Mother and son duo, Silvia and Eric Domingo Roldan, started running marathons together, with Eric pushing her wheelchair all the way to the finish line
Running, for many, is a symphony of liberation, a test of limits, a celebration of determination. Yet, for Eric, it means more than that. It’s a shared rhythm with his mother, a bond that threads through every stride, every bead of sweat, every breath. Silvia, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) when Eric was just a boy, is an essential part of his running journey. Together, they have conquered distances, shattered barriers, and touched lives, one marathon at a time.
Silvia was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, when Eric was just 7 years old
Today, they proudly hold the Guinness World Record for the “fastest marathon pushing a wheelchair,” a testament to their unyielding spirit and a symbol of their boundless love. Yet, their journey goes beyond the accolades, weaving an emotional narrative that has captured the hearts of thousands around the globe.
The triumph of this mother-son duo lies not merely in their physical achievement but in their steadfast dedication. Come rain or shine, wind or calm, their shared determination shines brighter than any challenge. Their story goes beyond the traditional realm of sports, inspiring awe and admiration in even the non-runners among us.
In 2016 he became an advocate for MS, aiming to raise awareness of the condition, as well as raising funds for research into treatment and a potential cure.
In 2020 they decided to beat the Guinness World Record for the “fastest marathon pushing a wheelchair” but finished the race 1 minute 21 seconds too late
Eric pushed Silvia in her wheelchair across the marathon’s finish line, breaking the previous Guinness World Record for “fastest marathon pushing a wheelchair” at 2:58:40. But this achievement was not just about setting a new record; it was a statement, a show of solidarity, a cry to raise awareness for MS.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the nervous system where the immune system attacks the protective sheath covering the nerves. It’s a condition without a cure, whose symptoms can only be managed. For Eric, the disease became a cause to fight for, a rallying cry that reverberated through every marathon.
Their journey was marked by challenges, heartaches, and moments of despair. Eric recalls the first time they attempted to break the record in 2020, finishing a heartbreakingly close 1 minute and 21 seconds off. Yet, this setback only fueled their resolve, making their eventual triumph in 2021 all the more poignant.
They tried again on November 7, 2021, and they beat the world record of 2:58:40 in 2:53:28, running 42 km, with Silvia inspiring and motivating Eric throughout the race
On that fateful day, amid the nervous energy of over 15,000 runners from 120 participating countries at Zurich Marato in Barcelona, Spain, the mother-son duo made history. With every cheer from Silvia and every stride from Eric, they not only clocked an impressive 2:53:28 but also etched an unforgettable chapter of human endurance and love.
Since their monumental achievement, they’ve channeled their efforts into advocacy and fundraising for MS. They’ve initiated a campaign called #42kmcorriEMdo, aimed to raise over $3,000 for MS research. Eric’s Instagram page bears testament to their continued journey, chronicling the ups and downs, and amplifying their message of resilience.
Since then, the pair have continued to race, raising awareness of MS and the importance of mental health and becoming a beacon of love and positivity
As they gear up for their future endeavours, we can’t help but wonder if they’ll outdo their own record. With their indomitable spirit, the world will certainly be watching, ready to cheer them on. Share your thoughts on their incredible journey, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories!