2019 But You LOOK Good Inspiration Award – John O’Leary
John O’Leary has been selected to be the 2019 recipient of the Invisible Disabilities Association’s “But You LOOK Good” Inspiration Award. John has been chosen because as someone who has personally endured the trauma and pain of burns sustained on 100% of his body as a child, he inspires people in the midst of their challenges and triumphs. Thank you John for your courage to share your story publicly and to provide a positive voice of hope and compassion for so many people on their journeys of illness, pain and disability.
In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given 1% chance to live.
This epic story of survival was first showcased in his parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds, in 2006. Originally printing 200 copies for friends and family, his parents have sold 70,000 copies, most in back-of-room sales at John’s speaking events. It was this book that first invited John to embrace his miraculous recovery and share it with the world.
John inspires nearly 75,000 people at 100+ events each year. He speaks to companies and organizations across industries, such as: sales, healthcare, business, safety, marketing, financial services, faith, education and insurance.
Consistently described as “the best speaker we’ve ever had,” John receives nearly 100% of his engagements from referrals. His schedule is a testament to the power of his message and who he is as an individual. His emotional story-telling, unexpected humor and authenticity make each of his presentations truly transformational.
We had it all. Life was perfect. And then life changed. It always does. When life changes in this way, we can beg and plead to go back to the way things were. Feeling entitled to that reality. Waiting for someone to wave the magic wand and put things back to normal; back to the way life was. Or we can step up, recognize that it is time to move forward from here, and embrace total accountability. ~
John’s first book ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life was an instant #1 National Bestseller; 120,000 copies have sold and it has been translated into 12 languages. John’s Live Inspired Podcast is a top 20 for business on iTunes & Inc. Magazine. His online community is 200,000 strong.
John considers his greatest success to be his marriage to his wife Beth, their four children and his relationships with friends and family