Meet Ethan
Hometown: Bexley, OH
Age on Race Day: 7
Diagnosis: Pediatric Scleroderma
As I begin my training journey for the 3rd year in a row for NcH and for Ethan, I am reminded of how grateful I am for this community! To date we have raised over $65,000 for the Department of Rheumatology with NO plans to stop. The 2022 race was incredible, we told Ethan's story to the masses and he was honored as a mile champion! Let me all remind you of Ethan's ongoing story. While he continues to live a normal life, this disease still looms in our minds and is and always will be a part of who Ethan is. Please consider donating, nothing is too small and I run with you all in my hearts.
Ethan’s parents noticed a small white spot under Ethan’s eye when he was around five years old. At first, they did not think too much about it but over time the spot turned brown, and they decided to get it checked out. After scheduling an appointment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Ethan was quickly diagnosed with Pediatric Scleroderma (Morphea), an autoimmune disease that could cause deformities to his face as well as enter deeper tissues in the eye and brain. Over the next several months, Ethan underwent several tests including bloodwork, eye examination, and a brain MRI and then began treatment for this condition just before starting kindergarten. His treatment consisted of three to four months of oral steroids as well as weekly injections with an immunosuppressant.
Ethan continues to receive weekly medication and continues to be treated at Nationwide Children’s. After two years on therapy, he has responded well to treatment with no new lesions and no extension of the lesion under his eye. His mom, Liz, states, “We do not know what the future holds for Ethan and his diagnosis, but we do feel hopeful that he is in the hands of the best possible medical professionals for his condition. We do know that rare diseases such as Pediatric Scleroderma are not fully understood. We are so grateful for this hospital being in our backyard and that serves as a place of comfort for Ethan as he receives treatment.”
Ethan loves all sports with his favorite being football. Ethan bonds with his dad over football stats and loves to sing songs in the car. Ice cream is a weekly treat for Ethan after his treatments which is well-deserved for a happy and kind kid.
