Each year, Japan records approximately 150,000 cases of colorectal cancer. Amidst these statistics is the story of Hiroki Matayoshi, a man who, despite a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis, persistently trained physically to return to the competitive stage and achieve an extraordinary victory.

At 51 years old, Matayoshi has dedicated 31 years to bodybuilding. Training for over 4 hours daily, he achieved many successes in competitions and always felt his growth with each session. "The beauty of bodybuilding is that you always feel your personal development. Every day, your body changes, the weight you can lift increases, and your muscles grow stronger day by day", Matayoshi said.

However, two years ago, his body began to show abnormalities. Noticing symptoms of bloody stools and difficulty defecating, he went to the hospital for examination and was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. "I was very shocked; I couldn't believe it was happening to me", Matayoshi recalled.

Despite fatigue and pain from his illness, Hiroki Matayoshi continued to go to the gym and "never thought of stopping". Photo: FNN

Over the past two years, Matayoshi underwent 4 surgeries and more than 40 chemotherapy sessions to shrink the tumor. The treatment was grueling. "Chemotherapy was the most dreadful phase. Vomiting, fatigue, numbness in my limbs... it was truly brutal. I never want to experience that feeling again", he recounted.

Even amidst intense pain, he still went to the gym because he "never thought of stopping". Training not only improved his physical condition but also provided psychological relief, easing the suffering of his illness as he lived his passion.

Masahide Kinjo, owner of GINOWAN GYM, who closely followed and guided Matayoshi for many years, expressed admiration for his dedication. "Witnessing Matayoshi's efforts since his diagnosis, I believe this is something ordinary people would find difficult to achieve. The persistence and unwavering dedication to this sport are qualities few can maintain on their own", Kinjo commented.

The risk of recurrence and metastasis remains constant, making regular follow-up examinations mandatory. Facing his illness, Matayoshi accepted it quietly but with great courage: "For common cancers, if no abnormalities are found after 5 years of monitoring, it's considered remission or cured. But I am different; I have resolved to live with cancer for the rest of my life".

His greatest motivation is his family, where his eldest son, Yuki, is always proud of his fit father and admired by friends. This support provided the mental energy that helped him resolve to compete again with the goal of winning.

At the Okinawa Prefectural Bodybuilding & Fitness Championship held on 26/7, which gathered 77 athletes aged 18 to 74, Matayoshi competed in the open and masters (50-59 years old) categories. Under the stage lights, he showcased his sculpted physique, the result of resilient training in his battle with illness. Each of his poses radiated a fiery passion and intense pride. Amidst the quiet and tense atmosphere, Matayoshi's name was called for the top position, according to FNN.

Sharing his gold medal with his family after the competition, he felt relieved and proud that his unwavering efforts against illness had borne fruit. His wife, Manami, and their children all expressed admiration for his determination. For Matayoshi, bodybuilding is not just a motivation to live but also represents an indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.

Binh Minh (According to FNN Prime Online)