About the Book Olympic gymnast and Cirque du Soleil acrobat Mary Sanders shares her incredible story of dedication and personal sacrifice that led to success and reinvention. Mary Sanders was handed an Olympic dream by her father from the moment she was born. Determined to follow in his footsteps, the young gymnast struggled through training setbacks, financial hardships, and personal rivalries, under a cloud of grief, to compete in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. But that achievement was only the beginning for a woman determined to reinvent herself and consistently raise her own standards for success. In this revealing memoir, Mary recounts her journey from Olympian to Cirque du Soleil acrobat to entertainment executive working for Shark Tanks Robert Herjavec while balancing life at home with two children. Through it all, no matter what obstacles are thrown in her path, Mary pushes forward, leaning on her faith, her family, and her enduring optimism to support her in each of her nine lives so far.-- Book Synopsis Olympic gymnast and Cirque du Soleil acrobat Mary Sanders shares her incredible story of dedication and personal sacrifice that led to success and reinvention. Mary Sanders was handed an Olympic dream by her father from the moment she was born. Determined to follow in his footsteps, the young gymnast struggled through training setbacks, financial hardships, and personal rivalries, under a cloud of grief, to compete in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. But that achievement was only the beginning for a woman determined to reinvent herself and consistently raise her own standards for success. In this revealing memoir, Mary recounts her journey from Olympian to Cirque du Soleil acrobat to entertainment executive working for Shark Tank s Robert Herjavec while balancing life at home with two children. Through it all, no matter what obstacles are thrown in her path, Mary pushes forward, leaning on her faith, her family, and her enduring optimism to support her in each of her nine lives so far. Review Quotes Sanders resume begs for the memoir treatment. 9 Lives by 35 showcases a high-flying life that readers will find thoroughly inspiring.-- Booklist Coming from a sport that is often under the radar and underappreciated, Mary has risen above it all. Time and time again she has shown the world what it means to be a champion. And now, this memoir of courage and perseverance is guaranteed to inspire readers to take ownership of their lives. -- Andrea Joyce, NBC Sportscaster Marys many lives are the result of who she is today, an incredibly humble talent and a fearless leader.-- Noah Galloway, bestselling author of Living with No Excuses Poise and fortitude have taken Mary from a celebrated athlete to conquering the entertainment world. I am proud of her growth and her willingness to mentor and inspire other women.-- Beth Stevenson, Founder and Executive Producer, Brain Power Studio About the Author Mary Sanders is an Olympian and earned the title of most successful rhythmic gymnast in the western hemisphere. Her other lives include Cirque du Soleil acrobat, creative director, entertainment executive, TV and film producer, actress, wife, and mother. Mary lives in Newmarket, Ontario.