Joy is...What's Inside.
Jacky Hunt-Broersma is the embodiment of never letting anyone tell you that you 'can’t do anything’. 20 years ago, she did not run at all but, earlier this year, she ran 104 marathons in 104 days, setting a new world record. That in itself is quite something but, 20 years ago, at only 26, she also lost her leg to Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. Now, she is one of the most accomplished amputee ultra marathoners around, with a passion for bringing the joy of running to other amputees. Jacky holds numerous firsts and world records, including being the first amputee to run 100 miles on a treadmill, in under 24 hours, and the first amputee to take on the brutal Trans Rockies mountain stage race in Colorado, which covers 120 miles with over 20000ft of climbing at altitude. She also balances all this with being an awesome mum and endurance coach. Quite simply: Jacky is a total bad ass, and I have few words that do justice to how affecting this conversation was and the warmth, humour and unerring positivity that Jacky brings to those around her. The world is a better place with her in it.
We discussed: conflicting feelings around survival narratives; learning to trust and accept a new body as a woman in your twenties; the power of gratitude; confronting the 'boxes' and stigma around disability; how 'just trying' and having curiosity can change lives; running bringing strength and connection to a common human experience; problem-solving and the practicalities of learning to run with a blade; the backwards thinking regarding provision for amputees to access sports; the need for us all to listen to our bodies and respect the incredible things that they can do; the mental games that fuel world records; changing the language and perspective around amputees, and inspiring others to 'do hard things' and realise that they are more capable than they think.
Follow Jacky:
Instagram: @ncrunnerjacky
You Tube: @ncrunnerjacky
Website: www.ncrunnerjacky.com
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