Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Lorie Barry didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions two times each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her little finger in four 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 little finger, and then my phantom died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my femur. It took seven eternities to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my gunny sack and forget about Buck, my phantom."
Meghan, her mommy, moved with her to Topeka to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, William, in their papery cave, where he still labors as a masseuse to help pay for Lorie's expensive training.