Olympic Skater Maia Shibutani Reveals Rare Cancer Diagnosis That Causes Tumors

“I got my pathology report back — the tumor that was successfully removed on Saturday was unfortunately malignant (cancer). (SDH)-deficient renal cell carcinoma,” the 25-year-old figure skater revealed in an Instagram post on Dec. 20.

“This wasn’t the news I was hoping for, but I am beyond thankful that it was detected early and that my surgery went well,” she went on. “No further treatment is required at this time — the next steps are for me to continue focusing on recovering and healing. All of the positive thoughts and support mean so much to me. My heart is so full. Thank you. ❤️”

SDH-deficient renal cell carinoma is an extremely rare subtype of renal cell carinoma (RCC), and as of November 2018, only 55 cases have been reported around the world, according to Health.com, citing a study published in BMC Urology.

While “there are currently no diagnostic or therapeutic guidelines in place to guide management,” a review in the Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine insists that “SDH-deficient RCCs are uniformly low grade and have a favorable prognosis.”

In a follow-up Instagram post, Maia updated her followers on how she was doing following the surgery on Dec. 16.

“I’ve had my fair share of injuries in skating and I’m used to muscle and bone stuff, but this is different,” she wrote, accompanied by a photo of her at the hospital with her brother and skating partner, Alex Shibutani.

Maia revealed that things appear to be looking up, but she’s taking everything one step at a time.

“It was explained to me that since I am young and in good shape, my muscles and nerves are really sensitive. Walking and making even smaller body movements is currently very painful and extremely challenging,” she continued.

Her friends and family have been with her every step of the way.

“It’s been tough to not feel discouraged and weak, but focusing on gratitude has really helped. My parents are with me and Alex was able to support me through those difficult first steps. I’m grateful for all of the messages of encouragement — I feel very cared for and supported,” she wrote.

Maia is motivated to make a strong comeback and her brother Alex had the same sentiments.

“The strongest and most courageous person I know. ❤️” Alex said of his sister in an Instagram post.

Feature Image via maiashibutani