Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Shelley Osterloh ReportingFreestyle Aerialist Emily Cook grew up in Massachusetts, but now calls Park City home. She has already made quite a mark on the town as one of "Our Olympians."
Emily Cook lives and trains in Park City. She also helps coach younger skiers there, and Emily created a mentoring program called "Visa Champions creating Champions." It teams Olympic athletes with children.
Emily Cook, September 2002: "I want them to learn that whatever they want to do is possible."
That's something Emily has learned herself, despite several setbacks. In 2002, after qualifying for the Olympics, Emily injured both her feet and could not compete. Still, she remained positive.
Emily Cook, US Aerialist: "I love the saying that without fear there is no such thing as courage"
Emily had several surgeries and endured years of rehabilitation. Although it's been a tough road, she says the rewards are worth it.
Emily Cook, US Aerialist: "I know that I've put absolutely everything possible into it, and what ever comes of it I'm going to really be proud of myself. And that's the rewarding part right there."
Emily's father also moved to Park City in 2003 to be closer to his daughter. Her mother died after being hit by a drunk driver when Emily was two-years old. You can watch Emily Cook compete at the Winter Olympics here on KSL 5.
