Episode 01: Unstoppable: A Champion's Journey to Finding Purpose with Multiple Sclerosis with GB Athlete Lina Nielsen
Lina Nielsen is a British sprinter, hurdler and yoga instructor on the FitApp. When she was just 17, Lina was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Lina decided to keep her diagnosis a secret whilst competing for 9-years. Just two days before the World Athletics Championship Heats in 2022, Lina relapsed. This prompted her to tell the world about her MS diagnosis.
In this episode, Lina joins Nicole to discuss her journey from first being diagnosed, how it’s impacted her career, the three non-negotiables she sticks by, and why she believes that track and field saved her.
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Timestamps:
[02:10] How Lina first became interested in athletics
[03:41] When Lina realised something wasn’t quite right with her body
[06:19] Getting the MS diagnosis
[09:00] The impact Lina’s diagnosis had on her athletic career
[11:49] Using track and field as a mental and physical outlet
[13:14] Waiting for the right moment to tell the world
[18:34] The three things Lina has found helpful when it comes to managing her MS
[22:48] The importance of knowing what you’re putting into your body
[23:47] The mindset Lina carries and why it’s crucial
[27:06] Lina’s advice for living well with MS
“Belief is one of the things you have to carry, especially with something like MS. Not to be defeated, or let it consume you. See how you can use your diagnosis for good.”
Essential learnings from this episode…
Lina’s reaction when she first got her multiple sclerosis diagnosis and why it’s ok to accept how you feel
The purpose MS has given Lina when it comes to her career and never taking anything for granted
The important role sleep, movement and an anti-inflammatory diet plays in managing Lina’s MS
Why a positive mindset is a vital component for Lina
EPISODE 1
Important links & mentions from this episode
Connect with Lina on Instagram
Connect with Nicole on Instagram
Visit the Goode Health Website
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