National MS Society
Lauren Caiella
Lauren Caiella, 28, of Jersey City, NJ, is running her first marathon on November 6, and she will be lacing up on behalf of the National MS Society. Caiella’s mom, Carol, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 30. MS is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.
“I can describe my mom, Carol, in many ways. Book lover, die-hard Yankees fan, devoted mom, formidable Jeopardy player, painfully slow eater, great teacher. MS patient doesn’t even make it to my top ten,” Caiella writes on her National MS Society donation page. “She lives life to the fullest, not defined by labels or limitations, but boldly in spite of them. She has battled against MS for 28 years with an optimistic attitude and above all, a great sense of humor. She is the most influential and inspirational person in my life.”
A high school track standout, Caiella completed her first half-marathon this past April, and she decided to take on a full 26.2-miler to raise awareness about MS. As soon as Lauren announced her ambitious plan, mother and daughter made a pact: If Lauren completes the ING New York City Marathon and raises $5,000 for the National MS Society, Carol (who has lost the ability to drive a car) will learn to drive a hand-controlled vehicle.
“My mom’s story is really about empowerment,” says Caiella. “She has faced this disease with grace, resilience, and positivity, and her spirit is my source of energy and inspiration for completing this marathon.” She’ll wear a T-shirt with her mom’s name on it as she makes her way through the five boroughs on November 6.
