Iisak's Journey: From Transplant Patient to Aspiring Athlete
Iisak's introduction
Iisak, a 21-year-old transplant athlete (born in 2003), received a stem cell transplant in 2021. He recently graduated as a nature instructor from the Brahe Education Centre's Ruukki program. Based in Tampere, he balances work with his passion for fitness, hiking, hunting, wall climbing, and reading.
He maintains an intensive training regimen in running, swimming, and cycling, aspiring to compete in international triathlon competitions for transplant recipients. His immediate goal is to participate in the sprint triathlon at the 2025 World Transplant Championships in Dresden.
The Turning Point: August 2020
Prior to his diagnosis, Iisak was an enthusiastic athlete beginning his second year studying fashion at Tampere Vocational College Tredu. He had enrolled in a Brazilian jiu-jitsu beginners' course and a youth hunting camp, while also planning to get his driver's license. Then, at age 17, everything changed.
In September, he was diagnosed with severe leukemia, requiring a stem cell transplant as the only treatment option. He began chemotherapy and had to pause his education and cancel his planned activities. In March 2021, a matching donor was found, and Iisak received his transplant. The most challenging aspect was spending 4.5 weeks in isolation at Meilahti Triangle Hospital due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Recovery and Renewal
The following year focused on recovery and rebuilding strength. Despite post-transplant complications and infections, Iisak persevered with his training and completed his studies at Tredu. He then took up wrestling and changed his academic direction.
Present Day
Now a licensed driver with a vocational qualification, Iisak has transformed his life. He completed his nature instructor studies and maintains regular employment while following an intensive training schedule of 11 sessions per week. His routine includes gym workouts, climbing, running, swimming, cycling, and occasional wrestling. He also enjoys hiking in Lapland during summer.
Future Aspirations
"Sports and goal-oriented training have been crucial to my recovery," Iisak reflects. "Regaining and even improving my physical fitness has supported my mental recovery and optimism for the future. I'm committed to this path, and having concrete goals fuels my motivation."
Patient Support: How to Manage a Serious Illness
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