From Olympic Qualifier to Rare Disease Patient

Brandon Hudgins is an American middle-distance runner. In 2016 he tried out for the Olympics after overcoming 3 episodes of vasculitis. In his comeback, he is one of just a few runners to finish the mile in under 4 minutes.
Brandon is now dealing with his vasculitis again and while he no longer can run a 4 minute mile, he is using his drive and determination to help others with rare diseases overcome their obstacles.
We talked to Brandon on the evening that he received NORD's Rare Impact Award in Washington DC.
As Brandon explains in this video, meeting other rare disease patients has inspired him more than he thinks his story has inspired others.
Vasculitis is a group of rare inflammatory conditions affecting blood vessels. Symptoms vary depending on the type of vasculitis. In Brandon’s case, he has granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) which often involves inflammation of blood vessels in the lungs, nasal passages and kidneys.

[@captainhml3868]

I have Wegener’s also and Goodpasture’s Syndrome. I am in remission now.

[@SkyKid-ue1dh]

My spouse has this. Diagnosis 24 yrs ago. Went in remission and now it’s back.

[@jonathanbecerra7073]

I'm sorry brother that you have this. I have it as well and I know how terrible it can be. I'll pray you feel better.

[@wickedcoolname399]

I wonder if he checks the comments. I have Wegener's too and I was in remission for quite a while but I'm in the middle of a severe relapse at the moment. Feel like shit, and just wanted to compare symptoms and treatments.

[@mariamitsios387]

Does the inflamation in eyes and esrs make you dizzy or give you feeling of passing out ? I believe i may have this i have severe pressure in head that pulses to my heart beat and pulling in ears eyes and sinuses that make me feel like i’m giing to pass out and mentally messes with me ...