In one of the most personal episodes ever recorded on The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard sits down with his father-in-law, Peter Cook, a man who has lived an extraordinary life filled with adventure, friendship, sport, success, hardship, addiction, recovery and service to others.
Just one week before this interview, Peter was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer that had spread to his liver and lungs. Rather than retreat, he chose to share his story.
Peter reflects on his childhood in Melbourne, his talented father "Mac", his sporting career as a cricketer and wicketkeeper, playing representative cricket, travelling to England in the 1960s, lifelong friendships spanning six decades, and a successful business career that saw him become one of Australia's leading flooring specialists in the hospital sector.
Most powerfully, Peter shares his decades-long battle with alcoholism. After years of drinking, rehabilitation attempts and self-loathing, he found hope through Alcoholics Anonymous at age 79 and has remained sober for more than five years. Today, even while facing terminal illness, he continues to support others struggling with addiction.
This is not simply a story about leadership.
It is a story about redemption.
It is a story about resilience.
It is a story about what really matters when time becomes precious.
Three words that sum up Peter's story
COURAGE, FRIENDSHIPS, SERVICE
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