

Michael Phelps’ journey in the pool has been illustrious. With 28 Olympic medals, Phelps is the most decorated Olympian. Following his sister’s footsteps, Phelps’ journey at the pool started when he was just seven years.
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Raised by three strong women, Michael’s personality was molded under his mother’s and two elder sisters’ guidance. Through thick and thin, the three ladies held and helped him. Seeing a tough time growing up, when Michael was diagnosed with A.D.H.D., his mother decided that she would not keep quiet.
Michael Phelps’ mother did not appreciate
For the unversed, A.D.H.D. is a medical condition wherein one finds it difficult to retain concentration. Thus, when Michael was diagnosed with A.D.H.D., people had reservations about his ability to keep up. Being prescribed medicines for two years, the mother realized that the “swimming pool was the best possible classroom for Michael.”

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B.E.I.J.I.N.G. – AUGUST 17: (L-R) Sister Whitney Phelps, mother Debbie Phelps, and sister Hilary Phelps watch as Michael receives his eighth gold medal after the Men’s 4×100 Medley Relay at the National Aquatics Centre during Day 9 of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games on August 17, 2008, in Beijing, China. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Debbie revealed the teachers were ‘complaining’ about Michael’s inability to “sit still.” Raising her three children single-handedly, Debbie certainly did not like when other parents told her how to do her job. Revealing further, she adds she will not be doing the same with Michael’s teacher.
She decided to give them their space, but by making sure she “wasn’t going to keep my mouth entirely shut.” Standing true to her words, the mother took a stand for his son every time.
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Debbie Phelps shuts the teacher
Swimming was a blessing in disguise for Phelps. Not only did it help him channel his energy, but helped him improve his ability to ‘concentrate.’ Thus, when Michael’s teacher questioned his patience. Mrs. Phelps had the perfect reply.

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SHANGHAI, CHINA – J.U.L.Y. 31: Michael Phelps of the United States is congratulated by his mother, Debbie, after the Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay during Day Sixteen of the 14th FINA World Championships at the Oriental Sports Center on July 31, 2011, in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
Standing up for his son, the mother pointed out that they never saw him “sitting at the meet for four hours” or “waiting his turn for the swim.” Swimming was not just about finishing first; it was about dedication. Seeing her son working so hard at the pool, the mother refused to believe that “he can’t focus”
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Watch This Story: Swimming G.O.A.T. Michael Phelps Dazzled His Fans by Sharing His Stunning Workout on Instagram
It was undeniably, Phelps’ determination, passion, dedication, and ‘patience’ that made him one of the world’s most extraordinary!
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