At just 6 years old, I faced a life-threatening brain tumor that was causing my vital organs to shut down. An emergency operation saved my life, but during the procedure, I suffered a stroke that left me with hemiplegia, losing the use of the left side of my body. Doctors told my parents I would likely never run or lead an active life again.
From that moment, proving those doctors wrong became my life’s mission.
In 2015, I was proud to represent England at the Cerebral Palsy World Games, where I won two gold medals in the 800m and 1500m events. Becoming a world champion made me realize: If I was told I’d never run and now I’m faster than most, how much further can I push myself?
This mindset led me to explore running 5k and 10k races. Often, I was the only runner with a visible disability, but I didn’t let that deter me. My first 10k was a grueling challenge, and at one point, I doubted if I could finish. Yet, crossing that finish line became a milestone that fueled my drive to ask again: How much further can I go?
In April 2024, I faced one of the toughest challenges yet: the London Marathon. Running 26.2 miles was a goal beyond anything I once thought possible, but it was my chance to prove those doctors wrong in the most profound way. Representing the Stroke Association, I aimed to inspire other stroke survivors by showing what’s possible in life after stroke.
Despite cramping in both legs at mile 18, I pushed through. Not only did I complete the marathon, but I also broke the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon run with hemiplegia. It was the ultimate testament to resilience and determination.
In September 2024, I qualified to compete at the Adaptive CrossFit Games in Texas. Over four days of intense weightlifting and varied challenges, I proudly earned the title of 8th fittest adaptive athlete in the world.
Later in the year, I learned about Hyrox’s new adaptive category, with the opportunity to compete at the World Championships in Chicago. As someone who thrives in both running and weightlifting, I knew Hyrox was a perfect fit for me. Competing in my first Hyrox event in Manchester was an incredible experience—the atmosphere, the community, and the challenges made me fall in love with the sport.
Now, my goal for 2025 is to qualify for the Hyrox World Championships and hopefully become the first adaptive athlete in my category to win the title. I am also running he London 2025 marathon aiming to try and break my own world record. My mission is to inspire adaptive athletes worldwide, showing them that if I can do it then you can too!, I want to showcase the possibilities for adaptive athletes, break down barriers, and demonstrate that life truly has no limits.