It’s official! I got the call to compete on this season of American Ninja Warrior!

In 31 days, I will be stepping onto the course, staring down the line of obstacles, and bringing this dream of mine to fruition.

I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel pressure to not let people down. I was to get through the entire course, move on to finals, and eventually to the national stage in Vegas. So many people have supported me, both known and unknown, and I want to make my family proud, and those with heart problems who are struggling to overcome their mountains.

I want to prove I’m more than a heart patient.

I want to prove I’m strong.

I want to prove I’m an athlete.

With this pressure, also comes fear of failure. I don’t want to fail or fall on an obstacle and disappoint everyone who is supporting and believing in me.

What if I’m not as strong as the other competitors?

What if I’m not as muscular as the other competitors?

…………… What if I’m not good enough?

With this opportunity, comes so much doubt, self-examination, and internal fight. I have spent the last week questioning my abilities, working hard in the climbing each day to ensure I’m strong enough and worthy.  Throughout this whole process, I have had people reach out and say “You have such a great story, of course you will get the call!” I have not had anyone come up to me, reaffirming my physical strength and abilities, or even saying I’m deserving because I fought to be good enough.

I am more than just my story.

I am more than my congenital heart disease.

I am a force.

I am a warrior!

I am standing on this stage for myself and for all other congenital heart disease patients and their families. I will stand proud, knowing I earned this opportunity based upon my strength and abilities. I will stand and prove that CHD doesn’t get to win, and that we are all strong and deserving of our dreams.

I will overcome.

I will fight hard.

I will conquer.

If you still think I got the call based upon my story, then just wait…. I will show you what a heart warrior can do!

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

Best,

Molly Burdick