Melissa Stockwell
Veteran. Paralympian. Mom. Speaker.
Melissa Stockwell has had the pleasure of speaking to many groups ranging from the VFW and Boy Scouts to well known companies such as Deloitte, General Motors, The Hartford, the Chicago Bears and many more.
Sharing her story ‘The Power of Choice’, Melissa talks about overcoming obstacles, perseverance and how we all have the ability to choose our own path in life.
Melissa fully believes that anyone can do anything that they put their mind to and hopes her audience walks away with a greater appreciation of life and an ‘I can do anything’ attitude.
BAGHDAD TO BEIJING AND BEYOND
Melissa talks about overcoming obstacles, perseverance and living life to its fullest. Melissa fully believes that anyone can do anything that they put their mind to and hopes her audience walks away with a greater appreciation of life and an ‘I can do anything’ attitude.
THE POWER OF CHOICE
An aspiring gymnast in childhood, Melissa Stockwell dreamed of someday representing Team USA at the Olympics Games. As college approached her Patriotic dreams shifted to representing her country as a member of the U.S. Army. Upon graduating, she was commissioned and soon thereafter deployed to Iraq. It was there that a roadside bomb made her the first female American solider to lose a limb in active combat. What followed was a remarkable story of resilience and perseverance, and of the indominable spirit of a woman who chose not only to survive, but to thrive. Now a Paralympic medalist, a World Champion, a World Record Holder and an Ironman, Melissa’s keynote “The Power of Choice” is an emotionally commanding presentation that will both redefine your perception of disability and inspire you to rethink your own limits.
Melissa’s story inspires and drives home an important message fitting for any audience: success is driven by focusing on what you do have as opposed to what you don’t. What Melissa has already accomplished in her life is remarkable and it is clear her best is yet to come.
The Chicago Bears
Melissa Stockwell tells an American story that is all about inspiration and not at all about self pity. I have seen her bring a whole roomful of legislators to tears with her straight talk and sincere patriotism.
Nancy Livingston Director of Community Relations and Outreach, Century College
Thank you again for being our keynote speaker. The sharing of your experience gave all present a new heightened sense of our mission. You truly delivered a ‘gold medal’ message that a can do, must do direction is what it takes to succeed. You were amazing! Thank you.
Anna Dodelin SRA International, Inc.
Melissa, you forced us to take stock of how we view our own lives with your TEDxVail Talk, "Choose Your Story." We laughed when you flipped your leg completely around to show off your sweet new dance move. You stand on one leg with more courage and grace than many of us do on two. You moved hundreds to tears in the audience. Thanks, Melissa, for your powerful idea! You entice us all to choose life stories worth repeating.
Kat Haber TEDx Vail
The guests at our Kids Rank: Ribbons of Character Benefit were completely engaged and inspired by our honoree Melissa Stockwell. Her story of determination and perseverance all with an optimistic attitude were exactly why she was chosen for our annual award. Beyond her incredible combat story, it is her continuing life's journey and her ability to make a human connection with people which made her time with us an unforgettable experience.
Kelcey Liverpool Founder Kids Rank
We knew Melissa's story would be inspirational. What blew us away was the power with which she told her story with a perfect mix of humility, humor, and the most positive spirit I've ever had the opportunity to witness. If you're looking for someone who can relate while providing perspective, challenge and inspire while being humble, and leave a lasting message around resilience and a winning attitude, you should reach out to Melissa immediately! She touched every member of our organization both professionally and personally, and left us wanting to be better in every aspect of our lives.
Megan Bailey, Senior Marketing Manager Roche Diagnostics
We were so happy to have Melissa speak at our Sales and Marketing Offsite. There was not a dry eye in the audience and she left us all feeling inspired, motivated and incredibly proud to have her on our team.
Peter McGuinness Chief Marketing Officer Chobani
I can’t say enough about how great Melissa’s keynote was! She was amazing. So much inspiration. People are still talking about it! All the best to you and your team. It was wonderful working with her!
Suzi