Meet an Author: Alexa Leary

Meet the real Alexa Leary in this powerful author talk exploring the story behind her vulnerably honest memoir, Sink or Swim.

At 19, Alexa was a champion triathlete with an ambitious future ahead when a catastrophic cycling accident in 2021 left her with a traumatic brain injury and little chance of survival. What followed was not simply recovery, but the beginning of what Alexa describes as her second life.

In a story told in two parts — the Lex before the accident and the Lex after — Alexa reflects on the extraordinary work of rebuilding and the ongoing process of living with a TBI. At times confronting, heavy and deeply moving, her story is equally inspiring, captivating and infused with the cheeky humour and honesty that carried her forward.

While in hospital, Alexa became the inspiration behind the MoveForLex movement, encouraging thousands of people to move for those who can’t. After learning to walk and talk again, she returned to the water, earning selection to the Australian Paralympic Swimming Team before going on to win two gold and one silver medal at the Paris Paralympics and receiving an OAM in recognition of her achievements.

Join us for a candid and uplifting conversation about resilience, purpose and choosing to keep moving forward, even when life takes an unexpected turn. Book your free ticket today.

Getting there

Broadbeach Library is a 10 minute walk from the Broadbeach South tram station. Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with the Translink journey planner.

Parking at the library is limited to 2 hours between 8am and 5pm. Additional parking is available at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, directly across the road.