When he was 20 Dean was asked to carry the Olympic torch during the Sydney Olympic Games. At the time he was wheelchair bound.
Determined to walk with the torch, he used his arms to hold himself above a treadmill and forced his legs to move with the machine – until his legs could support his own body weight to begin to walk again.
He walked with a stick and the torch.
With the support and help from Former Brisbane Bronco and New Zealand All Black Brad Thorn (a close friend) he began weightlifting in 2005.
This took him from being sickly and weak to a place where he can now lift 135kgs (297 lbs) or well over double his body weight which is an amazing feat and even more amazing when you factor in the fragile nature of Dean’s skin. This has allowed him to live a more ‘normal’ life!
Dean continues to train and work out at home under Brad’s guidance. He also trains at the Brisbane Broncos Rugby League Football club (he is their official ambassador) under the guidance of Dan Baker and the entire Broncos coaching staff and team. As it requires careful management and tremendous effort to maintain his health.
Dean uses his stories and experiences to show others how to achieve more than they believed possible; to aim higher; to support each other and create a strong team.
This is an inspirational session for both individuals and teams who need to connect and collaborate for improved performance.
