Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Overcoming Obstacles: The Craig Gives Back Tour

This is a sponsored post written by myself, Melissa. All opinions are 100% mine.

Most of us can’t even begin to imagine what it must be like to lose our sense of sight but just imagine losing it years after birth. Sight is usually something most of us take for granted as a natural thing. I find it incredibly inspiring when a person takes a struggle like this and turns it into something positive; something motivating for others to push them to overcome their own personal obstacles.

On August 4, 2013 Craig Aucoin of Pictou, Nova Scotia, Canada embarked on an 85 day journey to cycle from St. John’s Newfoundland to Victoria, British Columbia on a tandem recumbent bicycle with his trainer Llyod McLean. This is an 8,200 km journey where Craig hopes to inspire others to live life to the fullest and lead, healthy, active lifestyles.

 


Craig was born with a disease known as retinitis pigmentosa but was not declared legally blind until the age of 15. He went through bouts of depression, shut people out and due to having to give up many of the activities he loved, weighed 240lbs. Craig has since worked to turn his life around with the help of 3 major charities; The CNIB, Canadian Guide Dogs for the blind and YMCAs in Canada. The ‘Craig Gives Back Tour’ will raise funds and awareness for these organizations.

See more of Craig’s compelling story here:

I decided to share Craig’s story firstly because I believe in it. I believe with all my being in living life to the fullest and in making it the best possible. I am also a firm believer, as everyone is aware, in leading a healthy, active lifestyle. One of my biggest goals, like Craig, is to inspire and motivate others to do the same.




Secondly, Craig’s story touched me personally. Recently, I have talked about my own struggles with metabolic damage and I too wish to inspire others to never give up on their dreams and to face adversity head on. Craig has encouraged me, with his story, to continue to push through my own struggles and to share my story in the hope of helping others. People should not let physical limitations place restrictions on what they wish to achieve; your mind is a very powerful motivator. Craig’s story and others like him are a true testament to that.


Everything happens for a reason and we can either choose to be happy and positive while making the best out of our own personal challenges or not. However, isn’t it a much better way to live when we are truly happy and helping others in the process?

Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it.
~Michael Jordan
Follow Craig on his journey and find the encouragement you need in what he has set out to do. Keep in mind that we as individuals are capable of anything we set our minds to. Never give up on your dreams, stay positive and be happy; you never know who your own story is motivating.

Until next time,

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