Healthy Cheers

I 'm officially a Guinness World Records holder!

At the 2025 Chicago Marathon, I ran 3:12:13, shattering the previous record for the Fastest Female Marathon with Multiple Sclerosis by over 40 minutes.

This record is about more than a finish time. It represents what is possible when life tries to set limits on you.

When I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, my lower body was completely numb. The fear of losing the ability to move my body was real. But I made a promise to myself to use my story to raise awareness, spark hope, and redefine what it means to live and race with MS.

That is how Project MS: Misconceptions Shattered began. My goal was never just to chase a record. It was to shatter misconceptions around invisible illnesses and show that strength can exist right alongside struggle.

Throughout this journey, I have been fundraising for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to help find a cure while amplifying stories of resilience and inclusion within the running community.

Crossing that finish line in Chicago was a moment of reformation and connection. Runners came up to me asking if I broke the record and shared how MS or chronic illness touched their lives. Those moments reminded me why I do this — to show that a diagnosis does not define you.

To anyone facing adversity, your story is not over. You have the power to write your next chapter!

Honored to serve as the keynote speaker for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society ahead of the Chicago Marathon!

I had the opportunity to share my multiple sclerosis journey from the shock of my diagnosis to how I eventually found strength, purpose, and community through MS.

What moved me most were the conversations that followed. Newly diagnosed runners told me they finally felt seen. Families said my story gave them hope. It was rewarding and that's what spreading my story is all about.

If you are living with multiple sclerosis, navigating any chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or simply need a reminder that you are stronger than you think, this message is for you. You are not alone.

Watch my full MS Society keynote here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nhnjdv5BHEk

If anyone is ever looking for an inspirational speaker, I would love to be considered!

Living with Multiple Sclerosis: My Journey as a Runner | National MS Society Keynote Speech As a runner living with multiple sclerosis, it was an incredible honor to be the keynote speaker at the National MS Society Team Dinner ahead of the Chicago ...

I’m excited to share that I’m featured on the front page of the Hartford Courant!

In 2022, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, an unexpected curveball that changed my life overnight. MS, like many chronic and invisible illnesses, isn’t talked about nearly enough. Too often, it comes with misconceptions about what those living with it can or cannot do.

That is why I launched Project: MS Misconceptions Shattered to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and spark real conversations.

As part of this project, I’ve set an ambitious goal: to break the Guinness World Records for the Fastest Female Marathon with Multiple Sclerosis at the Chicago Marathon on October 12.

The current record stands at 3:53:02, and I am aiming for 3:15:00. This is not just about chasing a time, it is about proving that with resilience, support, and determination, we can redefine what is possible while living with MS.

The Hartford Courant captured my story with such care and eloquence, and I’m grateful to see this message reach a wider audience.

🔗 Read the full feature here: https://www.courant.com/2025/09/24/she-received-a-devastating-diagnosis-but-this-ct-native-marathon-runner-didnt-let-it-stop-her/

She received a shocking diagnosis. But this CT native and marathon runner didn’t let it stop her. This marathon runner who grew up in CT and was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago, is trying to raise awareness for people with MS and wants to become the fastest female marathoner w…

Next stop: Australia! Cannot believe I’m off to run the TCS Sydney TCS Sydney Marathon to earn my seventh star with Team Abbott!

BIG NEWS! 🎉 I’m thrilled to share that this Sunday, I’ll be running the TCS New York City Marathon!

As a runner pursuing all six Abbott World Marathon Majors, NYC will be my fourth. This experience holds special significance, not only as I work toward completing this dream but also as I’ve been chosen by Mastercard to run as part of their hand-selected group of 25 influencers who will start ahead of the elite runners at 8:25 am EST. With over 50,000 people running NYC, I’m incredibly honored to be part of such a distinguished experience!

This opportunity is even more meaningful as I’m running on behalf of Conservation International, a global organization dedicated to protecting the nature we all depend on. Conservation International's work focuses on preserving biodiversity, creating sustainable solutions, and empowering communities to protect our planet's natural resources. Supporting this mission is close to my heart, and I’d be honored if you would consider contributing to this important cause! Together, we can amplify the impact of our efforts and make a tangible difference. 🌎🤍

To donate, please use my fundraising page here: https://fundraisers.hakuapp.com/elizabeth-pehota

For those interested in tracking my race, my bib number is 12332, and you can follow along on the NYC Marathon app. I appreciate all of your support as I chase an opportunity of a lifetime!

I'm hosting a fundraiser for Conservation International on 10/26 to help save the environment while getting me to the start line of the NYC Marathon!

Come workout at the Equinox on Franklin Street in Boston! You'll also get a pair of Reebok shoes if you sign up by Wednesday 10/23 by 12pm!

More details in the link below! Hope to see you there!!

Elizabeth Pehota X STRIDES FOR SUSTAINABILITY Equinox Event Elizabeth Pehota X STRIDES FOR SUSTAINABILITY Equinox Event