Jim MacLaren is living proof. Confined to a high-tech wheelchair, his left leg missing below the knee, MacLaren at first glance might seem vulnerable. His condition is the result of two devastating accidents, eight years apart, which reduced him from a collegiate football star and aspiring actor to an amputee and then a quadriplegic. Yet this man, one who doctors predicted would never move below the neck, has nurtured such remarkable inner strength that has and continues to inspire millions. That's Jim MacLaren's reality, but only part of the full life Jim ensures himself everyday. This former champion triathlete has much to teach us and reciprocally knows and is grateful for all that is still ahead for him to learn.

Today, MacLaren considers himself blessed not only because of the enlightenment achieved through his recoveries, his studies and self-exploration, but also because his speaking schedule allows him to impart those lessons. He's grateful for the exposure that came his way when he and Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the 2005 ESPY Awards, and the ensuing widespread media attention, including televised appearances with Oprah Winfrey and Jim Rome.

While working as a motivational speaker, Jim refuses to cast himself as a victim and has garnered two masters' degrees, and is currently working toward his Ph. D. in mythology and depth psychology. MacLaren also understands the opportunity he's been given to motivate others, and readily accepts that responsibility, offering his own experience as example.