| Would four surgeries on your ankle and septic arthritis put you off running? No? How about three months of 24-hour intravenous antibiotics? Debbie Hardy went through all this at the beginning of this year. It left her with a lifelong challenge. But life is a lifelong challenge. So she is now training for this December’s 21.1km West Coaster with a carefully designed and well-monitored training schedule from James Kuegler Coaching. As well as the training, Debbie will be relying on her positive attitude and a specially made carbon fibre cast on her leg. |  |
Debbie says: “I asked James to help me because he shares the same positive energy I do. He is very passionate and positive person. It’s great to be inspired by his work. James is well known in the running community as an amazing coach in Auckland so it was an easy choice. I haven't planned a fundraiser before, but James broke it down what the steps would be to make it happen.”
Debbie is no stranger to training herself. She is a positive psychology coach and certified Feel the Fear trainer. It was this background that has helped drive her through the last few months.
“I figured it was time to practise what I preach! I have benefitted from the tools that I teach and plenty of inspiration from others. My Dad, who passed away five years ago, inspired me to stay strong and positive. He taught me we always have a choice about how we respond to things.”
James says: “Attitude is everything in a situation like this. I have had contact with Debbie right through the last few months, and as much as it has been a massively frustrating and life changing time, Debbie has continued to look for the opportunities and negotiate the hurdles as they have been put in front of her.”
As with every athlete he coaches, James is assisting Debbie to reach her current goals, while keeping in mind her long term fitness and health.
“I believe that it is absolutely possible for Debbie to be a lifelong runner. Her unique situation will absolutely present some challenges along the way. It is even more important for Debbie to be aware of, and strive to optimise, her strength, muscle flexibility, joint mobility, and the way that she moves.”
Debbie says: “James has helped me by giving a structured training plan. You have a plan for each day. It’s not just for running. It’s also for stretching. It’s an individual plan. It suits my particular lifestyle. It works around my life and hobbies too. With James's help and working for such a positive cause I am really driven to get to the finish line with a smile!”
Debbie is using her run to support Arthritis NZ. You can help by donating here.
To make sure you receive more inspiring stories like Debbie's click here.
Debbie is no stranger to training herself. She is a positive psychology coach and certified Feel the Fear trainer. It was this background that has helped drive her through the last few months.
“I figured it was time to practise what I preach! I have benefitted from the tools that I teach and plenty of inspiration from others. My Dad, who passed away five years ago, inspired me to stay strong and positive. He taught me we always have a choice about how we respond to things.”
James says: “Attitude is everything in a situation like this. I have had contact with Debbie right through the last few months, and as much as it has been a massively frustrating and life changing time, Debbie has continued to look for the opportunities and negotiate the hurdles as they have been put in front of her.”
As with every athlete he coaches, James is assisting Debbie to reach her current goals, while keeping in mind her long term fitness and health.
“I believe that it is absolutely possible for Debbie to be a lifelong runner. Her unique situation will absolutely present some challenges along the way. It is even more important for Debbie to be aware of, and strive to optimise, her strength, muscle flexibility, joint mobility, and the way that she moves.”
Debbie says: “James has helped me by giving a structured training plan. You have a plan for each day. It’s not just for running. It’s also for stretching. It’s an individual plan. It suits my particular lifestyle. It works around my life and hobbies too. With James's help and working for such a positive cause I am really driven to get to the finish line with a smile!”
Debbie is using her run to support Arthritis NZ. You can help by donating here.
To make sure you receive more inspiring stories like Debbie's click here.
