“Wait until you feel that roar of support….”

Togetherness. That was my overriding memory of those first few moments on stage four years ago.

With encouragement from my new friends by my side, the crowd support, whether they were there for you or someone else, from the organisers, the crew – it all felt right.

For a significant period of my life I didn’t feel like that, feeling very isolated at school with some barriers that you just couldn’t jump through and within an education ‘setting’ you couldn’t get out of until 16.

The fitness community, the bodybuilding community, the PCA community, the GymShark community, the gym community – it’s of my own choosing now to be there – and people are there of their own accord too.

I have been privileged to have met so many amazing people along the way.

I’m also part of an amazing disability community and I have had the privilege to share many stories with my friends on that journey to the stage, the challenges, the depths of the very unique hurdles but one of togetherness.

The bodybuilding arena can be and is a very competitive scene, but also one with is bouncing with drive, determination, challenge & above all, what I have found…respect.

It’s a place that I like to be, one that helps on the cold mornings, the tired days and is something that very much adds the fuel to your target.

During this mental health awareness week, it’s made me reflect not on my achievements but to thank those on the way, to every single one of you that have been part of one of those communities that have given joy much joy and support…

…it means the world.