I embarked on this journey out of curiosity, eager to discover who I would become and what I would learn in the end. My goal was to become a stronger, more self-aware, and better person, and I was confident that completing the Ironman would help me achieve that. Each day, I dedicated time to training, carefully balancing it with my academic and professional responsibilities. Despite the stress, I silently persisted, fully aware that this was my own choice, and no one was compelling me to do it.

As usual, I approached things without a second thought. When I saw something I wanted to do, I jumped right in without any fear.

Now, I stand just a few days away from the race, reflecting on all the suffering and moments of burnout I’ve endured, even making me doubt myself and consider giving up on the Ironman. However, I’ve come to realize that, in the end, this was the challenge I was seeking, and I shouldn’t give up. I knew that, ultimately, it would provide me with a different perspective on life and help me discover my true self. And indeed, that’s exactly what happened.

I have learned lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life, but I’ve also realized something I want to share with everyone:

Last but not least, I want to express my gratitude to myself.
I want to thank myself for believing always in me, I want to thank myself for never giving up, I want to thank myself for always finding a way, I want to thank myself for constantly pushing my limits, I want to thank my self for embracing my fears and I want to thank myself for remaining true to myself.

To Raven, with the hope of being an exemplary big brother.

For myself.

And to the man I aspire to become.

Diahane, I’m just fuckin’ Bill Difren.