Donna Vano says her goal in life is to prove you’re never too old to kick a little butt.

At the age of 53, she won all nine events in the 50-59 age group at the U.S. National Snowboard Championships.

She talked to Growing Bolder about how her struggles with ovarian cancer encouraged her to live life to its fullest. Plus, she reveals how she fostered the snowboarding career of a future Olympic gold medalist and in the process, became known as the Godmother of Action Sports.

To check out Donna’ hand-crocheted beanies, click here. Donna donates a portion of all profits to cancer patients.