Olympic Gymnast Suni Lee Opens Up About Being Diagnosed with Incurable Kidney Disease

Olympic gymnast Suni Lee has shared a deeply personal and challenging chapter of her life, revealing her ongoing battle with an incurable kidney disease that has posed a significant threat to her illustrious gymnastics career. This revelation has shed light on the resilience and determination of a young athlete who has already achieved so much in the world of gymnastics.

Suni Lee's ordeal began innocuously, with the athlete waking up one morning to find her ankles swollen. Initially attributing the puffiness to the intense training she was undergoing at Auburn University for her final NCAA gymnastics season, she thought nothing of it. However, her situation took a drastic turn when, the following morning, her entire body was swollen – face, legs, and hands included. It was a shocking and alarming development.

Amid this growing concern, Lee sought the advice of Dr. Faustin, a physician from the USA Gymnastics Women's National Team. The medical team's primary objective was to uncover the root cause of her condition and determine the path forward. Unfortunately, her body's response to the gymnastics equipment was telling – she could not continue her rigorous training. Her fingers were so swollen that even basic gymnastic maneuvers became impossible. It was a frustrating and worrying time for Lee, who found herself questioning the very future of her gymnastics career.

The initial suspicion was that Suni Lee might be experiencing an allergic reaction, given the persistent swelling. However, as the weeks went by with no improvement, the medical team began to explore other possibilities. Lee described the harrowing experience of watching her body change, as she gained approximately 40 pounds due to the swelling. The uncertainty was agonizing – the prospect of never returning to gymnastics or competing in the Olympics loomed large in her mind.

As the medical team pursued various tests, one crucial detail emerged – Lee had been experiencing difficulty urinating for two weeks. This revelation led to a urine test, which in turn prompted the need for a kidney biopsy to investigate signs of damage or disease. On April 3, 2023, Suni Lee made the heartbreaking decision to end her season at Auburn University, citing a "non-gymnastics health-related issue involving my kidneys." While she privately disclosed her diagnosis to SELF magazine, she opted to keep it confidential for the time being, as her doctors believe further testing could alter the diagnosis. What is known, however, is that her condition is rare and currently incurable. The medical team is diligently working on a treatment plan that incorporates medication.

Lee's journey is one of courage and resilience. She grapples with the enormity of her life-altering diagnosis, wondering how a day that started with swelling led to a condition she will carry for the rest of her life. She acknowledges that her athleticism has changed, and the road ahead is fraught with uncertainty. Despite these challenges, Suni Lee's story extends beyond the boundaries of gymnastics. She hopes her determination to overcome adversity will inspire others never to let life's setbacks deter them from pursuing their dreams.

Indeed, Lee's determination and perseverance have already yielded impressive results. She marked her return to competition in the 2023 Core Hydration Classic with a bronze finish on the beam. This comeback signifies more than just a return to elite gymnastics; it represents her ability to overcome formidable obstacles and inspire others to do the same. She recognizes that her journey is a source of inspiration for those facing their own struggles.

Though Suni Lee continues to contend with severe swelling and the side effects of her medication, she remains resolute. Her commitment to her sport requires adjustments, such as more frequent eating, reduced salt intake, and additional rest. These modifications are essential for managing her condition and ensuring her long-term health. She has also had to make tough decisions, like withdrawing from the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Belgium, to protect her body.

In conclusion, Suni Lee's story is one of tenacity, courage, and determination in the face of adversity. Her journey through the challenges of an incurable kidney disease serves as a powerful reminder that setbacks are not insurmountable barriers but opportunities for growth and inspiration. As she navigates this uncharted territory, Suni Lee continues to inspire both in the world of gymnastics and as a symbol of unwavering resilience in the face of life's uncertainties.

[yankeeyankee]

I ALSO had an “incurable” kidney disease, CKF and end stage kidney disease. I had cardiac arrest 4X and almost died. I was not expected to make it. I had the same symptoms as Suni, including the ascites, the edema and the eczema. I also had severely unstable blood pressure. I went on dialysis, and arranged for a transplant, when suddenly and unexpectedly, all my symptoms went away! The doctors (of which I had as many as a dozen at one time) never did determine what caused it (so they can’t protect against it happening again), but I am almost back to normal now (my eczema is still pretty bad). THERE IS HOPE!

[hersheythao]

My heart breaks for you Suni. Gymnastics just isn’t the same without you. Praying for you!!! Love and light!

[creating_c]

The bright side, is that the doctors and Suni know what has been plaguing her and hopefully they'll avail her to a treatment/management plan that will give her the best results for her overall health.

[wilmaphillips]

I hope you will continue to full good healthy recovery. God bless.

[genericagaye]

She's so gorgeous. And very talented of course. Love her gym

[xailee]

She's growing up and so beautiful. Good luck suni love you 😍

[ctruth]

Just focus on getting healthy champ. Life is far more important than sport.

[cadebritt]

Weird I have never cared about self. But I am in awe of people who move forward with chains.

[s-p-man]

This is pretty sad and a message for those out there who do not drink water daily. Our kidneys Depend on the water to flush toxins and other residuals out of our body. Accumulation of toxins can end up in kidney disease and even damage. Lately, very young people in their mid-20s have been suffering from kidney issues, and even though it is acute, it is only steps away from becoming chronic and uncured. Make sure you drink lots of water and you are urinating clearly. AM urine is dark, but during the day it must be clear. Check with your doctor about any willingness on your body, because it is not normal unless it is an infection-related protection of your body. I am so sad by the news. She is young and with such a great talent. I wish her the best and make God cure her of this disease.❤️