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In this episode, we are honoured to host David 'Haggis' McCormack, a resilient individual whose life journey from the depths of despair to empowerment is truly inspiring. Born and raised in Glasgow, David faced numerous challenges growing up in care and struggling with addiction. Seeking a fresh start, he moved to Liverpool to embark on a college course and build a new life. However, fate took an unexpected turn when the global pandemic struck, plunging the world into lockdown. David found himself battling both physical and mental health issues, reaching his heaviest weight of 22 stone 10lbs. Despite attempts with Slimming World, he continued to grapple with his well-being. Living in supported housing during the initial lockdown, David's struggles intensified. The turning point came when, in the midst of a mental health crisis, he attempted to end his life. It was the people of Liverpool who intervened and prevented the tragedy from unfolding. Through the support of former featherweight boxing world champion Derry Mathews' gym in Liverpool, he found a lifeline. Two daily workouts, dietary changes, and a determined spirit led to a remarkable transformation, shedding over six stone and bringing his weight down to 16 stone 7lbs.

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The James Greenop Foundation
On the 22nd October 2013 we lost our son James in a tragic road traffic accident at the tender age of 10. It was decided very early that rather than people sending flowers we wanted them to donate to a cause that was close to our hearts and in turn at least something positive may come out of such a tragic accident. Once this was decided there followed a spontaneous collective outpouring of kindness and generosity in which people from all over the world sent in donations and in just over 3 weeks we raised £11,000 for the Wirral Autistic Society. Now the Rainbow Resource Centre has a room dedicated to our boy called James’ Den. This is a family sensory room which people and families with autism are able to access as part of the already amazing support that is given by Wirral Autistic Society and Autism Together. This is one of the many projects that we continue to support and hope that by establishing our Foundation we hope to continue helping others in a spirit befitting the memory of James. Despite his brief time with us, James’ small feet have left a deep impression and everyone who knew him testifies to the joy, laughter, and love he radiated. James was above all generous and caring. By giving to others, just as he always did, the Foundation will ensure that James will have as much impact in death as he did in life. 

Thank you for your support James’ family and friends.

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Jacquie is a formidable force for change!

In the depths of her pain during her adolescence, Jacquie committed to seeing the world through the eyes of fairness, justice and transformation. It wasn’t until she discovered an organisation called Clearmind International, and helped bring it to the UK, that Jacquie was able to bring her passion for change fully into life.

Jacquie is known for a series of UK firsts;

• Creating the UKs first multicultural and combined HIV Treatment, Prevention and Support Centre
• Creating the UKs first static permanent dry bar, The Brink
• Creating the UKs first recovery march
• Developing and creating the clinical programme and governance for the UKs first military specific addiction treatment centre
• Creating the UK’s first ever recovery choir.

Jacquie has won many national and international awards and has received British Empire Medal from Queen Elizabeth II in 2016.
All the organisations that Jacquie has managed throughout her career have also gone on to win highly prestigious awards and honours for their standards and rigorous commitment to high quality service delivery .

Today Jacquie is head of service for Damien John Kelly House a recovery living centre for 17 men recovering from drug and alcohol issues. She has also recently gone freelance to provide private therapy, organisational support and supervision, workshops & personal development and celebrancy at funerals, weddings and baby namings. And even nearly 20 years on from bringing Clearmind to the UK, Jacquie still acts as an ambassador for its courses and workshops.

Her background is social work, therapy and leadership & management, through qualifications, trainings and lived experiences with John Moores University, Clearmind International, Northern Lights Trust, One True North, Manchester Institute for Psychotherapy and AEDP International.

Jacquie has a huge story and part of her continued successes in transforming lives and communities is that she weaves her own story into the healing of others.

No wonder “formidable force” is how she is described and why she has called her latest project just that. Her FORMIDABLE FORCE website will be launched in Spring this year.

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This weeks podcast is the first half of our mini series named 'Meet the Hosts', starting with our very own Mike Bateson. 

Joining the Army at a tender age of 16, Michael quickly distinguished himself, becoming the youngest soldier in the NATO liberation of Kosovo in 1999, steering the mighty Challenger 1 battle tank. From military distinction, he transitioned to academia, securing a BA (Hons) & MA in Photography, and later explored construction, with travel adventures dotting his journey. Life seemed mapped out until addiction's sinister grip upended everything. Homelessness and despair led him to the UK's sole rehabilitation centre for veterans in addiction. There, amid the darkest hours, hope rekindled. Today, reunited with his loving wife and two children, Michael's sobriety is anchored in a profound revelation: true freedom lies in authenticity. Embracing this newfound wisdom and immense gratitude, he is committed to giving back, honouring the universe that offered redemption.🙏

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In this gripping episode of our podcast, we sit down with the inspirational Sarah, who bravely opens up about her transformative journey. Growing up, Sarah experienced a seemingly idyllic childhood, filled with warmth and positivity. However, her life took a drastic turn when she found herself in an abusive relationship. This harrowing experience, while deeply challenging, played a pivotal role in shaping Sarah into the resilient and empowered individual she is today. As she recounts her story, Sarah sheds light on the nuances of her experiences, the lessons learned, and the strength she discovered within herself. Her candid discussion offers a profound insight into the complexities of personal growth and the power of overcoming adversity. Join us as Sarah shares her compelling story, providing hope, encouragement, and a powerful message of resilience to all who listen.

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The speaker, who was raised to suppress their emotions, had been struggling with PTSD and suicidal thoughts due to the loss of their daughter in 1990 and their brother in 2009. They had isolated themselves and were researching suicide methods. However, their life changed when they were referred to James' Place. The welcoming and non-clinical environment of James' Place made them feel safe and comfortable enough to open up about their problems. Through therapy, they were able to regain their self-esteem and control over their thoughts. They also received a safety plan and were directed to other helpful services. The speaker credits James' Place for their improved outlook on life, and they are now looking forward to their first holiday abroad at the age of 61.

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Welcome to the inaugural episode of "From Struggle 2 Strength," a podcast where resilience is not just a word, but a journey. In this opening episode, your hosts Dave Curtis and Mike Bateson, with Techy Reece, lay the foundation for a series dedicated to exploring the incredible stories of individuals who have turned their struggles into strengths.

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