"When you let go of what you are, you become what you might be" is a powerful quote from an inspiring Ted Talk by former cross country skier
Janine Shepherd. From Olympic athlete, to paraplegic, to pilot and inspirational speaker. This talk reminds us about the true value of life, ambition, and how focused human tenacity can succeed over a seeming impossibility.
Whilst in the final stages of her Olympic preparations, Janine was hit by a truck while training on her bike with her Olympic squad.
With life-threatening and crippling injuries, not only did living itself seem a challenge, but the idea of ever walking, being mobile, and achieving something, very much seemed a million miles away. Specialists who had deemed her as a 'partial paraplegic' because amongst other things her spine was so badly damaged, had advised her that she would never be able to walk again.
Well against all odds, 18 months later Janine had not only achieved her private and commercial pilot's licence, but she was also a flying instructor! Oh and she could walk!
"Janine focused intently for years on healing both her broken body and crushed morale. A turning point came watching small planes flying overhead. She decided: “If I can’t walk, I’ll fly.” While still in a full body cast, Janine was lifted into an aircraft for her first flight. Within a year she had her private pilot’s license. Later, she earned her commercial pilots license and instructor’s rating. Janine recently served on the board of Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and became its youngest -- and only -- female director."
