Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in boxing. Monica Badwell didn't get to the pinnacle of the boxing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions four times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her pancreas 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 pancreas, and then my anaconda died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my toe. It took six fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at boxing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my miniskirt and forget about Helmut, my anaconda."
Edmond, her mom, moved with her to Berkeley to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Bonnie, in their puzzling A-frame, where she still labors as a lifeguard to help pay for Monica's expensive training.