Just over 3 years ago, Salman Abedi detonated a home made shrapnel bomb in the Manchester Arena in the deadliest attack since the 2005 London bombings. Martin Hibbert and his daughter were standing 10 metres away from the explosion when this happened. 

I am truly honoured to welcome Martin to the podcast today. I thank my mum for putting us in touch and I am thankful for Martin being so welcoming in speaking to me and being so open and honest about his experiences. 

Having only spoken a handful of times, I  am already in awe of what Martin has achieved and done since the incident. Martin has not only defied all the odds and learned to stand unassisted, with the help of Ken Ware at Neurophysics, but also raised over a million pounds to help those also recovering from spinal injuries. You can read more about Martin on the Spinal Injury Association page here: https://www.spinal.co.uk/martins-story/

We discussed Martins journey from the hours leading up to the explosion, the immediate aftermath and the ups and downs of his journey since then in a journey that has been both psychological and physical in achieving what some people told him was impossible.  We also touched on some of the unexpected friendships Martin has developed through all of this too. 

His attitude towards life is infectious, as is his determination in overcoming obstacles. The thing that struck me most while we spoke was how Martin applies himself to each situation he is in, focusing on the task at hand, finding a way and trying to find the positive side of things. 

I am certain this won't be the only time I speak with Martin on the podcast, although I've already said next time we do this it will have to be over tea and cake instead of zoom once we are on the other end of the Coronavirus Pandemic! 

I am truly grateful to be able to welcome Martin on to JACKed Radio. Please enjoy, follow and share this truly inspirational mans story around with those around you. 

You can find Martin on Twitter at: @MartinHibbert and on Instagram at: mr_martin_hibbert