Olympic gold medalist and medical student Lee Kiefer has found similarities between her two passions of fencing and medicine. She approaches both with a mindset of continuous learning and excitement, despite the challenges of balancing intense training and medical school. Kiefer took a leave of absence from her medical studies to focus on preparing for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, but plans to return to the University of Kentucky Medical College following the Paris Olympics. Despite juggling a demanding schedule, she emphasizes the importance of being kind to oneself and managing stress effectively.
Kiefer’s husband, Gerek Meinhardt, also an Olympic fencer and medical student, has been a supportive partner during her Olympic journey. Though Meinhardt did not medal individually, he will be competing in the team event alongside Kiefer. His understanding of the pressures and challenges of both fencing and medical school has been a source of strength for Kiefer. The couple has been able to strategize together and help each other stay focused and in the right mindset for competition.
In the individual women’s foil event at the Paris Olympics, Kiefer emerged victorious, winning the gold medal by defeating her teammate Lauren Scruggs, who took home the silver. Scruggs made history as the first Black fencer to medal as an individual for Team USA. Looking ahead to the team event, Kiefer remains focused and optimistic, knowing that there is still work to be done. She acknowledges the hard work that she and her teammates have put in and feels confident in their preparation for the upcoming competition.
Kiefer comes from a family of medical professionals, with both her parents, siblings, and some aunts and uncles working in healthcare. The support and understanding of her family have been crucial throughout her academic and athletic pursuits. Kiefer has enjoyed her time in the Olympic village, connecting with other athletes and trading pins. She looks forward to watching and supporting her fellow competitors in various sports, including gymnastics, skateboarding, volleyball, and track and field.
As she looks towards the future, Kiefer remains unsure of which medical specialty she will pursue after completing medical school. However, she is grateful for the opportunity to continue her studies alongside her husband and fellow Olympic fencer. With a strong support system in place and a dedication to both her academic and athletic endeavors, Kiefer is poised to achieve success in whatever path she chooses to follow.
