​​​

​

People often comment to me about how inspirational I am, I love it, personally I have never considered myself anything special I just live life to the fullest and enjoy the things I do. But I have had to travel a journey but luckily I have not traveled it alone.

Inspiration is a gift that I like to think I can pass on. I am inspired so much by others around me. And through the inspiration of others I have been driven and encouraged to take on the challenge of a life time. There is no doubt that I would not be where I am today with out the strength and love of my wife and she really does make me want to be the best I can be in every way and her love has definitely saved my life when I was at my lowest point but along side her I have had others that I have followed and turned to when I have needed it….

Karen Darke the Paralympic medalist inspires me not for her Olympic achievements which are amazing but more for the adventures she completes. If you get a chance to read her website you will see why, I dream of doing some of the amazing things she has achieved and one day I will get my chance. 

Bear grylls is one of my all time Heros, it is a long time dream of mine to climb Everest and he has, I read his book and it gave me a massive boost to one day attempt base camp. Not many people know this but he once broke his back in a parachute accident but determination has never faded and he followed his dream to the top.

Amy Dixon is a blind triathlon competitor and even though she lost her sight later on in life she decided that it would not be the thing that defines her and she has gone on to do amazing things. I follow her closely and she amazes me everyday one day I wish to meet her to just be in her company and tell her face to face how massive a part she has played in my journey.

Owain Taylor former world record holder and 42 X gold medalist has much to my honour become my mentor, my friend and one of the most important people in my life. His attitude and personality has made me want to be a better person. He has done so much for me and honestly his support has been priceless. This is a debt I will never be able to repay.

Steven Jacobo is an athlete that I have never met but yet feel I can call him a friend,after breaking his back during a snowboarding accident he has traveled an amazing journey and has been involved with pioneering sports and wheelchair activities. His attitude and honesty to his condition has shown me how to take control of my situation and through that I have become a man with a disability not a disabled man and trust me there is a massive difference. 

Andrew wilkinson has also been an amazing friend to me, he has offered me support and advice, a shoulder to cry on when I have needed it and yet he has never asked for anything in return. Andrews biggest gift to me is teaching me that we all need help sometimes and you should never be to proud to ask. His willingness to help me has inspired me to want to help others and every time I see him I am greeted with a smile no matter how bad things may be for him and from that I learnt that a smile costs nothing but will go along way. 

A very good friend of mine Bev Jones has been a fundamental part of my mental wellbeing. The author of “made it through the rain” a story of how she beat depression. Bev understands how difficult it is to fight your own mind and its battle of self worth. I know I can turn to her about anything and she would be willing to just listen. Now she runs a very successful business and is a public speaker helping others. She inspires me to want to follow in her foot steps.

I joined Cardiff celts wheelchair basketball and as a team the support has been very important in my development, people like ex GB Caroline Mathews (coach) this woman has never given up on me and encouraged me both on and off court. Steve and Jo have helped me discover new sports that I love. Liam holt offered me some advice once that I have never forgotten. I was feeling really down when I reached my first Christmas in a chair and he reminded me of how far I had come in such a short time and that I could achieve anything with the determination that I have. He was right and it was the boost I needed. These celts players have been fundamental in my life and I really can’t thank them enough.

There are many more that I have not mentioned but there is one very special person who is in the video above and that is Kelly of “Kelly’s smile” you can see her running for the first time.

Kelly was Involved in a car accident, she was left as a above knee amputee and suffered life changing injuries and scaring due to burns to her face and body. Kelly is one of the most beautiful people you could wish to meet, she is kind genuine and honest to the core. Her out look is possibly one of the most positive people I have ever met. I have spoken to her a lot about my life, her life and the changes we have been through but I think Kelly inspires me the most out of everyone and if I can be half the person she is with half the heart she carries and a fraction of the character and will that she possesses then I feel that I would be as close to the kind of person I would want to be.

My parents alway showed me that you are who you are but you can choose to work hard and achieve your goals. If you are willing to try as hard as you can then nothing is out of your reach. That is the morals I live by and that is why I love being considered as an inspiration, it’s my way of giving back what I have received from all those around me who have selflessly given me so much. 

So you see I may be considered as inspirational to some but only because I have been inspired and supported my many others and for that I am truly greatful….