Canadian tennis pro Gabriela Dabrowski made headlines recently when she revealed on social media that she had been battling breast cancer while competing at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the three-time Grand Slam champion shared her journey of diagnosis, treatment, and resilience.
Dabrowski disclosed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in mid-April, a year after she first noticed a lump in her left breast during a self-exam. Despite being initially reassured by a doctor that it was nothing to worry about, she decided to get it checked when the lump seemed to have grown. Following a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy, she received the devastating news that she had cancer.
The 32-year-old underwent two surgeries, which temporarily affected her ability to serve on the tennis court. However, she made a remarkable comeback in June at the Rothesay Open Nottingham, where she and her partner, Erin Routliffe, clinched the women’s doubles title. She then went on to compete at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics, where she won a bronze medal in mixed doubles.
Reflecting on her tumultuous season, Dabrowski expressed gratitude for the early detection of her cancer and the opportunity to share her story to inspire others. She acknowledged the privilege of being able to speak out about her experience, recognizing that many cancer patients do not have that luxury. Despite the challenges she faced, she embraced the title of cancer survivor and found a newfound appreciation for life.
In her closing remarks, Dabrowski defiantly proclaimed, “To cancer I say fuck you, but also, thank you.” Her courage and resilience serve as a source of inspiration for cancer patients and athletes alike, proving that with determination and a positive mindset, anything is possible.
