On June 24th, we celebrate Armed Forces Day, honouring the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving their countries and communities. It is a day to recognise their sacrifices and resilience in keeping us safe.
Today, we share the remarkable story of our CEO and founder of Kurk Trent Scanlen—also REORG Trustee, and martial arts gym owner, whose experience with adversity led him to become an advocate for the physical and mental well-being of military personnel and first responders.
A Battle with Cancer:
Trent's life took an unexpected turn when he received a cancer diagnosis in his thirties. Facing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, he was determined to fight back with all his strength. While undergoing chemotherapy, Trent was advised to avoid contact with others to reduce the risk of infection. This presented a challenge for someone who sought solace and strength in physical activity and community.
A Steely Resolve:
Undeterred by the limitations imposed by his treatment, Trent found a way to continue his training regimen. He discovered a 24-hour gym where he could work out during the quiet early morning hours (5 am as the cleaners disinfected the equipment). This reduced the risk of infection as his Immune system was destroyed by Chemotherapy while maintaining his physical and mental well-being. Through exercise and a healthy diet, Trent not only prevented his body from wasting away but also fortified his mind against the toll of the disease.
““I developed a kind of steely resolve. I never thought the cancer would beat me, so I set about making sure I did everything to keep my mind and body strong.” - Trent
Discovering REORG:
After his battle with cancer, Trent opened a martial arts gym and met Sam Sheriff—a Royal Marine that focused on helping personnel transition out of some tough areas by learning martial arts.
Sam soon left the Marines and focused his life on building REORG, a charity dedicated to helping military personnel and first responders transition into civilian life through martial arts and fitness.
Recognising the challenges these individuals face in prioritising their own well-being, Trent saw the profound impact REORG could have in empowering them to take that crucial first step toward physical and mental resilience.
The Power of Physical Activity:
Trent, although not ex-military or a first responder himself, deeply admires the commitment and sacrifices made by those who serve. He understands the toll their careers can take on their personal well-being and the challenges they face when transitioning to civilian life.
By encouraging these brave individuals to embrace physical training, REORG provides not only the therapeutic benefits of exercise but also a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
Supporting Those Who Serve:
Trent emphasises the debt we owe to military personnel and first responders. By rallying behind organisations like REORG, we can ensure they receive the support and resources they need to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.
With the recent surge of support for REORG, it is evident that many people recognise the value of their mission.
“The charity encourages military personnel and first responders to make the all-important first step into a gym. The guys we help have all done incredible work keeping their countries and communities safe. But this can sometimes mean that they neglect their own well-being. By helping them start training, REORG is offering them the therapy of physical activity, but also introducing them to a new group of like-minded people.” - Trent
A New Chapter:
Reflecting on his journey through cancer and the subsequent transformation of his life, Trent views his diagnosis as a turning point. It was a reminder to embrace life fully, to learn from adversity, and to move forward with determination. Witnessing countless lives transformed by the power of martial arts and fitness, Trent recognises the immense potential within every individual to rewrite their story. REORG is there to provide the opportunity and support needed to make it happen.
Trent's personal journey has taught us just how powerful physical activity can be and how vital it is to have a strong community behind us. So, let's show our gratitude to those who serve by standing with awesome organisations like REORG. They need our resources and encouragement to keep up their incredible and invaluable work.
Learn more about the work of REORG here.
