From Cancer Survivor to Olympic Silver Medalist: Kevin McDowell's Inspiring Journey
GENEVA–After completing a triathlon with his childhood friend, Kevin set his eyes on becoming a professional triathlete and participating in the Olympics one day! His journey was becoming a reality as he approached his senior year in high school when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
Not derailed from his pursuit, he pivoted his efforts to beating cancer and after six months of intense chemotherapy, he won the battle with the support of family and Cal’s Angels.
Cancer was by far the biggest challenge Kevin faced in his lifetime, but he turned it into his biggest triumph by focusing on what he could do, versus what he couldn’t do.
Due to the impacts of chemotherapy, the return to an elite sport was much harder than he could have ever anticipated; however, his dream came true in 2021 when he made the U.S. Olympic Team in Tokyo and won a Silver Medal in the Mixed Team Relay event. Additionally, he traveled as an alternate in the 2024 Olympic Games.
Kevin is eternally grateful for his life and has vowed to give back to Cal’s Angels through fundraisers, hospital parties, and participating in the annual CUREage ride. He hopes to instill the belief in all children, that they too can make their dreams come true!
-Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted
