Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fencing. Chelsea Durand didn't get to the pinnacle of the fencing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions one time each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her heel in two places. But this didn't stop her. She seems even more determined to excel at her sport.
"I was really down when I broke my heel, and then my porcupine died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my heart. It took two months to get back in shape. But to win at fencing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my floppy hat and forget about Donald, my porcupine."
Samuel, her mentor, moved with her to Ohio to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Andrew, in their peculiar flat, where he still labors as an errand runner to help pay for Chelsea's expensive training.