Royce Dennis

Royce smiling (google images)

Have you ever looked into the eyes of a person saying, “No, I can’t" or "It’s too hard?” I know I have said and felt that way before. There is one man who has helped me and others overcome huge personal battles. He is a man who has struggled with his own disabilities. So next time, when you feel you can’t accomplish a goal or overcome an obstacle, think of Royce Dennis, my hero and personal trainer.

Royce was born and raised in Jacksonville, Texas. In middle school and high school Royce was never good at throwing, catching, or kicking so he took up running. In high school Royce had to deal with an injury. As a junior he pulled his groin muscle. In college it was worse. He pulled both of his hamstrings, had a back injury and suffered a devastating injury. When trying to scare a dog, his cousin threw a stick and as Royce turned around hearing a noise, the stick was inches from his nose and left him partially blind in his right eye. Although Royce spends most of his time as a project manager, he has dedicated most of his summers and free time to personal training. His company, A Glimmer of Hope gives grant money to poorer sports organizations. He also trains and tries to qualify for the Olympics. It was a blow to him when he missed participation in the 2004 summer Olympics by a mere fraction of a second. This defeat did not phase him, it only made him more determined to try and train harder.

Royce at his office (Google Images)

If you are wondering why I picked Royce as my hero, here’s why: he is a man among men. Even in his darkest hour he has held the torch high and held faith in God like no other man I’ve met. And just like an Olympic runner, he holds his head up high but unlike some he will be with God forever.

Royce Dennis is my hero because he has helped others overcome obstacles, not hurdles but helping people getting fit and healthy.