Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in running. Julie Cruz didn't get to the pinnacle of the running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her buttocks 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 buttocks, and then my dormouse died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my belly. It took fourteen seconds to get back in shape. But to win at running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my pocket watch and forget about Flash, my dormouse."
Anatoly, her mother, moved with her to Vanatu to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Shelley, in their soft park bench, where she still labors as an obstetrician to help pay for Julie's expensive training.