Charging Multiple Sclerosis At Top Speeds
Ruben Ascencio does not let anything stand in between himself and his passion for racing tunnel boats – especially multiple sclerosis (MS).
In December of 2004, loving husband and father of two, Ruben was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) after experiencing dizziness, numbness in his fingers and fatigue.
Yet, Ruben was not about to let a diagnosis of MS get in the way of living the life he had always hoped to live. In 2005, Ruben began to take a daily injection of COPAXONE® (glatiramer acetate injection), and along with a healthy diet and exercise, he has been able to live an active lifestyle that he enjoys.
In 2006, Ruben was the top scoring rookie in tunnel boat racing (boats that can travel up to 100 miles per hour!). In 2007, Ruben and his team competed in six events across the country, allowing him to capture his first career win while placing sixth overall. He looks forward to continuing his racing efforts and fighting for more podium finishes in the years ahead.
Ruben has learned, while individual results may vary, that with the help of his therapy his life with MS does not have to be a limited one. “Life does not have to stop when you are diagnosed with MS,” says Ruben. “You can pursue dreams you never imagined.”
Team COPAXONE®
Ruben is sponsored in part by Teva Neuroscience as a member of Team COPAXONE®. Ruben is just one example of someone who is living with RRMS and pursuing his dreams. Team COPAXONE® celebrates the accomplishments of people, such as Ruben, who refuse to let MS stand in their way. Members are working to change the perceptions that society holds of people living with MS.
Advances in Medicine
Continuing research has led to treatments that can modify the immune processes thought to be responsible for RRMS. The FDA has approved drugs for RRMS, such as COPAXONE®.
Call 1-800-887-8100 for more information about COPAXONE®, Team COPAXONE®, or multiple sclerosis.
087005401/080443