Story Published: Jan 25, 2012 at 7:46 PM PDT
Story Updated: Jan 25, 2012 at 7:46 PM PDT
Dylan Nickerson.
"It attacks the lower kidneys and basically I had it in my left kidney." said Nickerson. "I went through all the radiation, chemotherapy, all that stuff, and by the grace of god I've survived."
Dylan lost his kidney, and the cancer stunted his growth putting him at a disadvantage to most of his competitors. While that would turn most kids away, thanks to his best friend Tim who introduced him to wrestling in junior high, he was hooked. For Dylan, wrestling is all about being with friends and the thrill of victory.
"Building friendship within our team." said Nickerson. "Going out there and getting your hand raised is the best feeling in the world after you've gone through a hard match."
While Dylan didn't win his match at the Clearwater Classic, in almost a unanimous vote, he was named the tournaments most outstanding wrestler. It's an award that Dylan says was unexpected and he hopes helps motivate the rest of his team.
"I guess it'll just push my other teammates farther." said Nickerson. "Push them harder to work better and harder for future references."
