A Life Changed Overnight
At 23, I was one of the fastest 800m runners in New Zealand. I trained hard. I dreamed big. I had one goal in mind: to represent my country on the world stage.
Then everything changed. In the blink of an eye, I went from the track to the oncology ward. I was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Not once, but twice.
A Path Forward
I faced deep depression, a stem cell transplant, a medically induced coma, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and graft versus host disease. I suffered through heart attacks and long hospital stays. For five years, I lived and received treatment in Australia, far from home and everything familiar. It pushed me to the edge of what a person can endure. But I didn’t stop.
Today, more than ten years on from that first diagnosis, I’m strong. I’m healthy. I’m here. I’m married, I’m a father, and I’m back doing what I love — helping others find the strength to move forward, no matter what they’re facing.
The Purpose Behind the Pain
Today, Josh Komen is a motivational speaker, breathwork coach, and author who helps people navigate life’s toughest moments. His story is not just one of survival — it’s one of deep personal transformation.
Through his experiences, Josh developed practical tools to support mental resilience and emotional wellbeing. Whether he’s speaking to corporate teams, coaching individuals, or leading workshops, Josh teaches people how to respond to stress, uncertainty, and adversity with calm, clarity, and courage.
The Book – The Wind at My Back
Josh’s memoir, The Wind at My Back, captures his full journey from elite runner to leukaemia patient to a man who redefined what strength really means. With honesty and heart, he shares the realities of illness, isolation, recovery, and rediscovery. The book is a lifeline for anyone walking through adversity and searching for a reason to keep going. ADD 50+ 5* REVIEWS
Some struggles are seen; some are hidden. But no ones book is blank.
From chasing Olympic dreams to fighting for his life, Josh Komen’s journey is one of raw courage, relentless hope, and the unbreakable human spirit. In this powerful short film, you’ll witness more than a comeback. You’ll see what it means to truly rise; through pain, through loss, and into purpose.
If you're looking for a story that will move you, motivate you, and maybe even change how you see your own challenges, this is it. Take a moment. Watch Josh’s story. You’ll walk away with more than inspiration, you’ll walk away believing in what’s possible.
The World Transplant Games
In August 2025, Josh will represent New Zealand at the World Transplant Games in Dresden, Germany. A real full-circle moment not only representing New Zealand but also competing in the city where his donor for his life-saving stem cell transplant lives.
A Full-Circle Moment
The donor, now a friend, will be there to watch Josh compete. It’s a powerful moment of connection and a celebration of everything it took to reach this point.
Hear Josh’s Story Firsthand
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Are you ready to book Josh for your next event?
Josh now shares his story through keynote speaking, interactive workshops, and one-on-one breathwork coaching. His sessions are honest, engaging, and deeply moving.
If your team, event, or audience needs inspiration backed by real life experience, book Josh