David Smith: Battling Adversity and Thriving Against All Odds
And that's the person when you look in the mirror and say: ok, that's the person that needs work, that's the person that wants to show up with compassion, with gratitude and all of these great guiding principles to the world.
What does it take to push through life's toughest challenges and come out stronger? David Smith, a Nike Athlete, Speaker, Writer, and Coach, knows this journey all too well. Born with a club foot, David faced numerous surgeries from a young age. But his trials didn't stop there. In 2010, a cervical tumor led to an emergency surgery that temporarily paralyzed him and required the removal of three vertebrae and a complete spinal rebuild.
Despite these daunting obstacles, David didn't just survive—he thrived. Competing internationally in sports like GB Rowing and British Cycling, he has shown remarkable resilience and determination. In this episode of 'OvercomeOutloud', David opens up about his experiences with multiple cancer recurrences, life-saving surgeries, and the grueling path of rehabilitation therapy. He dives into the mindset that keeps him going—the athlete's mindset, conscious competency, and the importance of living a principled life.
David also emphasizes the transformative power of compassion and gratitude, urging listeners to be fully present in their daily lives. His story is a powerful reminder of human resilience and the courage it takes to keep moving forward. If you're looking for a dose of inspiration and practical wisdom on facing adversity head-on, this episode is a must-listen.