Sink or Swim

by Alexa Leary

Meet the real Alexa Leary. You've seen the bubbly blonde dancing on the podium at the 2024 Paris Paralympics; you've followed her @moveforlex Instagram account; and marvelled at her world records in the pool. Now, hear her story.

This is a story in two parts, because Lex has lived two lives. There is the Lex from before her catastrophic cycling accident in 2021, when she was an ambitious triathlete with a bright future ahead. And there is the Lex after the accident, when a severe traumatic brain injury threatened her life and changed the course of her future forever.

Before Lex became the Golden Girl of Para Swimming, she spent 111 days in hospital and rehab, learning to walk and talk again, and getting to know her new brain. It's an ongoing process that continues today. Life with a TBI is full of challenges, big emotions and a lack of understanding. Under the weight of her trauma, Lex could have easily sunk - and there were times when she did - but ultimately, she chose to swim.

This is the untold story of Alexa Leary and her family. It is at-times confronting, heavy and dark; while also being inspiring, captivating and cheeky. Above all else, it is courageously vulnerable and searingly honest. As you would expect, from the one and only Lex Leary.

Audible Audio

Published April 14, 2026

Reviews

[Eva Cargill]

such an amazing story of resilience and determination! i knew a little bit about lex’s story from the news and her move for lex foundation, but this book goes so deep into her story and is such a vulnerable and honest book. lex has been through so much and is absolutely a miracle. truly an amazing and inspiring story that is definitely worth taking the time to read. a great reminder to move for those who can’t and to be kind always! 5 stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me

[Cass]

Amazing insight into Alexa and her family. It’s so easy to judge someone from afar (from what you see on tv) and to think they looked like the picture perfect family even after her accident. I love their honesty and vulnerability which truly shines a light into the absolute tragedy of the accident, and the years they had to endure afterwards

[Taylor Alati]

Really enjoyed this I think everyone is familiar with the story of lex but reading more about the impacts of her TBI was really interesting and the parts you don’t see on social media. Was holding back tears. Also really enjoyed how this is written from multiple peoples perspectives. Inspiring 👏🏻

[Eryn Cobby]

Very inspirational & was so interesting to read all about the whole journey rather than just seeing the bubbly bits,
How much heartache and grief they all had to go through, each in their own way.
A real credit to the Leary’s and their entire village of support

[Sjaan]

I’ve followed Alexa’s story from the start online, this book opened my eyes about the reality of TBI’s. Really incredible story.

[Sharyn]

This is a difficult book to review because it’s such a deeply personal memoir, and it’s impossible to critically assess someone else’s lived experience. Alexa’s resilience and determination following her traumatic brain injury are undeniable, and there are moments throughout the book that are genuinely inspiring.

That said, I found myself wondering whether many of the behavioural challenges described were already present before the accident, rather than being solely a consequence of the brain injury. The story raises interesting questions about how often people struggle for years without the right support until a major life event forces systems, families, and professionals to respond.

While I admired Alexa’s perseverance and appreciated the insight into her rehabilitation journey, for me, it was an interesting memoir that prompted reflection more than it did emotional connection.

[Erin]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A truly inspiring and unforgettable read.

Sink or Swim is such a raw, honest and powerful story. Alexa Leary’s strength, resilience and determination shine through every page, and I found myself completely invested in her journey.

As a mum to a daughter who also has a brain injury, this book felt particularly close to my heart. It was amazing to read about Alexa’s journey, the challenges she has faced and the way she has continued to push forward despite everything that has been thrown at her. There were so many moments that really resonated with me on a personal level.

There were moments that broke my heart, moments that made me smile, and so many that left me in awe of her strength. I loved how honest and real the book felt — it doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts, but it also celebrates the wins and the determination it takes to keep going.

Alexa’s story is a beautiful reminder that life can change in an instant, but that doesn’t mean your story is over. Her resilience is incredibly inspiring.

An emotional, powerful and uplifting memoir that will stay with me for a long time. Absolutely 5 stars 🤍

[Pam Coll]

Fascinating and detailed account of the trauma experienced by a superb young athlete who suffered traumatic brain injury after a high speed racing cycle accident. Her return to competitive sport is astounding and demonstrates the potential of the human spirit over adversity.
The honesty and openness in the description of the realities experienced by Alexa and her family and friends are educational. The extraordinary efforts put in by her family and friends are truly amazing and inspirational. Told from many viewpoints, this adds colour and extra dimensions to the whole telling of the story. Recommended.

[Jenna Pike]

Alexa’s story is honestly incredible and really made me think. Her parents are incredibly strong, and the love and support they gave her throughout everything was amazing.

One thing I kept thinking about was how much harder something like this would be for families who aren’t financially well off. Having access to the right support, treatment and opportunities makes such a massive difference, and it really put that into perspective for me.

Such an inspiring story of resilience, family and determination.

[Kasey]

what an inspiring story. keep the tissues close

What a story. Not just after her accident, but even before, Alexa was an inspiring young lady.
Loved seeing how honest the family is, on the ups and downs of life for a family who are also going through the struggles with supporting someone with a TBI. And of course Alexa facing some extreme challenges, mental and physical.
I look forward to seeing what Alexa Leary can accomplish with her sport and life.

[Bettina]

Wow, what an inspirational story. I remember hearing about Alexa and her accident on Instagram. Everyone started sharing their Move For Lex stories.

What a fighter Alexa is. She has faced so many challenges in her life. I’ve learnt so much more about TBI’s from this book.

Everyone needs to read this book, it’s so inspiring. To see Alexa win gold…what a moment.

⭐️I give this book 5 stars ⭐️

[Annie Smith]

What a remarkable story. Involving a tragedy turned a life completely around. One of God's Miracles
I believe. "God Helps Those Who Help Themselves". Alexa had the fitness, strength and willpower to fight. Her Parents gave her every opportunity they could give her. Family/Friends/Will were there helping her day in and day out for Years and Years. The Best Doctors and Best Nurses.
Swimming gave her another outlet in life but never underestimate what this cost them all.

[Kim Ploughman]

Wow what a truely honest account from all the family on their journey forward to where they are today. I got the pleasure of meeting Alexa at my work and personally signed my book for me. Anyone wanting to learn more on Traumatic Brain Injuries or help someone going through this give this book a read you are not alone in the fight .

[Jessica Smith]

An incredible story about an incredible woman. I highly recommend this book. It will help improve society’s understanding and empathy towards individuals with traumatic brain injuries and how life altering they are. A truly inspirational book. A tear in my eye throughout. Her family are the most amazing people.

[Danielle]

I really enjoyed learning more about Alexa’s backstory, having witnessed her amazing Paralympic swims. The courage and resilience demonstrated not only by Alexa but her whole family, and their willingness to tell Alexa’s story is so courageous. I found the information about TBI to be informative, and this book has certainly raised my awareness.

[Zoe B]

i loved the story about her. Knowing what she has been though and being the person she is today is unbelievable. The fact that she went though TBI and have ADHD and win two Parampic Gold Medals proves that anything is possible in today world

[Lauren Page]

So inspiring! Highly recommend ❤️

[Georgie Wilson]

Inspiring and in awe of Alexa and her family’s perseverance and vulnerability.

[Zoe Parker]

Absolutely incredible story and it was written so well, loved it so much!

[Meg Dowling]

Followed Lex’s story from the beginning, such a beautiful family and memoir

[Kayla Jade]

🎧📚

[Claire Weston]

Listened on audio was amazing what she and her family have been through. Very inspiring

[Ash]

⭐️5/5⭐️
Alexa (Lex) Leary has been to hell and back, and Sink or Swim is her powerful story of determination, courage and resilience in the face of impossible odds. After a life-threatening cycling accident left her with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), Lex’s life was forever changed. Told through the perspectives of Lex, her family, friends and coaches, Sink or Swim provides insight into life as both a triathlete and TBI survivor, and how Lex became Australia’s golden girl of the Paralympics.

This memoir is raw and honest, diving deep into the nitty-gritty realities of living with a TBI and the impact it has on Lex’s daily life. It recounts Lex’s accident and her time in hospital and rehabilitation facilities in graphic detail. While it was often difficult to read, as someone who has spent time caring for a loved one in the ICU, parts felt almost too real to continue. At the same time, it powerfully conveyed the reality of survival from a carer’s perspective as well.

Something I loved about this book was how much Lex and her family were willing to share. They experienced immense trauma, grief and heartbreak, but despite everything, they always searched for a glimmer of hope. I especially appreciated their honesty in discussing the more confronting aspects of recovery, including Lex’s dangerous behaviours such as physical aggression and self-harm.

This is not an easy read, but it is absolutely worth it. I hope it inspires people to move for those who can’t and helps reduce the stigma surrounding TBI.

[Abbey Taylor]

Absolutely loved the insight this showed to how TBI’s effect people in every aspect of their lives. Really loved how vulnerable the family has been in their writing and giving perspective to how Alexa is not the only person affected by a TBI