Meg Shipman

Triathlete, Kiteboarder, Surfer, and Trail-Runner –

“You will be amazed and continue to learn about yourself with every triathlon finish line! The power of positivity is incredible!”

“Triathlons are so special… A platform for all ages, all struggles.. A way to face fears, break records, challenge oneself and more than anything, a way to inspire! I simply love triathlons!”


 In January 2010, Meg Shipman heard the words no one ever wants to hear from her doctor. She’d been diagnosed with a rare form of cervical cancer called Aden carcinoma. She had no symptoms, no previous abnormal test results and no family history of cancer. By all accounts, she was a healthy and extremely active 32-year-old…. surfer, kite boarder, cycling instructor, and scientist. And now, she is a young adult cancer survivor.


Her OB/GYN detected the abnormal cells on a regular check-up, which was then diagnosed further through biopsies. She was extremely lucky that she’d been diagnosed while the cancer was in its early stages. Immediately, her team of oncologists at John Hopkins University was able to perform surgery to remove the cancer. The treatment and follow-ups didn’t end there. Her health is closely monitored due to the aggressive nature of this type of disease. She has had some reoccurrence of abnormal cells in the past couple years, but she has been able to keep a positive outlook on the course of treatment and what lies ahead for her.


A few years ago, Meg decided that she needed to get involved in an endurance event. Through her local running store, Charm City Run, she learned about Team Fight, a training team that raises money for the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. She began training with the team, along with volunteering with the “Cancer to 5k” program, which is an amazing program that helps individuals with cancer train and run in a road race. She can’t begin to describe how wonderful the experience has been with the entire Ulman Cancer Fund organization. She feels so lucky to have connected with such amazing people and resources. Over the past few years, she has not only been able to run her first races ever, but bring continued awareness, such as running in the coveted New York City Marathon, participating in many more triathlons, coaching the Baltimore “Cancer to 5k” program, and even running across America with Rev3 Triathlon benefiting UCF.
Prior to joining Team Fight, it was difficult for her to talk about her battle with cancer. Meeting other people going through similar struggles has given her the strength to fight this disease and speak out and share her story. In addition, it has given her the strength to swim, bike, and run like she never had before. The support, coaching, and friendships have been truly amazing. Being a part of the Ulman Cancer Fund has helped her face adversity with a smile. It has given her the support she needed and allowed her to helped spread awareness about young adults fighting cancer. It’s about living life half full… The way she has always lived her life, cancer or not.


The awareness and inspiration does not end here as she continues her racing and involvement in the sport of triathlon. 2014 has brought new adventures as she is honored to be a part of an amazing team and triathlon company. She was selected to be a part of the Revolution 3 Triathlon age group team this year, which has brought her together with some amazing individuals and sponsors. She continues to race, and to inspire and support the organizations that provide them the platform to live their lives to the fullest. “Triathlon is so special. A platform for all ages, all struggles. A way to face fears, break records, challenges oneself and more than anything, a way to inspire!” Megan says.


Meg supports The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. A leading voice in the young adult cancer movement that works at a grassroots level to support, educate, connect, and empower young adult cancer survivors. For more information, please visit their website at www.ulmanfund.org.

Meg in her own words

Why did you agree to become part of Triathlon Inspires?

I was approached by triathlon inspires and happy to share my story and continue to bring awareness to young adult cancer stories and support all the time.

How does it feel to be an inspiration to others? Did you ever expect to become an inspiration?

I’m proud to inspire, to be positive and help others. I never thought I’d face some of the challenges I’ve had, but happy to share and help others with their fight!

Why are Triathlons so inspiring? What makes this sport so special around the world?

Triathlon is so special… A platform for all ages, all struggles.. A way to face fears, break records, challenge oneself and more than anything, a way to inspire!

When did you start participating in triathlons? Where was your first competition?

I began racing in 2011, and my first race was the Columbia Triathlon Olympic distance.

What motivates you in life?

Positive energy, the support of my friends and family, inspiring stories and mostly happiness.

What would you say to other people with similar ambitions?

You will be amazed and continue to learn about yourself with every finish line! The power of positivity is incredible!

Who inspires you? Why?

My dear friend Julie Lanahan….mom of 4, amazing wife and breast cancer survivor.

How did you deal with obstacles in your life?

Keeping a positive attitude has always helped! Smiling in the face of adversity…

What do you like most about Triathlons?

The people, the challenge, the finish line… And the call of my next race!

Mention major accomplishments in your life other than triathlons

More inspiring moments, happiness…the future is the unknown! I’m excited for what’s next

Do you support or represent any Non-Profit Organizations? 

Yes. The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. For more information, please visit their website at www.ulmanfund.org.