Have you ever heard of April Holmes? If not, you are missing out on one of the best kept secrets of America. This woman is one of the most heroic figures of our century. Why? She's a record breaking runner who's showing and teaching others how to overcome obstacles in life. Here's her story.

In 2001, April Holmes was involved in a horrible accident. One of her legs got caught under a train, which led to her losing it. For many people this kind of event would be the beginning to a life of drudgery, pain and bitterness. However, for the prior NCAA All-American, this tragedy marked the beginning of an awe-inspiring athletic and advocacy career.

After her accident, April charged full-steam ahead in her life. She moved on to compete in the Paralympic Games and set a new record under her classification for the 100 meter. She also won medals in other events. Then, she capitalized on her success by bringing her story to the national news. She did several interviews, visited schools and even starred in a video by rapper Shaggy. April Holmes' basic message to others is to persevere through life despite what does or doesn't happen to you.

So what is April up to lately? She is easing out of her athletic career and continuing to speak out for people with disabilities. Holmes continues to travel to schools to deliver a message of hope. She is definitely a modern day hero that we all can look up to.

Are you a rebel? Do you see the world in a different way? Or maybe the way you accomplish a certain task differs from the average Joe. If so, you have a lot in common with the world famous runner Michael Johnson. He defied conventional methods of running with his own unique style, which led him down the road to success.

Michael Johnson is a native of Dallas. Born in 1967, he was the last of five children. Throughout his youth, it was obvious that Johnson was a runner. By the time he attended Baylor University, it came as no surprise that he was a track star. While there, he won a number of NCAA titles. Consequently, this early success prepped him for the future - one that would include the Olympics. Yet, unlike his predecessors, he'd get there using his own unique running style.

Most record breaking runners adhere to a certain running style. They lean forward, lift their knees high and spring ahead. However, Michael Johnson didn't do it this way. Instead, he stood upright and took very short steps. It was a controversial way of running, but ended up helping Michael Johnson break the record for the 400-meter run. Eventually, it also led him to the Olympics where he'd establish a new name for himself. What was it? He was titled the world's fastest man.

Today, Michael Johnson no longer runs, but remains in the public eye. He is a television commentator for the BBC and also writes a column for the Daily Telegraph. His work outside of the American media is unlike that of most U.S. born athletes. However, it is like Michael Johnson. Simply put, he does things his own way and always will.