Running home: New Yorker battling rare genetic disorder completes fourth Brooklyn Half Marathon * Brooklyn Paper
Briefly

Leanna Scaglione, who participated in the RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon alongside nearly 30,000 runners, has faced hurdles due to a rare genetic disorder. Diagnosed with NF2-related Schwannomatosis in her teens after enduring debilitating pain, she was left unable to pursue her dream of becoming a ballerina. Throughout the pandemic, feeling inactive, Scaglione found joy in running when she spontaneously transitioned from walking to jogging. This new passion not only led her to complete significant races but also marked a profound personal transformation, showcasing her resilience and determination.
"During the pandemic, I subscribed to Apple Fitness+ to stay active at home. Still, I felt sedentary. I got tired of staring at the same four walls."
"I was walking and thought, 'This feels really slow - let's try going a little faster.' The next thing I knew, I was jogging. The runner's high kicked in."
Read at Brooklyn Paper
[
|
]