For Kevin, cystic fibrosis (CF) has never been a reason to slow down. Diagnosed with CF at birth, he’s faced the challenges of living with CF with an inspiring attitude, pushing himself to excel in physical challenges that many might find daunting. Kevin’s story is one of resilience, determination, and finding motivation in the most unexpected of places—his own health.
For anyone looking for motivation, Kevin’s story proves that with grit, a good goal, and a strong support system, anything is possible. Whether it’s running a marathon or just taking that first step out the door, it’s about showing up, one challenge at a time.
A Childhood with CF: Finding Balance
“From birth, yeah,” Kevin says, recalling his CF diagnosis. Despite the challenges it posed, Kevin’s childhood was relatively healthy, and he tried not to let CF dictate his life. “I think I was pretty well, really. I just tried not to let it ruin my life.”
Like many kids with CF, exercise was encouraged as a way to improve lung function and overall health. However, Kevin admits that he wasn’t naturally athletic. “I’m probably not the most natural sporty person. It doesn’t come easily to me.”
But he’s quick to add that the motivation for staying active came not from a love of sport, but from the drive to stay healthy and improve his quality of life. “CF is probably the motivating factor for me to train,” he explains. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t do anything. If there’s a big goal on the horizon, it gets me to do it.”
The London Classics: A Unique Test of Endurance
In recent years, Kevin has taken on some serious physical challenges, one of the most notable being the London Classics. This three-part challenge includes completing the London Marathon, the 100-mile Ride London cycling event, and a two-mile swim in Hyde Park's Serpentine.
“The first event I did was the marathon,” Kevin recalls. “I’ve always wanted to do it, actually.” Despite running being one of his favourite aspects of the challenge, he describes how the gradual build-up of fitness from all the training was perhaps the most significant part of the journey. “Training was hard and long. But when you stop, you realize just how fit you were. You don't notice it while you're doing it because it’s so gradual.”
Endorphins and Fitness: How Exercise Helps Kevin Feel Better
For Kevin, the benefits of exercise go beyond the physical. "It's like the happy drug," he says, referring to the endorphins released during exercise. “The challenge of going for a run or the feeling of accomplishment after a workout is what helps me feel better.” That “happy drug” feeling is something he’s come to rely on, especially in the tough moments of training and beyond.
This mental boost is crucial for anyone with CF, as the condition can impact both physical and mental well-being. "It’s not just about getting fit—it's about mental health too. Training and staying active gives me that sense of control over my body, and it helps me cope better with everything."
Tackling the Swim; Learning to breathe
When Kevin took on the London Classics challenge, the swim component was the one he dreaded most. Despite swimming being a part of his early CF treatment, he found open-water swimming in the Serpentine intimidating. “I hate swimming,” he admits. “But the only reason I did the swim was because if you complete all three events, you get a bigger medal.”
His training wasn’t easy. “I could barely swim 10 meters without running out of breath,” Kevin recalls. But he didn’t give up. “I had some swimming lessons, and the instructor immediately pointed out that I wasn’t breathing properly. I was holding my breath for too long, and she showed me the right way to breathe.”
The breakthrough moment came when Kevin realized that swimming, like running, is about endurance. “It’s not about speed, it’s about pacing and breathing. Once I figured that out, I could swim longer distances without exhausting myself.”
The lesson he learned from swimming—proper breathing and pacing—is one he now applies to other aspects of life, including managing CF. “That training definitely helped with my breathing,” Kevin says. “It made me realize how important it is to breathe properly, which is key for anyone with CF.”
Overcoming Barriers: Kevin's Message to Others
Kevin's achievements are remarkable, not just because of the physical feats involved but because they challenge the stereotypes of what people with CF can accomplish. “I suppose it's about showing that anything is possible,” he says, emphasizing the importance of not giving up. “The first win is getting to the start line. Then it’s just about taking it one step at a time.”
His advice to anyone facing a challenge—whether related to CF or another obstacle—is simple: "It’s your own race. Whatever your challenge is, take it at your own pace, and don’t compare yourself to others."
Kevin also underscores the value of small wins, whether they are running your first 5K or simply getting out the door for a walk. “Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting started. But once you do, it becomes easier, and you realize the reward isn’t just the finish line. It’s how you feel along the way.”
Staying Motivated: The Power of Goals and Support
For Kevin, staying motivated to exercise isn’t about personal competition or winning—it’s about setting goals. “Without a goal, I wouldn’t bother,” he admits. “That’s why I love challenges. It gives me something to work towards.”
He also emphasizes the importance of accountability. “Running with someone or training with others really helps. You don’t want to let people down.” During his marathon training, Kevin teamed up with a friend who didn’t initially have a spot in the race but trained alongside him in hopes of securing a last-minute charity place. “Training together was really motivating, because we’d push each other.”
The Future: What’s Next for Kevin?
Looking ahead, Kevin’s next challenge may involve cycling from London to Paris or even canoeing along the Grand Union Canal. “I’m looking for something that’s less hard on the joints as I get older,” he says with a smile. “But whatever it is, I want it to be a challenge, and I want to enjoy the experience.”
But it’s not just about the physical feats. “It’s also about taking the time to appreciate the journey,” Kevin reflects. “When you’re doing these events, you have to remember to enjoy the scenery around you. It’s not just about finishing—it’s about appreciating what’s going on around you"