My approach

Learn from difficulties

Things get in the way of your daily routine. The hustle of life can get you down and distract you from your goals and your childhood dreams. Medical conditions, financial stress, pressure at work, endless chores, all make things more difficult, but most of us, especially kids, have in-built resilience to overcome them, which in time becomes a strength.

Set a path for success

When your mojo fails strategies get you back on track. It wasn’t until I turned 40 and looked back on my life that the penny dropped. It was my passion for sport and adventure that had been my strategy. It had made me happy and kept me healthy, socially connected and mentally safe.

Accept that its harder

With diabetes anything is possible, it’s just harder. I’ve had injuries, anxiety and crappy stuff that sets me back. There is no time off from type 1. It is relentless. When negative messages abound, and people you don’t know tell you what you can’t do, stand up and be courageous. Use the skills from managing difficult things day after day, for years on end, to defy naysayers and take on what life throws at you. And, never give up on your dreams.

Three keys

Looking back on my teenage and young adult years three things unlocked my potential.

One - Inspiration

I learned what is possible from Gary Mabbutt MBE. He played football for Tottenham Hotspur and England with type 1 diabetes.

Two - Good advice

My first doctor encouraged me to put exercise and an outdoors lifestyle above everything else, and explained complications were far less likely in fit people.

Three - Belief

My father was a school teacher and a wizard on the sports field. He showed me that anything is possible and to pursue my dreams.

Tips on training your body and brain for life, sport, exercise and adventure.