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One More Gold - For Perseverance

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 19, 2008

Before he became the greatest Olympian ever, Michael Phelps was a kid who was bullied because he had big ears and a lisp. A teacher once told his mother he'd never be successful because he couldn't focus.

Let this be a lesson for all those who don't fit the mold: Don't let anyone count you out.

Phelps' Olympic achievement - eight gold medals in Beijing, 14 over all - is astonishing in itself. But set against the backdrop of his early years and a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder, his performance is even more awe-inspiring.

Not everyone who faces obstacles can push them aside long enough to move forward. That Phelps has achieved such success is a testament to his depth of character and work ethic.

But it took strong advocates, too.

Debbie Phelps, an unbending champion for her son, sought a creative release for his unhinged energy - swimming. And his coach, Bob Bowman, laid out a plan that propelled him into the highest levels of his sport.

Think of the possibilities if the world viewed kids like Phelps for their potential, not for their imperfections. What if every child who faced such obstacles had at least one adult who saw the talent within and became their champion?

The world is awed by Phelps for his spectacular achievement and the gold medals around his neck. While he has become an extraordinary young man, who deserves the public's respect is the awkward, unfocused little boy who ultimately triumphed.

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