“Want to tell my story” – British hurdler Lina Nielsen reveals multiple sclerosis diagnosis before CWG debut
Follow Us
Lina Nielsen
British 400-metre hurdler Lina Nielsen, hopeful to “inspire people”, has revealed that she competes despite suffering from multiple sclerosis. During a recent media interaction, the 2022 World Athletics Championships bronze medalist explained that she first suffered symptoms from the condition when she was 13, before being diagnosed a month ahead of her 18th birthday.
The 26-year-old track and field athlete had kept her diagnosis private until now before she was prompted to speak out after last month’s event in Eugene, Oregon. The symptoms of a ‘flare-up’ struck on the eve of her heat, unfortunately leaving her unable to deliver anything near her best level of performance.
“I never wanted to be known as the athlete who got MS,” said Nielsen, who also reckoned that she suffered from depression following her diagnosis, in an exclusive interview with The Telegraph. – “But it’s something that I hope will inspire people. Now is the right time. I want to tell my story.”
Also Read | “Bolt Mobility vanishes abruptly” Usain Bolt’s start-up backed by Indian firm has ceased operations in US
“Was in best shape of my life… timing couldn’t have been any worse”
Nielsen’s symptoms have subsided after taking a course of anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. She is now set to mark her return to action on Thursday, representing England at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Lina Nielsen, who. grew up in Leytonstone, East London, also shared a heartfelt post on Instagram while informing her fans about her medical condition.
She added: “I was in the best shape of my life. I felt 7ft tall when I ran. Hurdles felt like they were on the ground. The timing couldn’t have been any worse.
“The day before my race I woke up, put my shirt on and as my fingers stroked my torso I noticed the left side was numb.
“By the time of the race, the numbness had progressed to my left arm and most of my left leg, so 90 per cent of my left side was numb. I also started to feel right-sided weakness.
“It was the most important race of my life. I couldn’t not run, so I tried to put it to the back of my mind.”
Also Read | “Ready to go back” – CWG gold medalist Cody Simpson reveals probable plan to return to music career
Do follow us on: Google News | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Stay Updated!
Sachin Arora
(2527 Articles Published)