James Taylor

James Taylor was just 19 when he became the youngest professional cricket player to score 1000 championship runs in a season. He went on to make the move to Nottingham where he became captain, and by the age of 21, had made his debut for England. He represented his country over 30 times, but then in 2016, whilst warming up for a pre-season game against Cambridge University, James's life was interrupted in the most unexpected yet brutal of ways, as he collapsed and was left fighting for his life. A previously undetected heart condition led to the life changing news that if he ever played cricket, or exercised again, he could die. His bright cricketing career was extinguished in a moment. James's story is one that needs to be heard. It's the story of how you deal with having your dreams snatched away. It's the story of how he is faced a battle to rebuild his life. A battle more intense than anything he ever faced on the pitch. But it's also the life affirming tale of a man who has emerged from some really dark days with courage, humor, and enormous hope for the future. If you have been through life events similar to those described in this episode and you need someone to talk to, please contact The Samaritans, on 116 123 And if you'd like to share your thoughts with Simon, he'd love to hear from you: Twitter @SimonThomasSky