STEVE O'CONNOR

ME.

I am ex RAF Tactical Supply and left in the year 2000. I bimbled along the next 10 years or so a little bit lost with no clear direction and feeling as if I didn’t have a purpose. I got myself into a few challenges post 2010 but never really pushed myself. Then in 2016 I suddenly found myself in hospital. A combination of eating too much drinking too much and not looking after my bosy whilst still Trying to push myself to the limit. I was in hospital for a month with 22 pulmonary embolisms (blood clots) in my heart and lungs and was lucky not to have had a massive stroke. I was told by the doctors I would have massive lung damage and would never run or cycle seriously again. After a month on the depths of depression at this news I decided I needed to prove them wrong. So I signed up for a marathon, starter the couch to 5k where I had to repeat week 1, ten times and set myself off on my road to recovery. 10 months later i completed the Marathon and 2 months after that i completed my first weighted Fan Dance. A check up at the hospital then revealed most of the lung damage had been reversed with just a small section of my right lung still damaged. I'm now a teetotal, plant-based, runner and tabber, I run every morning at 5am and feel on top of the world.

WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE?

I want to inspire others to get out of the rut. Its never too late to make the changes to bring out your true potential.

WHAT CHANGES AM I MAKING?

After 1 year back on the beer after 2 years off following my illness, I am not determined to stay alcohol free. The freedom that the clarity of thought you have through total sobriety cannot be measured

MY PLAN FOR 2019 AND BEYOND.

Taking part in the AEE test march series. I plan to Tab coast to coast next year and the draw of the Lands End to John o' Groats challenge is still calling.

MY PERSONAL PROMISE.

Remain healthy and inspire myself and others to do the same. To offer help to others where I can.