From nearly dying to running marathons and representing Australia as a para-athlete — this is one of the most inspiring comeback stories you’ll ever hear.
In this powerful episode, we welcome Kerryn Harvey — Australian para-athlete, personal trainer, motivational speaker, and soon-to-be author. After a routine cycling accident in 2013 led to a battle with necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria), Kerryn woke up having lost her entire right arm and shoulder. Doctors gave her just a 5% chance of survival.
She not only survived — she thrived.
Kerryn shares her raw, honest journey of resilience, rehabilitation, returning to sport, and how she turned adversity into a mission to help others.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How fitness saved her life — and how it became her greatest tool for recovery
The mental shift from “Why me?” to “What’s next?”
What it’s really like competing as a para-triathlete on the international stage
Completing Ironmans and running multiple marathons (including her 12 marathons in 12 months challenge)
The power of gratitude, community, and never giving up
Lessons on building mental toughness that apply to everyone
Whether you’re facing your own challenges or simply want to feel inspired and motivated, Kerryn’s story will remind you of the incredible strength we all carry within.
Guest Bio
Kerryn Harvey is a Melbourne-based para-athlete, founder of Nine Lives Training, and a passionate advocate for amputees. She competed for Australia in para-triathlon and continues to push her limits as a runner, swimmer, and cyclist. Her highly anticipated memoir, Mostly Ups: How I Survived a Flesh-Eating Bacteria, is released in August 2026.
Links
Call to Action
If Kerryn’s story moved you, please support her by pre-ordering her memoir Mostly Ups. This book is raw, powerful, and packed with inspiration — perfect for anyone who needs a reminder that setbacks can become your greatest comebacks.
Grab your copy here when it launches in August → Visit kerrynharvey.com/memoir to stay updated and pre-order.
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps us bring more incredible guests like Kerryn to the show!
Share this episode with someone who needs a dose of resilience today.
#RunningOnResilience #MostlyUps #NeverGiveUp
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