Has the outdoors helped you during a difficult time in your life?

My guest in this episode is Frankie Butler.

Frankie used to be an England hockey player, but in 2019 she suffered a devastating injury during a match. It left her unable to walk and needing to use a wheelchair.

In this episode, Frankie speaks incredibly powerfully about how the outdoors helped her in her darkest times as she came to terms with the changes in her life.

She’s taken up trail wheeling all over the UK (think trail running but in a wheelchair) and she recently completed a half marathon!

Frankie’s new mission is to inspire other wheelchair users to get outside and explore nature. She also wants the outdoors community to help make the British countryside more accessible.

Frankie Butler’s story truly sums up the power of the outdoors – a place that can give hope and joy even amid the most difficult of circumstances.

I hope you enjoy this episode of The Outdoors Fix and don’t forget to listen out for Frankie’s tips and advice for those interested in trail wheeling, or just how we can bring a bit more nature into our lives!

Also don’t miss the birdsong at the end of this podcast episode for a short, calming escape from your busy day.

Liv x

If you are affected by any of the issues in the podcast episode, there are links to help and support below:

Samaritans

Mind

The Outdoors Fix is a podcast produced and hosted by Liv Bolton @liv_outsideuk

You can find photos of the guests on Instagram @TheOutdoorsFix

This episode of The Outdoors Fix was kindly supported by outdoor footwear brand Merrell.

Merrell is launching a year-long campaign called #StepFurther to encourage people from all walks of life to get outdoors on a micro-adventure to experience the benefits for both their physical and mental health.