How discovering MMA helped a Leeds nurse overcome adversity

Ceri Barrett describes herself as 'living proof that combat sports can help you come to terms with tragedy" as she reflects on her novice MMA experience on the autumn Leeds charity show organised by Ultra MMA.

- by James Bovington

"I lost my husband Dave to cancer," said Chapel Allerton resident Barrett, who works as an acute pain nurse at Harrogate District Hospital.

"The pain and distress was unbearable. I soon realised I needed something to give me a short-term focus and purpose, and which just might redirect my grief to do good for others.

"Signing up via the website was easy and, along with 30 others, I began eight weeks of intense training at Bad Company gym in Bramley. You need to be able to commit to it for the eight weeks and then sell a minimum of 10 tickets for the show which takes place at The Village in Headingley.