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Swimming for Freedom: A True Story of Faith, Hope, and Victory (Paperback) – The Inspirational Story of Tera Bradham's Unconventional Comeback
Tera Bradham was born to prove people wrong. The fastest swimmer her age in the United States by age ten, many believed ''Tera the Terror'' was destined for the Olympics.
Her fiercely competitive spirit and unmatched intensity knew no limits until Tera suffered a sudden, devastating shoulder injury that derailed her promising career. Although she trusted in God, she also wrestled with doubts of his goodness throughout subsequent years of misdiagnoses, chronic pain, and crippling disappointment. Her injury finally forced her to fully surrender to God.
Then her miracle came, or so she thought. Her shoulder was successfully reconstructed, and after two more years of grueling recovery, Tera found the courage to swim again and pursue her dreams with renewed faith.
Swimming for Freedom tells the inspirational story of Tera's unconventional comeback and shows that through God, all things are possible. What started as an Olympic dream ended in her true the freedom of a life in Christ. Tera's story will inspire you to rise up, dream again, and fight for his calling on your life.
Content
Tera’s captivating story inspires readers to never give up and to draw close to God through trials of all kinds, including faith, family, friends, health, and dreams. Makes a great gift for athletes, sports enthusiasts, and more!
Physical
Her fiercely competitive spirit and unmatched intensity knew no limits until Tera suffered a sudden, devastating shoulder injury that derailed her promising career. Although she trusted in God, she also wrestled with doubts of his goodness throughout subsequent years of misdiagnoses, chronic pain, and crippling disappointment. Her injury finally forced her to fully surrender to God.
Then her miracle came, or so she thought. Her shoulder was successfully reconstructed, and after two more years of grueling recovery, Tera found the courage to swim again and pursue her dreams with renewed faith.
Swimming for Freedom tells the inspirational story of Tera's unconventional comeback and shows that through God, all things are possible. What started as an Olympic dream ended in her true the freedom of a life in Christ. Tera's story will inspire you to rise up, dream again, and fight for his calling on your life.
Content
Tera’s captivating story inspires readers to never give up and to draw close to God through trials of all kinds, including faith, family, friends, health, and dreams. Makes a great gift for athletes, sports enthusiasts, and more!
Physical
256 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2020
About the author
Tera Bradham
3 books8 followersAlso known as Tera Bradham DeNeui
Tera Bradham was one of the fastest swimmers in the country her age when a chronic, undiagnosed injury suddenly made her dreams seem impossible. Her story of overcoming pain and a loss of hope has inspired her to create ministries for people trying to reconcile their pain with their faith.
Her journey has led her to speak at events across the world as an inspirational speaker with a message of empowerment and purpose. She writes, coaches, and teaches from her home in Montana.
Tera Bradham was one of the fastest swimmers in the country her age when a chronic, undiagnosed injury suddenly made her dreams seem impossible. Her story of overcoming pain and a loss of hope has inspired her to create ministries for people trying to reconcile their pain with their faith.
Her journey has led her to speak at events across the world as an inspirational speaker with a message of empowerment and purpose. She writes, coaches, and teaches from her home in Montana.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 30, 2020
As I endured trial after trial, I remember thinking that if my story made a difference in one person’s life, then all my pain was worth it. It is my prayer that in some small way, God uses my story to bless yours. I am honored you took the time to read this book. May you find true freedom amidst its pages.
June 2, 2020
Bradham's writing plunges the reader to the depths of her despair. Despite the darkness and continual challenges she faces while fighting to achieve her dream, she clings to a mustard seed of faith that God has something bigger in store for her. Swimming for Freedom is a story of hope and perseverance. Readers will cheer for Tera as she recounts the details of her achievements in the pool, and they'll root for her as she struggles for freedom out of the water.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 22, 2020
This book surprised me. I'm not and never have been a swimmer or serious athlete of any sport. When I opened Swimming for Freedom (terabradham.com), I expected a sports memoir of some sort. However, I was quickly caught up in Tera's journey. I found myself tearing up, smiling, and shaking my head in disbelief. Tera weaves her faith and lessons learned into her story in such a way that is relatable and poignant. I recommend this book if you are struggling with pain of course, but so much more than that. If you want an incredible story, to be encouraged and challenged you will find this and more in Swimming for Freedom. Find it at terabradham.com!
June 3, 2020
This book is not only an inspiring story but it is also incredibly well written! I had no trouble zipping through it while wanting to take in every detail. Pick this up and you will be inspired, humbled and grateful. Tera is a vulnerable and honest narrator of her challenging story. Highly recommend!!
January 11, 2024
I love this book, I read it in like a week which is really good for me. Tera is so strong and firm in Christ even through such a traumatic injury and as I was reading it, It really touched me, so I would highly recommend. I’m a picky reader but even the writing is lovely and she has some very cute stories in there.
December 30, 2020
I couldn’t put this book down! I was a competitive athlete in high school before chronic illness came along and I could really relate to Tera’s struggles (and to how she can now see how God has redeemed them). I loved this book — it was very well written.
March 26, 2023
Wow this was a great book. If you are wanting some motivation this is for you. Tera living her life for God and her journey for the goal she thought God had called her to. I borrowed this copy but will definitely be trying to get a copy for my bookshelf.
June 2, 2020
Let me begin by saying that you don’t have to be an athlete or swimmer to enjoy this book! I wasn’t sure what I would get out of Tera’s story since I knew nothing about the sport of swimming, but I read the book anyway and found myself immediately connecting with the drive, passion, and focus of Tera as she set her sights on many hopes and plans.
If you have ever struggled with pain, pride, desire, doubt, or revenge, read this book until the very end to experience the incredible journey one heart can take when you give everything over to God.
If you have ever struggled with pain, pride, desire, doubt, or revenge, read this book until the very end to experience the incredible journey one heart can take when you give everything over to God.
April 3, 2023
One of the best books I've ever read. Inspiring, intense, and truly life-changing.
March 17, 2023
Number of pages: 285
Genre: Non-fiction Autobiography
Series: N/A
Age recommendation: 14+
Summary: By age 10 “Tera the Terror” was crushing swimming competitions and records. Many believed she was destined for the Olympics… until she injured her shoulder. For years her injury went undiagnosed and Tera swam through the pain wondering where her loving God could be in the midst of this. Tera shares her story of answered prayer: God’s way.
My thoughts: It was an interesting, well written book. I found Tera to be very honest, not backing away from her mistakes. She shared all her struggles with depression and pain, her pride and how God helped to take it away. After reading this book I almost felt like I knew the author.
I really liked how Tera stressed that God is worthy of so much more praise and worship and honour than we can ever give. One “thank-you” doesn’t cover all He’s done for us. I think that’s something I forget too often, and it’s good to be reminded of. She also spoke about how we aren’t fighting people – like her really nasty coach – but really Satan is our enemy, and it is a spiritual war that we’re waging. (Ephesians 6:12) Another good reminder for me when faced with people that really annoy me: God wants me to love them, not fight them.
I really liked how Tera stressed that God is worthy of so much more praise and worship and honour than we can ever give. One “thank-you” doesn’t cover all He’s done for us. I think that’s something I forget too often, and it’s good to be reminded of. She also spoke about how we aren’t fighting people – like her really nasty coach – but really Satan is our enemy, and it is a spiritual war that we’re waging. (Ephesians 6:12) Another good reminder for me when faced with people that really annoy me: God wants me to love them, not fight them.
Tera is also big on miracles, but that maybe the miracle you want is not what God gives. She also says that people want the miracles God gives, without the pain that inevitably comes before. I like this point; however, I do have to agree with my sister that this is kind of hard for people who got the pain without the miracle. To be fair, Tera does address this point, by saying that not all tragedies become miracles, but adversity gives place for a miracle to happen. It just might be hard for people who didn’t get a miracle like Tera to read her book that is very focused on how God gave her the miracle she didn’t ask for; but in the end it’s better than what she could have imagined.
I am a squeamish person, and even though this book is about the author’s injury and recovery, I didn’t really find it that bad. There were only a couple of parts that made me cringe (there were needle descriptions). Overall, I didn’t find that the medical stuff was too detailed.
My personal rating: 4/5 stars.
Link to blog: https://karinaschristianreads.wordpre...
Genre: Non-fiction Autobiography
Series: N/A
Age recommendation: 14+
Summary: By age 10 “Tera the Terror” was crushing swimming competitions and records. Many believed she was destined for the Olympics… until she injured her shoulder. For years her injury went undiagnosed and Tera swam through the pain wondering where her loving God could be in the midst of this. Tera shares her story of answered prayer: God’s way.
My thoughts: It was an interesting, well written book. I found Tera to be very honest, not backing away from her mistakes. She shared all her struggles with depression and pain, her pride and how God helped to take it away. After reading this book I almost felt like I knew the author.
I really liked how Tera stressed that God is worthy of so much more praise and worship and honour than we can ever give. One “thank-you” doesn’t cover all He’s done for us. I think that’s something I forget too often, and it’s good to be reminded of. She also spoke about how we aren’t fighting people – like her really nasty coach – but really Satan is our enemy, and it is a spiritual war that we’re waging. (Ephesians 6:12) Another good reminder for me when faced with people that really annoy me: God wants me to love them, not fight them.
I really liked how Tera stressed that God is worthy of so much more praise and worship and honour than we can ever give. One “thank-you” doesn’t cover all He’s done for us. I think that’s something I forget too often, and it’s good to be reminded of. She also spoke about how we aren’t fighting people – like her really nasty coach – but really Satan is our enemy, and it is a spiritual war that we’re waging. (Ephesians 6:12) Another good reminder for me when faced with people that really annoy me: God wants me to love them, not fight them.
Tera is also big on miracles, but that maybe the miracle you want is not what God gives. She also says that people want the miracles God gives, without the pain that inevitably comes before. I like this point; however, I do have to agree with my sister that this is kind of hard for people who got the pain without the miracle. To be fair, Tera does address this point, by saying that not all tragedies become miracles, but adversity gives place for a miracle to happen. It just might be hard for people who didn’t get a miracle like Tera to read her book that is very focused on how God gave her the miracle she didn’t ask for; but in the end it’s better than what she could have imagined.
I am a squeamish person, and even though this book is about the author’s injury and recovery, I didn’t really find it that bad. There were only a couple of parts that made me cringe (there were needle descriptions). Overall, I didn’t find that the medical stuff was too detailed.
My personal rating: 4/5 stars.
Link to blog: https://karinaschristianreads.wordpre...
June 3, 2020
I was really surprised and encouraged by reading this. I did not think I would find connections to this book as I am not a collegiate athlete, swimmer, or really looking for a renewed sense of freedom. I found myself drawn into Bradham's story and had a hard time putting it down to go to sleep as her story has many unexpected turns that left me wondering what happens in the next chapter.
Tera Bradham was no Olympic athlete so you might be wondering why you would read a book by a seemingly non-famous athlete. I will tell you. Her story is one that inspires, it is a story of a gift, hard work, loss, and finally redemption. Bradham shows us the value of each of our stories no matter the title we may hold. She details her account through so many a hardship and setback and her perseverance even though her plans did not come true. Through her journey, she reveals some great truths and how her perspective on life has changed and shaped the lives around her. This book will not disappoint. Her story connected with my own life in that I am not the absolute expert in any area of life, I still matter and have value.
Tera Bradham was no Olympic athlete so you might be wondering why you would read a book by a seemingly non-famous athlete. I will tell you. Her story is one that inspires, it is a story of a gift, hard work, loss, and finally redemption. Bradham shows us the value of each of our stories no matter the title we may hold. She details her account through so many a hardship and setback and her perseverance even though her plans did not come true. Through her journey, she reveals some great truths and how her perspective on life has changed and shaped the lives around her. This book will not disappoint. Her story connected with my own life in that I am not the absolute expert in any area of life, I still matter and have value.
June 2, 2020
Wow! This book blew my mind and gripped my soul. A deep dive into the heart of a woman destined for the impossible, Tera Bradham takes you into a journey unlike any other. Within these pages, you will find pure fire, painful and refining, yet more stunningly beautiful with every turn. You will experience joy and grief, trial and victory, loyalty and betrayal. You will be rendered speechless by the sheer power of an indomitable spirit, and catch a breathtaking glimpse of what God can do through a heart fully abandoned. I cried, I laughed, I rejoiced in the heart of God dripping from every page. Tera has a passion consuming her being, and it flows like pure magma, searing your own with the fire of her soul. This book is not merely an inspiring story, it is a resounding battle cry—a call to action—to face your pain, leap into faith, and watch the God of miracles turn your tragedy into triumph.
June 2, 2020
“It’s amazing how sixty seconds can change someone’s life. One word spoken, positive or negative, can change someone’s eternity.” - Swimming for Freedom
Tera’s words changed me. Her story is raw, hopeful, gut wrenching, challenging, and inspiring. Full of twists and turns, Swimming for Freedom kept me glued to the pages as I experienced a spectrum of emotions, laughing out loud in some parts, amazed in others, full of frustration for her in yet others. Facing years of debilitating pain, doubt from authority figures and friends, and setbacks while continuing to fight for her dream, her internal struggles are vulnerably shared and relatable. I felt both convicted and encouraged as I read her story of struggle, growth, faith, and defeat, and what she learned from it along the way. Whatever you’re going through right now, THIS is the book to read to change your perspective and give you hope to dream and live a victorious life in Christ!
Tera’s words changed me. Her story is raw, hopeful, gut wrenching, challenging, and inspiring. Full of twists and turns, Swimming for Freedom kept me glued to the pages as I experienced a spectrum of emotions, laughing out loud in some parts, amazed in others, full of frustration for her in yet others. Facing years of debilitating pain, doubt from authority figures and friends, and setbacks while continuing to fight for her dream, her internal struggles are vulnerably shared and relatable. I felt both convicted and encouraged as I read her story of struggle, growth, faith, and defeat, and what she learned from it along the way. Whatever you’re going through right now, THIS is the book to read to change your perspective and give you hope to dream and live a victorious life in Christ!
June 3, 2020
If you have any doubts, angers, insecurities in any area in your life, especially the areas you care deeply in, this book is for you. Tera is vulnerable, genuine and incredibly faithful to share God's story in her life through Swimming for Freedom. Tera is an incredible example of sacrificing our pride to learn our deepest motivations, and because she continually leans into God's heart, her story represents incredible healing: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Her book pulls you in immediately, and it was hard to put down!! I had the honor of training, competing and being her teammate for two years at Texas A&M, and Tera was always the teammate/friend who would intentionally ask how you were doing and really listen. In the pool, she was always the teammate to push your own limits on how far you can push yourself. She is someone to learn from in all areas of challenging yourself and healing!!
July 13, 2020
Swimming for Freedom, by Tera Bradham is a positive story, that with God all things are possible. I loved this book and could not put it down. It was such an inspiration to read, especially during a difficult time in our history.
I finally felt like I was reading some good news for a change. This book inspired me personally to fight for what God has called me to do. I felt very challenged by this book and was just in awe of Tera's faith. This book had me in tears, but also had me cheering for Tera. Lots of mixed emotions when reading Swimming for Freedom, but in a great way!
This book is for everyone, you don't have to be an avid lover of swimming. I pray this book gets great media attention, but the author is incredible! I loved every second of this book.
I finally felt like I was reading some good news for a change. This book inspired me personally to fight for what God has called me to do. I felt very challenged by this book and was just in awe of Tera's faith. This book had me in tears, but also had me cheering for Tera. Lots of mixed emotions when reading Swimming for Freedom, but in a great way!
This book is for everyone, you don't have to be an avid lover of swimming. I pray this book gets great media attention, but the author is incredible! I loved every second of this book.
November 5, 2020
3.5 stars for me. A great book, beautifully written. Tera is raw, real and vulnerable. I found it so encouraging. I think many people will be encouraged and be able to relate to Tera’s journey. You don’t have to be a swimmer to enjoy this story. To see how God has used her challenges and her pain is beautiful and encouraging. Some great quotes throughout the book such as ‘ My trial had made me who I was, and I didn’t want to know the kind of a person I would have been had I not faced nine years of God’s humbling grace’. Definitely worth reading 👍
July 4, 2020
I got a lot out of this book. I highly recommend it for anyone, but especially people who are facing major letdowns and disappointments in life. This book helped me take a look at myself from a new angle. It was something I really needed. I feel like what Tera had experienced and felt I too had experienced and felt in some way or another. This book was a quick read with lots of wisdom on each page. A must read.
January 20, 2022
This book actually kept me on the edge of my seat. I had the privilege of speaking with Tera through her podcast, "Vying For Victory." She was such an encouragement to my husband and I. I didn't know her history, so I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. It was spiritually challenging and encouraging to hear Tera's testimony of how God used her struggles to ultimately strengthen her. What a humbling, and amazing story.
July 24, 2024
as fun as it was to read a book about swimming between olympic trials and the games, it was hard to get past some of the writing. i understand that she went through many difficult years pushing past pain but i can only read “my shoulder is held together by metal” so many times before i lose my mind. still an impressive story with an overall good message but didn’t quite connect with the author enough to fully enjoy it.
December 5, 2025
Content: Medical Trauma
I generally knew about this as I've heard her speak several times at the Diamond's conference for the chronically ill. There was obviously more detail in this. I appreciated the focus of this. Often, I feel biographies have odd bits included, but it felt pretty focused on the topic.
Parts I really related to and tabbed up. Others not so much. Overall, I think I'll give it 4 stars as I really appreciated her insights when she specifically talked about God.
I generally knew about this as I've heard her speak several times at the Diamond's conference for the chronically ill. There was obviously more detail in this. I appreciated the focus of this. Often, I feel biographies have odd bits included, but it felt pretty focused on the topic.
Parts I really related to and tabbed up. Others not so much. Overall, I think I'll give it 4 stars as I really appreciated her insights when she specifically talked about God.
April 18, 2021
A true comeback story, unexpected and encouraging. There were too many quotes to list here that made my jaw drop. Tera’s story is open and honest to the extent that you feeling the pain, loneliness and victory with her. I highly recommend this read especially for anyone who is walking through a season of uncertainty, pain, or a dream delayed!
May 25, 2020
If you think this book is only for swimmers or athletes, think again. A story about pain, resilience, doubt, faith, grit and surrender is the kind of story we need now more than ever. Swimming for Freedom was inspiring and encouraging... the kind of read we need during these uncertain times.
June 1, 2020
An amazing story of determination in the midst of physical challenge. Finding our purpose and our faith can prove to be a search of forwards and backwards steps. Victory is not always where we expect it to be. But it is found in a race well run.
June 2, 2020
Tera's story us raw and real. I am so glad she was able to share her story in a captivating and meaningful way. Tera's eloquent and no holds prose make this book entertaining, informative, encouraging, and heartwrenching. I hope this book touches lives!
January 12, 2022
I am not religious, and I have never been an athlete. But as someone who has experienced unexplainable chronic pain for the last 4 years, I can relate to Tera’s story. It was insightful reading about the passion of athletes, as well! Very authentic.
June 25, 2020
Inspiring and amazing story!
Amazing true story of faith, perseverance, forgiveness, true freedom and what matters most in life. very personable and well written.
Amazing true story of faith, perseverance, forgiveness, true freedom and what matters most in life. very personable and well written.
July 21, 2025
Very inspirational. I love the honesty she portrays as she goes through this journey of faith.
June 1, 2020
In your struggles, there is hope. My full review: https://medium.com/park-recommendatio...
March 22, 2021
Appreciated Tera's passion and transparency in sharing her story and how the Good News has impacted her life. As a father of two daughters who swim I hope they learn to love the Lord and compete in the ways Tera reveals through her story. Thank you for sharing your very real self in the pages of the book. Praying for you and your family in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews