Apart from being inspired by many of the people in BB, my vote goes to a gent by the name of Michael Milton (It's worth looking up his story).
Michael was Australia's first winter Olympics gold medallist (not Steven Bradbury as everyone thinks). He is also an amputee. That's not why I nominated him however.
I met Michael's mum many years ago after a family tragedy. I didn't know her story at the time either, but she exuded so much positive energy, I gravitated to her warmth. She would often speak about how proud she was of her son and his achievements. I later saw him interviewed during the City to Surf...running it on crutches.
She would regularly update me on his latest exploits, as he shared similar interests to my own. A few years later I was training for a charity cycling event, and got a call from him out of the blue. He was apparently the ambassador of that year's event, and would I like to go on a training ride with him? Full of trepidation, I arranged to meet him, and was overcome by his generosity of spirit, and sheer determination. Thanks to Michael, I completed the event a few months later, never understanding the talent of the man who had given of himself so freely to me.
Last month was the 25th anniversary of that gold medal, and there was a bit of publicity around the man Michael is. My jaw dropped. I had no idea of the things this unassuming man had achieved, this man that gave so selflessly of his time and energy. He is a public speaker (if you ever need one I can thoroughly recommend him!), a campaigner, and an all-round good guy. I feel privileged not only to have met him, but also to have bathed in his warmth.
He is currently training for an endurance event, and I am in awe of his dedication and determination. Read his story - it's worth it!
