About the Authors

© Sean Scheidt

 

JESSICA LONG was a Russian orphan born with a condition that forced the amputation of both her legs below the knees. But that didn’t stop her determined spirit. At age twelve, she was the youngest member on the U.S. Paralympic Swim Team, and the winner of three gold medals at the 2004 games in Athens, Greece. Now, with thirteen Paralympic gold medals to her name, she is an established champion athlete, a positive role model for young women, and a source of inspiration for anyone who admires tough underdogs.

 

 

HANNAH LONG is Jessica’s younger sister and number-one fan. Having lived Jessica’s story alongside her, she was ecstatic to help Jess find the words to share it on paper. Inspired by her big sister, Hannah moved to New York City to pursue her own dreams of acting, dancing, and singing. She studied musical theater at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and is now auditioning and working in the Big Apple.