Female NCTS Driver With Multiple Sclerosis in Remission for Six Years

Kelly "Girl" Sutton grew up around race cars and decided at an early age that nothing was going to stand in the way of her dream of racing — including a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). That dream fueled years of competition, which brought her from the dirt tracks to the superspeedways, and now brings a wiser and more experienced Sutton back to Atlanta for her sophomore season, in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS).

Sutton, the first-known person with a diagnosis of RRMS to race in any NASCAR series, tied the single-season record for NCTS races run by a female (19) and looks to eclipse the all time career mark (32) en route to setting a new career earnings mark by a woman in the NCTS. As her confidence grew, so did her list of accomplishments, posting a career-best qualifying run of 14th at Las Vegas, and nine top-25 finishes in her short career. Sutton currently holds the record for best starting position for a female NCTS driver at five tracks and the record for best finishes at four, including Atlanta Motor Speedway (32nd).

In addition to battling her fellow NCTS drivers on the track, Sutton shares her compelling story with others living with MS and explains what has worked well for her.

"There are more than 8,500 people affected by MS in the state of Georgia, and almost half of all eligible people living with the disease are not taking one of the approved therapies. I know people can respond differently, but my MS has been in remission for more than six years with approved therapies, after two other therapies didn't work for me." Sutton said.

"Racing at this level is a big deal," commented Sutton, "but getting to race after being told I was going to spend my life in a wheelchair with MS is extra special."

Staying on Track With MS
Kelly Sutton's rookie year was filled with learning experiences — experiences which will enable her to cultivate her talents as a driver and race up front in 2005. Sutton raced only a handful of familiar tracks this past season, as is often the case with a rookie driver, but gained valuable track time, which will translate into confidence this year. After all, it's in her blood.

Following the path of her father and grandfather, Sutton began riding motorcycles when she was just 10 years old. At the age of 12, she graduated to go-carts. By the time she was 15, Sutton was ready to make her mark in local racing — until overwhelming fatigue and a tingling sensation on her right side brought her into the garage for a check-up. After testing from her neurologist, Sutton, 16, was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Although Sutton spent some time in a wheelchair, she was determined to learn how to manage her disease and pursue her dreams. While individual results may vary, she found herself back in the driver's seat through a disciplined exercise regimen, a conscientious diet, and a daily injection of drug therapy.

"When I'm racing, I work with my crew chief to make sure I have the proper shocks, springs, and gears to give me the edge on the track. It's the same idea with MS. I work with my neurologist to make sure I have the proper therapy, diet, and exercise to help me manage my disease."