Jennifer Wells, an associate professor of higher education and student affairs at Kennesaw State University, described on Mar. 13 how her journey with multiple sclerosis began nearly a decade ago after experiencing numbness during a visit to Robben Island in South Africa. The symptoms, which started as ‘pins and needles’ in her feet, eventually led to a diagnosis of MS upon her return to the United States.
Wells’ experience highlights the challenges faced by individuals living with chronic autoimmune diseases that affect mobility and muscle strength. Her story also demonstrates how physical activity can play a role in managing such conditions.
Reflecting on her diagnosis, Wells said, “I really thought that was the end of everything. I thought I would have to give up working out.” However, she credits her neurologist for encouraging her to continue exercising. “When the doctors told me it was my muscle memory that kept me walking during that time, that was huge for me,” she said.
Instead of stepping away from CrossFit after being diagnosed, Wells increased her commitment to fitness and became certified as a coach. She competed in the adaptive division of the CrossFit Games starting in 2024 and finished sixth worldwide in 2025. She is currently training for the 2026 CrossFit Open while continuing to teach master’s and doctoral students at Kennesaw State’s Bagwell College of Education.
Wells draws parallels between coaching athletes and teaching students: “In CrossFit, there’s a written prescribed workout called Rx each day, but not everybody can do that. You have to think on the spot and figure out how to adapt it for each individual. Teaching is the same for me. If what I’m teaching isn’t connecting, I have to come at it from a different angle.”
Her colleague Arvin Johnson praised Wells’ dedication: “Collaborating with Dr. Wells has been such a delight. She inspires the Educational Leadership department with her strong motivation and determination… It is very impressive how she balances so much.”
Wells said she finds motivation in honoring her late sister’s memory: “I think I live for her, too… But I used her to inspire me to go on, especially for my parents.” As she prepares for future competitions and continues coaching classes weekly, Wells hopes others will be encouraged by her example: “I would love for people to be inspired… It’s about finding something you’re passionate about, having a growth mindset and believing you can be better.”
