Rhys Thomas

BIO

Rhys Thomas is a former Welsh international rugby player who also played for the Dragons and Scarlets. In 2012, Rhys had his career cut short and was forced to retire after suffering a major heart attack in training. This resulted in a quadruple heart bypass, multiple operations and eventually being fitted with a pump that helps keep him alive. As a result of this life changing event, Rhys lost everything including his career and identity. Rhys was not able to deal with his emotions or feelings which ultimately led him to alcoholism and many dark moments. Through seeking support and attending rehab, Rhys was able to overcome these challenges and is now ready to share his story. Rhys was able to refocus and gain perspective on his life, providing direction and purpose enabling him to turn his life around. Those experiences allow him to help others through sharing his story, breaking stigmas, supporting and mentoring to maximise positive outcomes.

SKILLS

Adversity | Resilience | Mental Health | Athlete Transition | Identity | Addiction | Recovery | Fear | Perspective | Authentic Self | Being Present | Gratitude Rhys has a powerful story and message that through its raw authenticity and honesty is incredibly thought provoking and highlights resilience, perspective, athlete transition, loss of identity, addiction, understanding fear and how mental health impacted him at different times in his life and career.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Wales Rugby International Mental Health Champion Keynote Speaker on Mental Health Dragons - 126 appearances Scarlets - 52 appearances Working with - Sporting Chance, TheGlovesAreOn and TidyButt