Racing Toward Hope: Kelly Sargent Shares Her Why
On June 22, Kelly Sargent will compete in the Cohasset Triathlon, but her journey to the starting line began long before training ever started. It began in doctors’ offices. In long nights. In quiet moments of fear and strength. Like so many parents navigating PANS and PANDAS, Kelly’s path has been one of heartbreak, discovery, and resolve.
“It hits close to home and resonates with me personally,” Kelly shares. “We’ve been on an extremely difficult journey navigating PANS/PANDAS with my daughter, as well as families I know in the same boat.”
Her daughter’s experience, the confusion, the pain, and the resilience, has become her why. It’s the reason she’s stepping into this triathlon not just as an athlete, but as an advocate.
“Watching my child and others suffer from anxiety, OCD, tics, and behavioral changes from an infection is heartbreaking to witness. Their worlds are turned upside down. They’re ignored and not heard.”
That kind of suffering isn’t rare. But it is too often dismissed. And for Kelly, that’s unacceptable.
She’s choosing to race, to push herself mentally and physically, not just for her own growth, but because she believes in something bigger: a future where every child has access to the care they need.
“We’ve been fortunate enough so far, even though it’s been extremely tough. But it’s my mission that every child or adult has the same accessibility and doesn’t go untreated, suffer in silence, or be ignored.”
Training hasn’t been easy. But every run, every swim, every moment of doubt has reminded her who she’s doing this for.
“Every workout reminds me that I’m not just training for myself, I’m training for these kids and families. On days I don’t feel like doing it, thinking about their strength gives me the motivation to keep going.”
For Kelly, this race is about awareness. It’s about raising funds. It’s about giving families a fighting chance to be heard and healed. Because she knows what’s possible with the right support.
“They can heal if treated properly.”
She believes in this cause deeply,because she’s lived it. And now, she’s asking others to stand alongside her.
“By donating and spreading awareness, you can make a difference. No amount is too big or too small, it’s all greatly appreciated.”
To those considering supporting The Look. Foundation, her message is clear:
“Your support can truly change lives. PANS/PANDAS is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood, leaving families feeling completely lost and overwhelmed. By supporting the Look. Foundation, you’re helping fund research, raise awareness, and provide resources for early diagnosis and treatment. These things can make all the difference in a child’s recovery, and a chance to heal and reclaim their childhoods.”
Join Kelly. Join Team Look.
Donate to Kelly’s Race
Learn More About PANS/PANDAS
Share Her Story and Spread Awareness
Because healing begins when we’re willing to see what others can’t, and fight for those who can’t fight alone.