Media Alert: Escape from Alcatraz Triathlete Colin Owens on Overcoming Tragedy and Surviving Food Allergies

WHO   

Colin Owens, Ultramarathon and Ironman Athlete, who as a teenager overcame a nearly fatal car crash, suffers from a dairy allergy and wants to help others overcome their challenges by using his experiences to inspire.

Colin, originally from Sacramento, CA, but now living in Juno Beach, Florida, is working with Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), the largest national food allergy nonprofit, to help raise awareness for proper diagnosis and treatment for food allergies and help motivate people to choose fulfillment every day. He can speak about: his personal story of overcoming health challenges, signs of food allergy, what it’s like to be an athlete with a food allergy, ways to advocate for yourself and your health, or staying motivated every day.

WHERE

In-Person, by Zoom or Phone

WHEN

Local San Francisco availability surrounding the triathlon between June 7-June 11

CONTACT

Dani Mackey, FARE, dani@danimackey.com, 703-283-9698

DETAILS

Colin survived a horrific car accident when he was 15 years old. While in a coma with a fractured spine and severe internal organ damage, his ICU doctors told his parents that he likely would never take another step. As a hyper-competitive athlete in multiple sports "never walking again" was not an option that he was willing to accept. A testament to the power of mindset and perseverance, 2 back surgeries and 4 months later, he was back on his feet. 6 months later he was competing. As a result, Colin chooses ultimate fulfillment every day, which is his mission and motto. There are 2 ways to approach challenges: 1) let the challenge run your life; or 2) learn to live + love your challenges.
  
In his late 20s, Colin got very sick and saw multiple specialists and was misdiagnosed several times. He was tested for Crohn’s and “everything else under the sun.” Doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong until it was determined he was allergic to dairy.
  
People are walking around with food allergies who have gone misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. They’re in agony (Colin knows because he was one of them). Raising awareness for food allergies is high priority for him, as he believes that you can make the most impact when you feel good, and that starts with health.