It’s Not About Perfect — Competing for My Country and Fighting for My Life

Author: Shannon Miller Lifestyle

Shannon Miller with Danny Peary

The inspirational memoir of the most decorated gymnast in American history, her recent recovery from cancer, and her miracle pregnancy

“When the odds were against me, I was always at my best.”

At age 19, Shannon Miller was the winner of seven Olympic medals and the most decorated gymnast, male or female, in U.S. history. One of the most recognizable gymnasts in the country, Shannon tells a story of surviving and thriving. After a surprisingly successful Olympic debut in 1992, Shannon made it her goal to return to the Games. However, in 1996 a doctor advised her to retire immediately or face dire consequences if she chose to compete on her injured wrist. Undeterred, Shannon led her team, the “Magnificent Seven,” to the first Olympic team gold medal for the United States in gymnastics.

Equally intense, heroic and gratifying is the story of her brutal but successful battle with ovarian cancer, a disease from which fewer than fifty percent survive. Relying on her faith and hard-learned perseverance, Shannon battled through surgery and major chemotherapy. At last, she emerged on the other side with a clean bill of health and, less than two years later, a miracle baby girl.

Her story of trial, triumph and life after cancer reminds us all that it’s life
obstacles in all shapes and sizes that reveal our true character. In her inspirational and heartwrenching memoir, Shannon shares her story with the world to be seen as a beacon of strength, hope, and determination.

P R A I S E
“Shannon Miller has displayed strength, character, and perseverance her entire
life…In It’s Not About Perfect she shares how the traits that have shaped her life can translate into success in all walks of life.”—Dan Jansen, Olympic Gold Medalist Speed Skater

“Shannon Miller is a champion both on and off the mat… Her courage to win as a gymnast shines through just as it did in her battle against cancer.”—Mary Lou Retton, Women’s AllAround Olympic Champion

At this time, Shannon Miller remains the most decorated gymnast in American history. She received her law degree from Boston College. Shannon is the founder and president of Shannon Miller Lifestyle, a company dedicated to empowering women to make their health a priority. Shannon lives in Florida with her husband, son Rocco and newest addition, their miracle baby girl Sterling.

Danny Peary is an American film critic and sports writer. He has written and edited twenty-two books. He lives in New York City.