I have been blessed with so many incredible opportunities.

I have been a high school math teacher, a professional triathlete and now I am a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. But regardless of my titles, connection with others has always been what fulfills me in a way that “work” cannot.

When I won my first Ironman triathlon — a 2.4-mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile run — I was over the moon. But in 2001, after my second Ironman win, I felt empty. I needed more than trophies and accolades. I needed connection and purpose. 

Up until then, I had never spoken about having Cystic Fibrosis. I didn’t want my CF to create sympathy or a ready-made excuse for poor performance. 

It is a miracle that I’m an 11-time Ironman Champion while living with an illness that results in chronic lung infections, lung damage, lung transplants and ultimately early death.

During the 2004 Ironman World Championships I was so sick; struggling to breathe and on a heavy regime of antibiotics. But as I prepared, I realized how lucky I was to compete in the biggest triathlon race against the best women in the world. So, I set a new intention: to be the best I could be with CF. I made the decision to love all of myself, including CF. 

I finished fourth in the World Championships on a day most people wouldn’t have gotten out of bed.  You would have done what I did as well. All of us with CF are connected by this desire to be our best regardless of the curveballs and despite CF.

That is the power of the mind, heart and connecting to a purpose greater than yourself. That “win” was deeply rooted in connection.

Since retiring, when I’m finding it a bit tricky to find connection, I am often treated to a note like this in my inbox:

Our little boy that we adopted is four. We are foster parents and have adopted nine kids with special needs. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about Nathan’s future and have been a little down. So, I researched people [with CF] who had reached 40 years of age. I found you. That helps. But it is still an overwhelming disease at times. Thank you so much. Your story has been inspiring for my husband and I.

You may have similar notes in your inbox. Regardless, I am certain that you have inspired others with your courage, commitment, and kindness over the years. You have had the courage to get out of your comfort zone. You have made a commitment to be as healthy as possible. And you have been kind to yourself and others.  

There is no doubt that I have been blessed with two gifts: the gift of sport and CF. If I can make CF my superpower, then what superpower is lurking in you? Maybe CF is your superpower as well. How can you use CF to be even better than you are right now.  I know that finding your inner power will bring you connection to self, others, and a new purpose. 

When you find that connection, you will win in life. 

Be courageous in your pursuit. Finish what you start and do it with heart.