On Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Easter Seals Crossroads hosted its 50th Annual Business Lunch at the J.W. Marriott Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. Each year, Crossroads takes the opportunity to thank its sponsors, staff members, consumers, partners, and everyone who has played an integral part in carrying out the goals and mission of the organization. This year, there were more than 1,000 attendees.
Wednesday’s Mistress of Ceremonies was Anne Marie Tiernon, a news anchor from WTHR, Indianapolis’ NBC affiliate. The lunch featured speeches from a variety of people, including Crossroads CEO, James Vento; however, the most inspirational speech came from a man who met an obstacle that would have presumably defeated most of us. His story is one of hope, perseverance, and the power of love.
Aron Ralston, the inspiration for the movie 127, made headlines in Spring 2003 when, after a hiking accident in the Utah wilderness, he had to make a gut-wrenching decision to save his life. After his right arm was trapped by a fallen 800 pound boulder, Ralston was stuck in a ravine for five days. He realized that his only chance for survival was to cut off his arm, which is exactly what he did. The moral of Ralston’s harrowing tale was not bravery, but love. He had to do the unthinkable in order to be reunited with those that he loves. Ralston now has a prosthetic limb in place of his self-amputated arm. He travels the country with his wife and son, telling his story and inspiring spectators.
To read Aron’s hopeful tale, you can purchase his book Between a Rock and a Hard Place. Below is a video of some of the highlights of our wonderful afternoon with Aron.
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