This year, Jerry Lawson, former American marathon record holder, faced a life-changing challenge. At 58, the legendary runner, renowned for his grit and endurance, found himself unable to walk. A diagnosis of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological condition that can lead to temporary paralysis, forced him to confront one of the toughest races of his life — the race to recover.
Running has been Lawson’s identity since his youth. After moving to Jacksonville, Florida, in 1989, he became a fixture in the running community. Lawson’s record-breaking Chicago Marathon performance in 1997 (2:09:35) and his Jacksonville Marathon course record of 2:14, set in 1992, solidified his status as one of the greatest distance runners in the country. Known for training under grueling conditions — logging 200-mile weeks in Florida’s oppressive heat — he epitomized dedication and resilience.
In February, those qualities became vital in a new fight. GBS initially manifested as burning muscle pain and weakness, leaving Lawson hospitalized and unable to move. “The unknown was the scariest part,” Lawson admitted, describing the days before his diagnosis. Once identified, he tackled his recovery with the same determination that defined his running career. At Brooks Rehabilitation, he steadily regained strength, transitioning from a wheelchair to walking with assistance and eventually taking his first independent steps.
Three weeks after starting rehab, Lawson returned home earlier than anticipated. His first goal: walking a half-mile loop in his neighborhood. “I had to time it — that’s just who I am,” he joked. Soon after, he attempted running again, starting cautiously in his backyard. Though his pace now averages nine-minute miles, far from his peak speed, Lawson is simply grateful to move again.
The support of his family, his Jehovah’s Witness congregation, and the broader running community fueled his recovery. A GoFundMe campaign not only helped financially but reminded Lawson of the lasting impact he’s had on others. “You never realize your legacy until moments like this,” he reflected.
Today, despite lingering numbness in his feet and occasional weakness in his hands, Lawson is setting new goals. By age 60, he hopes to run another marathon at a six-minute pace. For now, he embraces each run, no matter the speed, as a victory.
Jerry Lawson’s incredible journey — from record-breaking runner to GBS survivor — inspires us to value life’s everyday blessings. His story is a testament to resilience, gratitude, and the unwavering spirit of a champion.
