Perhaps, it is not remarkable that a 40-year-old woman will be running Pikes Peak, Colorado’s tallest mountain. Then, you realiz
e this particular woman – a single mother, motivational speaker, tennis instructor – survived a near-fatal car accident just five years ago. That experience has led her to understand what she is made of. She is setting an inspiring example for other accident victims to follow. “After my accident, my future did not look good. If I lived, I wasn’t expected to walk again or be very productive,” Maria Steves says. “I had a broken leg, a shattered pelvis, and a closed head injury. At first, I couldn’t even talk. The future was bleak, but my faith was strong. I knew I was going to make it, so I just didn’t pay any attention to those who said I couldn’t do it.” Maria worked with different rehabilitation therapists five days a week for almost two years. She had to learn to crawl before she could walk. Her speech was unintelligible for more than a year. “It took many months of hard work, but my first baby steps turned into long strides. For a long time, I had to walk with a cane, now that cane hangs on a wall in my home to remind me how much I have overcome.” Maria’s climbing of Pikes Peak comes with a benefit for others with life-changing injuries. Partnering with the American Association of Accident Survivors and sponsored by Runners Roost in Colorado Springs, she will raise money for rehabilitation research. Her goal is to raise $1,000,000 by August 23 when she runs the face of the Colorado landmark in less than five hours. In the running community, Pikes Peak is known as “America’s Ultimate Challenge.” The trailhead stands 6,600 feet above sea level. Nearly 13 miles later, Maria will reach the summit at 14,110 feet. Even before reaching the top, the air is thin, making the lungs burn. Most runners report their legs, heart, and mind are worn to a ragged nothingness. But because she’s survived a devastating accident (as well as a recent divorce) and spent years relearning how to walk and talk in addition to other functions, Maria knows she’s up to the challenge. “I not only survived, I’ve thrived,” she says. “I want to accomplish this so my children will know they can accomplish anything, no matter what others say. In a strange way, I’m thankful for the accident because now I know what I’m made of.” ---
Which statement best describes a recurring theme in this passage?
A. overcoming misfortune through hard work
B. taking baby steps toward recovery
C. raising money for rehabilitation research
D. raising children as a single mother
