SWEDEN 
By the age of 21, Johan Lindgren had already placed
fifth in a world cycling championship race and
joined the ranks of the Union Cyclist International
(UCI) Pro Tour, which is comprised of the best
riders in the world. While Johan is thrilled with
his accomplishments, he is especially proud of
the fact that he has achieved so much while living
with an ostomy.
Born with a shortened large intestine, Johan immediately received an
ostomy. However, he has never let it define who he is or his lifestyle.
“I think each of us has our own little handicap even if it’s not visible,
but my ostomy has never been a problem,” said Johan. In fact, he
views his ostomy as his salvation, which allowed him to lead a
normal life.
Growing up, Johan played ice hockey and enjoyed skiing and cycling
with friends. Eventually, cycling became his consuming passion. At
the age of 17, Johan decided to focus all his energy on the sport and
moved from Sweden to France to compete in races. His hard work
and determination soon paid off when he placed fifth in the world
championship in Canada. Two years later he signed a professional
contract with the UCI Pro Tour.
After three years of cycling in France and one year on the Pro
Tour, Johan returned to Sweden to join the Team Cykelcity. Besides
looking forward to competing, one day Johan would like to help
develop and test new ostomy products.
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