Steve, who is based in Brackley, balances a busy career in sports massage therapy with competing in triathlons — all while living with a significant visual impairment. Now, a Warwickshire filmmaker’s portrayal of his journey is resonating with audiences far beyond the Midlands.
The film has been officially selected to screen at the Anatolia International Film Festival and has been named a Semi-Finalist at the Sweden Film Awards 2026 and the Stockholm City Film Festival. It also reached the finals at the Barcelona Indie Filmmakers Festival BARCIFF, where it screened during the last weekend of February.
The growing list of accolades has brought international recognition to Steve’s story of resilience, discipline and determination. The documentary follows him as he trains for a triathlon, highlighting how he adapts to overcome the challenges of partial sight.
Steve works at Nuffield Health in Leamington Spa, as well as Brackley Clinic on Thursdays and at All Physiotherapy and Diagnostics on Fridays.
Colleagues and clients alike praise his intuitive, hands-on approach and his ability to connect with people through careful listening and touch.
Steve says 'Going into Massage was a good progression for me as I did not need my sight to see the body as I use my hands as my sense to guide me round the body to feel the errors of tightness, discomfort or pain'.
The filmmaker Joel Carr met Steve through a chance encounter. He booked a massage at Nuffield in Leamington after a minor sports injury and met Steve. They got talking and the idea for the film was formed.
Working with Steve has really pushed me mentally and physically. Listening to what he has achieved and filming him do a triathlon has had a huge impact on me. Steve has really encouraged me to train and keep fit. I've now signed up for my first marathon.
Festival organisers have described the film as “powerful” and “uplifting”, noting its universal message about redefining perceived limitations.
Following its positive reception across Europe, the documentary has now been recommended for submission to BAFTA- and Academy Award-qualifying film festivals — a significant milestone that could open the door to even wider recognition.
The filmmaker behind the project said the response has been overwhelming. “Audiences across Europe have connected with Steve’s authenticity and determination. This is a local story with a truly global message.”
For Steve, the attention remains secondary to the message at the heart of the film.
With momentum building on the festival circuit, the story of a Brackley masseuse who refuses to let disability define him is continuing to inspire audiences well beyond his hometown.
1. Contributed
A frame from the documentary where Steve talks about overcoming the odds of visual impairment. Photo: Submitted
3. Contributed
Andy guiding Steve at a busy road during the 5K run of the triathlon. Photo: Submitted
