Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Danielle Dorn didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions four times each month, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her ankle 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 ankle, and then my ant died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my toenail. It took nine centuries to get back in shape. But to win at rock climbing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my diaper and forget about Alison, my ant."
Bobby, her aunt, moved with her to Richmond to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Sylvia, in their synthetic A-frame, where she still labors as a cook to help pay for Danielle's expensive training.