U.S. Olympic gold medalist Sunisa ‘Suni’ Lee has revealed her ongoing battle with eczema, a condition she has grappled with since childhood. In a recent discussion sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company, Lee candidly shared the challenges of managing her chronic skin condition, emphasizing its isolating nature during flare-ups.
“My skin was always super dry, super flaky. It was really uncomfortable because it was really itchy,” Lee recounted, reflecting on her early experiences with eczema. She acknowledged the emotional toll it takes, describing eczema flare-ups as something that can “definitely get in my head.”
Lee, who gained international acclaim for her gymnastic prowess at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, expressed how the condition impacts her performance and mental well-being. “Being on a competition floor, having so many eyes on you and just trying not to be worried about if people are looking at my skin or like itching myself… it’s a challenge,” she admitted.
Despite these challenges, Lee has found ways to cope and embrace her condition, stressing the importance of mental health care and support systems. “Stress is a daily thing that I have to battle,” she noted, highlighting the role of therapy and journaling in managing her mental health alongside her treatment plan for eczema.
Looking ahead to the upcoming gymnastic trials for the Paris Olympics, Lee remains determined and optimistic. She shared her gratitude for being able to return to competition despite personal health setbacks, including a diagnosis of an incurable kidney disease that altered her career trajectory.
“I have had to deal with so much the past two years. It just feels so good to know that I can be back out there, not even at my best, and I can still be able to perform,” Lee expressed, underscoring her resilience and excitement for future athletic endeavors.
Lee’s openness about her struggles with eczema and other health challenges serves as a testament to her resilience and determination, inspiring others facing similar obstacles. As she prepares to compete for a spot on Team USA, Lee continues to advocate for awareness and understanding of eczema, reminding others that the condition does not define her achievements or her journey.
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