Suni Lee's Battle with Illness and Kidney Disease

May 2024 · 3 minute read

Discover the latest updates on the health of Olympic gymnast Suni Lee. Learn about her challenges, diagnosis, and determination to succeed despite the hurdles. Sunisa “Suni” Lee, a talented gymnast, has left an indelible mark on gymnastics history with her remarkable achievements, including winning bronze in the uneven bars and all-around competitions at the 2020 Olympics.

Lee, the first Hmong-American Olympian and the first woman of Asian heritage to clinch the Olympic all-around title, has also garnered accolades such as Female Athlete of the Year and a spot in the Time 100 list.

Suni Lee’s Battle with Illness

American gymnast Suni Lee has been grappling with health issues in 2023. In a recent interview with Self magazine, Lee opened up about her struggles and the impact of her condition. She initially dismissed swollen ankles as a result of rigorous training. Despite the physical and mental toll, Lee made a triumphant return to gymnastics, securing a bronze medal on the balance beam at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships.

Suni Lee

She has adjusted her training and lifestyle to cope with the erratic swelling and medication side effects. While navigating the challenges posed by her health, Lee’s determination to compete underscores her tenacity and commitment to her athletic aspirations. Her experience sheds light on the physical toll of chronic illness, but also demonstrates her resilience in overcoming setbacks and pursuing her goals despite uncertainties.

Update on Suni Lee’s Health

The talented gymnast bravely shared her ongoing battle with an incurable kidney illness. She initially attributed swollen ankles in February to the strain of her intensive gymnastics training, but a rapid 40-pound weight gain from the edema necessitated a doctor’s visit. The widespread swelling hindered her ability to grasp equipment during training sessions.

Initially thought to be an allergic reaction, the persistent and extensive swelling prompted a comprehensive health evaluation. After weeks of testing and consultations, a pivotal inquiry from Dr. Marcia Faustin, the USA Gymnastics Women’s National Team physician, eventually led to the diagnosis. Lee’s revelation about struggling to urinate for two weeks raised concerns about a potential kidney problem.

Suni Lee

On April 3, Suni Lee announced the early end of her NCAA gymnastics season due to a “non-gymnastics health-related issue involving my kidneys” at Auburn University. While she has chosen not to disclose the specific diagnosis, she acknowledges that further testing may alter the current understanding of her illness. Lee’s candidness about her health challenges serves as an inspiration, shedding light on the off-field struggles athletes may face amid the uncertainties of an incurable kidney illness.

Her story exemplifies not only her athletic prowess but also her courage in confronting and overcoming health-related obstacles. Fans admire Lee’s unwavering commitment to her aspirations despite the hurdles and eagerly anticipate more updates on her health.

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