"I really love the stage of life that I’m in."

If you’re like me, you run around all day doing 12,000 different things, and at the end of the day you think, “Ugh, my legs are tired. I’m going to put them up.” But you should think about it when your legs start aching. My procedure was less than an hour, and I walked in and walked out. I was talking with my doctor the entire time, and my legs feel awesome. Now I’m ready to go run around London for the next month.

It’s 2012. Does it seem like it’s been 20 years since you competed in Barcelona?
No. When I think that I’ve lived now more years post-gold medal than I did previous to the gold medal, I can’t believe it. And I’m not the only one who can’t believe it’s been that long. My parents will sit back and say, “Has it really been 20 years? That’s crazy.” I actually love it because I feel like when I was 19 and those medals were put around my neck for the first time, I thought I could absorb and understand the magnitude of the moment, but I didn’t. Every year since that moment, I think it means more to me. After 20 years, my medals are extremely special. When I see people hold them for the first time and see what they mean to people, I get a little bit emotional.

Is there anything else you wanted to share?
If I could say one thing to your readers, it would be—and I’m sure your readers already do this, but— I am that parent who tries to lead by example and get out and exercise with my kids. I’ve found it to be really fun, and it makes you feel young when you’re out cruising around with your kids. Lead by example not only at the table, but also with exercise and health outside as well. It benefits the whole family.