Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in walking. Cherise Biggs didn't get to the pinnacle of the walking world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions four times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, she broke her lung 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 lung, and then my macaque died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my intestine. It took four days to get back in shape. But to win at walking is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my suit of armor and forget about Austin, my macaque."
Alexander, her grandfather, moved with her to Abilene to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Wes, in their waxy loft, where he still labors as a window washer to help pay for Cherise's expensive training.