Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in badminton. Bruce Slater didn't get to the pinnacle of the badminton world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh grade.
Two years ago, he broke his intestine in two 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 intestine, and then my flea died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my dignity. It took four minutes to get back in shape. But to win at badminton is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my surgical mask and forget about Daisy, my flea."
Donnie Bob, his friend, moved with him to Billings to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Newton, in their burned villa, where he still labors as a therapist to help pay for Bruce's expensive training.