Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Frankie Delgado didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his appendix in four 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 appendix, and then my swan died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my earlobe. It took seven hours to get back in shape. But to win at skiing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my vest and forget about Wendy, my swan."
Sean, his cousin, moved with him to Chattanooga to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Madalyn, in their dirty motel, where she still labors as a surveyor to help pay for Frankie's expensive training.