CF Can’t Stop Me from Living Boldly

I refused to let cystic fibrosis define my limits, using it instead as fuel to embrace life’s challenges and inspire others. Through endurance sports, public speaking, and coaching, I encourage people to pursue their dreams and live boldly. 

Nov. 13, 2024 | 4 min read
A headshot of Sophie Grace Holmes
Sophie Grace Holmes
Sophie with her arms raised up as she crosses the finish line of a marathon

Since 2013, I’ve had the privilege of being a fitness coach, nutrition coach, public speaker, influencer, and businesswoman. While my true passion lies in adventure — particularly physical challenges — I’m driven by a deeper purpose: to inspire and motivate others to become fitter, stronger, and more confident. Through personal training and public speaking, I aim to share my journey and encourage others to shift their mindset and seek out their unique path toward adventure and fulfillment.

At just 4 months old, I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a condition that has shaped my perspective on life in profound ways. From an early age, I was told I might not live to see my teens, let alone reach 30 and at 19 years old my prognosis was bleak with only a couple of years to live. Rather than accept those limitations, I used them as fuel to live life to the fullest. This experience has given me a unique outlook and cemented my belief that everyone can achieve something extraordinary, no matter their circumstances. All it takes is the courage to pursue your adventure and live life on your terms.

I’ve taken on a wide range of challenges since stepping into the world of endurance sports. I’ve competed in 100km ultra-marathons, earned third place in an 80-mile paddleboard race, and completed the grueling Land’s End to John o’ Groats (LEJOG) challenge. I’ve scaled Mont Blanc, Kilimanjaro, and Gran Paradiso, participated in 200-mile relays, and completed a self-supported Ultra Ironman. 

One of my proudest achievements is setting a world record by running 36 marathons in 36 days. And the adventure continues — as I write this, I’m preparing to take on the New York City Marathon.
 

Over the years I have managed CF during both times of being well, and hard times of being unwell or in the hospital, through the power of fitness and moving my body in ways I could, remaining in routine with my medications and everyday life, focusing on the things I can control, challenging myself, and having very supportive people around me to help me mentally and physically strong as I can. Building strength and resilience is something I truly believe in when faced with adversity. Knowing you can deal with hard things daily helps you overcome them when they come into your life. 

Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to be featured in magazines like, Hello!, Vogue, Women’s Health, Women’s Fitness, and even on the cover of Best Life magazine. I’ve also had the opportunity to teach and speak on stages ranging from London’s Olympic Park to BeFit and I have been working with online platforms since 2013.

Public speaking has allowed me to share my story with a wide audience. I’ve been honored to speak at events for global law firms, corporate organizations, schools, universities, and charities. Whether addressing an audience of 1,000 or appearing on podcasts, radio shows, or ITV’s This Morning, I always aim to leave people with a message of hope, resilience, and the belief that they, too, can achieve greatness.

My journey has shown me that life is an adventure waiting to be embraced. Whether through fitness, endurance, or personal growth, I hope to continue inspiring others to take on challenges, pursue their dreams, and live boldly on their own terms.

Interested in sharing your story? The CF Community Blog wants to hear from you.

This site contains general information about cystic fibrosis, as well as personal insight from the CF community. Opinions and experiences shared by members of our community, including but not limited to people with CF and their families, belong solely to the blog post author and do not represent those of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, unless explicitly stated. In addition, the site is not intended as a substitute for treatment advice from a medical professional. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment.

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A headshot of Sophie Grace Holmes

Sophie Grace Holmes was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 4 months old. Since 2013, she has defied expectations by thriving beyond her teens and becoming a fitness coach, nutrition coach, public speaker, and endurance athlete. Specializing in extreme physical challenges, Sophie has completed ultra marathons, paddleboard races, and set a world record for completing 36 marathons in 36 days. Her passion lies in inspiring others to pursue their own adventures, becoming fitter, stronger, and more confident through mindset shifts, personal training, and motivational speaking. Sophie has spoken at major events and appeared in leading publications like Vogue and Women’s Health. You can find Sophie on Instagram

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