Jim has an incredible story to tell...

Thousands of people climb Mount Kilimanjaro each year... but what makes Jim's story unusual and most interesting is that he can't walk. Jim is a quadriplegic.

The story that Jim shares with his audience is one of strength, determination, overcoming adversity, and of course the potential of human spirit in achieving one's goals and dreams.
Jim's dream was to travel to Africa and climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain on the continent. The adventure and his dream were beset with obstacles and barriers right from the beginning.

The most significant challenge was using a route up the mountain untried by anyone in a wheelchair before; a route that turned out to be far more harsh and rugged than anyone on the team anticipated.
In August of 2002 Jim travelled higher and farther than any quadriplegic had ever gone before. And at 39, Jim and his team of climbers established a World Altitude Record for a Quadriplegic as well as became the first wheelchair expedition to ever climb the primitive and rugged north side of the mountain. In doing so Jim proved that with enough determination, resiliency, and courage dreams can and do come true.
It's about more than a mountain: Jim inspires audiences to believe in themselves and in their dreams. The mountain Jim speaks of is really a metaphor for life, and the climb he describes represents the journey that each of us are in the process of living.

Jim's words and story urge listeners to look beyond their limitations and by focussing on their abilities, not their disabilities, so they too can successfully achieve their dreams.

Courtesy: The Vicki Gabereau Show 2003.
Jim speaks to a wide variety of audiences each year, including corporate, educational and athletic. He has also appeared on The Vicki Gabereau Show, a Canadian national talk show, and The Fanny Kiefer Show.

In 2003 he was awarded The Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, an award given to those Canadians who have made a significant contribution to their fellow citizens, their community and to Canada.
Jim's list of audiences continue to grow, and include the North Van School District Special Education Conference, Vancouver School Board's International Conference 'Celebrating Diversity' and The Northwest Association of College and University Housing Officers Annual Conference.

In the private sector Jim's message has inspired audiences of ReMax Realty, Kal Tire, and the CN Imax Theatre at Canada Place. He was also a featured presenter at The Vancouver Mountain Film Festival, International Adventure Therapy Conference, and was invited to Boca Raton Florida to speak at Avaya Communications’ Global Services Conference. Jim also shares his message in a number of private professional speaking engagements.

For more about Jim or to check his availability click below.