U.S. Olympic water poloist Maddie Musselman Woepse was training for the 2024 Paris Olympics when the unthinkable happened: her husband, Patrick, was diagnosed with a rare form of aggressive stage 4 lung cancer.
What was your and Patrick’s initial reaction to receiving his diagnosis?
Receiving his diagnosis was heartbreaking. The emotions were felt. However, we immediately jumped into action to fight and make a plan. Our background of faith and having so many amazing people around us providing resources felt like we could come up to breathe and fight this cancer head-on.
Can you share a bit about how you balanced your training for the Paris Olympics with your role as a caregiver?
It took some time to figure out the balance between giving my full attention and love to Patrick as he needed me and being with my team training for Paris. I always felt pulled in both directions, mostly always wanting to be with him. Patrick was my reason to go to training, the person who pushed me to be at practice and show up. He so badly wanted to be my No. 1 fan and for me to be my best, which required my presence with my team. Sometimes even in moments where he may have needed me, I knew he was so happy seeing me play the sport I love.
What support have you and Patrick had during this time, and how has it helped you manage both your athletic and caregiving responsibilities?
We have been so fortunate to have so many people help us on this journey. Of course, our families have been at our side during all the different moments this past year. We have had family, friends, and teammates give us love with dinners, help with daily tasks, and even help drive Pat to his appointments. This past year would not have been possible without those who love us.
As a two-time Olympic gold medalist, how do you think your years of athletic training and competing are getting you through one of the toughest challenges in your life?
My experience playing at the Olympic level has taught me so much about who I am as a person, the grit it takes to compete, and the love that fuels all passion. As a caretaker, I see all those lessons learned during this journey through cancer. Every day is an example of overcoming adversity, working with uncomfortable feelings, loving hard, and showing up for my husband.
What advice would you give to others who might be juggling similar challenges in their lives?
I always tell myself to take it day by day. Each day can bring something new. I try to shift all those days to find the positives as well. We have approached this cancer journey committed to being the outlier, never looking at statistics, and fighting each day believing that God has a plan for us. He is good, and we trust in Him.
Patrick, since your initial diagnosis, how important was it for you to be in Paris to watch Maddie compete? What challenges did you face in trying to achieve that goal?
Patrick Woepse: Seeing my wife compete was everything I fought for since my diagnosis. It has been a blessing to witness her do what she loves and play with so much heart. I have overcome hurdles of pneumonia, radiation and chemotherapy side effects, and decreased mobility to have been able to be there to watch her. Everything was worth it.
