Takeuchi announced he is suffering from an intractable disease called Churg-Strauss Syndrome (EGPA), a type of Vasculitis, and once almost gave up on participating in the Sochi Games.
Japan team wins bronze medal in ski jumping - Vasculitis UK
Japan team wins bronze medal in ski jumping
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Suzym2u
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7 Replies
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Thanks Suzy - I was just watching the medal giving and the German commentator mentioned he'd been diagnosed with a (potentially fatal) autoimmune disorder but didn't say what. You've satisfied my curiousity!
However - given the level of fitness ski jumpers have to possess that certainly is a positive message to others!
Suzym2uModeratorVasculitis UK
As I'm part of the CSS clan, I have some idea just how much this success has cost this man.
Awe inspiring.
What a courageous and inspirational young man! Churg Strauss Syndrome (or EGPA as it has recently been renamed) is a very rare form of Vasculitis and a very scary diagnosis to face. The disease can affect almost any organ and requires expert care, which Takeuchi is obviously receiving. His desire to give hope to others is touching as the diagnosis for some can be devastating. Congratulations! Jane Dion, Director, The Churg Strauss Syndrome Association. cssassociation.org
Watched him ski jump. How inspiring.
Suzym2uModeratorVasculitis UK
Russian figure skater Irina Slutskaya, silver medalist in 2002 and bronze medalist in 2006 also had Churg Strauss Syndrome, or EGPA. This disease is so rare and its effects can be so debilitating, that the courage and determination of these two athletes is truly inspiring.
