Sherry Colgin | Winning Attitude

Well, this is what Webster’s says about heroes: Latin heroes, from Greek hērōs

“A mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability; an illustrious warrior; a (wo)man admired for his/her achievements and noble qualities, one that shows great courage.”

I guess, of all these, the “shows great courage” is the one I like the most. One that is willing to do what others are not in the face of danger or adversity, one that puts others above self in such times.

 

Shocked for sure. I couldn’t imagine who would consider me even remotely qualified.

 

The promotion of the idea that no matter what adversity comes your way, you can, with the help of others, overcome that adversity. I hate the words “I can’t”. My association with athletes with disabilities -- seeing what they can do despite some of the most devastating of losses -- has given my life new meaning. The cause of promoting activity for all, the Paralympic movement and having it become main stream in recognition. I often hear people, say “Oh you are involved in Special Olympics.” Not to take anything away from them at all, but Paralympics are completely different. They occurs two weeks after each Olympics (summer and winter) in the same place with the same venues. The athletes are world class and work as hard, or harder, than their Olympic counterparts.

 

Seeing my two Paralympic athlete’s medal in the Beijing Paralympic Games and receiving two USOC’s ‘Order of the Ikkos’ medals because I was their home coach.

 

I am a retired hand and reconstructive surgeon. I had to retire due to my health. The irony is that I am now a Triathlon and Swimming coach, for disability and able-bodied athletes. 

 

Piddling at my lake place. I am a great “piddler.”

 

Describe your family.

Different! My parents are both gone, my Mom was a Chemist and my father a Physicist. My sister is an incredibly talented professional musician. She was the odd ball out.

I have lots of cousins who are really bright. They keep me sharp – otherwise, I am toast at family functions. You better be quick witted or you are dead meat: the brunt of the most, dry, over your head jokes you can imagine. I have lived with the same person (partner) for over 30 years.

 

Crazy. Dedicated. Young hearted.

 

I want Birmingham to have a world class natatorium, with a 50 meter competition pool, a recreation pool and a diving center. This is something I am very passionate about seeing built and if I live long enough, I WILL see it through!

 

Madeline Albright. I just finished her book “Letter to the President Elect”. What an incredibly brilliant woman who is vocal and doesn’t back down. She knows what she is talking about.