Episode 14 - From Afghanistan to the Invictus Games

In this episode, Heidi and Scott speak with Dan Richards, an elite athlete and OU student who received a Disabled Veterans Scholarship with The Open University in 2023. After serving in The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, and later Afghanistan, Dan had a devastating motorbike accident which caused him to lose almost a quarter of his body. However, Dan refused to let ‘one bad day’ (his words) dictate the rest of his life. He soon began his progress back to recovery and to the military. After three more years, Dan was medically discharged, and after returning to live with his mum, a mixture of unemployment and depression caused him to question his future. However, a new job opportunity through Capstar Services and his relentless pursuit of his fitness goals (running, rowing and cycling), led him to the Invictus Games. He later joined The Open University in 2023 to study BSc (Hons) Sports, Fitness and Coaching. Dan’s story is one of perseverance, grit and determination, and one which we know will inspire so many. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @theonearmedwonder.

 

Please note, this episode details physical injury and includes two references to suicide.