Eighteen-year-old surfing prodigy Sierra Kerr has revealed a challenging health battle with Lyme disease, which has significantly impacted her competitive season. The diagnosis came after a period of severe illness that left her unable to stand on a surfboard for months.
Key Takeaways
- Sierra Kerr, an 18-year-old professional surfer, has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
- The illness caused severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, preventing her from surfing for several months.
- Initial misdiagnoses complicated her path to treatment.
- Despite the challenges, Kerr is undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, aiming to return to peak performance and pursue her world title goals.
The Onset of Illness
Kerr first experienced debilitating symptoms in January, following the WSL World Junior Championships. She was hospitalized in Australia with neurological and gastrointestinal issues that made even basic movement difficult. This initial sickness led to her being out of the water completely from February through April, rendering her unable to stand on a surfboard.
Misdiagnosis and Diagnosis
Doctors initially misdiagnosed Kerr’s condition. After returning to the U.S. and undergoing further testing and procedures, the cause was identified as Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. Lyme disease can present with flu-like symptoms, fatigue, headaches, and in more severe cases, can affect joints, the heart, and the nervous system.
Return to Competition and Ongoing Challenges
Despite her weakened state, Kerr made a return to competitive surfing in May, even winning the Stab High event in Japan. She also participated in the first three stops of the WSL Challenger Series. However, the lingering effects of the disease made consistent performance difficult, leading her to miss a crucial event and drop in the rankings. Kerr described the unpredictable nature of her symptoms, with good days and bad days making competition a significant challenge.
Path to Recovery and Future Aspirations
Currently, Kerr is focusing on recovery, undergoing physical therapy, and working with specialists. She is engaging in light training and is now able to surf in moderation most days. Despite the setbacks, Kerr remains optimistic and determined, expressing that she is "hungrier than ever" and confident in her ability to return to her best form. Her ultimate goal remains to win world titles, and she is committed to overcoming the hurdles presented by her diagnosis.
Sources
- Sierra Kerr Reveals That Lyme Disease Has Impacted Her Surfing Career, The Inertia.
- Sierra Kerr Diagnosed with Lyme Disease, SURFER Magazine.
