Antje Möldner-Schmidt: Never Give Up

How did you learn about your lymph node cancer diagnosis?

In 2010, Antje received the diagnosis of lymph node cancer – a shock that turned her entire life upside down. It began with nonspecific symptoms that she initially attributed to her intense training regimen. Only after thorough examinations was the diagnosis confirmed and the world seemed to stand still. As a competitive athlete, she was used to solving problems with discipline and willpower – but this was an entirely new challenge.

What impact did chemotherapy and radiation have on your training?

The chemotherapy and radiation led to a massive decline in performance, which was particularly hard to bear for an elite athlete. The body she had always relied on suddenly no longer functioned as she was used to. The simplest exercises became agonizing, and training intensity had to be drastically reduced. Despite this, Antje tried to integrate as much physical activity as possible into her treatment routine.

How was the experience with doctors and coaches – was there sufficient expertise on the topic of sport and cancer?

Antje found that many doctors and coaches had virtually no expertise when it came to exercising during cancer treatment. Most advised her broadly against training without considering her specific situation as a competitive athlete. There was a lack of concrete guidelines and empirical data on how high-performance training and cancer therapy could be compatible. This knowledge gap made an already difficult path even lonelier.

How did you cope with the mental challenges?

The mental challenges were at least as demanding as the physical ones for Antje. Doubts about whether she could ever return to competition level accompanied her daily. But her fundamental attitude was clear: never give up and always look forward with a positive mindset. This inner conviction, combined with the support of those around her, gave her the strength to endure even the darkest moments.

How did your return to training unfold after therapy?

The path back to training was a long, arduous process with many setbacks. Antje had to be patient and accept that the body has its own pace. Step by step, she increased the load, listened carefully to her body's signals, and adjusted training accordingly. The discipline from elite sport helped her work towards her comeback in a structured and consistent manner.

European Champion 2014 – how did you experience this triumph after your illness?

Winning the European Championship in the 3000m steeplechase in 2014 was the greatest sporting achievement of Antje's career and the most emotional moment of her life. Standing on the highest European podium just four years after her cancer diagnosis was proof that giving up is never an option. This title was far more than a gold medal – it was a symbol that you can come back even after the most severe setbacks. For Antje, it was the fulfillment of a dream that many had considered impossible.

What is your message to other athletes going through a cancer diagnosis?

Antje's message is clear: never give up and always think positively. Even when the road is long and rocky, it is worth continuing to fight. She encourages those affected to seek help, to speak openly about their situation, and not to retreat into isolation. Every person and every illness is different, but willpower and a positive attitude can move mountains.

Antje Möldner-Schmidt

13-Time German Champion, Athletics · European Champion 2014, 3000m Steeplechase