Inspiration!

I thought it would be cool to start collecting some inspirational stories of individuals who have battled through some life challenges and used running or working out as a platform to further help them succeed through life.

We start with Neurology Resident Melissa Jennings DVM and her story how why she now races for a cure:

Why am I racing for a cure?

For those that do not know me, my name is Melissa Jennings and I am 32 years old. At the age of 6, I was diagnosed with a disorder called neurofibromatosis (NF-1). Being a young child and having to grow up with a disability is not only emotionally difficult, but also physically and mentally challenging. As many know, growing up in a world where "image" is important, its not easy when you are different. I was told that I would never be able to play sports, dance or cheer or become a doctor because my disability would be a hindrance, but yet growing up I played all sports, and in high school I lettered in both basketball and softball all four years, was voted most athletic senior girl, was on the dance team and then cheered my senior year of high school. My life's journey has not been easy and not a day goes by that I am not reminded of my disability and that I am different. However, I chose not to let neurofibromatosis be who I am, but let it help shape me into the person I am today.

What is Neurofibromatosis?

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is an unpredictable, progressive disorder that may be inherited or acquired through spontaneous genetic mutation, and it varies in medical, physical and psychological manifestations. NF encompasses a set of distinct genetic disorders that cause tumors to grow along various types of nerves and, in addition, can affect the development of non-nervous tissues such as bones and skin. There are two ways in which one can acquire this disorder. If one of the two parents has NF, there is a chance that the child could inherit the disorder. The second way that one can acquire NF is from a spontaneous gene mutation.

Neurofibromatosis (NF) has been classified into 2 distinct types: NF1 and NF2

NF-1 is the most common form of the disorder, infecting 1 out of 4,000 people in the United States and is characterized by multiple cafe-au-lait spots and neurofibromas on or under the skin. Enlargement and deformation of bones and curvature of the spine (scoliosis) may also occur. Occasionally, tumors may develop in the brain, on cranial nerves, or on the spinal cord. About 50% of people with NF also have learning disabilities. Typically, people with NF-1 show milder symptoms and can live normal and fulfilling lives. However, NF-1 can also be extremely debilitating resulting in malignancy (3-5%) and may cause cosmetic and psychological issues.

NF-2 is the rarer of the two forms affecting 1 out of 40,000 people in the US. NF2 is characterized by multiple tumors on the cranial and spinal nerves, and by other lesions of the brain and spinal cord. Tumors affecting both of the auditory nerves are the hallmark. Hearing loss beginning in the teens or early twenties is generally the first symptom. The course of NF2 varies greatly among individuals. In some cases of NF2, the damage to nearby vital structures, such as other cranial nerves and the brain stem, can be life-threatening.

At this time, there is no cure for neurofibromatosis and the goal of treatment is symptomatic relief. Treatment for NF1 includes removal of the neurofibromas for cosmetic purposes, treating the complications, and getting intervention for children with learning disabilities. Rarely, neurofibromas can become cancerous (3%-5% of cases). In these occurrences, surgery, chemotherapy or radiation may be necessary. Currently, researchers are conducting trials with medications in the hopes they'll be able to offer more treatment options.

Why support me and my charity?

Despite the struggles and obstacles that life has handed me, two years ago I walked across the stage at Louisiana State University and fulfilled my life long dream to become a veterinarian. Then, this past year I was accepted into a residency program training me to become a veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon. I did not let the doubts and criticisms of my peers, doctors or teachers get the best of me and I hope to show others that they too can overcome the obstacles placed in front of them and achieve their dreams. I would not be where I am today or be a fraction the person I've become without the love and support of my family and friends.

I started running long distances (before I ran playing sports, a few 5Ks here and there) in October 2010. My first half marathon was Feb 14 in New Orleans, Louisiana. I ran a total of 4 half marathons and participated inRagnar Las Vegas in the last year. In December 2011, I raised money for the charity - alone I raised $2700 and my running club put on a fund raiser and raised an additional $900. I have pledged to run at least one race a year while raising money for the charity, however I plan to wear the NF Endurance team singlet for all my race. One step at a time we are making a difference.