In a groundbreaking achievement, 29-year-old Amy Cohen became the first person with sickle cell anemia to complete a full marathon, finishing the TCS New York City Marathon on November 2, 2025, in 6 hours, 9 minutes, 27 seconds.
Amy was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia before birth. Growing up she managed the disease with medical guidance and family support, though she experienced her first major “crisis” (painful complication) when she was 14 years old, a high-school freshman. Despite the challenges, Amy refused to let her condition define her limits. Over the years, she learned to listen to her body and stay active, something that would eventually lead her to chase a dream few thought possible.
Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells. Instead of being round and flexible, some of these cells become hard and crescent-shaped, which makes it harder for them to move smoothly through blood vessels.
These misshapen cells break apart much faster than normal ones, leading to a shortage of healthy red blood cells. As a result, the body struggles to get enough oxygen, causing tiredness and other complications.
Because the cells die sooner than they should, people with sickle cell anemia often experience chronic anemia and related health challenges.
Symptoms of sickle cell anemia usually appear around six months of age, but their severity can vary widely from person to person.
Fatigue and weakness occur due to anemia, as the body does not receive enough oxygen.
Pain episodes, also called crises, happen when the sickled cells block blood flow to the chest, abdomen, or joints. These painful episodes can last from a few hours to several days.
Swelling in hands and feet is common when circulation is restricted.
Frequent infections may occur because the spleen, which helps fight infections, becomes damaged over time.
In early 2023 Amy began training for the marathon with exercise specialist Jennifer Miramontes. When Amy shared her goal, Miramontes admitted she had never met a patient with sickle cell anemia who wanted to take on a full marathon. Together, they built a gradual, customized plan focused on pacing, hydration, and rest. Amy’s training became a careful balance between pushing her limits and protecting her health.
The condition is caused by a genetic mutation that affects hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. This abnormal hemoglobin causes the cells to become rigid and sticky.
A person develops sickle cell anemia only when they inherit two copies of the defective gene, one from each parent.
Those who inherit just one copy have what’s called the sickle cell trait. They usually don’t have severe symptoms but can still pass the gene to their children.
Treatment focuses on managing pain, preventing complications, and improving quality of life.
Medications like hydroxyurea can reduce pain episodes and the need for blood transfusions. Newer drugs such as L-glutamine and crizanlizumab also help lower the risk of pain crises.
Blood transfusions replace damaged red cells with healthy ones, improving oxygen delivery and preventing complications like stroke.
Bone marrow or stem cell transplants may offer a cure for some children and young adults, although they are not suitable for everyone.
Gene therapy is an emerging option that aims to correct the genetic defect responsible for the disease, offering hope for long-term cures in the future.
During the marathon, Amy ran with Miramontes by her side to monitor her physical condition. She took regular breaks for water, Gatorade, and deep breaths at every aid station. “When my body would tell me to slow down, I would stop,” Amy told People magazine. Her determination was not about speed but about finishing safely, and proving to herself that she could.
Who is Amy Cohen?
Amy Cohen is a 29-year-old woman who became the first person with sickle cell anemia to complete the New York City Marathon.
What makes sickle cell anemia a challenging condition?
Sickle cell anemia causes red blood cells to become hard and crescent-shaped, making it difficult for them to carry oxygen. This leads to fatigue, pain crises, and a higher risk of infections, making physical endurance activities especially difficult.
Can people with sickle cell anemia live active lives?
Yes, with the right medical supervision, hydration, and care, many individuals with sickle cell anemia can stay active. Amy Cohen’s story proves that managing the condition carefully can make even marathon dreams possible.
Reference:
Sickle cell anemia – Symptoms & causes.” Mayo Clinic. Last modified September 12 2025. Accessed November 8 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sickle-cell-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355876.
(Rh/ARC/MSM)
