Faith Fordham to Compete for UK in Invictus Games 2017

Faith Fordham is currently studying PGCE Chemistry at Pembroke College and we are delighted to report that she has been selected to represent the UK in the Invictus Games this autumn. In the games she will be competing in rowing, powerlifting and athletics. London hosted the inaugural Invictus Games in 2014, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service personnel. This year the Games will take place in Toronto.

Faith shared her personal story with us:

‘I was injured in Afghanistan on the 27thNovember 2008. I sustained minor physical injuries and have also been suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. For eight years my life was clouded by my psychological problems. I went through periods of being unable to leave my house, struggled with alcohol and even attempted to take my own life. But through the help of sport I have been able to find myself again. With the Invictus Games I have found a place where I belong again and something to live for.’

She has been rowing in Pembroke College Boat Club since October, and commented that ‘Everyone has been amazing and very supportive…. The girls have always been there to motivate me during my down times and always willing to sit next to me on an erg to help with training. I am happy that Claire Smark and Alex Swift will be accompanying me to Canada in September as my support.’

In response to being selected to represent the UK at the Games she said:

‘I am still in shock and believe it will take some time for it completely sink in that I have made the team. It was a complete honour to attend the team launch in London and meet HRH Prince Harry.’

You can read more about Faith’s incredible story on the Help for Heroes website and learn more about the Invictus Games.