Cancer Survivor Returns to Team Canada Softball

Strategic Insights -

Larissa Franklin, a Maple Ridge athlete, has beaten cancer and is back on Team Canada softball for her 13th season. Franklin was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lymphoma last January, but she never gave up on her goal of playing in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. With the support of her teammates and friends, Franklin underwent chemotherapy and adapted to her new reality, learning to prioritize her health and set realistic expectations for her training. Franklin's story is a testament to her resilience and determination, and she is now back to being a high-performance athlete, ready to compete with Team Canada in the 2025 WBSC Americas Women's Pan American Championship and the 2025 Canada Cup.

Key Takeaways:

  • Franklin was diagnosed with lymphoma in January 2024 and underwent chemotherapy, but she never gave up on her goal of playing in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
  • Franklin had to adapt to her new reality, learning to prioritize her health and set realistic expectations for her training, and had to slow down and focus on self-care.
  • Franklin maintained a strong support system, including her teammates and friends, who helped her through the cancer journey.
  • Franklin's battle with cancer gave her a new appreciation for the advancements in medicine and the importance of chemotherapy research.
  • Franklin will compete with Team Canada in the 2025 WBSC Americas Women's Pan American Championship in Colombia and the 2025 Canada Cup in Surrey.
  • Franklin is part of a strong group of veteran leaders on the team, which includes a great pool of talented young athletes.
  • Franklin has developed into a leader on the team, willing to speak up and take charge when necessary.

Statistics:

  • Franklin has been diagnosed with cancer twice, first with a lump in front of her ear and then with aggressive lymphoma in January 2024.
  • Franklin had to gain back her strength after undergoing chemotherapy, and had to adapt to a more relaxed training schedule.
  • Franklin's team will play in the 2025 WBSC Americas Women's Pan American Championship in Colombia on June 27.
  • Franklin's team will also play in the 2025 Canada Cup in Surrey on July 7-13.
  • Franklin has been with Team Canada for 13 seasons, and is back on the team after beating cancer.

Sources:

  • Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows News, "Local Cancer Survivor Returns to Team Canada Softball for 13th Season" (no publication date)