19-year-old Rikako Ikee of Japan was diagnosed with leukemia a year ago today, derailing her plans to potentially stand atop the podium in her home nation at this summer Olympic Games. Instead, she has made it known her plan is to go for the 2024 Games in Paris.
However, the sprint virtuoso claimed a critical personal victory when she was officially discharged from the hospital in December and now also by her return to the gym.
Per Ikee’s Instagram post from today, February 8th, she says, “My leukemia was discovered on February 8th a year ago today. Just one year after that, looking back on various things, I’m reflecting and now moving forward.”
Pictured in workout clothes yet with a protective face mask, Ikee continued, “A little training at the University gym…I really felt the weakness of my muscles.
“I’m looking forward to how my body changes from now on.”
As of her hospital release late last year, Ikee was said to be in remission and stable, though she would continue treatment as an external patient.
Swimming-wise, she said at the time she would start building physical fitness on land while consulting medical staff regarding competition possibilities.
What wonderful news! She’ll be back tearing up the pool in no time, and I can’t wait to see it happen. GO RIKAKO!!!!!
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/05/110525083735.htm
stand stop or stand atop?
I like her Yankees cap.
All the best to her in her continued remission.
Fukushima Victim. She was only 10 year girl who living in Nothern Tokyo 2011. Nothern Tokyo was one most affected areas outside Fukushima prefecture(radioactive snow). Agressive leukemia is nuclear or genetically cancer. Most Leukemia cases coming three until ten years after big nuclear disaster.
Just… stop.
Fukushima victim. She was only ten years old 2011 in nothern Tokyo.
More likely chlorine exposure of a combination
Yay! I’m rooting for her
The whole swimming world is cheering for her!
Go Girl! Such a talent and may you get well and tear up the pool again!