John Comer: Inspirational Speaker- professional skateboarder, amputee

Jon Comer has always been active. He liked to run, jump and play like most kids. At age 4 he was playing on his Big Wheel tricycle in the alley behind his house in Texas. A 14-year-old joy-rider was also playing in the same alley with a car and he ran over Jon Comer that day. The car came to rest on Jon's leg while the young teen and his companion ran from the scene. Neighbors lifted the car off of Jon's leg, but his leg, ankle and foot were permanently damaged.

The joy-riding youth was later caught, but had no insurance. Over the next three years, young Comer spent a lot of time in hospitals and wheelchairs. Jon was no longer able to run and play as he had as a toddler.

For three years doctors made unsuccessful attempts to restore Jon's limb and decided it was necessary to amputate. Instead of being depressed about the procedure, Jon said that he looked at the positive side and was excited about the opportunity to receive a prosthesis that would allow him to walk, run, jump and play as he used to. At age 7, Jon's upbeat attitude was already apparent and he said that he looked forward to his "fake leg."

Comer's brother Rob started skateboarding when Jon was 10. Jon decided that he would try the sport. He was a natural on the board and when he fell down, he got up again….and again…and again. Jon said that he felt that skateboarding was the best way to make up the years that he lost.

He threw himself into the sport with passion and competed aggressively, overcoming obstacles and never giving up. Skateboarding is a sport that requires a lot of ankle and foot control of the board. However, even without the foot, ankle and leg that he was born with, Jon surpassed competitors who had the feet, ankles and legs that they were born with.

The program is all about overcoming obstacles and Jon's life and story will drive home the message that anyone can become empowered to do what they want to do as long as they have the passion and discipline. Classroom discussion guides will be left for those teachers ordering them to use as long as they want. Jon talks to people about achieving their dreams.

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