Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Joan Keefe didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions three times each month, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her chin 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 chin, and then my German Shepherd died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my hairdo. It took thirteen lifetimes to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my locket and forget about Frankie, my German Shepherd."
Midge, her mother, moved with her to Topeka to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Sophie, in their synthetic hut, where she still labors as a snake charmer to help pay for Joan's expensive training.