Michael Ring’s Inspiring Journey with Guillain-Barré Syndrome
From Hospital to the Starting Line: A Decade of Perseverance
Michael Ring, a 61-year-old Brooklyn native, is preparing to participate in the TCS New York City Marathon, a feat he never thought possible after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) 10 years ago.
The Unpredictable Diagnosis
In 2014, Ring was organizing a 100-mile bike tour in Putnam County when he began experiencing strange symptoms, including falling, dropping things, and tripping over obstacles. His boss, a cancer survivor, noticed his struggles and urged him to see a doctor, who delivered a devastating diagnosis: Ring had GBS, a condition in which the immune system attacks the nerves, temporarily paralyzing the body.
A Long and Arduous Recovery
Ring spent 135 days in the hospital, relearning how to walk, and underwent multiple surgeries and physical therapy sessions. He eventually returned to running in 2017, with the support of Achilles International, a nonprofit organization that helps athletes with disabilities.
From Struggle to Triumph
Despite his struggles, Ring has completed several marathons, including last year’s NYC marathon in 8 hours, 36 minutes, and 15 seconds, a pace of 19 minutes, 42 seconds per mile. He attributes his perseverance to his determination to be a role model for his twin children, who were 14 when he was diagnosed.
The Challenges Ahead
Ring acknowledges that his progress has leveled off, and he now wears carbon-fiber ankle braces to help him walk. He continues to visit a physical therapist every two weeks and has undergone around 10 surgeries to improve his mobility.
The Road to Recovery: Q&A
Q: What was your initial reaction to your GBS diagnosis?
A: I was in denial, but my boss, a cancer survivor, helped me realize the gravity of the situation.
Q: How did you cope with the long hospital stay and subsequent rehabilitation?
A: I focused on relearning how to walk and eventually got back into running.
Q: What keeps you motivated to continue participating in marathons?
A: I want to be a role model for my twin children and show them that, even in the face of adversity, we can overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.
Q: What advice would you give to others struggling with GBS?
A: Don’t give up. Find a support system, and never stop pushing forward.
