FOR THOSE of us who get caught up with the struggles of day-to-day life or worry about things that might never happen, step back and read about the remarkable journey Colin Hackett is currently on.

Colin just won’t give up. The high school teacher from Edmonton, Ab Canada was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at the age of 33 but despite ongoing bi-weekly chemotherapy he continues to train for Ironman races.

We were honoured to talk to Colin who spoke about his passion for life, determination to beat cancer and the inspiration he draws from his four young kids and wife.

Could you tell us about your life before your diagnosis and what sports were you involved in?

Before diagnosis I was actively participating in Ironman triathlons. I had completed seven and was only ten days away from my eighth when I went into the hospital.

When you got your diagnosis what were your first thoughts and where did the motivation to fight on and keep pushing your body to the limit come from?

Honestly, I may have been in denial but my first thoughts were, “When do I start treatment? I need to beat this”.

My motivation just came from loving life. My four kids and wife and just doing cool things are what keep me going. I’ve had bad days and times when I’m really down, but overall I just focus on the positive and try to enjoy life.

Colin is constantly motivated by his four children pictured above.

What have you achieved in sport since and could you tell us about your plans for the Ironman Coeur d’Alene, Ironman Muskoka and Ironman Arizona this year?

I’ve continued to train but my biggest achievement was completing the Alcatraz swim crossing in February, about three months after surgery. I’d done it before but there was a great deal of symbolism this time. Escaping the mental prison that cancer can become.

In April I also completed the West Maui Loop which is an approximately 100km ride around the west side of Maui Island, Hawaii.

As for Ironman, I don’t expect to set any records. I’ve noticed some reduced lung capacity and some days I just can’t train due to the chemotherapy, but I will race my hardest and enjoy the day while I’m out there.

You’re training while having some serious treatment for the cancer. How do you keep going and who are the people around you who support what you are doing and give you the inspiration to succeed in these challenges?

Some days are definitely tougher than others but the number one thing that keeps me going is Kona. The Ironman World Championships have a special programme where you can qualify one time by finishing 12 races and that’s been my plan for a while.

Could you tell us about Ride to Conquer Cancer and how can people donate?

The Ride to Conquer Cancer is a two-day 200km ride in the Canadian Rockies and is a chance for survivors and supporters to stand up to cancer and show that we keep living on. You can donate here.

What words of encouragement would you give to people who have found themselves in a similar position to yourself but are struggling to come to terms with the situations they are in?

Things have come so far; if you choose the right mindset cancer is just a part of your life rather than who you are.

Constantly worrying does no good and even if things don’t work out in the end, do you want to have spent whatever time you do have worrying?

Nothing in this life is guaranteed so live your life, do cool things and love your family.