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Living is Winning

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Created on Sunday, 14 September 2008 16:56

Published on Sunday, 14 September 2008 16:56

Written by Kevin Mackinnon

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Kevin Mackinnon talks about a new inspirational sports documentary called "Living is Winning"

Drew Johnston is either a glutton for punishment, or a man who simply won't let anything get in the way of his dreams.

In 2004, instead of finishing Ford Ironman USA Lake Placid and getting a Kona slot, the former pro cyclist found himself on the side of the road with a leg injury. Turns out that was the least of his worries.

A subsequent visit to the doctor left Johnston with news that was far worse than a simple DNF at an Ironman … he learned he had Leukemia. Luckily enough, the disease was caught early and, thanks to a drug called Gleevec, has since gone into remission. Two years later Johnston would qualify for the Ford Ironman World Championship at Ford Ironman Coeur d’Alene. Needless to say, it’s not like that was easy.


Gleevec might be keeping Johnston alive, but it also leaves him in a chronic state of anemia, which can lead to intense muscle cramps that can strike at any time. He finished the Coeur d’Alene race in 10:06, despite bouts of abdominal pain and intense hamstring cramps.

There was still that DNF in Lake Placid to get through, though. He returned there in 2007. As tempted as I am to go and look up his results, I’m going to wait until I have a chance to see the film “Living is Winning,” a documentary that chronicles his dramatic struggles and triumphs.

It seems like everyone else has had a chance to see this thing except me.

“The way you pulled together Drew's experiences told a very powerful story. There was no shortage of emotion in this video!” said Ironman’s Director of Communications, Blair LaHaye.

"Andrew's heart really shines in the film.  He shows us what it means to be alive and why we shouldn't take life for granted.  Bravo!" raves Will Holt, Owner of The Bicycle Link in Atlanta.

"The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is proud to be associated with Drew Johnston and "Living Is Winning".  Drew's pursuit of his goals, even in the face of a deadly disease, embodies the very essence of what LLS is about.” states Nancy Klein, Chief Marketing & Revenue Officer, LLS
You can purchase the DVD at www.livingiswinning.com

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