Karen, an aspiring Paralympic archer living with multiple sclerosis (MS) for nearly three decades has got a new lease of life with the help of precision Ayurveda.
She arrived at the Apollo AyurVAID Hospital earlier this year with over twenty years of near-complete dependence on a wheelchair.
She had persistent chronic pain, weakness, and gait imbalance, and had been advised that no additional clinical interventions were likely to improve her mobility. While training in Chennai, Karen sought to explore whether a structured Ayurveda approach could help restore her mobility, improve muscle strength and overall function.
She consulted Dr Susmitha C, a specialist in neurological and autoimmune conditions at the hospital and enrolled in a rigorous Precision Ayurveda programme.
Following a detailed assessment grounded in the principles of Precision Ayurveda, Karen`s treatment plan combined classical Panchakarma therapies,targeted Ayurveda medication, a therapeutic diet and focused neuro-rehabilitation formed the cornerstone of her care.
Karen`s journey was documented with clinical rigour, as measurable outcomes are vital in progressive neurological conditions.
Standard neurological scales – including the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Berg Balance Score and MS-specific functional assessments – were used to track her progress at every stage.
Dr. Susmitha C, Physician, at the hospital, said, “Karen presented with long-standing functional limitations and limited avenues within conventional care. Our objective was to design a phased, clinically safe programme that addressed the underlying drivers of her condition.
Each component of her care, from therapies to diet to physiotherapy, was individualised to her clinical profile and athletic requirements. This integrative approach to whole-person care addresses body, mind, and soul, supporting both immediate recovery and long-term functional maintenance.
Her progress reinforces the role of a precision-based Ayurveda approach in improving function in complex, chronic conditions.
She continues with consolidation therapy and strength development, and we anticipate further gains as she progresses through her long-term plan.”
Karen added, “Living with MS for nearly three decades, I had learned to adjust to limitations, but never imagined I could regain true mobility. Working with the team at has been transformative, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. The therapies and guidance helped me reconnect with my body in ways I hadn`t felt in years. Standing up on my feet again feels like reclaiming a part of myself I thought was lost forever. I`m now able to integrate focused lower limbtraining into my archery practice, and it`s empowering to feel my strength and balance returning. This experience has given me renewed confidence andmotivation to pursue my dream of competing in the 2028 LA Paralympics, knowing that my body can respond to my efforts once more.”
Karen, who is also a pharmacist and an advocate for disability visibility and access in sports, has transformed her health challenge into a purpose.
She has represented the US national para archery team and competed in two world championships while inspiring others to believe in possibilitiesbeyond limitation.
Aspiring paralympian walks again after 20 years, gets a new lease of life
