Laurel Wassner

Athlete. Cancer Survivor. Photographer. 

Laurel is the first cancer survivor to become a professional triathlete and the first cancer survivor to win an Ironman triathlon.  She has competed two times at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii and is preparing to compete there again in 2018.

Laurel's Background: After a successful collegiate swimming career at George Washington University Laurel was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma the year after she graduated. The six-month regimen of chemotherapy and radiation that Laurel endured included a lifetime of small victories—jogging to chemo treatments— and losses—feeling too fatigued to get out of bed on Christmas morning. During her recovery, Laurel worked as in intern for photographer Mary Ellen Mark. She then worked as photo editor at several NYC-based magazines before turning to triathlon full-time in 2008. Her first year competing as pro she was named USA Triathlon's Rookie of the Year.

She has since competed all over the world, finishing every race with a smile on her face. Her never-give-up spirit has inspired countless people to keep fighting for their dreams. 

Follow Laurel's Instagram @athletestyle for daily fitness and food motivation. 

Laurel can also be found on Twitter @laurelwassner.