For the 32 years of my life I have been faced with challenges ranging from being totally blind to fighting cancer three times. Despite the obstacles I have found a way to succeed and overcome. It has been my involvement in a number of sports that has carried me through and continues to be my vehicle to over come challenges.

I was a Paralympic cyclist in 2000. Since then, my life has totally changed direction. I completed my graduate work and now I’m a proud mother of a little boy. I still have not lost my passion for fitness and competition. Last year I discovered triathlons and met my goal of competing in one.

In 2008 my goals include: getting and staying in shape, competing in at least one local: triathlon, swim meet, or bike race, and promoting the abilities of people with disabilities through sports. A CDifferent training grant would certainly support me in my quest to achieve my goals. Training properly is a key to success and inadequate funding can hinder an athletes performance.

Please visit www.irishmasters.org for more information about the group I swim with and to learn more about media articles and projects that I’m involved with.