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

[Taylor Alati · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Kasey · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Abbey Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Lauren Page]

So inspiring! Highly recommend ❤️

[Georgie Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

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