Sports stars who won over deadly diseases

 
  • Leander Paes When doctors in US first identified a brain lesion, he was told that if he underwent surgery, his career would be over and he may never walk again. After considering at least five medical opinions, both in India and the US, Paes decided to undergo a course of medication instead to try and get rid of the infection. Paes made a stunning comeback in 2004 and won the Australian Open with Martina Navratilova
  • Dave Callaghan Dave Callaghan, the former South Africa all-rounder, overcame testicular cancer to play international cricket in the 1990s
  • Earvin 'Magic' Johnson At the peak of his career, basketball superstar 'Magic' Johnson went public that he was HIV positive. After 20 years, Johnson continues to inspire many as the hero who fought a life-threatening disease and emerged triumphant
  • Lance Armstrong In October 1996, when Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer, he also had a tumor that had a metastasized to his brain and lungs. Extensive chemotherapy, brain and testicular surgery didn't deter him from fighting the killer disease as he went on to win the gruelling Tour de France each year from 1999 to 2005.
  • Jonah Lomu All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu was diagnosed with a serious kidney disorder in 1995, which threatened to end his rugby career. He fought the ailment and made a comeback after undergoing a kidney transplant in 2004.
  • Martina Navratilova In early 2010, tennis legend Martina Navratilova shocked her fans when she went public that she was diagnosed with an early form on breast cancer. After six weeks of intensive radiation therapy, Martina reported that she was cancer-free and resumed training and touring the circuit. Today, she is a regular in the over-45 age category at tennis tournaments and champions the cause. Photo: AFP