Kristi Yamaguchi

This experience has been once in a lifetime.

One of my mottos not only just in skating but in life in general and I try to enforce it as well, is like no regrets and just like going for it.

There are two or three performances in your life that are absolutely on, where all the planets are lined up for you and you feel you're invincible.

I've realized how precious life is. When I was younger, I was more adventurous. I felt invincible. I was game for everything. As a mom, I don't want to get injured because then I can't take care of my kids.

I learned to put 100 percent into what you're doing. I learned about setting goals for yourself, knowing where you want to be and taking small steps toward those goals. I learned about adversity and how to get past it.

Having achieved my own dreams, I want to give to kids who are less fortunate, who struggle with everyday obstacles. I want to give them something positive in their lives: support.

My experience at the 1992 Winter Olympics was my fulfillment of dreaming the Impossible Dream.

I'd try to channel my nervous energy in a positive way into strength and endurance. It didn't always work.

In terms of my career, having the gold definitely changed my life. The Olympics are different, you know? They're every four years and it's such a small group.

Childhood reading is so important.

They say, once you have a child, your heart is forever outside your body. I totally understand that now.

At 6 years old, the ice became a place for me to express myself. Because I was so shy off the ice, it became my safe haven, with music and freedom and self-expression. That was my emotional outlet.