Ashley Norton “Iron Heart Woman” Poised to Become First Woman with MS to Compete at Kona
Ashley Norton, known as Iron Heart Woman, is on a mission to make history this October as the first woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and dependent on a pacemaker to compete in the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
A single mom, disabled triathlete, and six-time heart surgery survivor—including two pacemakers—Norton’s journey is one of relentless determination. Diagnosed with MS in 2011, she has refused to let the degenerative neurological disease define her, continuing to train for endurance events despite debilitating fatigue and muscle weakness.
“Every five minutes, someone is diagnosed with MS,” Norton says. “This is about more than me. It’s about showing people facing huge challenges that they don’t have to give up on their dreams.”
This year, Norton is not racing alone. She has teamed up with Joy McAdams, a five-time IRONMAN World Championship competitor, 25-time Ironman finisher, TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, mother of five, and leading advocate for growth through physical challenge. The two met at Ashley’s previous solo attempt in Kona, and McAdams has now stepped up to guide and support Norton in her quest to reach the finish line.
Their partnership begins in earnest with their first race together at the Oregon IRONMAN 70.3 on July 20. But the ultimate goal is clear: complete the iconic Kona IRONMAN World Championship on October 12, 2025.
Norton’s effort is not just about personal achievement—it’s about raising awareness for the more than 2.8 million people living with MS worldwide. She is calling on supporters to join the fight by making donations to help improve the lives of those affected by this debilitating disease.
“Together, we can show the world there are no limits to what we can achieve,” says Norton. “With every mile, every stroke, every step—we’re fighting for everyone impacted by MS.”
Join the Movement
Support Ashley’s historic journey and help raise awareness for multiple sclerosis. Donations of any amount make a difference and help her team reach both their racing and advocacy goals.
For more information, follow Ashley’s progress, or donate.
About Ashley Norton (Iron Heart Woman)
Ashley Norton is a disabled triathlete, single mom, and passionate advocate known as Iron Heart Woman. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2011 and dependent on a pacemaker after six heart surgeries, she has refused to let disability define her life. Norton competes in endurance events around the country to raise awareness for MS, inspire others to pursue their dreams despite adversity, and prove that with determination and passion, there are no limits.
