Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in ballet. Jim Bob Jones didn't get to the pinnacle of the ballet world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions three times each week, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his calf in three places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my calf, and then my turtle died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my pinky. It took twelve decades to get back in shape. But to win at ballet is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my sweater and forget about Timothy, my turtle."
Velma, his sister-in-law, moved with him to Albuquerque to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Rodney, in their fancy log cabin, where he still labors as an ecologist to help pay for Jim Bob's expensive training.