For Liz Lang, running the Boston Marathon has become more than just a thrilling experience. It's a testament to her unwavering resilience and determination to spread awareness about two life-threatening conditions: stroke and heart disease.
The 48-year-old marathon runner from Jackson, New Jersey, has been on an extraordinary journey since being diagnosed with a heart arrhythmia in 2006. She was only 40 years old at the time. Despite facing setbacks and continued health concerns, Liz persisted, making drastic lifestyle changes that ultimately led to her achieving clean bill of heart health.
Her journey took another curveball turn when she received an antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosis in 2025 – a rare autoimmune disorder that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks. The diagnosis was not easy for Liz; it forced her to become an advocate for herself once again, pushing for additional tests and expert consultations until finally getting diagnosed.
This new challenge has taught Liz that perseverance and self-advocacy are crucial in managing her health. Now, she's running the 2026 Boston Marathon with a dual purpose: inspiring others facing similar battles by sharing her story and raising awareness about stroke and heart disease. By participating in Tedy’s Team fundraising efforts, Liz is supporting research and community outreach that aims to prevent and treat these debilitating conditions.
Liz says that if she can motivate just one person reading this right now to prioritize their health – to listen to their body, ask questions, and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle – every mile and every challenge will be worth it.
The 48-year-old marathon runner from Jackson, New Jersey, has been on an extraordinary journey since being diagnosed with a heart arrhythmia in 2006. She was only 40 years old at the time. Despite facing setbacks and continued health concerns, Liz persisted, making drastic lifestyle changes that ultimately led to her achieving clean bill of heart health.
Her journey took another curveball turn when she received an antiphospholipid syndrome diagnosis in 2025 – a rare autoimmune disorder that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks. The diagnosis was not easy for Liz; it forced her to become an advocate for herself once again, pushing for additional tests and expert consultations until finally getting diagnosed.
This new challenge has taught Liz that perseverance and self-advocacy are crucial in managing her health. Now, she's running the 2026 Boston Marathon with a dual purpose: inspiring others facing similar battles by sharing her story and raising awareness about stroke and heart disease. By participating in Tedy’s Team fundraising efforts, Liz is supporting research and community outreach that aims to prevent and treat these debilitating conditions.
Liz says that if she can motivate just one person reading this right now to prioritize their health – to listen to their body, ask questions, and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle – every mile and every challenge will be worth it.