These Olympians Have Excelled Despite Serious Health Issues - Page 20 of 25

Pete Vanderkaay – Swimming, USA

Pete Vanderkaay has won four medals as an Olympic swimmer for the United States. This already astounding feat is made even more notable because Vanderkaay has to fight for every breath while slicing through the water…

Photo of swimmer Pete Vanderkaay who competed and won medals despite suffering from asthma — PHOTO: MARK J. TERRILL/AP

Vanderkaay is yet another Olympian who has overcome asthma to win at the international level. Vanderkaay carefully manages his asthma but doesn’t let it get in his way as he continues to swim toward greatness.