While receiving radiation treatment for a thyroid illness, I had refused to take beta-blockers - a medication that would have eased its side effects - because they were deemed illegal by the sport's governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations.

Gail Devers

Gail Devers

Association Athletics Because Body Deemed Effects Governing Had Illegal Illness International Medication Radiation Receiving Refused Side Sport Take Thyroid Treatment Were While Would

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I was diagnosed with Graves' disease, an illness of the thyroid gland. Instead of surgery, I was given radiation treatment.

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I have to be cautious, have my thyroid levels checked, and as long as I do that, I'm fine.

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I am very thankful that I have lived the life I have lived. I am thankful for my Graves' disease, and I tell people, if I had my whole life to live over, I would have it, because it has really made me into the person that I am.

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