Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Ellen Lucas didn't get to the pinnacle of the marathon running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions four times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, she broke her forehead in three 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 forehead, and then my rattlesnake died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my cheek. It took thirteen lifetimes 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 gold medal and forget about Cody, my rattlesnake."
Taylor, her aunt, moved with her to Laos to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Giovanni, in their hand-made office, where he still labors as a bicycle messenger to help pay for Ellen's expensive training.