Since motivational speaker is the ultimate career I am going to have, I was honored this week to give a speech at Teton Cancer Institute in Idaho Falls and Rexburg. I want to thank Lisa Anderson for giving me this incredible opportunity. I talked to the Idaho Falls staff on Wednesday, and the Rexburg staff on Thursday. I want to acknowledge what a tremendous group of people they are. Both groups were extremely friendly and made me feel welcome.
Lisa introduced me by giving them a little background about myself and the foundation. She told them about all the gas cards, grocery cards, hotel rooms, and everything else the foundation has helped with. I want to thank everyone for all your generous donations that made it possible.
In my speech, I talked about personal motivation. I told them how my motivation is to be the kind of man Shannon is proud of. I described how that motivation led me to volunteering at the hospital and reaching out to help others. I explained that reaching out and helping other people makes every aspect of your life better. I revealed how my definition of success changed after Shannon passed away. When so many people reached out with their prayers and support, I realized success isn’t what you have, but who you have in your life. I told them I had many things to be grateful for. One of the most important things I appreciate is the treatment and care Shannon received. I appreciate the extra time it gave me to be with her. I explained that whether it’s helping someone put their cancer into remission or being that compassionate guiding hand that leads them into their next chapter, they make a difference and are very much appreciated.
I ended my speech with my “Riding bikes with Cassidy” story. If you’re not aware of this story, you can find it in my book, “Stories of an Angel.” *(Available on Amazon or the Foundation website!) When I finished, I felt the speeches went very well based on a simple measurement. If any of my stories or speeches can make someone laugh and cry, it’s a success. I had many people come up and tell me how much they enjoyed and appreciated my message. A feeling of warmth and love came over me.
I encouraged them and I’m encouraging all of you to reach out to the people in your life and let them know how much they mean to you and how important they are on your life. I would like to thank everyone reading this. I cannot tell you enough how much it means to me and how grateful I am for your support. I know my angel Shannon appreciates it also. I will ALWAYS LOVE AND MISS YOU sweetheart.
Next week: Crusade Against Cancer update.
*If you have read my book, please leave a review on Amazon. Thanks!
P.S. The best part of both speeches can be described with two words. Captive audience.