Episode 24 was another brilliant episode, joined by the lovely Shona Fairbairn where we discussed different aspects of Mental Health and Well-Being. Shona was very open about her own personal battles and gave some really good tips on looking after your own mental health.

Who is Shona Fairbairn?

- Shona is a passionate Mental Health advocate

- Specialist Physiotherapist in Mental Health and Long-term Conditions

- Certified MHEC (Mental Health and Exercise Coach)

- Beginner Strongwoman

- Living with M.E. and Binge Eating Disorder

(Please remember we are not qualified medical practitioners therefore, if you have any concerns regarding your own mental/physical wellbeing it is important to liaise with your GP/Medical Practitioner)

In episode 23 it was class to be joined by Marty Rafo owner of M.D Music School, Armagh. "You'll Never Be Alone" reached No1 in the UK and Irish Rock charts. Marty has played many gigs, some alongside the likes of Feeder and Reef. He has also performed to US troops in Fort Bliss Texas. Currently holds residencies at some top venues in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Won Armagh's Inspirational Educator of the year and performs many a gig for charities and fundraiser events.

Joining me for episode 22 was the "legend" Johnny Simpson, from the bottom to the top. Johnny speaks about his passion for hiking, how an injury brought him to his knees but from there he looked up. Discussing the setbacks and impact on his mental well-being, being male and not supposed to talk about mental health, felt like giving up but instead completely turned his life around, creating new habits, building new goals and achieving his dreams. Another powerful episode with another gentleman.

Tune in, find us on Instagram under Higher_Self24

In episode 21 I was honoured to be joined by Stevey J who is an entrepreneur who set up 13 health clubs nationwide and in 2003 was awarded as International Franchisee out of 5000 businesses globally. Other amazing facts about Stevey J include:

- A results coach with extraordinary results

- A true passion for helping others to create lasting change in their personal and business lives.

- Director of IODP (International Orphanage Development Programme)

- First person in Ireland to run and Epic Journey of 100 Marathons in 100 days

- Ran the entire country of Ireland, setting a New World Record in the process of 60 Ultra Marathons in 60 day

- Happily Married to his wife Catherine with three children

What can I say about this lady, such an empowering, kind, caring and and wholesome individual. Shauneen joins me to discuss what it means to be a Holistic Healer in Reflexology, Reiki, Inner Child Healing and more. Shauneen chats about her adventure in Peru, opening her new wellness centre and just being an all round superstar.

Loving wife, mother and enthused about helping her clients reach new heights in their own health and well-being.

Listen in now and you can also find us on Instagram under Higher_Self24

In episode 19 I was once again privileged to be joined by another remarkable human being. Hall Patton who was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis last November speaks about how he got his diagnosis then not long after he was put onto oxygen. Hall jokes about his bad golf swing but indicates how he misses the craic with the lads. This episode is relatively short for someone listening to the audio however, for someone like Hall Patton unfortunately this conversation took a lifetime for him as he constantly was in need of Oxygen to help him speak. For me personally I am in awe of this gentleman as he navigates his way through life dealing with significant changes to his lifestyle yet still wants to come on and do his bit in regard to creating awareness for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Please share this audio far and wide and give this gentleman the awareness he deserves

Hall from the bottom of my heart thank you for joining me and for having such an impact, I wish you the best with your health 

On Episode 18 I had one of the most overwhelming opportunities to speak with Clifford Duncan. Clifford was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis back 7 years ago and was given a diagnosis of 2-4 years left of life. Currently into his 7th year and now on oxygen 24/7 this remarkable human being pulled at the heart strings with his charismatic personality. Despite struggling throughout the episode to breathe Clifford powered on through because of his willingness to help other people which is just incredible. A devoted family man who used to love a bit of Drama Club and Volunteered for the Samaritans. 

Clifford speaks about the stigma around a condition like this and how people's perceptions change if they notice someone in a shop struggling. No time to be kind like the time we have

Clifford thank you for being a true role model and wishing you the very best health 

This video is an incredible highlight of the incredible people who are involved with the Northern Trust Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group. From those that suffer with the illness to all the amazing people fundraising and trying to create awareness. 

Huge Credit once again goes out to Tom McMilan for all his dedicated efforts and providing me with the photography to make this beautiful video a reality

Huge Credit to James McGrath for his incredibly beautiful, heartfelt song that he kindly provided for this video. 

On Episode 16 I had the privilege to be joined by Tom McMilan who is Chairman of The Northern Trust Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group (NTPFSG). Tom provides an insight into what Pulmonary Fibrosis is, how it affects an individual diagnosed and their wider family circle. Pulmonary Fibrosis is a form of scarring on the lungs that affects a persons breathing over time and can therefore be detrimental to a person's lifestyle. Tom speaks about Pulmonary Fibrosis from personal experience having lost a few family members whilst also supporting his lovely wife who currently lives with this condition. Tom also speaks from a Chairman perspective and what it is like supporting people across Northern Ireland with this condition.