There are many men that I admire and have admired in my life. Some on a daily basis and some that I think of on occasion, when our paths in life have crossed.

There are the friends, family and clients admired for their perfect imperfections. The professional therapists that have supported me through some of the toughest circumstances of my life. There is Mr Hurlow, my retired breast cancer surgeon. Who might just actually have saved my life. And Tony Edwards, the original local complementary health therapist, that encouraged and supported me early in my career. And who in his 80’s, continues to help people with their poor health.

I can’t not mention Wilf Proudfoot, my first hypnotherapy trainer, who 32 years ago, was as wise as a 120 year old. He knew all the old greats in that sphere and I have only come to appreciate his knowledge, years after my original study.

I would not be the practioner, woman and human being I am today without these men.

But, there IS a difference to me, between someone I admire and an actual hero.

The Oxford English Dictionary definition of a hero, is “a person who is admired by many for doing something brave or good” Or who is in some contexts, “seen as an ideal. Frequently defined by acts of courage in the face of danger, or noble acts”.

So given that definition, who are the men that truly are my heroes?

For a start, there is my Dad. He’s going to be 80 next month and he’s threatening to FINALLY retire.

My Dad

For too many reasons to mention here, he is a unique human being, my inspiration and one of the loves of my life. He is my best hero.

Then there is my eldest client, soon to be 92 and living a fully participating, independent life. He’s been with me my whole career and has taught me so much about fulfilment of life. I have looked at his life and taken so much learning from how he has done things. And I try to implement that into my life.

The ex boyfriend in the USA, who before and since our relationship, is my hero in the world of complementary and alternative health and medicine. Being on a training course led to a chance meeting. I couldn’t actually believe it. He remains one of the most respected and knowledgeable journalists in my professional arena and continues to speak up and shine the light on all aspects of nutrition and health.

And that relationship, took me to NY City, where I was witness to an interview with a man, whom at that point, I didn’t realise was a hero. He was the most jaw dropping medical Doctor of this century; Dr Nicolas Gonzalez. This M.D, before his untimely death, had patients with pancreatic cancer, still alive 20 years post diagnosis. Just AMAZING. What a man!

Dr Nicolas Gonzalez

Tony Robbins, has, at times, been described as “the world’s greatest life coach”. And he has to hold a place in my heart. As a shining star over decades in my field of coaching, he has through his work, changed thousands of people’s lives for the better. He has also been a hugely positive inspiration for those who like himself, had a terrible childhood, but have turned their lives around for the better.

Tony Robbins

The list could go on…….

These men have NO idea of the positive imprints they have left upon me and my life. I’ve done my best to tell those I could, but they struggle to accept the glory. They are too humble to wear my badge of hero.

I have learnt and continue to learn from these remarkable men. And I am grateful for how they touch my life. I know I’m a better person because of them.

Please let this blog inspire you to consider the male heroes in your own life. And recognise how your life is ‘better’ because of them. Acknowledgement, gratitude and appreciation of greatness will serve you many benefits.

Next blog – Heroes – Part 2 – Females