Spencer West is a household name in our community largely due to his motivational speaking for WE, his role as ambassador, and his humanitarian efforts. Some of these efforts include Spencer's amazing journey on June 13, 2012 when he climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise funds to provide clean water to over 12,500 people. His 187-mile (300 km) journey from Edmonton to Calgary on his hands and in his wheelchair continues to redefine what's possible. With positivity and charisma, Spencer continues to serve as a source of motivation.
While it's easy to simply be in awe of his accomplishments, he always encourages us to take action. We find out what influenced Spencer to adopt this positive outlook on life in his book, Standing Tall. Whether or not you know about Spender's journey I strongly encourage you all to pick up this book. The parts touched on here are just moments that resonated with us at Live Quickie. I'm sure all of you will be able to find your own moments within Spencer's life that you can connect to, that will resonate with you, and that will inspire you.
Spencer has always stressed the importance of teamwork, having a solid foundation to support you on whatever endeavor you choose to embark. Spencer's story begins before he was born. Spencer and his mother shared a bond that's often overlooked. The unconditional love and tireless hours of caretaking set the tone in Spencer's life. Encouraging him to become superhuman and doing everything in her ability to make him fly.
As you progress through the book and learn about Spencer's experiences you almost forget that he leads a life without legs. He doesn't allow his circumstances to define his life. Rather, it's his actions and how he handles each situation that shows that he is no different than anyone else. In this coming-of-age story, readers can see Spencer as a projection of themselves. Spencer navigates through life on his hands, discovering lifelong friends, interacting with bullies, and finding passions in sport. He experiences a great many highs in his life but also takes us along the ride for the lows as well. From experiences of prejudice and fearing for his life for being different, Spencer remains adamant in being positive.
Spencer West's story is one of coming of age. Regardless of your ability or your circumstances, anyone can learn and adopt his positive outlook on life, his proactivity in chasing his goals, and his never-say-never attitude. We strongly encourage you to pick up this book at your local bookstore and share with us how you felt about the book!
About the Author
As a featured speaker and co-host of WE Day, Spencer West has graced over 60 WE Day stages across Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. He has spoken alongside luminaries and performers such as Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Prince Harry, former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore, Mia Farrow, Martin Luther King III, Jennifer Hudson and Natalie Portman, to name a few.
The life lessons Spencer has learned on his personal journey speak profoundly to audiences facing their own challenges. Spencer’s inspiring words have reached millions of listeners around the world, including corporations, students, educators, faith-based groups and families.
Infused with humor and humility, Spencer’s talks offer take-home tips and life lessons on how to find opportunity in every challenge, while instilling hope and empowering leaders to motivate others to create positive change.
Spencer's ride is a Quickie 2.
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