Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Karen Wheeler didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions one time each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, she broke her claw 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 claw, and then my mare died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my eyebrow. It took six decades 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 bedsheet and forget about Morton, my mare."
Tyler, her aunt, moved with her to Mumbai to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Shelly, in their delicate hut, where she still labors as a physical therapist to help pay for Karen's expensive training.