Marc Woods
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Multiple Gold Medallist Paralympic swimmer and cancer ambassador
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Diagnosed with cancer at 17, requiring amputation of his left leg below the knee
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An uncompromisingly honest and powerful message with lasting appeal
Marc Woods was diagnosed with cancer at 17 and consequently had his left leg amputated below the knee. Not knowing whether he had six months or 60 years left to live, he was determined to make the most of whatever time he did have. His dream was to simply be the best that he could be and just 18 months after he finished his chemotherapy he was selected to represent Great Britain.
Marc has gone on to become a member of Great Britain's Paralympic Swimming Team, a multiple Gold Medallist, BBC commentator and author. Woods' distinctive, open style demonstrates his passion for life, translating into a moving and motivating experience for audiences.
Now retired from international swimming Marc Woods has embarked on a series of new challenges. Having already trekked in Nepal, Ecuador and Peru (the Inca Trail) he has begun to develop his mountaineering skills. To date he has climbed the world's highest volcano, Cotopaxi in Ecuador; Mont Pelvoux part of the Massif des Ecrins in France and 22,200ft Mera Peak in Nepal.
In 2012, Marc Woods was an ambassador for the London 2012 Olympic Games and also a member of the British Paralympic Advisory Panel. Marc also works with many charities and is a trustee for the Teenage Cancer Trust, Bone Cancer Research Trust and CANSA (South Africa's Cancer Charity).
Marc Woods was awarded an honorary Doctorate by Middlesex University and was mad a Freeman of the City of London. He continues to push boundaries and adopt tougher and tougher challenges.
Marc is based in the UK & US and divides his time between the two. He is passionate about delivering his message to businesses all over the world.
Marc Woods delivers an uncompromisingly honest message that, with its lasting appeal and powerful messages, motivates individuals and teams alike.
Marc has presented his speech – Path to Gold – to companies all over the world. He works closely with his clients to ensure the emphasis of his speech complements the issues that are currently being faced in the work place.
There are numerous learning points within the presentation including insights into:
• Motivation
• Teamwork
• Leadership
• Communication skills
The presentation follows him on his journey from 'taking personal responsibility' to 'working within a small team' through to 'enthusing the broader support team'.
Marc Woods prides himself on getting 100% focus out of attendees at conferences. Weaving his inspirational story of coping with the unexpected, personal resilience, motivation and teamwork into the issues facing all organisations, Marc Woods’ life proves that focus and determination are a winning combination.
Speaking clips
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Marc Woods has a remarkable story and is an absolute inspiration.
We were absolutely thrilled with Marc's story. He enthralled us, entertained us, he moved us through the emotions, but critically he showed us the power of focus in delivering our goals and objectives. It was so good to see the whole team leaving the session with a smile on their face and a spring in their step.
Marc's story is remarkable, but the way he draws out so many personal and professional parallels in such and entertaining way means that the audience's attention is 100% all the way through. I think every one of the 400 of our staff who attended gained something personally and I can see our company growing as a result.
Personally and professionally I believe everyone walked away with a special message from you.
I enjoyed your talk at our event yesterday. Suffice to say it was easily the high point of the day, and everybody, (and I mean EVERYBODY) who attended that I've spoken to feel exactly the same way.
I want to thank you so very much for coming along to speak to us. All that were there hung on every word, cheered you down the straight and were with you on the Path to Gold.
My special thanks to you is for sharing a part of your life straight from the heart – it was inspirational. I was also really pleased that you chose to stay with us on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning as it demonstrated your commitment to, and interest in, us.
What can anyone say about this guy, he is an absolute inspiration. I really enjoyed listening to Marc. It was very humbling, thought provoking, informative and funny all at the same time.
Clients often ask about purchasing books for giveaways and delegate packs. Below you’ll find a selection of products by Marc Woods. Click the images to view on Amazon's website. For bulk orders, please speak with your Booking Agent.
How to book Marc Woods for your event
To book Marc Woods, please submit an online enquiry to booking.agent@nmp.co.uk or contact one of our booking agents on +44 (0)20 3822 0003.
World and Paralympic 800m gold medallist
Former British Army officer catastrophically injured on duty in Basra, Iraq
Paralympic gold medalist in hand cycling
Paralympian cycler and former RAF Weapons Technician
Four-time Paralympic Champion with ten world records to her name
Commonwealth and World Champion swimmer
