How Skating Played a Role in My Recovery and Life?
Skateboarding has always been a significant part of my life, but it took on a new meaning during my recovery.
The physical act of skating, the focus it requires, and the sheer joy it brings became therapeutic for me.
It allowed me to reclaim a sense of normalcy and control when everything else seemed uncertain.
Skating became my outlet for stress and a symbol of my resilience and determination to overcome the odds.
The rhythm of pushing off, the wind against my face, and the satisfaction of landing a trick all contributed to my mental and physical recovery.
It reminded me that life is about MOMENTUM, movement and progress, no matter how small.
Skateboarding not only helped me stay physically active but also provided a mental escape, a way to process my thoughts and emotions constructively.
"My Story"
Yoooooo, my name is Kyriakos Antoniadis,
but you can call me Kyri.
I am 26 years old, born in Munich, Germany, and raised in Chania, Crete, Greece.
My life journey took an unexpected turn last year (2023) in late August when I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).
This aggressive form of cancer manifested locally in my left sinus, creating a significant lump (Myeloid sarcoma) on the roof of my mouth.
Immediately after the diagnosis, I began an intensive chemotherapy regimen from September 2023 to March 2024
The treatment was grueling, but I successfully completed it and started to regain my health. However, the journey was fraught with challenges. During my therapy, I had a near-death experience due to a combination of sepsis (a blood infection) and a lung infection, which landed me in the intensive care unit for about a week. This harrowing period was marked by many spiritual moments, offering me a profound perspective on life and my purpose.
In the midst of my battle, I discovered Chad Caruso's
"Skate Across America" project.
These videos became a source of immense inspiration, motivating me to challenge myself and to transform my struggle into something meaningful.
I realized that my true purpose was to help and provide for others, particularly those who might be going through similar experiences.
Why I Chose to Skate from Germany to Greece?
Choosing to skate from Germany to Greece for the Skate Odyssey was both a personal and symbolic decision.
This ≈1700 km journey represents a bridge between my birthplace and my upbringing, connecting two significant chapters of my life. Starting in Munich, where my life began, and ending in Thessaloniki, Greece, reflects my journey of survival and self-discovery.
The route is not just a physical challenge but a metaphor for the journey I have been on since my diagnosis. It symbolizes the ups and downs, the struggles, and the triumphs.
Each kilometer skated is a testament to resilience, hope, and the unwavering human spirit.
Moreover, this journey is a platform to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, a cause deeply personal to me.
By skating through various landscapes and engaging with communities along the way, I hope to inspire others and shed light on the importance of cancer research.
The journey allows me to share my story, connect with people, and spread a message of hope and perseverance.
In conclusion, Skate Odyssey is not just about the physical journey from Germany to Greece; it is a mission to inspire, to support cancer research, and to demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, we can find our purpose and make a difference. Through this journey, I aim to honor my battle with cancer, celebrate life, and contribute to a cause that has become a central part of my existence.
