How I got to here

Rugby was the foundation of my identity, shaping who I was and giving me structure and purpose. Growing up, I dedicated myself to the sport, eventually representing Barbados, my grandparents' homeland, at the international level. However, my world was upended when I tore my hamstring off the bone—a severe injury that ended my rugby career, brought chronic pain, and triggered a steep decline in my mental health.

 

The loss of rugby revealed deeper struggles. It had been my coping mechanism for unresolved mental health issues and the challenges of navigating life as an autistic individual. Without it, I felt lost. My life spiralled during this time—a global pandemic, divorce, a difficult relationship, and constant house moves compounded the sense of loss. Only my daughter kept me grounded. Time in nature with her became a source of healing, sharing my lifelong love of wildlife and the outdoors.

 

While my physical limitations were profound, I found solace in art, a childhood passion. Creativity became my refuge as I struggled to reclaim a sense of normalcy. Despite being told I’d likely never run again, I set an ambitious goal: running the Cardiff Half Marathon. My first attempt failed, the injury leaving me unable to run more than a few steps. Undeterred, I sought other challenges—charity boxing, judo, and strength training—while pursuing further surgeries to repair my leg.

 

The pandemic delayed my second surgery, but when it finally came, it brought hope. Two surgeons removed scar tissue and attempted a repair, cautioning that full recovery was uncertain. Post-surgery, I threw myself into rehabilitation, and for the first time in years, I saw progress. Slowly, I built up my endurance: one mile, then three. I completed my first 10km race, then a half marathon. Finally, I returned to Cardiff and crossed the finish line of the very race I’d once thought impossible.

 

But I wanted more. Limited in speed, I turned to distance. Training for an ultramarathon, I discovered trail running—a perfect blend of my love for movement and nature. Surrounded by the beauty of the trails, I found healing, resilience, and purpose. Trail running became a way to reconnect with myself and the environment, offering a sense of harmony I hadn’t experienced since losing rugby.

 

Now, my focus has shifted. I’m passionate about increasing appreciation for the natural world and promoting trail running and hiking, especially among groups who might face barriers to accessing the outdoors. I want to show others—regardless of ability, background, or circumstances—that these spaces and activities are for everyone.

 

Trail running has given me a new purpose: to inspire others to discover the transformative power of nature and movement, just as I have.