Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Xaviera Radcliffe didn't get to the pinnacle of the marathon running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions four times each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her appendix 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 appendix, and then my bull died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my brain. It took fifteen fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at marathon running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my leotard and forget about Lucy, my bull."
Jeanne, her sister-in-law, moved with her to Charleston to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Carol, in their smooth motor home, where she still labors as a translator to help pay for Xaviera's expensive training.