Spring Break
Pacemaker sidelines SMU cheerleader
Nicole Jacobsen, Opinion Editor, njacobse@smu.edu
Issue date: 9/12/08 Section: News
"I tried out in April, and we had to write down our medical histories, and I listed my pacemaker," explained Burns. "I've never even failed a physical. I went from practicing every day and going to camp to being kicked off the squad."
While one release did say Burns should avoid contact sports, cheerleading is still considered an appropriate activity to participate and compete in.
"I wish they would have had all the information and talked to my doctors, and my cardiologist in particular because he's been treating me for seven years," said Burns.
"If he's telling me I can do cheerleading with no restrictions I don't see the problem because he's not going to let me go out there and hurt myself and other people."
SMU states they would allow Burns to continue participating in the program so long as she does not move her feet along the ground, kick her legs, or execute any pyramids or tumbling skills.
So how does Burns feel about being given a scholarship and a spot on the team, but not free reign to compete to the best of her ability?
"[The team is] probably just as mad, if not more upset," said Burns.
"I'm a positive influence on the team, a hard worker; I'm not a bump in the log. They are part of the reason why I'm doing everything I can do get back to where I was on the team. It just gave me a goal and something to work hard towards. I've been taking it really well, along with everyone else."
Until then, Burns says she plans to sit on the sidelines at practice, and cheer her team on from the benches.
While one release did say Burns should avoid contact sports, cheerleading is still considered an appropriate activity to participate and compete in.
"I wish they would have had all the information and talked to my doctors, and my cardiologist in particular because he's been treating me for seven years," said Burns.
"If he's telling me I can do cheerleading with no restrictions I don't see the problem because he's not going to let me go out there and hurt myself and other people."
SMU states they would allow Burns to continue participating in the program so long as she does not move her feet along the ground, kick her legs, or execute any pyramids or tumbling skills.
So how does Burns feel about being given a scholarship and a spot on the team, but not free reign to compete to the best of her ability?
"[The team is] probably just as mad, if not more upset," said Burns.
"I'm a positive influence on the team, a hard worker; I'm not a bump in the log. They are part of the reason why I'm doing everything I can do get back to where I was on the team. It just gave me a goal and something to work hard towards. I've been taking it really well, along with everyone else."
Until then, Burns says she plans to sit on the sidelines at practice, and cheer her team on from the benches.
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