Fangzhou, an amateur triathlon racer, says sports have inspired her to be stronger over the years when she's fighting cancer.[Photo provided to China Daily]

In 2019, when her breast cancer made a comeback, some of her friends expressed concerns that her active lifestyle might have been the trigger, but she thinks otherwise.

"I do understand their worries. Based on a full understanding of my physical condition during dozens of years of exercises, I think my sports plan is suitable for me and I felt comfortable and happy when I ran. That was a positive feeling and I don't think I misinterpreted the signs my body was showing."

As Fangzhou is receiving cancer treatment again, she has little choice but to take a break from sports. This time, however, she is facing the problem with a much calmer disposition. Unlike before, she is now open about her situation to her students. She also puts in half a day's worth of work in school instead of just resting at home.

But though she is unable to exercise, Fangzhou is still very much in the game-she received her badminton referee certification and is looking forward to continuing volunteering at triathlons.

"If there comes a day when I don't have enough energy to do sports, I'd like to be of service to others instead. I would feel very happy if I could contribute to sports, which have inspired me to be stronger during past years.

"Every person needs a sense of fulfillment. Some attain this from their jobs, others from their lives. I get mine from sports," she says.

Despite her current situation, giving up her sporting lifestyle has never crossed her mind.

"Spring is around the corner. I hope I can recover quickly and resume my normal life. I'll start with running again. That's my plan."