As part of the Kerrie Nairn Scholarship for Public Speaking, awarded to me earlier in the year by Professional Speakers Australia, a component of the scholarship is free attendance at three of Allan’s courses. But Allan goes further. Prior to my keynote for the PTSD Forum 2015, he offered to coach me to help make it a very special talk. Time was of the essence, so we used Skype for the coaching session. Allan had neglected to tell me that he was actually ill and had been hospitalised for pneumonia! Good to his word, from his hospitable bed, over Skype, he was able to help tailor my keynote, to make it a home run – I received a standing ovation. It was doubly special, as my 81 year old mother Eileen and 83 year old father Alan, who stood by me when all seemed hopeless, who supported me through all the torment, and who showed me what unconditional love was, were in the audience. Thank you Allan for going above and beyond.
After meeting Allan face to face for the strategy session to see how he could best assist me as a speaker, I sent a simple thank you text message from me, and mum and dad, who avidly consume all news regarding my speaking career. Allan texted back, ‘It is a joy to be invited to be part of your journey and to admire what you have already done. I look forward to assisting and working with you in living your dream.’ What an amazing man. Allan, thank you for support, wisdom and friendship at the beginning of my speaking career… and hang on for the amazing journey it will be 😉
