Extracts from Stronger Every Mile
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Identity Crisis
I started feeling like I was the only one who didn’t get to do what I wanted. I thought about everyone else and made sure they were happy, but no one thought about me. I was ‘Mum,’ not ‘Libby,’ and I wasn’t sure that I even wanted to be that anymore because at this moment in time, it wasn’t making me happy.
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Midlife Crisis
The words ‘midlife crisis’ convey drama. I thought it only happened to men when they decided to buy a sports car and ditch their marriage to go off with their 20-year-old secretary.
I now know that a midlife crisis is not just a cliché and that it also affects women, but for a very different reason!
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Empty Nest Syndrome
The thought of an ‘empty nest’ filled me with alarm, having dedicated years to raising my three kids. Caitlin was maturing and becoming increasingly independent. I missed her company and our ‘girly’ conversations. I felt pride in her achievements but mingled with moments of isolation and melancholy.
Extracts from Stronger Every Mile
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The Hours of Training Required
A Half Ironman requires a huge time commitment. Training for one is an achievement in itself. As I worked through my training plan, I became aware of the importance of consistency and dedication.
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The Swimming Pool
I swam like I was a Sunday driver. I swam because it got me out of bed. I could do it early while everyone was still asleep—a good way of getting extra hours into my day. I could do it while I was still half asleep and semiconscious.
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Half Ironman Start Line
At 6:30 a.m., we walked down to the start to drop our bags in the drop off zone and then stood on the edge of Lake Taupo. The supporters were gathered on the high banks, looking down onto the beach.
Extracts from Stronger Every Mile
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Climbing Pen y Fan
There was a buzz in the air as we slowly hiked up Pen y Fan, the tallest peak in the Brecon Beacons. It was steep and we were exhausted. It was cold and windy, and I felt alive. This was going to be our coping mechanism—our therapy.
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My Sisters Art Studio - A Peaceful Haven
Even when it felt like the whole world was against me, I was fortunate enough to have my mum around to support me. We chatted, laughed and went out for breakfast. We also went to watch uplifting films at the cinema. She was my closest ally and enabled me to feel human again.