Winnipeg powerlifter trains through cancer treatment and shares his story

Jordan Powell, a Winnipeg powerlifter, continued training while receiving weekly chemotherapy for hairy cell leukemia and documented his recovery to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. Recent research shows early-onset cancer cases have risen substantially in recent decades.

Jordan Powell, a 35-year-old Winnipeg powerlifter, noticed worsening recovery during 2023 training and was later diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia, a slow-growing cancer of the white blood cells. He began weekly chemotherapy treatments but chose to continue powerlifting through treatment. Powell documented his training and recovery on Instagram and raised funds for the Canadian Cancer Society. His story comes as researchers and public health bodies report increases in cancers among younger adults. Reported details: - Powell was diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia and underwent weekly chemotherapy treatments as reported in the article. - He continued powerlifting during treatment and publicly shared his journey on social media to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. - A 2023 BMJ Oncology report cited in the article found new early-onset cancer cases (ages 15–49) rose 79.1% from 1990 to 2019, and Canadian sources reported 254,800 new cancer diagnoses and 87,400 deaths last year. - Powell reported regaining strength after treatment, saying he squatted 800 pounds six months after chemotherapy and is aiming to compete for a national record. Summary: Powell's decision to continue training while undergoing treatment drew attention to an individual recovery pathway and supported fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. He is focused on regaining strength and pursuing national powerlifting goals in upcoming competitions.