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

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.

I don't have a thyroid anymore. I had radioactive iodine treatment, which destroyed my thyroid. I take medication every day.

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

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.

People with chronic disease often want more information about their illness and the various treatment options available.