I Joined the RAF Regiment back in 2008. Having completed my basic training, I joined 27 squadron, based at RAF Honington.  On return of my first tour of Afghanistan, I completed my training to become a paratrooper, which was made up of the 'pre para' selection course, and the fun part, the jumps course! I then moved on to my next attachment, which was working with the parachute regiment, down in South Wales, at St Athan. 

During my second tour of Afghanistan, operating around Helmand province, I had an unfortunate accident. Whilst out on foot patrol, mentoring a section of Afghan troops, I stepped on an IED, which blew me off my feet, causing traumatic injuries to my legs. Although both legs took damage from shrapnel, it was my left lower leg that took the majority of the blast. As I was only with Afghan troops, it was very difficult to communicate with my section. I managed to administer my own first aid, which was mainly patching my legs up and controlling the pain, through morphine injections. I then radioed for back-up and got myself air-lifted back to the main hospital, at camp Bastian. 

Within 24 hours of this happening, I was back at QE hospital, Birmingham. I spent two months in hospital, undergoing several operations, and working closely with the physiotherapists, to re-gain function to my left leg. After being discharged from hospital, it was then time to go into full time rehabilitation! This period laster for 12 months. The main focus was to build my strength back, but I also spent a lot of time working on my balance and proprioception. Shortly after completing my rehabilitation program, I received the news that I was being medically discharged from the RAF Regiment. 

The thought of leaving the military was daunting, which left me with many things to think about. Luckily, the RAF benevolent fund was there to offer plenty of support and to help me with my transition into civilian life. The RAF BF funded various driving courses, which later helped me to secure my current job, working as an emergency care assistant for the East Midlands Ambulance service. 

Since leaving the military, I have competed in a wide variety of races, including many 5ks, 10ks, half marathons, marathons, an Ironman triathlon, half distance triathlons, aquathlons, open water swims and other fell running challenges! 

I competed in the 2014 Invictus Games, held in London, which brought together 14 nations, competing in a variety of sports. I competed in the 1500M track race, which im happy to say I won the gold medal. It was a fantastic experience, and I am already looking forward to competing at the next IG.

My most recent accomplishment meant travelling to the North Pole, to run a marathon, competing against 50 other international competitors. The conditions this year were particularly tough! The course was made up of 12 laps, which slowly deteriorated as the day progressed. The snow underfoot was energy sapping, and the air temperature was around -35 degrees, which made for a tough race! I completed the marathon in 5 hours and 3 minutes, which seen me take 2nd place. 

Having completed the North Pole marathon, I have decided to compete in the 'Antarctic Ice Marathon', which is the South Pole equivalent. I have decided to do this for the RAF Benevolent fund, as a thank you for all the help and support I have received from them over the past year. 

My achievements have helped me secure an award at the 'Pride of Britain awards', as well as an award at the 'Sports Personality of the year', awards, and also the 'Courage' award, presented to me at the 'Soldiering on Awards'. 

Most importantly, I would like to give a massive thank you to you all guys visiting this page and helping me to support my charity of choice.

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