August 16, 2016 |  written by IVX Health

Olympic Athletes Who Compete Despite Chronic Illness


Dealing with the symptoms of a chronic illness can sometimes feel like an Olympic-level battle. There are many true Olympic athletes who haven’t let their chronic illnesses stop them from following their dreams.  Let them inspire you as you too live your life to the fullest with chronic illness.

Carrie Johnson, Canoe/Kayak (2004, 2008, 2012) – Crohn’s Disease

Carrie Johnson was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2003.  While she had to sit out from competition and training in 2003 and 2009, she was able to bounce back to compete in three Olympic Games.  She reached the semifinals in 2004, grabbed 10th place in 2008, and reached the semifinals again in 2012, her last Olympics.

Venus Williams, Tennis (2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) – Sjörgen’s Syndrome

After becoming tennis royalty, Venus Williams was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder called Sjörgen’s syndrome in 2011.  Despite symptoms like fatigue and dry eye, Venus rebounded for the 2012 Olympics where she won the gold medal in doubles and placed 9th in singles.  This year, in the 2016 Rio games, she nabbed another medal to make 5 total when she took the silver in mixed doubles.

Shannon Boxx, Soccer (2004, 2008, 2012) – Lupus

After helping the women’s soccer team to Olympic gold in 2004, Shannon Boxx was diagnosed with lupus in 2007 at the age of 30.  She continued to play through symptoms like fatigue, joint pain and muscle soreness to help the team to two more gold meals in 2008 and 2012.  She now works with the Lupus Foundation of America to help create awareness about lupus.

Manage Your Chronic Illness at IVX Health

Being diagnosed with a chronic illness doesn’t have to mean putting your dreams on hold, no matter how big they are.  And part of that journey means taking care of yourself and working with your health care team to find the best treatment plan.

If your treatment regimen includes biologic infusion or injection treatments such as Remicade or Ocrevus, consider IVX Health for your care.  We offer appointments that fit your schedule (days, evenings and weekends) in comfortable private suites so you can enjoy your time while receiving treatment. If you’re ready to experience how we are redefining care for patients with chronic conditions, contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our many convenient locations.

Treatment at IVX Health

If biologics like Remicade, Actemra or Orencia  are a part of your chronic illness treatment plan, then consider choosing IVX Health for your ongoing care needs. IVX Health makes it possible to receive your therapy in a comfortable, convenient, and private environment.

With a private suite for every patient, you can watch your favorite Netflix show or movie on the big screen TV in each room, use a laptop or other mobile device to surf the web, or simply hang out with family and friends. We always have chairs for guests, and each center has a family room that is spacious and private if you need to bring your kids to your treatment. We also offer flexible appointment scheduling – including evenings and Saturdays – at any of our convenient locations.

At IVX Health, we truly are invested in helping you live your best life. If you’re ready to experience a new kind of infusion clinic, click here to learn how to move your infusion or injection therapy to IVX Health.