Danielle Scott, an accomplished aerial skier from Australia, reflects on a profound family health crisis that has reshaped her perspective on life and competition. The 35-year-old, who has been a fixture in elite skiing since debuting in the World Cup in 2012, faced a personal challenge when her father, James, survived a near-fatal aortic aneurysm last August.
Danielle, a four-time Olympian preparing for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games, recalls the harrowing night when her father’s condition deteriorated. Thanks to her mother, Dianne’s quick action to call for an ambulance, James received timely medical attention that ultimately saved his life. After enduring open-heart surgery, he is now on the mend, although Danielle admits the entire ordeal was a wake-up call for her.
Training rigorously at Brisbane’s ski ramp, she acknowledges that her father’s health scare has instilled in her a new appreciation for family and the fragility of life. The anxiety of potentially losing her dad led Danielle to reconsider her priorities, emphasizing that family should not be taken for granted, especially amid her demanding travel schedule as an athlete.
In the face of adversity, Danielle demonstrated remarkable resilience, competing in several international events just months after her father’s surgery, such as in Finland, Switzerland, and Italy. She remained connected with her family throughout her travels, valuing every moment spent together.
Her father’s recovery inspired Danielle through her competitive season, culminating in a bronze medal win at the world championships in March in St Moritz, which she publicly dedicated to him. This was a significant milestone for Danielle, further solidifying her commitment to her sport as she continues to chase Olympic glory, having narrowly missed medals in previous Games.
Beyond her championship successes, including back-to-back World Cup crystal globes, Danielle is determined to seize each day, motivated by her father’s survival. As she prepares for the next Olympic challenge, she pledges to give her all, invigorated by the newfound understanding of life’s fleeting nature. “It makes you appreciate every single day you get and give it everything you’ve got,” she states, embodying a spirit of gratitude and determination as she looks ahead to the future.