Jen's Inspiring Journey as an Athlete

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Questions and Answers

What was Jen's attitude towards achieving her goals?

She believed she could achieve anything. (correct)

She thought only her idol could succeed.

She felt limited by her physical challenges.

She was indifferent about her capabilities.

How did Jen's family influence her outlook on her aspirations?

They discouraged her from pursuing sports.

They instilled a positive mindset in her. (correct)

They compared her unfavorably to others.

They encouraged her to follow traditional paths.

What sport did Jen excel in at a young age?

Softball

Volleyball

Gymnastics (correct)

Basketball

What was one of the notable physical traits Jen shared with her idol Dominique?

Long dark hair Signup and view all the answers

What unfortunate mistake was made concerning Jen's hospital records?

Her family's name was incorrectly recorded. Signup and view all the answers

How did Jen feel initially about the attention she received for her success?

Confused and indifferent Signup and view all the answers

What were two sports that Jen participated in besides gymnastics?

Snowboarding and fishing Signup and view all the answers

What word was never part of Jen's vocabulary growing up?

Can’t Signup and view all the answers

What was Jen's family's primary concern regarding her medical care?

To know the type of medical care she would need Signup and view all the answers

How did Jen adapt to her disability as she was growing up?

By learning to use her arms for mobility Signup and view all the answers

What attitude did Jen demonstrate towards her disability?

She stated that she felt lucky Signup and view all the answers

What inspired Jen to pursue the Olympics?

Her admiration for Dominique Moceanu Signup and view all the answers

What did the doctors' opinions suggest about Jen's future?

She faced significant limitations Signup and view all the answers

What was the Brickers' response to the doctors' concerns about Jen?

They were determined to provide whatever care Jen needed Signup and view all the answers

What activity does Jen enjoy doing in her backyard?

Bouncing on the trampoline Signup and view all the answers

What precautions does Jen take when moving on her hands?

Being cautious of stepping on bugs and dog poop Signup and view all the answers

At what age did Jen begin training in gymnastics?

7 Signup and view all the answers

How did Jen feel while watching the 1996 Olympic Games?

Inspired and dreamlike Signup and view all the answers

What significant discovery did Jen make during her search for Dominique?

She had another sibling named Christina Signup and view all the answers

What was Jen's reaction when she learned Dominique was her biological sister?

She felt a deep connection Signup and view all the answers

How did Dominique respond to receiving Jen's letter?

She was happy and cried Signup and view all the answers

What challenges did Jen face in her journey to find Dominique?

Difficulty locating her address Signup and view all the answers

What main theme is reflected in Jen's journey as described in her memoir?

Overcoming challenges and family impact Signup and view all the answers

What underlying message does Jen convey through her experiences?

Connection and support can profoundly influence one’s journey Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Growing Up and Inspiration

Jen grew up defying expectations, inspired by her idol, gymnast Dominique Moceanu.
Shared characteristics with Dominique included both being gymnasts of Romanian descent, having big eyes, long dark hair, and tan skin.
Jen's mother highlighted their uncanny resemblance, recognizing Jen's potential from an early age.
The Brickers, Jen's adoptive parents, maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing that "can't" was not in their vocabulary.

Early Life and Medical Challenges

Concerns over Jen’s medical needs arose after her birth, with doctors suggesting limited mobility.
Jen's parents were determined to provide her with the support she needed to excel, rejecting limiting notions of her capabilities.
Jen's unique mobility involved walking on her hands, showcasing agility and fearlessness.
She preferred using her hands for movement over prosthetics, which she found uncomfortable.

Athletic Journey

From a young age, Jen exhibited natural athleticism, excelling in various sports and activities.
She began gymnastics training at age 7, quickly impressing with her skills and competing at high levels.
Jen's hard work culminated in winning a championship against able-bodied gymnasts at age 11.

Connection to Dominique Moceanu

Watching Dominique compete in the 1996 Olympics significantly impacted Jen, who dreamed of similar achievements.
It took years for Jen to learn that Dominique was her biological sister and that they had missed years of life together.
Jen reached out to Dominique in 2007, leading to a heartwarming reconnection that filled their lives with joy and reflection.

Themes of Resilience and Ambition

Jen embodies a "can-do" spirit, viewing her "disability" as a unique aspect of her identity rather than a limitation.
The journey from idolizing an Olympic champion to discovering a familial bond underscores themes of resilience and ambition.
In her memoir, "Everything Is Possible," Jen emphasizes perseverance, hope, and the importance of family connections despite life's challenges.

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Description

Explore the remarkable journey of Jen, a gymnast who overcame medical challenges and defied expectations. Inspired by her idol Dominique Moceanu, Jen's unique approach to mobility and her relentless spirit showcases the power of determination and support from her adoptive parents. Discover how her early life shaped her athletic path and inspired others.