Medford Walk Sheds Light on Little Known Disorder Affecting 1 Million Americans

Nearly 300 people will gather in Medford on Saturday, May 9, to raise awareness of a little known, but wide-spread disorder. POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) effects approximately one million Americans, mostly young women.

The disease was recently in the news when Christina Tournant, an MIT student diagnosed with POTS, took her own life. POTS wrecks havoc on the autonomic nervous system. The challenging symptoms, such as a rapid heart beat and constant nausea and fatigue, make it difficult to take on even basic daily tasks. Since most people, including many doctors, have never heard of POTS, patients are slow to be diagnosed, lack effective medicines and are left with unclear treatment plans.

Sarah Mendelowitz has organized a race in Medford to raise awareness for POTS. Sarah is also an MIT graduate and wrote recently in the school’s newspaper about her challenges living with the disease. Not only does the walk help her regain some control over her POTS, exercise, especially walking, is one of the most important parts of the recovery process.

The 5K Walk / Run will start at 10am on Saturday, May 9, at the Mystic River Bend Reservation. The fundraising campaign has garnered more than $10,000 to date, as well as cash and in-kind donations from local businesses, such as Samuel Adams and Keurig. Funds raised through the event will go to the nonprofit, Dysautonomia International.

The event promises to be a day of mixed emotions, with a tribute to Christina, POTS sufferers reaching new milestones and a celebration with music and food.

– Submitted by Jessica Mendelowitz