These Olympians Have Excelled Despite Serious Health Issues

We, mere mortals, are privy to viewing otherworldly performances put on by Olympic athletes, but we rarely get to see the obstacles that they must overcome along the way. In some cases, those obstacles come in the form of significant health issues.

You’ll be surprised, and even more inspired than you already were, after learning about these Olympians who’ve had to overcome major health problems to achieve their dreams…

Venus Williams – Tennis, USA

Venus Williams is a tennis goddess, holding the top-ranked spot on three different occasions. She was the first African-American woman to achieve this feat, in addition to winning four Olympic gold medals. But these successes haven’t come easily, as Venus has had to overcome major personal health challenges…

What many don’t realize is that Williams suffers from Sjogren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disease that shows itself through intense joint pain and fatigue. She refuses to give up on her sport though, and continues to work through the symptoms of the illness and stay at the top.