As I waited in the room where Michelle Carter once attended youth drama as one of my students at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, my mind traveled to the time I first met this little sweet, shy, and beautiful eleven-year old girl. Despite the fact that today, this young lady stands as a two-time Olympian shot put thrower, ranks number 1 in the USA and number 3 in the world in her class, her sweet demeanor and engaging smile still remain. Dressed in her work out attire and sipping on a cool summer drink, she strolled into the room. After our usual mother to daughter greeting (aka, hugs and kisses), we sat down for a few minutes to chat about our families. But because inquiring minds wanted to know more about this dynamic young woman, the time came to explore Michelle’s world of track and field.

On a sunny day in September, I strolled through the quiet halls of the loft to my dear friend’s place for lunch and to chat about her journey. My mind traveled back to the day when she heard the devastating diagnosis: cancer. Never walking in her shoes, I desired to gain a better understanding of her journey since she not only survived, but also thrived.

I knocked on the door. A big radiant smile and the bear hug that greeted me hid any indication this beautiful woman, Joanne Dukes, ever battled cancer. Joanne prepared a delicious lunch for us, but because she knew I love desserts, she also whipped up her famous chocolate cupcakes and banana bread. I sensed the beginning of a sweet interview.

I sat down to chill and chat with Moriah Jefferson, #4 of the University of Connecticut Huskies, on a nice August evening. Clad in her black chucks, tattered jeans and tailored shirt, she seemed relaxed and eager to engage in some girl talk. Prior to joining the UCONN Huskies, Moriah—a McDonald’s All-American—won a gold medal in the World Championship Competitions, got featured in various magazine and newspaper articles, and received much notoriety for a small, skinny homeschooled point guard. Now, entering her third year as a member of the UCONN Huskies, Moriah feels as if she has finally entered her zone.

Moriah, affectionately called “Mo” by friends and family, reflects no run-of-the-mill young lady.