2015 IMPACT25 Athlete: Olivia Quigley
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For most elite athletes, sickness can derail a career. For 24-year-old autistic sprinter Olivia Quigley, her breast cancer was merely a speed bump. Diagnosed in February, she told her medical team that the illness wouldn't keep her from competing in the Special Olympics World Games in July.
So Quigley, a self-described fighter, continued to train with taekwondo -- she's a high brown belt -- and a personal trainer while undergoing months of chemotherapy.
Still, it did not slow her down: Although chemo had drained her body of its usual quickness and pep, Quigley arrived in Los Angeles with a strong positive mentality that carried her to two gold medals in the 100 meters and 4x100-meter relay, and a silver medal in the 200 meters.
• Fearless Quigley wins gold at World Games Story »
• Quigley discusses her victory Video »
• 'I'm not missing this opportunity' Story »
The IMPACT25 is espnW's annual list of the 25 athletes and influencers who have made the greatest impact for women in sports. Explore the 2015 list at espnW.com/IMPACT25.
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