The quotes and testimonials included here are just a few of the many wonderful things celebrities and dignitaries have said about Kevin.
- NOTABLE PEOPLE
- FITNESS PEOPLE
- COLLEGE PEOPLE
- BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS
- COACHES PROFESSIONAL, COLLEGE, HIGH SCHOOL AND YOUTH LEAGUE
- MEDIA
- SCHOOLS K-12
- CHILDREN'S HOSPITALS
- ORGANIZATIONS & ASSOCIATIONS
- PARENTS & FAMILY
- CHURCH & CHURCH GROUPS
NOTABLE PEOPLE
Kevin has received accolades from many great athletes, celebrities and leaders in public life, including, but not limited to: President George H. Bush, President William J. Clinton, U. S. Senator Pat Roberts of Kansas, U. S. Senator Phil Gramm of Texas, Kansas Governor Bill Graves, Texas Governor Ann W. Richards, Oprah Winfrey, Oliver Stone (Academy-Award Winning Director), and Rev. Robert H. Schuller.
"Kevin Saunders responded to an almost overwhelming situation changing himself and his life in the process. He had become through the sheer force of his will the world's greatest wheelchair athlete and an eloquent spokesperson for the disabled. I hope you will find his story inspiring and uplifting."
— President George Bush
"I want to thank you for your many years of hard work on the President's Council on Physical Fitness & Sports. Your passion and enthusiasm are invaluable assets to the Council and I greatly appreciate your dedication and efforts in helping people realize the great importance of fitness and proper nutrition for a balanced successful life. Thanks for your undaunted support during this crucial time in our nations history. Working together we will meet many of the challenges ahead."
— President William Clinton
"You have inspired me with your positive attitude and determination. You continue to raise the bar for everyone, to show people of all ages that you can turn dreams into reality. Thank you for teaching the rest of us what it means to be a real winner in life."
— Arnold Schwarzenegger
"One of the most heroic and valiant endeavors in sports I have ever seen is the effort and struggle of Kevin Saunders. I am inspired by his message of There's Always A Way. He is not a dependent in this world but a thrilling contributor to this world."
— Bob Richards, Two-Time Olympic Pole Vault Gold Medalist
"Kevin is an inspiring young man who has beaten all the odds to become one of the premier athletes in the world. He is truly a remarkable person and is a sensational role model for America's youth."
— U.S. Senator Bob Dole of Kansas
"I have known Kevin Saunders for many years and can attest to his courage and determination. I was a member of the Corpus Christi Delegation of the Texas House of Representatives in 1981 when a grain elevator exploded throwing Kevin 300 feet and causing him tremendous injuries. He not only survived, but became a World Champion athlete. It's my honor to represent him in Congress."
— Hugo Berlanga, Texas State Representative
"I think Kevin Saunders has something for everyone. As a motivational speaker, he's not just saying words; he's sharing with you his life story. He is someone that has gone from tremendous tragedy, and pain, and fear, to almost unlimited levels of success. He's done that with his determination and courage. His message is one that everyone needs to hear. He can translate that story into not just something that you listen to, but something you live with him."
— Anthony Robbins, Author of "Personal Power" and "Awaken the Giant Within"
"If everyone had 2% of your motivation the world would be a better place!"
— Oprah Winfrey
"Kevin Saunders was an inspiration to us all on the set. He seemed to be a man without limits, a man who gets out there and goes for the gold every time. He is the incarnation of the "Just Do It" principal. Additionally, he is a man of great compassion and empathy for the suffering of others, and as such, transcends the athlete snydrome to become a man of the world and a man of conscience"
— Oliver Stone, Academy Award Winning Film Director
FITNESS PEOPLE
Kevin Saunders has received accolades from many of the leading voices in fitness, including, but not limited to: Bob Richards (Two-Time Olympic Pole Vault Gold Medalist), Sean Green (president of Max Muscle), John Riddle (president of Sporting Goods Manufacturers Assoc.), Lee Labrada (former Mr. Universe and owner of Labrada Nutrition), Andrew Oser (president of Joy of Sports Foundation), David Hunnicutt, Ph.D. (Wellness Councils of America), and Ada Janklowicz (star of ESPN's Ada's Basic Training and owner of Wellness Summit, Inc.).
"I am pleased to know Kevin, he has become an inspiration to me and millions of others who battle and struggle to have the quality life they deserve. I'm sure he provides a positive path for many to overcome life's adversities."
— Al Oerter, Four Time Olympic Gold Medalist-Discus 1956,'60,'64,'68
"I have known Kevin Saunders and his courage for many years after his unfortunate accident. I had the pleasure of working with Kevin on the President's Council on Physical Fitness & Sports as we were both members. Kevin is certainly an outstanding individual and is a great inspiration to all Americans."
— Donald L. Cooper, M.D., Emeritus Director, Team Physician, Oklahoma State University
"Kevin Saunders continued commitment to excellence as a winning world-class wheelchair athlete is second to none. Kevin continues to astound not only me, but those who work with him. Kevin is a role model for all those committed to being the best they can be."
— Sammy Lee M.D., First Asian American to win Olympic Gold in 1948 & '52
"Kevin Saunders commitment to health cannot be understated. While in Lincoln, Nebraska as Keynote Speaker for our Well City designation, Mr. Saunders inspired and motivated our entire city towards healthier lifestyles. In addition to providing a keynote address, Kevin visited several middle schools at his own time and expense to share his message of health and well-being."
— Lisa Henning, Executive Director, Workwell, Inc.
"Thank you for taking part in the recent TAHPERD annual convention. The gratitude and humility displayed in your invocation to open the third general session was most touching and inspiring. We appreciate your making time in your busy schedule to share yourself and your talent with us. Your presence was truly appreciated by all who heard you. The number of people who spoke with you following the session was only a token number of those who spoke to the steering committee about your contribution to the convention."
— Dr. Pat Schmitt, TAHPERD Convention Manager
COLLEGE PEOPLE
Kevin Saunders is highly recommended as a public speaker, and has motivated audiences at hundreds of colleges and universities. Read about some of his endorsements and honors.
"Kevin was our guest speaker to welcome our students to campus. Kevin is an outstanding individual that is a great example of "There's Always A Way, if you "Never Give Up!" I would recommend Kevin without any hesitation to speak to your business or school. He is a miracle that has happened.
— Diane Engle, Barton County Community College
"Kevin Saunders in multiple ways is a symbol of our students, with his indomitable will, his international achievement, and his continuing, positive influence on young and old alike. Kevin has turned adversity into challenge, setbacks into achievement, and innate ability into excellence. But he has taken his crusade one important step further: He has used his own experience and self-awareness to help the most vulnerable among us to dare to dream again."
— David R. Pierce, President, American Association of Community Colleges
"In 1995, Kevin received the "Distinguished Alumni of the Year" from Kansas State University for both his athletic accomplishments, as well as, his contributions to the President's Council on Physical Fitness & Sports. He is an excellent role model for people from all walks of life as he truly exhibits an attitude of "anything is possible if you believe in yourself"."
— Robert S. Krause, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Kansas State University
"Kevin Saunders has become a living testament to overcoming adversity and the value of physical fitness. He is an inspiration to us all. We in community colleges are especially proud of Kevin for his selection to the American Association of Community Colleges class 2000 Outstanding Alumni."
— K. Ray Bailey, President, Asheville Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
"Saunders has distinguished himself and the nation as an award winning athlete on the field of athletic competition and off the field of life itself. Prior to his accident, Kevin was a star performer on the Pratt Community College football team. After his accident he overcame insurmountable odds to become the best all around wheelchair athlete in the world. He has been honored as "Alumni of the Year" at our college and at Kansas State University. Kevin has made the greatest impact on our students than any other motivational speakers we have ever had."
— William A. Wojciechowski, President, Pratt Community College
"Kevin is a great example of perseverance and effort of what hard work can overcome. Fitness and education helped Kevin Saunders to become a World Champion and gold medalist many times over. However, with great perseverance and basic American values, Kevin has become an example to not only the disabled community, but to Americans far and wide of what education, effort, and commitment can accomplish."
— Fred Gainous, Chancellor, Alabama Dept. of Post Secondary Education
When the Berlin Wall crumbled to dust, you were there thinking about your friends at Del Mar College. When the Barcelona Olympic Games were staged, you were there and dozens of your Del Mar College friends and colleagues watched for your events. When Del Mar wanted a spokesperson that represents tenacity, energy and a love for learning, you were there.
It was a grand pleasure to be with you as you were recognized as an Outstanding Alumni for Del Mar College to the American Association of Community Colleges. I enjoyed meeting Sen. Bob Dole and other dignitaries who also consider you a special friend. Please express our appreciation to your lovely wife Dora for traveling back to Corpus Christi to take part in the Former Students Association Wall of Honor Gala. Your name will join those of other distinguished alumni in the Harvin Center on the East Campus.
Del Mar College recognizes the legacy you and other former students have built. Alumni make up the fabric of our community, and serve as ambassadors of our educational endeavors throughout the world. Thank you for keeping Del Mar College in your thoughts.
— Terry L. Dicianna, Ph.D. President Del Mar College
"Kevin Saunders spoke to our students for K-State Healthy Decisions’
Wild Wellness Week and K-State for All Disability Awareness Week. He was
an inspirational, dynamic, and entertaining speaker. It was wonderful
that Kevin was able to tailor his presentation to our needs and wants
for our program by not only sharing his story, but also discussing the
importance of being well-rounded as individuals and persisting through
challenges to become the best we can be. Kevin is a proof that you can
overcome adversity by Never Giving Up!”
— Sarah Buchanan, Assistant Coordinator for Student Activities & Services, Kansas State University
“We just received the evaluations from all the speakers at the Insight
program and you were a big hit! In fact, your speech received the highest
score of all 35 speakers. You even outscored the Congressman, Senators
and Mayor Emeritus, but don’t tell them! Keep going for the gold in all
that you do and like you say; “There’s Always a Way””
— Claudia Jackson, Event Coordinator Del Mar College
BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS
Businesses of every shape and size have invited Kevin to speak to their organizations. Here's what some of them have to say about Kevin.
"We don't have many heroes today. Kevin Saunders is a hero"
— Bob Carey, President and CEO, Central Power and Light Co. Fortune 500
"Kevin after Roy Clark finished playing his fiddle you kept our audience of over 10,000 on the edge of their seats with your "Never Give Up Because, There's Always A Way" presentation. The long lines of people, waiting to buy your book or just to shake your hand and get a picture are a great testament to your ability to inspire, motivate and lead people to action."
— Jerry Bourbon, Organizing Diamond, Amway National Convention
"The positive impact Kevin Saunders made on our employees is still talked about. They are focusing on opportunities, not life's frustrations."
— Denny Payne, President and CEO, Southwestern Bell Directory Operations Fortune 100
"In the span of two days we set up a series of six meetings for Kevin Saunders to share his remarkable story of tragedy to triumph with the employees at our site. After each meeting, literally dozens of our employees lined up to meet and speak with Kevin. His untiring will and incredible attitude were truly an inspiration to all that were fortunate enough to hear him and meet him."
— Richard Martinez, Dupont, Fortune 100
"Saunders has one of the most interesting and heartening stories ever heard. Today, health promotion, fitness, wellness and disease prevention are more and more a part of our national agenda. By practicing fitness disciplines and despite the odds, Kevin persevered and rebuilt his broken body. Kevin has become a source of encouragement to young and old alike across America."
— William McBain Kizer, CEO Central States Indemnity Co. of Omaha
"Kevin Saunders commitment to health & wellness is exemplary. Kevin is self-driven, determined, focused, and extremely courageous. He has tremendous inner strength, which helped him successfully challenge his own disability and become a Champion of diversity. He is an inspiration to everyone he meets. As an inspirational, motivational speaker, he is one of the best."
— Michael Jagadich, State Farm Ins. Co. Lincoln, NE
"I was so overwhelmed by Kevin's positive personality and his motivation to achieve greatness that I was truly a different person when he left. His enthusiasm for life became an inspiration that I have with Kevin. I realized anything is possible with the right attitude. With all the negativity in the world today, I truly believe that Kevin can make a difference by setting a standard of being the best you can be, that "There's Always A Way" if you Never Give Up!"
— Brian W. Gagnon, President, Seeker, The Ultimate All-Terrain Wheelchair
COACHES PROFESSIONAL, COLLEGE, HIGH SCHOOL AND YOUTH LEAGUE
To motivate and encourage their teams, coaches regularly have Kevin rally their spirits before competing. Here's what some of them have to say about Kevin.
"I greatly respect Kevin Saunders' commitment to improving the health and well-being of our youth in addition to the character he has displayed in not giving in to his unfortunate handicap."
— Mike Brungart, Head Strength & Conditioning Coach, San Antonio Spurs
"I am very impressed with Kevin Saunders commitment to excellence and his world class accomplishments as a disabled athlete." He is and excllent speaker for any university of college student body or student athletes who want to bring out the very best within them. Kevin can help them understand how to break barriers and transend limitations and obstacles that stand in their way of being a successful student or champion on and off the field."
— Tom Osborne, Legendary Head Coach, Football University of Nebraska, Untied States Congressman, Nebraska
“Kevin's accomplishments as a Paralympics performer are outstanding, but coupled with the adversity he has overcome and the courage he has displayed in rising above is indeed remarkable. We have recognized that here in our Football Program with an annual "Kevin Saunders Never Give Up Award" at the conclusion of each season. He is not only a remarkable wheelchair athlete, but a very positive and dedicated motivational coach that helps bring out the best in our athletes here at Kansas State."
— Bill Snyder, Head Football Coach, Kansas State University, Orchestrated the biggest turnaround in college football history
"Kevin has given our team many motivational speeches throughout the years that have had a great impact on our players. He is moving and sincere and has a great message that motivates others to achieve. Kevin's leadership and achievements through the years demonstrate his mental and physical talents. Overcoming disability and continuing to be a strong athlete sends a powerful message to follow."
— Bob Stoops, Head Football Coach, University of Oklahoma Sooners, National Champions
"Kevin Saunders has been to Kansas State University numerous times to speak to our Rodeo team. He has been an inspiration to us and enabled us to bring out the champion within."
— Steve Frazier, Kansas State University Rodeo Coach
"Kevin Saunders will and persistence is not only a tribute to his accomplishments as an athlete, but to the integrity of the man and the triumph of the human spirit. Kevin's accomplishments as a Paralympics athlete demonstrate the courage and heart of a true champion who has overcome the odds. He has had an impact on millions of lives... not only inspiring them to rise above their own limitations, but to remember that it is the heart of the man that make the champion." As Kevin says, "There's Always A Way."
— Rudy Ruettiger, Inspiration behind the TRI Pictures movie, "Rudy"
"Kevin Saunders' dedication to physical fitness and sports in the face of incredible odd puts him in a position to reach a broader audience and have even a great impact that reinforces the message of the importance of fitness to our nation. Kevin has the background, the credentials, and the personality to give that encouragement and get results."
— Barbara Rocha, Top Speech Coach, Author of "Getting Over Yourself"
"Kevin Saunders spoke to our football team here at the University of South Florida on June 24, 2009. Anyone who wants a speaker who has awesome stories with an incredible message that will provide the keys to success and how they can be applied to be the best at what you do, then you need to hire Kevin Saunders! He will get the job done right for your professional or college program, school, university or company."
— Jim Leavitt Head Football Coach University of South Florida
MEDIA
Members of the media who have reported on his appearances or interviewed him have also been impressed by Kevin Saunders' story.
"If you're not familiar with the name "Kevin Saunders" chances are you may not be familiar with one of America's greatest stories. He keeps company with presidents, he hangs with action heroes: he's even created a few in his time. Best of all, he's become a living example of what it is to overcome the worst odds and end the one inspired to inspire others to 'Never Give Up' because, 'There's Always A Way.'"
— Manson Storm, Max Muscle Magazine
"We wish to congratulate Kevin Saunders on being named the recipient of the Certificate of Excellence for his volunteer work. It is your kind of volunteer contribution which adds so much to the South Texas community."
— Nick Jimenez, Corpus Christi Caller Times
"Kevin Saunders, thank you so much for taking time to be part of Kids for Sports Hotline. We have found from experience that anything to do with children elicits great response from our readers. Thanks for being a great inspiration to our youth everywhere."
— Gene Polionski, Managing Editor/Sports, USA Today
"America likes to find her tough guys in public places, one of those people is, Kevin 'four-wheel drive' Saunders, "There's Always A Way." Few people outside the industry realize how combustible grain dust can be. Kevin Saunders was blown over a two-story building and onto a concrete parking lot, 10 coworkers were dead and the paramedics said the parking lot looked like a battleground. Kevin Saunders fought back and earned the title, "Best All-Around Wheelchair Athlete in the World." With one look at the life of Kevin Saunders, it's obvious why he chose the motto (and autobiography title) "There's Always A Way"."
— Mike Carlson, Prime Health & Fitness Magazine
"When Kevin Saunders was thrown 300 feet onto a concrete parking lot in the worst grain explosion in South Texas history, he and everyone else-thought his life was over. It wasn't. Today, Saunders is a world class athlete, author, and one of the best inspirational and motivational speakers in the country."
— Beth Hartenstein Tolentino, Kansas Stater Magazine
"Kevin Saunders is a genuine American hero, who is role model of the Never Fear, Never Quit philosophy of courage and perseverance."
— Joe B. Tye, Author of "Never Fear, Never Quit!"
SCHOOLS K-12
Time after time, Kevin Saunders (and his remarkable life) impresses children of all ages. Here are some thoughts from the principals and administrators who have asked Kevin to address their students.
"Kevin's visit to our school went far beyond the usual speak and leave. Following his formal presentations to the High School, Middle School, Elementary School and sports teams, Kevin spent the rest of the day with the students. I can confirm his message "Never Give Up" was profoundly motivating and encouraging. He was with our basketball teams on the sidelines during an important league contest that evening. In this way, Kevin became an inspiration not just to our students, but to our community. I have never heard so many positive comments on a speaker in my seventeen years as a principal at Chapman High. For any school looking for that uplifting motivating speaker, Kevin Saunders is the right choice. We hope to continue our relationship with Kevin in the future."
— Dick Hall, Principal, Chapman High School
"Everyone in the country needs to hear the story of Kevin's first wheelchair race! An immediate connection with our student body was made. His performance also held some surprises, laughs and a touch of magic. Then on a more serious and mature level Kevin talked to our students about setting goals and how to achieve them. I believe Kevin Saunders was a hit on our campus because he was very interesting, unpretentious, and sincere. Whatever obstacles a person may think they have, Kevin will challenge them to Never Give Up and better themselves!"
— Patti Brown, Rockport Fulton School
"I want to express my sincere appreciation for Kevin Saunders inspiring keynote address at the Houston Independent School District parents, teachers, and administrators. The tone which was set by your address exemplified the attitude we would like the students to adapt."
— Paul Ofield, Assistant Superintendent, Houston School District
"Kevin, thank you so much for such an inspirational program. Your story of triumph over adversity is most compelling and faith strengthening. I truly believe that your life experience is a profile in courage, not just endeavoring the trials before us, but using them to build our character and to temper our integrity. You, Sir, have set a beautiful example, one we would all do well to emulate."
— Jerry Mills, Counselor, Sheffield High School
"Perry Schools had the privilege of having Kevin Saunders speak to its student body. Kevin gave a moving testimony of his near death accident, his recovery, and his dedication and spirit that allowed him to overcome adversity and become a champion athlete. His words of advice and inspiration were well received and much appreciated. Kevin serves as a positive role model for people of all ages."
— Bill Wealthall, Principal, Perry Unified School District
"As an educator, I am made aware on a daily basis of the great need and importance of physical fitness and education. Kevin uses his energy and excitement to spread his message to adults and children all across our nation. Kevin is the epitome of an over comer. Kevin's message is one who can make a positive difference in your business, organization, community or life."
— Joyce Ellis, Fitness Teacher of the Year
"I have known Kevin Saunders for over thirty years as a student athlete, co-worker, friend, teacher, and as his coach. Kevin is not only an inspiration for young people in our small community, but for our youth throughout the United States."
— Steve Heide, Principal, Downs High School
CHILDREN'S HOSPITALS
Kevin regularly shares his time with hospitalized children. They are one of his most special audiences, because they really need his inspiration, and they know he can truly relate to the challenges they face.
"Thank you so much for arranging for Kevin Saunders, World Champion wheelchair athlete to come and visit our patients at the Texas Children's Hospital. What a delightful surprise it was for them to meet him. I know they will treasure the gold medals he gave them and left them with the message that, "There is a champion inside each and everyone one of us and with hard work and dedication & Never Giving Up, we can bring that champion out"."
— Susan Clark, Texas Children's Hospital, Entertainment Chairman
"Your attendance on Live National Television supporting the National Easter Seals Convention shows your support of the Easter Seals mission, to promote independence for individuals with disabilities. As a spokesperson for the Easter Seals Telethon, we want to extend are heartfelt thanks for your service to make America a better place for us all."
— Sharon Walton, Special Events Coordinator, Easter Seals Society
"In my association with Kevin Saunders, he has demonstrated leadership/mentorship to the youth of this country. By soldering the ideals of personal strength, mentally, physically, and spiritually, has overcome daily adversity, and represented our country on the field of competition. Wisdom comes with age and experience. Few persons have accumulated Kevin's experiences but ALL can benefit from his coaching and teachings."
— DOC REIF D.C.
ORGANIZATIONS & ASSOCIATIONS
Kevin Saunders frequently gives presentation to organizations and associations doing positive work.
"This year's banquet was the most successful in recent memory, and a large part of the credit for its success belongs to you. Parents and Scouts alike enjoyed your retelling of your ordeal, and your inspiring example in turning tragedy to triumph. Your love for kids was tremendously obvious and greatly appreciated. Thank you for the generous donation of your time to our boys, and especially for your patient cooperation with the signing of your autograph."
— John Martinez, Boy Scouts of America
"I first heard of Kevin Saunders when he was our guest speaker at the Rotary Club, the oldest and largest of the civic clubs in town. I was truly impressed by the achievements of this man and outlook. I may say that it is absolutely inspirational to be around Kevin. He is "positive mental attitude" personified. I admire him."
— Tommy C. Wimberly, National Director, Navy League of the U.S.
"Our United Way solicitation campaign came on the heels of very difficult economic times for our industry, and we were quite skeptical as to whether we would be able to achieve the high goals that we had set for ourselves. Thanks to the inspiration that we received from Kevin, we not only met our goal, but we exceeded it by more than five percent. This goes to show, as Kevin puts it that, "There's Always A Way"."
— Richard Martinez, Site Chairman, 2002 United Way Campaign
"Kevin Saunders, you are an inspiration to those whose lives you touch. I have seldom met a man who wants little for himself, yet is dedicated to the betterment of humankind. Kevin your enthusiastic, caring attitude is one the world should appreciate and encourage to celebrate. I am truly, sincerely proud to know you and have you as a brother. May I most humbly yet candidly say that you have reflected and continue to reflect in your thoughts, actions, and deeds and words the four Great Principles of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. While these four principles were taught to you over the past 14 years, I am proud to say that you are one of the few Brothers who have succeeded in demonstrating them to the world in everyday life."
— William A. Muir, Advisor, ATO Fraternity Advisor
"On behalf of the Jaycees, I would like to express my thanks for Kevin Saunders sharing his enthusiasm with us at our meeting. We have had some quality programs, but this certainly ranks as one of the very best!"
— Rick MerKernan, President, Jaycees
“Thank you for sharing yourself with our group last night at the Youth
Fellowship. The kids were so excited about you being there! They all
need positive role model today and your story was highly motivating and
a testament to the power of Almighty God workng in our lives. God bless
you and your ministry."
— Kevin Mayne, Youth Ministries Director
PARENTS & FAMILY
Kevin Saunders has touched the lives of so many people, including those who knew him before his accident, and those who he has been able to help in his work.
"I am not a famous person just an average small business owner, husband, and father. I have known Kevin since before his accident, so I have seen him struggle every day with his disability. Every accomplishment he has received has been due to his hard work and dedication. My own children are 7 and 10 years of age, and have only known Kevin in a wheelchair. They do not think anything of his disability. He's just Kevin. An example of how he influences them is when they complain about something, I always respond by asking them about the guy who eats with his feet, or the blind man who works on the computer or Kevin? 'You don't hear him complaining do you? So do your best and never give up.' My children respond to this because they have seen how hard Kevin has to work for everything he has accomplished. What better motivation could any child need, than to see someone else who never gives up?"
— Robert G. Hays, Father & President/Owner, Mr. Siding, Inc.
"I am the mother of the deaf girl that you gave a medal to when you were speaking to the schools in Russell, Kansas. I have had many problems getting the appropriate accommodations to help my daughter carried out in the classroom. Many times, my daughter was subjected to outright intentional exclusion form classroom learning activities, in no interpreter was provided for her. I cannot begin to express the statement that you made by singling out my daughter at the assembly. Considering the problems I was having at the time, my reading from the ADA (American's with Disabilities Act), your achievements and work with the President to help establish the ADA, and by you presenting my daughter with the gold medal. This all had a powerful impact on many of the people that work with my child. I consider it nothing short of a modern day miracle. Thank you! In conclusion, I would like to say that you do more good work than you even realize. Sometimes the undercurrents happening in the people's lives that you touch, and your encouragement and accomplishments helps to ease the stress and the pain of being the witness of discrimination of someone you love. You gave me strength to continue my fight for further accommodations that my daughter is entitled to, and you gave my daughter a sense of being someone special instead of "the girl who can't talk." Thank you from the bottom of my heart."
— Catherine Hakanson, mother of deaf daughter
"Remarkably, in 1981, while I was in flight training in Corpus Christi, TX to be a U.S. Navy pilot, I flew over the grain elevator Kevin was inspecting at the moment it blew up, launching Kevin over 300 feet through the air. I remember looking down and seeing an enormous amount of smoke and fire below me as I did a practice instrument approach into Corpus Christi International Airport. Kevin and I did not discover this fact until we met 5 years ago when I attended one of his riveting and incredibly inspiring speeches titled after his highly motivational book, "There's Always A Way."
— Commander Bill Goss, United States Navy, Retired Author of "Luckiest Unlucky Man Alive", and "There's A Flying Squirrel in my Coffee."
CHURCH & CHURCH GROUPS
Kevin Saunders frequently gives presentations to church organizations and church groups helping people in many ways.
"Kevin, how great to know that you believe in the principles of Possibility Thinking! I was touched with a special sense of pride to learn that innovators such as you are generating new ideas to keep our country strong. I applaud you for your commitment in building for the future. Please accept my best wishes for continued great success and achievement in the years ahead! God loves you and so do I!"
— Rev. Robert H. Schuller, Hour of Power
"Kevin Saunders spoke for our 2010 Men & Boys Retreat in Ark City, KS. WOW!
What a testimony! Kevin's God given will and enduring spirit is evident in
how he overcame such a tragic and nearly life ending accident and transformed
himself and his life into something so powerful and inspiring. He truly shows
"There's Always a Way" and his life is proof that we should "Never Give Up".
We had a record attendance at this year's event and Kevin touched the hearts
of all with his evening message, prepared just for us, on being a "Godly Man
and a Real Man", a very important message for guys when the "world" so often
points us in the wrong direction. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship opportunities
with Kevin after he spoke and as he participated with us in several of our
events. Kevin would be a motivating asset, and blessing at any event. We sure
feel blessed to have had him share at ours! May God Bless You, Kevin!"
— Pastor Rich Miller, Glen Elder Evangelical Friends Church
“Kevin, thank you so much for being a guest on the Hour of Power. Your
message was so strong, powerful and one that is important and needed to be
heard by your congregation and worldwide audience of over 20 million. I’m
sure your inspirational message of “There’s Always a Way” touched millions
of hearts as our audience saw how God has used you to be a great inspiration
to show others that with God anything is possible. What God has done in your
life by giving you a second chance to turn tragedy to triumph were a great
testament to the power of possibility thinking! May God Bless you and all
you do to inspire so many to strive for life’s higher goals. God loves you
and so do I!”
— Rev. Robert Schuller, Pastor Crystal Cathedral Ministries
“Kevin Saunders shared his inspiring testimonial and life experience with
the congregation at our 2 worship services which were well attended. His
testimony touched so many Members of the congregation so they were able to feel
that the will to live and trust in God matters most even when the worst
things happen to you. Kevin was invited a second time to share his
testimonial with the youth of the area at a Joint Church Service and many young
people left that night, deeply moved and changed, because through Kevin’s
inspiration God was able to touch many young lives that night.”
— Reverend Gel Samson, United Methodist Churches
“Kevin spoke to our Church camp and adult counselors and left a lasting
impression on our young people of the power that God has had in your life.
You shared with our campers that they can also have that same relationship
by believing and making the verse; “I can do everything through Him who gives
me strength Philippians 4:13” a daily part of their lives. Any group from
a Church, church group to Fellowship of Christian Athletes could benefit
greatly from having Kevin as their keynote speaker, because with the help
of our Lord Jesus Christ he is able to share a testimony and story that
truly helps inspire and make a positive difference in the lives he touches.
May God bless you and your ministry.”
— Lee Ranaud, Director of Religious Education
“Kevin is not only a passionate speaker and believer, he is a living
example of the power that God has given to each and everyone one of
us when his son died for our sins over 2,000 years ago. Not even life
in a wheelchair could deter Kevin from being an inspiration to so many people worldwide and an authority on overcoming adversity, pursuing
excellence and staying fit physically and spiritually. He has used his
limitations and with God’s help has used his paralysis as a vehicle to
inspire other to pursue their goals and make God a priority in their lives”
— Ben Young, Pastor Second Baptist Church
“Kevin what a powerful impression you have left with our young people!
They were thrilled to hear your testimony of how God has provided so many
opportunities in your life after that horrible explosion. They were very
impressed to have the opportunity to meet you and shake your hand
afterword’s and they asked me repeatedly for autograph pictures of you
competing in your racing wheelchair. Your accident has taken much from you,
but with God’s help your strength, drive and ambition have given you more
than most. You are a credit to your motto and our children will remember
you for it! You have made a far greater impact than you know.”
— Kathy Putnam, Principal Church of the Good Shepherd
