It is embedded in whatever ego-related DNA goes into the makeup of a journalist. You want to be first to break the story. That’s tough in the world of monthly magazine publishing. But it doesn’t stop us from trying!
Our April magazine’s “Health Matters” column focuses on preventing soccer injuries. Writer Vicki Louk Balint interviewed the Saunders family of Phoenix about a freakish injury 11-year-old Mackenzie experienced when she collided with an opponent while trying to protect the goal.
So imagine my surprise when I was sitting at the kitchen table eating my breakfast on the morning of March 11 and I looked up to see Mackenzie and her family on NBC’s Today Show! Our magazine was still at the printer and not due to mail for another nine days.
My immediate reaction was frustration. We wanted to be first to share this story! But as I watched the report, I realized how much additional depth the video format offered. It was fascinating to watch this young athlete, whose story so inspired me as I edited it for publication, describe her response to her injury, which basically left her paralyzed by a spinal cord injury. It was motivating to see footage of Mackenzie working so courageously to regain her independence through intensive physical therapy.
You can watch the clip hereand then read Vicki’s story to learn more.
Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Today at RAK: Our creative team is headed to U.S. Airways Arena to interview and photograph Phoenix Mercury General Manager and sports legend Ann Meyers Drysdale.