College Swimmer Overcoming Childhod Cancer

In this blog from time to time, I want to focus on stories of college athletes overcoming tremendous adversities. These stories of triumph inspire me to overcome my own misfortunes and they should inspire whoever reads this blog.

Lindsay Payne has most likely already graduated from college. But 3-4 years ago she was swimming at Williams College, an NCAA Div. 111 school in Williams, MA., and was enjoying an All-American career. According to an article in Coed Magazine a few years ago, Payne won the 100 yard breaststroke at the NCAA Championships her Freshman year, and became the first four time NCAA champion in that event, not to mention winning several other accolades.

However, the triumphs Lindsay realized in college pale in comparison to her triumph over cancer. During the Summer after her sixth grade year, Lindsay was racing with her swim team at NC St. and was so exhausted after an event she couldn't even stand up to cheer on her teammates. Her parents took her to the doctor, and it was discovered that she had Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. The following 2 years involved painful chemotherapy and spinal taps.

However, by the time Lindsay reached high school, she was able to get back in the pool. She also tried a few other sports such as soccer, and was part of a championship crew team.

Payne chose Williams College over several Div. 1 swimming offers because she wanted to play other sports and concentrate on academics. "I also wanted a more balanced collegiate experience. Williams was clearly outstanding academically, and Div. 111 athletics gave me time for other activities." Payne said. Payne did so well in 2004 that she qualified for the 2004 U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials.

Lindsay Payne's triumph over Leukemia gives hope to thousands of kids and adults who have contracted various forms of cancer. Those of us who don't have it as tough should never feel self-pity. Information in this article is credited to the staff at Coed Magazine. For more information on the story of Lindsay Payne, go to www.coedmagazine.com.