I’m John. I’ve lived with ulcerative colitis since I was 15, it quietly steered my life off the course I’d planned and has been tugging at the anchor chain ever since.
That course was the Royal Navy and a future at sea. Instead, for decades, it was hospital visits, meds, side-effects, and watching the horizon I wanted slip further away.
Until I saw a teenager in a clinic waiting room probably about to get the same news I once did. I stayed quiet when I could have offered a simple “You’ll be alright, mate.” Just silence from a bloke who knew exactly how that fear tastes.
That regret? It lit the fuse.
I decided to change tack.
Sailing in Hope is the new heading: one bloke, one boat, one non-stop lap of the world, ulcerative colitis included. A childhood dream finally getting its turn at the helm.
If chronic illness has ever made your own dreams feel out of reach, you’re not alone. Come aboard, swap stories, and let’s show each other what’s still possible.
But before I can set sail I have some challenges to overcome, join me:
Navigating Life’s Waves — Because It’s Not Always Plain Sailing.
My mission is to re-ignite my childhood dream—taken from me by ulcerative colitis—and turn it into reality by sailing solo, non-stop around the world.
To Inspire Resilience:
I hope to show that, no matter the challenges of living with a chronic illness, it’s possible to pursue dreams and live a fulfilling life.
To Empower Others:
I hope to encourage people to take the helm of their own stories, becoming the leaders of their journey and embracing their inner strength.
To Build a Community:
I hope to connect individuals, families, and professionals who understand the challenges of chronic illness, fostering mutual support and understanding.
To Raise Awareness:
I hope to shed light on the realities of chronic illnesses, breaking down stigmas and starting meaningful conversations.
To Inspire Hope:
Above all, I hope to show that hope is always within reach, and even the stormiest seas can lead to calmer waters.
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Navigating Life's Waves—Because It's Not Always Plain Sailing
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