#KayaMoYAN (File Photo)

Acute myeloid leukemia-stricken Ian "Yan-Yan" Lariba is not letting her condition get the best of her.

Just like her dominant playing days with the De La Salle University's table tennis team, Yan-Yan isn't giving up and is staying true to her fighting self.

She remains positive amid her health battles, and she's been coming out on top thus far.

Her fighting spirit was clearly evident in how she celebrated her 23rd birthday.

While recovering from a successful bone marrow transplant, Yan-Yan decided to spend her birthday with people who are currently helping her recovery.

Celebrating my bday with my dear nurses and staffs here! 👏🤗💚 pic.twitter.com/hAIq9Z6LR2

— Yan Lariba (@supersaiYAAAN) October 14, 2017

 

Stretching the widest smile that I can make to reach out my gratitude and thanks to all of you for making my 23rd birthday more meaningful and worthwhile! Spending it here in the hospital on Friday the 13th wasn't bad luck after all because you all made me feel lucky that I am celebrating my day with the rest of the world, with the best people and with all your heart-warming greetings, messages and words of encouragement! Thank you so much! ❤🤗 I just want to thank you Lord for this another gift of my life. Now, I've come to appreciate life even more and just be thankful for the people and every blessing that come along, big or small, in any way! Don't worry, I am also doing the best that I can to recovery as much as possible and as soon as I can to get back in shape and be a better version of myself. This is #YanVersion2.0 thanking all of you once again and may we all celebrate life's wonderful journey! 😉 #YanVersion2.0stillinProgress #KayaNatinYan #23naYan

A post shared by Ian N. Lariba ⚡ (@yannasiyan) on Oct 13, 2017 at 9:56pm PDT

Yan-Yan is a former Olympian and UAAP athlete of the year for DLSU, and her positive mindset has been a source of inspiration for fellow athletes.

International table tennis stars have also reached out to express their support for Yan-Yan. 

Earlier this month, she was visited personally by 2004 Olympic table tennis champion Ryu Seung-min.

Even with her condition, Yan-Yan remains strong for herself and the people around her.

For that, she's still the real M.V.P.

Happy Birthday, Yan-yan!