Jim Galvanek was a 27-year-old architect when he was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in 1998. At the time, the only reliable treatment was a bone marrow transplant, which required that his entire blood and immune system be destroyed and replaced with that from a donor. Galvanek spent over a month in hospital and more than a year recuperating before returning to work.
Galvanek’s body accepted the transplant and he made a full recovery. But something in his life seemed incomplete.
He eventually set his sights on the Ironman triathlon, a feat of endurance that includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and full marathon. Galvanek successfully completed his first Ironman in 2008 to celebrate the ten-year anniversary of his bone marrow transplant. He has since competed in numerous triathlons and other endurance events, raising over $250,000 in support of blood cancer research.
This book made me appreciate the human spirit along with the human body. As a fellow blood cancer survivor, it is always inspiring to see others who have been in similar shoes push their minds and bodies to new heights… even if that means an insanely long triathlon! I can’t say that I will ever swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 and run 26.2 miles in the same day, week or even month; but, I do believe that giving back to an organization that has had such a huge impact on my life is imperative to continue the “survivorship cycle.” Thanks for setting a great example, Jim.
Jim Galvanek takes a refreshing approach to many books on cancer that is unique and inspirational. Galvanek, who was inflicted with cancer at the young age of 27, took a scientific, disciplined approach to fight it. After a long, challenging battle, Galvanek decided to take his fight to raise money for the LLS by running marathons, and eventually a marathon. What's great and different about this book, is he provides step by step guidance with tips on health, exercise, mental and physical techniques to deal with cancer, and prepare for something as strenuous as an ironman. Great book, higly recommend it!
United StatesUS$
Cart
