In the world of sports, filled with challenges, some individuals emerge as symbols of determination and strength, proving that willpower is not hindered by circumstances or trials. This is exemplified by athlete Lujain Aasi, who defied cancer and shone in boxing simultaneously.
The 18-year-old athlete delivered a remarkable performance that caught the attention of boxing experts, earning her well-deserved advanced results in the championships she participated in, despite battling cancer, which she overcame with great will and ultimately triumphed over it with a knockout result.
In a statement to SANA, Lujain Aasi of Al-Nidal Club said: “I fell in love with the noble art of boxing, as boxing enthusiasts like to call it, at the age of 13. I trained under international coach Mohamed Shahada, who taught me the fundamentals and techniques of the sport until I was able to enter the competitive arena. My first participation was in the Syrian Championship in 2022, where I won first place in the 46 kg category, marking the beginning of my dream to achieve shiny medals for Syria on major podiums.”
Aasi’s joy at her entry into the world of championships was short-lived after she learned of her diagnosis with lymphoma, which weakened her body in various areas, particularly her lungs. However, she decided not to give up and to embark on a new phase aimed at conquering it, just as she had conquered in sports.
She stated: “Difficulties are those things we face when our eyes stray from the goal. Despite the fears I encountered at the onset of the illness, I decided to confront the pain with determination. I entered treatment amidst significant encouragement from my family and coach.”
Aasi expressed her happiness at having triumphed over cancer after fully recovering, moving on to a new goal in her life titled “championship after championship,” proudly raising the flag of Syria, which deserves many achievements.
Souha Suleiman