In this episode of Living Well with MS, we meet adaptive world champion athlete Francis Loye, a Northern Ireland-based father of three who lives with MS.  

Francis was diagnosed in 2021 after experiencing symptoms on a cycling holiday. Since then, he has transformed his life: following the Overcoming MS program, connecting deeply with community, and competing at the very highest level in hybrid and adaptive sport. From the Hyrox World Championships to the gruelling Mallorca 312 endurance race, Francis has shown what’s possible when determination meets lifestyle-led wellness.  

This conversation is full of honesty and inspiration – whether you’re newly diagnosed, returning to exercise, or curious about what adaptive sport looks like in practice.  

Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps. 

Topics and timestamps

00:43 Francis’s MS journey: diagnosis, fear, acceptance and choosing empowerment 

04:17 Discovering Overcoming MS: a lifeline of hope 

06:23 Discovering the power of community 

07:59 Adapting lifestyle: challenges and triumphs 

11:04 Family health: balancing MS and parenting 

13:40 The Retreat experience: vulnerability and connection 

16:32 Understanding hybrid and adaptive athletics 

20:01 Training regimen: balancing endurance and strength 

25:29 Winning the Hyrox World Championships 

29:19 Diet and nutrition: balancing performance and health 

31:38 Advice for the newly diagnosed: finding peace and community 

More info and links

• Connect with Francis on Instagram 
• Francis was on the Overcoming MS Webinar Physical Activity and MS 
• Learn more about Joe Dispenza’s work 
• Check out the Hyrox adaptive divisions 
• New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS – begin your journey at our ‘Get started’ page
• Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub
• Visit the Overcoming MS website

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