Giving up is conceding that things will never get better, and that is just not true. Ups and downs are a constant in life, and I've been belted into that roller coaster a thousand times.

I have learned not to overlook the advantages of being me. From when I was a softball player, and I held the stolen bases record. I would slide into second with my prostheses, and the girl on the base could either step aside or meet two wooden sticks.

I've said this before, but I believe more than ever that confidence is sexier than any body part.

The Pentagon isn't a place that champions individuality and innovation.

With L'Oreal, I get to be Aimee Mullins, model. No qualifier. And that means everything to me.

I haven't had an easy life, but at some point ,you have to take responsibility for yourself and shape who it is that you want to be. I have no time for moaners. I like to chase my dreams and surround myself with other people who are chasing their dreams, too.

Our responsibility is not simply shielding those we care for from adversity but preparing them to meet it well.