Loida Zabala’s Unwavering Spirit: Paralympic Weightlifter Secures Silver Amid Cancer Battle
Tiflis, Georgia – In a display of extraordinary strength and resilience, Loida Zabala, a Spanish Paralympic weightlifter, has won a silver medal at the European Para Powerlifting Championships. This remarkable achievement comes as Zabala continues to undergo treatment for an incurable cancer, a testament to her unwavering determination and the power of the human spirit. The 38-year-old extremeña lifted 105 kilograms in the -73 kg category, setting a new Spanish record and falling just 2 kilograms short of the gold medal, which was claimed by Russia’s Nasdezhda Sycheva. Maria Markou of Cyprus secured the bronze with a lift of 103 kg.
Zabala’s journey to the podium has been anything but conventional. Diagnosed with lung cancer in October 2023, with metastasis to her liver, kidney, and gallbladder, she has continued to compete at the highest level while navigating the challenges of ongoing oncological treatment. This silver medal represents not only a sporting triumph but also a powerful message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her story resonates deeply, particularly on International Women’s Day, embodying strength and courage.
A Shift in Weight Classes and a New Personal Best
Zabala, a five-time Paralympian, traditionally competes in the -50 kg weight class. However, the medication she is receiving as part of her cancer treatment has led to weight gain, prompting a move to the -67 kg category, where she competed in the World Championships. For the European Championships in Tiflis, she debuted in the -73 kg category, a significant step up in weight. Marca reports that she equaled her previous best lift of 105 kilograms, previously achieved in the under-67 kg category.
Her success in Georgia was marked by three valid lifts, culminating in the 105 kg lift that secured her the silver medal. This performance also established a new Spanish record for the -73 kg category, adding another layer of accomplishment to her already inspiring story. She achieved the distinction of being sub-champion of Europe, sub-champion Open, sub-champion of Europe in total, and sub-champion Open in total.
Emotional Victory and Gratitude
The emotional weight of the moment was palpable for Zabala. According to 20minutos.es, Zabala was overcome with emotion before her final lift, almost breaking down in tears. “Before the third lift, when I got on the bench, I almost started to cry with emotion, because normally I clear my mind but this time a phrase came to my head: ‘grandmother, help me.’ I hope she is watching me from above so she knows how much she has helped me fulfill my dream, which was to get on the podium,” she shared after her performance.
Zabala also expressed profound gratitude to her support network, specifically thanking her coach, Óscar Sánchez, and her sponsors, Iberdrola, the Junta de Extremadura, and the Diputación de Cáceres, for their unwavering support in helping her reach the competition in optimal condition. She is a 20-time Spanish champion, and this European silver adds to her impressive list of accolades.
A History of Paralympic Success and Ongoing Battle
Loida Zabala’s athletic career spans several Paralympic Games, with participation in five editions. She previously won a continental championship four years ago. Her current battle with cancer began in 2023, but she has refused to let the diagnosis define her. She competed in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games before this latest triumph. DXT Adaptado details that she has stage IV cancer with metastasis to the brain, liver, and kidney, yet continues to defy expectations.
The challenges Zabala faces are significant. The article from DXT Adaptado highlights that each lift represents more than just weight; it symbolizes the disease, medical visits, hospital stays, and unanswered questions. However, it also embodies faith, passion, and a determination to prove that even in the most adverse circumstances, dreams can still be realized.
Looking Ahead: Los Angeles 2028
Despite her ongoing health challenges, Zabala remains focused on the future. She is aiming to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games, which would mark her sixth participation in the prestigious event. Her continued success serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals facing their own battles with illness, demonstrating that with courage, resilience, and unwavering support, anything is possible.
Zabala’s story is a powerful reminder that strength comes in many forms, and that the human spirit can triumph even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Her dedication to her sport, combined with her courageous fight against cancer, makes her a true role model for athletes and individuals around the world.
The next major milestone for Zabala will be her continued treatment and preparation for future competitions, with the ultimate goal of representing Spain at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. Her journey will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift those who follow her story.
What are your thoughts on Loida Zabala’s incredible achievement? Share your comments below and help spread her inspiring story.