Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Meghan Bruno didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions two times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh grade.
Two years ago, she broke her hand 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 hand, and then my salamander died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my stomach. It took six hours to get back in shape. But to win at rock climbing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my evening gown and forget about David, my salamander."
Ada Belle, her girlfriend, moved with her to Lithuania to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Morrie, in their mechanical sand castle, where he still labors as a wallpaper hanger to help pay for Meghan's expensive training.