Before turning pro, I would never have just left my skates sitting in the locker room unattended.

As a teenager especially, I just wanted to do my thing and not be noticed.

I'd try to channel my nervous energy in a positive way into strength and endurance. It didn't always work.

Probably a few weeks after I was born I started having casts put on my legs to straighten them out. After that corrective shoes and with a brace in between.

Having achieved my own dreams, I want to give to kids who are less fortunate, who struggle with everyday obstacles. I want to give them something positive in their lives: support.

I'm kind of a homebody. My husband says I like to just stay home and do nothing, but that's just how I am.

I don't mind the sparkle - I think it's kind of a tradition in skating. I don't think the men really need sparkles, but for the women it's part of the glamour of our sport.