The Olympic gymnastics champion reveals the challenges she faced due to a kidney issue, highlighting her determination to overcome adversity.
Sunisa Lee, the reigning Olympic all-around gymnastics gold medalist, faced a significant setback this year as she battled a kidney issue that forced her to withdraw from the 2023 Gymnastics World Championships. In an exclusive interview with USA Today, Lee shared the harrowing effects of her illness, including significant weight gain and swollen eyes. Despite these challenges, Lee demonstrated her resilience by making positive changes to her diet and training, ultimately showing signs of a remarkable recovery.
The Mysterious Kidney Issue that Plagued Lee
Lee chose not to disclose the specific details of her kidney issue but revealed that it resulted in a weight gain of 45 pounds. She described the fear and frustration of not being able to fit into her clothes and having her eyes swollen shut. The severity of her condition was evident, but Lee’s determination to overcome it shone through.
A Journey of Transformation and Resilience
Despite the setbacks caused by her kidney issue, Lee managed to regain her form and athleticism. She attributed her improvement to a change in diet, reducing sodium intake to combat water retention, and adopting a new approach to training. While she still has challenging days, Lee emphasized that she is far ahead of where she used to be.
Lee recounted the difficulties she faced at the start, waking up with swollen fingers that prevented her from gripping the bar during training. Her entire body was swollen due to water retention, making it impossible for her to perform flips. However, her determination and perseverance allowed her to adapt and work through these challenges.
A Temporary Hiatus and a Triumphant Return
Lee’s kidney issue forced her to step away from competitive gymnastics in February, and she publicly announced the reason two months later. However, she made a triumphant return to the sport in August, winning a bronze medal in the beam at the U.S. Classic. Her participation in the U.S. Championships that same month further showcased her resilience, as she won bronze in the balance beam alongside Simone Biles’ highly anticipated comeback.
Despite receiving an invitation to the team selection camp for the World Championships, Lee made the difficult decision to decline due to her ongoing kidney issue. In a non-Olympic year, she prioritized her health and did not want to risk further complications. However, as the Paris Games approach next year, Lee remains focused on her recovery rather than dwelling on future possibilities.
Conclusion:
Sunisa Lee’s journey through her kidney issue exemplifies her unwavering determination and resilience. Despite facing significant challenges, she has managed to make remarkable progress in her recovery. Lee’s ability to adapt her diet and training regimen showcases her commitment to her sport and her unwavering spirit. As she continues on her path to recovery, the gymnastics world eagerly awaits her return to the international stage, where she will undoubtedly inspire and captivate audiences once again.
Leave a Reply