What if coming second was exactly where you were meant to be? In this deeply personal and poetic TEDx talk, Amy Mae Dolan, principal dancer with Riverdance, shares how five life-altering interruptions threatened to steal her dream. From a family cancer diagnosis to injury, heartbreak, and endometriosis, Amy’s story isn’t about never falling, it’s about how she learned to rise with grace, grit, and empathy. With the raw honesty of someone who’s truly lived it, she reveals that second isn’t failure – it’s formation. And just like Irish dancing, where the top stays still while the feet fly, we too often appear calm while paddling furiously underneath. This is a talk for anyone carrying more than they show. For anyone in the middle of their own interruption. Amy has an idea, and that is to choreograph your next step, not perfectly, but purposefully. Amy Mae Dolan is a professional dancer and choreographer whose passion for the performing arts has taken her from local stages to international platforms. A proud advocate for creativity and expression, Amy Mae is deeply committed to empowering others through dance and education. With a career that seamlessly blends artistry and innovation,Amy Mae has worked with renowned companies, collaborated on groundbreaking projects, and inspired countless individuals to find their voice through movement. Her approach to dance transcends performance, exploring its potential as a tool for connection, personal growth, and storytelling. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx