D.C. Woman Shares MS Diagnosis Story at Walk MS Event

Jenny Nieto's sudden vision and vertigo issues led to an MS diagnosis, highlighting the need for early detection.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:25am

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An extreme close-up X-ray image showing the intricate structure of the human nervous system, with glowing, ghostly lines representing the complex neural pathways affected by multiple sclerosis.A translucent X-ray image reveals the delicate neural pathways affected by multiple sclerosis, a chronic and often debilitating condition.Washington Today

At the National MS Society's Walk MS D.C. event, local resident Jenny Nieto shared her personal story of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after experiencing sudden vision problems, severe vertigo, nausea, and vomiting following a 5K run. Nieto's experience underscores the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for MS.

Why it matters

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that affects the central nervous system, and early detection is crucial for effective management and treatment. Events like Walk MS D.C. aim to raise awareness about MS and the challenges faced by those living with the condition.

The details

After finishing a 5K run, Nieto began experiencing troubling symptoms including vision issues, uncontrollable vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. Realizing something was seriously wrong, she sought medical attention, which led to her MS diagnosis. Nieto's story highlights the sudden and debilitating nature of MS onset and the importance of seeking prompt care.

  • On Sunday, the National MS Society hosted the Walk MS D.C. event at Nationals Park.
  • After finishing a 5K run, Nieto began experiencing her sudden and severe symptoms.

The players

Jenny Nieto

A D.C. resident who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after experiencing sudden vision problems, vertigo, nausea, and vomiting.

National MS Society

The organization that hosted the Walk MS D.C. event aimed at raising awareness about multiple sclerosis and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

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What they’re saying

“I was having trouble with my vision. I started getting very severe vertigo symptoms, nausea, vomiting — kind of uncontrollable. And I realized something is very seriously wrong.”

— Jenny Nieto

The takeaway

Nieto's experience highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection of multiple sclerosis, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving quality of life for those affected.