Running Sober: Kelly Cooney's Iron Man Journey
Episode Overview
Running helps Kelly maintain sobriety and mental health. Community support is crucial in overcoming challenges. Team OTI is raising funds for Alcohol Change UK. It's okay to ask for help when facing big challenges. Balancing training with sobriety requires prioritisation.
"I signed up to do an Iron Man... but life just got busy."
In this heartening episode of Over The Influence, the spotlight shines on Kelly Cooney, a key figure in the OTI community, as she prepares for a monumental challenge – the Northumbrian Iron Man. Kelly's journey is not just about physical endurance; it's a testament to the power of community and the strength found in sobriety.
Having been part of OTI for ages, Kelly shares her story of how running has become a cornerstone of her alcohol-free life, helping her maintain mental well-being and stay on track with her sobriety goals. Kelly's candid reflections offer a window into the ups and downs of preparing for such an event. Originally intending to tackle the Iron Man solo, she soon realised the importance of asking for help and the value of teamwork.
Enter Neil and Ian, fellow OTI members, who joined forces to form Team OTI. Together, they aim to raise funds for Alcohol Change UK, a charity close to Kelly's heart for its educational initiatives and support services. Throughout the episode, Kelly discusses the challenges of balancing training with maintaining sobriety, emphasising the importance of community support. Her story is peppered with humour and humility, as she recounts her less-than-graceful attempts at swimming and cycling.
Yet, it's her commitment to staying sober and helping others that truly resonates. The hosts, Sharon Hartley and Ben Anderson, bring their usual charm and wit, making the conversation both engaging and inspiring. Whether you're a marathon runner or someone just starting their alcohol-free journey, Kelly's story is a reminder that it's okay to ask for help and that being part of a supportive community can make all the difference.
So, why not dive into this episode and find out how Kelly's story might inspire your own journey?