Japanese swimmer Rikako Ikee, who is in rehabilitation following treatment for leukemia, showed off pictures of her short hair Monday on Instagram.
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"Today, I will show you myself like this for the first time," the 19-year-old athlete wrote.
After revealing her diagnosis in February last year, Ikee experienced hair loss from chemotherapy. The six-time Asian Games gold medalist and national record holder said she hopes her positive message can lift spirits during the coronavirus pandemic.
"These days, people around the world are having a tough time with all the anxiety," she said. "I'll be happy if this message gives even a little hope for my fellow athletes and anyone battling similar hardships."
