Show Notes
After her MS diagnosis, Betsy Mueller ran across America. In this episode of Living Well with MS, Betsy shares how she went from fear and uncertainty after her diagnosis to completing a 3,000-mile run from Santa Monica to Central Park to raise awareness of MS. Betsy shares the early symptoms that led to her diagnosis, the emotional weight of living with invisible symptoms, and how fear and uncertainty affected her mental health. She also talks about the role of a plant-based diet, exercise, treatment decisions and community support in helping her move forward. From training in Flagstaff to managing heat sensitivity, fatigue, DMT deliveries and long days on the road, Betsy reflects on what it took to complete her run from Santa Monica to Central Park. She also discusses Active with MS, the nonprofit she founded to help people with MS take part in races and reconnect with movement in a way that works for them. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and Betsy’s bio. 02:56 How plant-based eating supports Betsy’s health05:51 Invisible symptoms, fatigue and the emotional weight of MS10:46 Cognitive symptoms and the impact of poor sleep12:03 Steroids, plasma exchange and finding effective relapse support15:27 Moving from fear towards a more hopeful mindset17:30 Why Betsy decided to run across America20:49 The 3,000-mile route from California to New York24:00 RV life, logistics and support on the road26:12 How Betsy’s body adapted during the run28:48 Managing heat sensitivity and DMTs while travelling30:58 Powerful connections with people along the route33:59 Active with MS and helping others join races37:20 Betsy’s advice for people newly diagnosed with MS39:15 Why MS community support can make such a difference
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