That might not be my best picture below but for me it’s pretty special. I’m at the finish of the 2017 Vitality 10k run in London, only a short time after completing my final course of radiotherapy for oral cancer. In that moment I realised I could do anything I put my mind to. Getting fit has been a huge part of my recovery - not only from cancer but also from addiction and mental health issues. I’ve now been given the all clear and am ready to pass on the lessons I've learned through a new career in fitness.
I’ve had my fair share of challenges in life. A difficult childhood led to over three decades of struggle with drugs and alcohol. I burned my bridges with family and friends and, at my lowest point, slept rough for around 11 months. Four years ago I went into rehab and have remained clean ever since. Yet, I still had to battle with the cancer that resulted from years of substance abuse.
Treatment was tough but I found getting in the gym and out running gave me the fight to keep going. I've always loved keeping active and had even been a champion weightlifter in my teens! As a PT I’ll be able to keep doing what I love, getting fitter and stronger, whilst also helping others.
Honestly if you’d told me five years ago where I would be today, I would have laughed in your face. With my new life has come a new outlook and I wouldn’t give that up for anything.