My name is Alexia Russo and when I was 3 years old I was Diagnosed with Alopecia. It started with small patches of hair gone which would come and go, however when I turned 7 it all fell out. 

As a young kid my hair loss did not bother me however as I got older it was something I tried to hide. Alopecia made me lose my confidence, feel out if place and nervous to be myself. 

I first started swimming when I was 8 years old and I only started it for my fitness, but it turned out to be my biggest passion. When I hop in the pool my worries instantly wash away. Being in the pool allows me to feel like myself and stops me from thinking about my insecurities.

Swimming allowed me to grow as a person, it showed me how when you put the effort in, you achieve great things. I have gained so many friends, experiences and confidence from joining my swim club. I love going to the pool, trying my hardest and improving myself every day. My dream is to one day go to the Olympics for freestyle and win a gold medal for Australia, which would be a huge achievement.

One day if I achieve my goal I hope I can prove that anyone is able to succeed their dreams with effort, determination and willingness to try. I hope I can show other people with alopecia that even though you may feel different, it cant stop you from doing anything you put your mind to.

I hope that by striving to reach my dreams and showing everyone that I can do it, I may be an inspiration for other people with alopecia to chase their dreams and never give up no matter how difficult it may seem.