“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.”

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

“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.”

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

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

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