Medscape
an hour ago
- Medscape
New Optic Nerve Criteria May Speed MS Diagnosis
PHOENIX — Historically, optic nerve involvement has been excluded from multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnostic criteria, but its inclusion in the upcoming 2024 McDonald Diagnostic Criteria is expected to significantly accelerate the time to definitive diagnosis in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). Driven by advances in imaging protocols and the evidence that it improves diagnostic specificity, 'the optic nerve will now be included as a fifth topography,' said Peter Calabresi, MD, director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore. Although this is just one change from the 2017 McDonald Diagnostic Criteria aimed at facilitating diagnosis, those involved in the 2024 revisions consider the addition of this fifth topographical sign among the most significant, said writing committee members Calabresi and Jiwon Oh, MD, PhD, medical director of the Barlo Multiple Sclerosis Program at St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto. Specifically, optic nerve lesions will make it easier to fulfill the dissemination in space (DIS) principle, a pivotal concept for delivering a diagnosis of MS in patients with CIS, said Calabresi at a May 29 symposium here at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) 2025 Annual Meeting. Context Still Key Citing several studies published since 2017, Calabresi noted that incorporating optic nerve lesions into the DIS criteria increases diagnostic sensitivity to over 90% compared to the four existing DIS signs — periventricular, spinal cord, infratentorial, and cortical/juxtacortical. In one study, sensitivity increased from 85% to 95%. Under the revised criteria, optic nerve lesions may be documented using MRI, optical coherence tomography (OCT), or visual evoked potentials (VEP). Calabresi noted that patients meeting all four of the existing 2017 DIS criteria already demonstrate near 100% specificity for MS. While adding a fifth topographical site cannot improve specificity, it will make it easier to detect evidence of DIS across at least four regions and make a diagnosis when combined with other criteria. Several challenging case studies were employed to illustrate his point. This included a 47-year-old woman presenting with isolated optic neuritis and a 31-year-old woman presenting with ataxia. Neither would have been diagnosed with MS on the basis of the 2017 criteria, but both would meet the 2024 criteria due to the involvement of the optic nerve. Like other MS diagnostic criteria, the fifth topographical sign is relevant only in context, not in isolation, Calabresi said. For MRI, the definition is expected to require one or more topical short-segment intrinsic optic nerve lesions when there is no better explanation. For example, prominent chiasmal involvement or perineuritis would not allow for inclusion of definite optic nerve involvement. For OCT, the signs of MS-related optic nerve involvement include significant asymmetry in the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer or ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIPL). GCIPL thickness below the lower limits of normal is also an acceptable sign. However, a better explanation for these changes must be explicitly ruled out. An abnormal VEP suggesting optic nerve involvement depends on significant intraocular asymmetry or a peak time exceeding 100 microseconds — above the upper limit of normal — in the absence of a better explanation. Better Outcomes? Whether or not optic nerve DIS involvement is demonstrated, the new criteria 'do not mandate anything about treatment,' Calabresi said. This is a separate issue even if it is reasonable to anticipate a better outcome from a faster diagnosis when an earlier start of disease-modifying therapy reduces tissue damage and future disability. The transition to evaluating the optic nerve as a means of establishing an MS diagnosis may not be entirely smooth, said Calabresi. 'The challenges will involve the added demand on radiology,' Calabresi said. He also expressed concern about a learning curve for documenting optic nerve involvement either by MRI, OCT, or VEP, each of which involves precise interpretation. 'Everything is dependent on quality control,' he said. With OCT, for example, Calabresi noted that the ability to confirm optic nerve involvement depends on knowing and employing the established cutoffs for what qualifies as a likely MS-related lesion, a step that is at least somewhat technique-dependent. As examples, Calabresi mentioned the critical performance of using adequate light and ruling out artefacts. However, he noted that even though the new McDonald Diagnostic Criteria are expected to improve sensitivity and specificity, it 'will not take away from the importance of thorough clinical evaluation.' New Evidence When the 2010 McDonald Diagnostic Criteria were issued, the concept of DIS was already established. It was not until 2017 that cortical lesions were added as a fourth topography. In 2017, there was also extensive discussion about the value of optic nerve involvement as a fifth topography based, at least in part, on 2016 consensus guidelines from MRI in MS (MAGNIMS), a European network dedicated to the study of MS through MRI. Ultimately, optic nerve involvement was not included due to uncertainty about how much involvement would improve sensitivity and because of unresolved questions about the optimal use of MRI, OCT, and VEP. The optic nerve was included in the current iteration of the criteria because the evidence has evolved, said Calabresi. The bottom line is the addition of optical nerve topography to DIS means patients with CIS will be far more likely to be diagnosed immediately,' agreed Oh, who joined Calabresi during the CMSC symposium. Her own focus is on other new markers of MS that will be included in the new criteria, including documentation of the central vein sign and paramagnetic rim lesions on MRI, as well as the addition of the optic nerve in DIS. 'For clinicians, the new criteria will be a lot to take in, but I think they will allow more patients with signs and symptoms to receive a diagnosis of MS,' said Oh, in particular patients who receive a diagnosis of CIS or radiologically isolated syndrome without knowing if they have progressive disease.
Medscape
2 hours ago
- Medscape
Use of Oral Steroids to Treat MS Relapse Is Growing
OTTAWA — The use of oral rather than intravenous (IV) steroids to respond to relapses in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is growing, a study suggested. The data, which were presented in a moderated poster session at the annual meeting of the Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation (CNSF) Congress 2025, indicate a decreasing reliance on steroids over time to manage relapses. Researchers retrospectively examined data from 2010 to 2022 from the MS database MuSicaL. Investigators identified 2413 eligible patients for their analysis, and 1086 had at least one attack or relapse. Of these 1086 patients, half (543) had used high-dose steroids for 818 attacks. Information on the route of high-dose steroids was known in 348 attacks. IV steroids were administered for 148 attacks (42.5%), and oral steroids for 208 (59.8%) attacks. Oral and IV steroids are considered to have equal efficacy, study author Jihad Al Kharbooshi, MD, a fourth-year adult neurology resident at London Health Sciences Centre in London, Ontario, told Medscape Medical News. 'There have been studies involving patients with RRMS who received IV and oral steroids. Both groups of patients were compared, and they found the same effect' in terms of efficacy, he added. A review paper published in 2013 cited several investigations that compared IV steroid management with oral steroid management. These investigations concluded that the routes managed relapses in patients with RRMS with comparable efficacy. 'The second objective [of the present study] was to see whether the patient's type of relapse had anything to do with oral versus IV steroids being used,' said Al Kharbooshi. The researchers found that patients who experienced a multifocal relapse, which is a more severe type of relapse, were more likely to receive IV steroids than oral steroids (39.3% vs 25.5%). 'If the physician perceived that the relapse was very serious, such that it may be a life-endangering situation, they may have chosen IV steroids,' said Al Kharbooshi. Clinicians may believe that IV steroids can better manage more severe relapses, he added. The researchers also analyzed the route of administration according to prescriber specialty. 'The specialty of the prescriber, whether a neurologist or another prescriber, didn't significantly influence the choice of route of high-dose steroids,' said Al Kharbooshi. Taking steroids orally offers the benefit of convenience for patients with MS who, if they live in remote areas, may not be able to access IV steroids easily, pointed out Al Kharbooshi. Maryam Nouri, MD, an associate professor of pediatric neurology at Western University in London, Ontario, who moderated the poster session, noted that the growing decline in the use of steroids to manage MS relapses likely results from the greater efficacy of emerging medical therapies for RRMS. 'There was a downward trend toward using steroids to begin with, which could indicate that patients with MS are not experiencing as many relapses,' said Nouri. 'This confirms that the treatment landscape of MS has changed, as there are a lot of patients who are starting with high-affinity therapies right from the get-go. It is probably that the number of relapses is declining to begin with, so patients are not requiring as many steroid therapies.' One limitation of the analysis is that investigators did not have information about the route of steroid use for a substantial proportion of relapses, said Nouri. The investigators acknowledged this shortcoming in their presentation. Still, the fact that oral steroid use has grown over time suggests that clinicians are giving more consideration to this route of administration, according to Nouri. 'It is positive news that people are feeling more comfortable about using oral steroids,' she said. But in her clinical experience and that of her colleagues, the IV route is still the route of choice for managing MS flares in the pediatric setting, given that the evidence supporting comparable efficacy of IV and oral routes comes from adult studies.
Health Line
13 hours ago
- Health Line
Primary Progressive MS: Myths vs. Facts
Misconceptions about primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) are common, especially since the condition can look different for everyone. Knowing what's true (and what's not) can help you feel more informed and empowered. Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) is a complex condition that looks different from person to person. Symptoms, experiences, and rates of progression can vary widely. Because PPMS isn't as well-known as other types of multiple sclerosis (MS), myths and misconceptions often fill the gaps. That can make it harder to find trustworthy answers when you're trying to learn more about the condition. Here, we break down some of the most common myths about PPMS and share the facts behind them. Myth#1: There will never be a cure for PPMS Fact: While there's no cure yet, treatment options are expanding, and research is ongoing. In 2017, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) as the first disease-modifying therapy (DMT) for PPMS. In 2024, a new formulation called ocrelizumab and hyaluronidase-ocsq (Ocrevus Zunovo), a subcutaneous injection administered twice a year, was approved. This new injection offers a quicker, approximately 10-minute administration alternative to the traditional intravenous infusion. Ocrevus and Ocrevus Zunovo are currently the only FDA-approved DMTs for PPMS. However, researchers are actively exploring new therapies. For instance, tolebrutinib, a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, is undergoing phase 3 trials to assess its potential in slowing PPMS progression. Additionally, scientists are investigating treatments aimed at repairing myelin, the protective sheath around nerves damaged in MS. One such study involves combining metformin, a common diabetes medication, with clemastine, an antihistamine, to promote myelin repair. Myelin repair is important because it may help restore nerve function and slow disease progression. Although a cure for PPMS has yet to be found, these developments reflect a growing commitment to improving treatment options and outcomes. Myth: PPMS primarily occurs in females Fact: PPMS affects people of all sexes at the same rate. While relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is more common in people assigned female at birth (AFAB), affecting them two to three times more often than those assigned male at birth (AMAB), PPMS affects AFABs and AMABs in roughly equal numbers. It's important not to assume the type of MS based solely on sex. Regardless of gender, if you experience symptoms suggestive of MS, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Myth: PPMS is an older person's disease Fact: PPMS typically begins in mid-adulthood, not old age. While PPMS tends to have a later onset than other forms of MS, it doesn't primarily affect older adults. On average, people with PPMS start experiencing symptoms around the age of 40. Myth: A PPMS diagnosis means you'll be disabled Fact: Disability progression in PPMS varies widely, and many people maintain mobility and independence for years. PPMS can lead to physical disability, but how quickly or whether it develops looks different for everyone. Some people notice gradual changes, while others may stay stable for long stretches of time. Not everyone will need mobility aids like canes or wheelchairs, especially early on. A 2022 study found that about 10% of people with MS experience severe disability within 5 years of diagnosis. That number rises to 25% within 10 years and then increases to 50% after 18 years. Still, this doesn't mean you should expect disability after receiving a PPMS diagnosis. The location of lesions, your overall health, and how early you begin treatment can all play a role in how the condition progresses. Working with your doctor on a treatment plan that includes physical or occupational therapy and regular movement can help you stay active and independent for longer. Myth: Having PPMS means you have to quit your job Fact: Many people with PPMS continue working, sometimes with a few adjustments. A PPMS diagnosis doesn't automatically mean you need to stop working. While symptoms like fatigue, changes in memory or thinking, or mobility issues can make certain jobs more challenging, many people with PPMS continue in full- or part-time work, especially in the early stages. Everyone's experience with PPMS is different, so your ability to work will depend on your specific symptoms and the demands of your job. If you're facing obstacles, workplace accommodations, like flexible hours, assistive devices, or ergonomic adjustments, may help you stay on the job. A conversation with your doctor or a vocational (work) counselor who understands chronic conditions can also help you explore options that support your health and independence. Myth: No medications help PPMS, so you should investigate natural remedies Fact: There are FDA-approved medications that can help slow the progression of PPMS, including ocrelizumab. While some natural remedies might offer symptom relief, they aren't always safe or proven to be effective. For years, there were no FDA-approved treatments for PPMS. That changed in 2017 when Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) became the first medication approved specifically for PPMS. In a study of 732 people with PPMS, those who received Ocrevus experienced a slower rate of disability progression compared to those who received a placebo. It remains the only approved disease-modifying therapy for this form of MS. Doctors may also prescribe medications to manage specific symptoms, such as antidepressants for mood changes or muscle relaxants for spasms. Some people turn to natural remedies like herbal supplements, acupuncture, or cannabis. Research into these options is ongoing, but so far, there's no strong evidence that they're safe or effective for treating MS symptoms. Some supplements can even interact with prescription drugs. If you're considering natural treatments, talk with your doctor first to avoid potential side effects or interactions. Myth: PPMS is ultimately an isolating disease — no one will understand what you're going through Fact: You're not alone, and you don't have to go through it alone either. While PPMS can feel isolating at times, many others are navigating similar challenges. It's estimated that nearly 1 million people in the United States are living with MS, and about 10% to 15% of them have PPMS. Thanks to growing awareness and advocacy, there are now more resources and support networks than ever. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer a space to connect with others who understand what you're going through. If group support isn't for you, that's OK too. Talking with a trusted friend, loved one, or therapist can still help ease feelings of isolation and improve emotional well-being. What matters most is finding a form of support that feels right for you. Myth: PPMS is deadly Fact: PPMS is a lifelong condition, but it's rarely fatal. The progressive nature of PPMS and the fact that there's no cure can understandably lead to fears about long-term outcomes. But while PPMS can affect mobility, thinking, and daily functioning, it's not considered a life threatening illness. Most people with MS who don't have severe disabilities can expect to live another 30 to 35 years after diagnosis. Recent research has shown that even after significant disease progression, many people continue to live for years. For example, after someone loses the ability to walk independently, on average, at around age 51, life expectancy is about 13 more years. Advances in treatment, early intervention, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms, reduce complications, and support overall health. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being through exercise, a balanced diet, regular checkups, and support can make a big difference in quality of life. It's important to note that with ongoing advances in treatment, the outlook for people with PPMS continues to improve. Current data on disability and life expectancy may not reflect what's possible in the future. Takeaway Misconceptions about primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) can add confusion and fear to an already complex condition. However, the reality is that PPMS doesn't always follow the path people expect. From treatment options to life expectancy, the facts paint a more hopeful and nuanced picture. While every experience with PPMS is different, understanding the reality behind the myths can help you make informed choices, find support, and feel more in control of your journey.
