How Wilma Rudolph Surmounted the Considerable Odds Against Her

Thirty years after her death, the track and field star’s legacy still stands out as a symbol of inspiration.

Nicknamed "the black gazelle," U.S champion Wilma Rudolph (C), after winning the Olympic 200-meter event, between German Jutta Heine (R), who finished 2nd and British Dorothy Hyman, who finished 3rd, Sept. 6, 1960 in Rome. Rudolph captured three gold medals: 100-meter, 200-meter and 4x100 meter. EPU/AFP via Getty Images

When she was 5 years old, her left leg twisted inward, and she couldn’t move it back.  Earlier she had contracted scarlet fever, and now she was diagnosed with polio, which had no cure and left most children either permanently disabled or dead.

For many years she wore a brace supporting her leg. Cheered on by her family, she exercised continuously, at home and at physical therapy at a nearby hospital, strengthening the paralyzed muscles. One Sunday, in the church that she and her family devoutly worshipped, she mustered the bravery to attempt to walk without it. The congregation witnessed a miracle as she moved through the aisle on her own accord.