Check out Episode 111 below!
https://traffic.libsyn.com/1ad6174e-99d5-4ca8-861e-c4dfbf33cee6/E111_IP.mp3
In this deeply inspiring episode, host Christy Pennison sits down with Leanna Scaglione—NF2 warrior, marathon runner, and advocate—for a powerful conversation about resilience, redefining your limits, and showing up for your life even when the path looks nothing like you expected.
Diagnosed with NF2-related schwannomatosis at just 16, Leanna’s life took a sharp turn from her dreams of becoming a professional ballerina to navigating nerve damage, major spinal surgeries, and a period in a wheelchair. But what could have been a stopping point became the beginning of something extraordinary.
“It just triggered that, like, angry side of me where I was like, this is not my life. This is not how it was meant to be or how it’s going to end.”
— Leanna Scaglione
Together, Christy and Leanna explore:
- How Leanna found healing and hope in running—even while undergoing experimental treatments
- Why her first steps during the pandemic became a personal rebellion against hopelessness
- How she connected with the Children’s Tumor Foundation and found purpose in advocacy
- Her mission to become the first person with NF2 to complete all six Abbott World Major Marathons
- The mindset shifts that help her navigate pain, fear, and comparison with grace
- Why progress isn’t about perfection—it’s about participating in your own life, one step at a time
Whether you’re facing your own diagnosis, supporting a loved one through illness, or just trying to move forward in a tough season, Leanna’s story is a testament to what’s possible when we focus on what we can do—and give ourselves permission to keep going.
“Focus on what you can control, because if you get stuck on what you can’t control, you’re going to get stuck. And that’s why I say just keep going, because you never know what you’re going to miss if you don’t participate.”
— Leanna Scaglione
Grab your earbuds or your running shoes—and get ready for an honest, hope-filled look at resilience, purpose, and participating in life on your own terms.
Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do… is keep going.
About Leanna Scaglione
Leanna Scaglione is a marathon runner, NF2 advocate, and powerful voice for resilience and representation in the rare disease community. She is currently training to become the first person with NF2-related schwannomatosis to complete all six Abbott World Major Marathons. Leanna shares her journey openly to inspire others and raise awareness for NF2, showing that even in the face of extraordinary challenges, anything is possible.
📲 Follow her on Instagram: @leanna_runningNF2
🌐 Learn more about NF and support rare disease research at ctf.org
Want more conversations like this?
Visit christypennison.com for all podcast episodes, blog posts, and resources.
