Sydney Collier: Overcoming Challenges With Positivity

This week Andrew talks with Team USA Paralympian Sydney Collier.  At age 7 Sydney was diagnosed with Wyburn-Mason Syndrome, an extremely rare life-threatening condition. After a series of experimental treatments, Sydney underwent a risky brain surgery where she suffered her first of five strokes that have since left her with limited use of the left side of her body.  Despite the setbacks, Sydney pursued her passion for riding horses and won the 2016 US Para Dressage National Championship. She also became the youngest member of the Team USA Equestrian team at the 2016 Paralympics in Rio.  In this conversation, Andrew and Sydney explore ways to stay positive in the face of adversity, the power of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you, and so much more. Sydney's story will inspire you to fight through any barriers in your life. Show Highlights:2:30 - Background on eventing and dressage2:55 - Falling in love with the sport of dressage3:36 - Wyburn-Mason Syndrome diagnosis7:24 - Starting an experimental treatment8:22 - Undergoing a risky brain surgery9:37 - Staying positive after diagnosis13:28 - Impact of stroke 13:55 - Challenges returning to middle school16:39 - Setting an ambitious goal17:14 - Family sacrifices to achieve Sydney's dreams20:10 - Building a support system around you21:30 - Staying motivated during challenging times23:40 - Turning negatives into growth opportunities24:30 - Sydney's training program27:10 - Friendship with Jonathan WentzBe sure to subscribe & leave a review for the show in your favorite podcast app.Follow Andrew on Twitter: @andrewhmoses and IG: @AndrewMoses123Please tell your friends about Everybody Pulls The Tarp on social media and be sure to tag Andrew in your posts.Sign up for e-mails to keep up with the podcast at everybodypullsthetarp.com/newsletter!