Powerlifting Competition Brings Together Two Army Competitors Fighting Cancer

Introduction

At the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games held in Orlando, Florida, a chance encounter in the ladies’ room brought together two army competitors – U. S. Army Capt. Hannah Wright and Australia Army Sgt. Emily Lahey. Despite being from different countries, they bonded over their cancer diagnosis and the sense of camaraderie that the adaptive sports event offered. This article provides an insight into their journey and mindset, highlighting the importance of a positive attitude and gratitude in dealing with life’s challenges.

The Emergence of a Friendship

Captain Wright shared how her diagnosis of ovarian cancer two years ago had taken her on a long journey back to health and how being at the games was nothing short of a victory. She may have won the bronze for her weight class in powerlifting, but she found a bigger win in meeting Emily. “There’s something about meeting people who also have cancer, have beaten cancer, are going through treatment; or are being done with treatment that most don’t understand. Just being able to meet someone who you know can relate to and understand what you are going through is incredible,” Wright explained.

Sergeant Lahey, who had been on long-term medical leave due to terminal cancer, shared how participating in the games helped her find a sense of purpose despite being out of the workforce for a few years. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to meet other military personnel who could relate to each other’s struggles. “It’s been something to focus on, just the sense of camaraderie and being around like-minded people brought together through adaptive sports that all have their own story. It’s pretty phenomenal,” Lahey said.

Overcoming Adversity with a Positive Mindset

Lahey talked about her passion for rowing, and how she musters the strength to participate despite going through treatments. “You’ve got two choices; you can sit at home and wallow in self-pity, or you can get out there and make the best of it. When you are told your future is unknown, what else are you going to do?” Lahey said. Wright also echoed the sentiment, noting the importance of controlling what we can and getting in the right mindset. “You must grab life with both hands and wake up with a different perspective,” she added.

Gratitude and Finding Joy in Life’s Simple Pleasures

Both Lahey and Wright emphasized the importance of being grateful for what we have, especially when dealing with challenges. Lahey talked about how she reminds herself that being present and participating in the games is a win in itself. “Compared to the average competitor; I might have a little bit more going on, but I’m here doing it, and there’s so much joy in that. And I made a new friend!” she said. Wright shared similar sentiments, noting how being at the games, participating, and making new friendships had added a new dimension to her life.

Conclusion

Lahey and Wright’s story is a testament to the human spirit and how a positive attitude can make all the difference in the face of adversity. Their journey highlights the importance of staying positive, gratitude, and focusing on what we can control. The adaptive sports event brought two military personnel from different parts of the world together, who formed an instant bond of friendship that is sure to last a lifetime.

Keywords:

Department of Defense Warrior Games
Adaptive sports
Cancer
Positive mindset
Gratitude
Friendship
Military personnel

Originally Post From https://www.army.mil/article/277495/team_army_and_team_australia_a_cancer_connect_and_friends_for_life

Team Army and Team Australia – A Cancer Connect and Friends for Life