Kyle Garlett

Kyle Garlett is not only a cancer survivor but also an Ironman triathlete who has made history in the world of endurance sports. On October 10, 2009, Garlett became the first heart transplant recipient to compete in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. This significant event marked exactly three years since he underwent his life-saving heart transplant, a necessity following severe damage caused by cancer treatments.

Garlett's journey into the world of health challenges began on September 26, 1989, when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma at the age of 18. He underwent daily radiation treatments for five months. After a period of remission, his cancer returned in 1991, leading to an intense chemotherapy regimen. His battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma continued, culminating in a bone marrow transplant. Although this treatment eradicated the Hodgkin’s disease, it led to chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy, severely affecting his heart. In 1997, Garlett faced another grave diagnosis, Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, which he battled with three more years of intense chemotherapy, eventually becoming cancer-free.

Garlett's health trials continued with his heart condition worsening, leading to his placement on a heart transplant waiting list in 2001. After more than five years of waiting, he received a new heart on October 10, 2006. Inspired by his new lease on life, Garlett embraced the challenge of triathlon, completing his first race just 11 months after his transplant. He continued to participate in high-stakes competitions, returning to Kona in 2010 and competing in the Ironman event in Tempe, Arizona in November 2011.

Today, Garlett leverages his extensive experiences with health challenges, including over 54 months in cancer treatment and more than 11 years dealing with cardiomyopathy, as a motivational speaker. His speaking topics revolve around overcoming adversity, determination in the face of obstacles, accepting life’s challenges, and cherishing each day with a renewed sense of appreciation and zest.