“At the hospital, I was asked for my autograph; I'm right-handed and couldn't sign. So I was asked for photos. While hooked up to IV lines.”

“Every day after I wake up, I think, 'Wait... this can't be real; I'm still going to wake up.”

“Swimming is normal for me. I'm relaxed. I'm comfortable, and I know my surroundings. It's my home.”

“Nothing is impossible. With so many people saying it couldn't be done, all it takes is an imagination.”

“If I didn't swim my best, I'd think about it at school, at dinner, with my friends. It would drive me crazy.”

“I knew I was not a failure in any way, and so did those close to me. It doesn't matter if you fall short; it is never a failure to go after your goals with everything you've got.”

“I think everything is possible as long as long as you put your mind, work and time into it.”