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5 life lessons from Olympian and entrepreneur Michael Klim

Swimming champion, business founder, dad-of-three and Lifeblood ambassador Michael Klim has learnt a lot every step of the way.

By Sarah Marinos

Michael Klim is no stranger to success. One of Australia’s all-time greatest swimmers, he won six Olympic medals and notched up 21 world records during his impressive career. His achievements go beyond the pool, too, as founder of Milk & Co skin care and Klim Swim schools. He’s also the proud father of Stella, 18, Rocco, 16, and Frankie, 13.

But in 2020, there was a seismic shift in Klim’s life when he was diagnosed with the debilitating neurological disorder chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). It’s been an uphill battle but he’s learnt valuable lessons that not even an Olympian could have prepared for.

1. There’s always another way

Klim’s story isn’t just one of sporting glory—it’s about mental fortitude and the ability to adapt. “The CIDP diagnosis was a turning point that forced me to confront my limits and redefine my identity,” he says. “The first two years were tough; I lost my motivation for life. With it came a sense of grief but through it all I learnt the true meaning of resilience. It’s not just about bouncing back—it’s about finding new ways to move forward and embrace change.”

2. It’s okay to be vulnerable 

Learning to live with CIDP has also shown Klim the benefits that flow from accepting help. “It was amazing how the swimming community rallied around me; there was so much support. It helped me get on with the journey and taught me that vulnerability is not a weakness—it’s a source of strength. Men, especially, are not great at opening up but I’m really good at it now. Being able to share your feelings or hardships lifts a huge weight off your shoulders.”

3. Think outside the box

Klim pushed boundaries in the pool—he was one of the first swimmers to wear the full-body “super suit”. He says it taught him about “the endless possibilities that come from a positive and open mindset. It set the foundation for how I approach challenges in my life. It’s allowed me to appreciate what I’m still able to do and achieve.”

4. Balance is everything

Prior to his diagnosis, Klim had a full life co-parenting his three children with former wife Lindy and living between Australia and Bali. “After I was diagnosed with CIDP, I drank to numb my emotions and it wasn’t until I hit rock bottom that I knew I had to do something. That period was a harsh lesson in the importance of balance and self-care. Maintaining my physical and mental wellbeing now helps me find new ways to overcome challenges.”

5. Reach out for help

“One of the most profound lessons I’ve learnt is the power of community,” says Klim, whose journey with CIDP has been significantly eased with the support of Lifeblood, an Australian Red Cross organisation that provides blood and plasma donations. “These donations have been a lifeline for me, improving my quality of life and giving me hope.”

One in three Australians will need blood or blood products in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donate. To help, CommBank was the country’s number one corporate contributor to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood in FY24. Visit lifeblood.com.au to find out how to become a donor.

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An earlier version of this article was published in Brighter magazine.

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