Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Tammy Tilley didn't get to the pinnacle of the marathon running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions three times each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her spine in three 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 spine, and then my squirrel died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my chin. It took ten hours to get back in shape. But to win at marathon running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my kilt and forget about Blake, my squirrel."
Mackenzie, her friend, moved with her to Senegal to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Mia, in their art deco motel, where she still labors as a set designer to help pay for Tammy's expensive training.