Ironman 70.3 - 1.2 Mile Swim, 56 Mile Bike Ride, and a 13.1 Mile Run.

It sounds like a lot, but for those who have endured PANS/PANDAS, it is just another challenge.

On June 7, 2026, I will be competing in the Ironman 70.3 in Springfield, MA to raise awareness and funds for children and families struggling with PANS/PANDAS like myself. I was diagnosed almost five years ago and have experienced the lowest of lows. I can personally attest to the importance of raising awareness around this neuroimmune disease that causes both physical and mental anguish.

For those who do not know, PANS/PANDAS is a condition that causes inflammation in the brain that results in severe OCD, anxiety, depression, behavioral changes, and insomnia.

Beyond raising money, awareness is deeply personal to me. From personal experience, I can tell you that having strangers stare or ask why I was having a tic or compulsion was incredibly stressful. I often found myself giving a different diagnosis just to leave an uncomfortable conversation quickly. My goal is for someone to be able to respond “PANS/PANDAS” when asked what is wrong and have it be understood. It may seem like a small thing, but to someone struggling with anxiety, severe compulsions, and tics, that understanding means everything.

Ironman 70.3 may be a long race, but PANS/PANDAS is a longer fight. I am racing for every child and family who is still in the middle of theirs.

Funds raised help provide financial support to families facing the high out-of-pocket costs of PANS/PANDAS treatment.

If you would like to support this cause, please consider making a donation. No amount is too small, and every dollar makes a difference for families in need.

Thank you,
Jimmy Smith

2026 Ironman 70.3 on June 7, 2026 - Jimmy Smith

Struggle to Strength: 70.3 Miles for PANS/PANDAS