Our Story

Our Story

We started Iron Strong Athletes because our daughter’s high school and AAU basketball career nearly slipped away.

She was a strong, high-level player, but during her junior and senior years everything changed. Her energy vanished. She was constantly sick. What looked like classic burnout had family and coaches worried she was losing her love for the game.

We made endless urgent care visits, treating symptoms one by one: ear infections, sinus issues, strep throat etc. We assumed it was just the toll of intense athletics, traveling, and shared germs. When she struggled to catch her breath, she was prescribed an inhaler. Hair loss began. Ice chewing became a habit. She started vomiting at halftime of games.

We missed every sign — never imagining the real problem.

Finally, we got in with her primary care doctor. The lab results came back critical: her ferritin was dangerously low. Iron deficiency had been quietly stealing her strength for years.

We started with over-the-counter iron supplements, but they barely moved the needle. Her high school career ended with her becoming the school’s all-time leader in steals, rebounds, and fouls — achievements made even more remarkable considering how much her performance had been suppressed by deficiency.

Eventually, after high school basketball and before college we tried iron infusions. Within 2–3 days, she was a completely different kid. She was up and moving, taking the dogs for runs, spending time with friends and family. After living in a world of illness for so long, she finally had her life back.

Not long after, a local NCAA Division I college needed players. She joined, stayed close to home, and we continued monitoring her iron closely. She hadn’t played basketball since the infusions, and while she looked and felt better, we didn’t know how it would translate to college competition.

She answered that quickly.

In just her second game as a true freshman, she set the school record with 21 rebounds — and then tied it again a few games later. A third of the way through her freshman year, she is ranked in the top 10 nationally in both blocked shots and rebounds.

We learned the hard way: low iron looks exactly like burnout — but it’s fixable.

A simple ferritin test could have caught this years earlier and saved her seasons of struggle. That’s why we created Iron Strong Athletes — to give parents, coaches, and athletes an affordable, simple way to screen early and prevent the same thing from happening.

One test can keep the fire alive.

Why We Care

We’re dedicated to educating athletes about iron health and offering affordable, no-prescription testing.

Who can test?

Iron Strong Athletes is designed for young athletes (ages 12–25) who want to stay at peak performance, with a focus on females who are most at risk for low iron/ferritin (15–52% affected due to periods, growth, and training). But testing is open to anyone—males, parents, coaches, or adults concerned about fatigue or energy dips. No doctor order needed, just a simple walk-in lab visit. If under 19, a parent or guardian must accompany.

Why test iron?

Testing for iron levels, especially ferritin, helps catch deficiencies early in young female athletes, preventing fatigue, poor recovery, and lost motivation that's often mistaken for burnout. One simple blood draw can reveal if low iron is silently stealing energy and performance, allowing quick treatment to get her back in the game strong. Regular checks ensure she stays at peak potential without unnecessary struggles.

How does testing work?

Our tests require no prescription and can be completed quickly at Any Lab Test Now in Omaha—no doctor's order needed. Simply call (402) 884-9104 to schedule. They're located at 310 Regency Parkway, Suite 110, Omaha, Nebraska. Show your unique voucher code at check-in, fill out minimal paperwork, and your blood draw takes just minutes. Results are emailed to you in 24–48 hours, giving you the answers you need fast. Always share results with your primary care physician for proper follow-up.

Is it expensive?

Ferritin testing through Iron Strong Athletes is affordable and straightforward—our vouchers start at just $57, often cheaper than lab retail prices ($59+) or insurance copays/doctor visits ($50–$150). With no appointment needed, you save time and hassle, and early detection prevents costly issues like lost seasons or treatments. One simple test can make a big difference without breaking the bank.

What happens after?

After your quick blood draw at Any Lab Test Now, results are emailed directly to the address you provided them (typically in 24–48 hours). Review the numbers: Share results with your primary care physician for proper interpretation and any needed follow-up (e.g., diet changes, supplements, or infusions). Early action can restore energy fast—don't ignore the numbers. This is general information only, not medical advice. Iron Strong Athletes does not diagnose or treat—always consult a healthcare professional for personalized care.

Can men use this service?

Yes, males can absolutely use Iron Strong Athletes' services! While our mission focuses on young female athletes (who face higher risks due to periods, growth, and training—15–52% affected), low iron/ferritin can impact anyone, including male athletes in endurance or team sports (rates 3–11%). Testing is quick, affordable, and open to all — no prescription needed. Grab a ferritin voucher and stay strong in your game!

Contact Us

Reach out anytime—we’re here to listen and help with your iron health journey.