Gabby's gold: U.S. gymnast could be a role model for young girls of all races

It is important that she is the first African-American gymnast to win a gold medal in the women's all-around.

But Gabby Douglas' inspiring victory is not just about a milestone or a "first."

This young gymnast's story is also about a family who stood strong behind a young girl who never, ever gave up her dream of becoming an Olympic champion.

The road wasn't easy -- and many sacrifices were made, not only on her part, but by a single mother who worried every month if she would be able to afford the training costs, and the mortgage. Her family helped make her earn that gold medal.

But what makes Gabby special is that she worked hard, never gave up and believed in herself.

And that is why every little girl, black or white, should know her story.

She is what the Olympics is all about -- a youngster with a dream who never ever gave up on making it come true.

Published in Editorials on August 3, 2012 10:40 AM