John O’Leary welcomes Jason Koger on the Live Inspired Podcast to share about the power of perseverance, faith and the unwavering human spirit.
Rather than letting a traumatic ATV accident where he lost both of his hands cast a shadow on his future, Jason Koger has used the 2008 accident as a guiding light. And he became the first bilateral arm amputee to be fitted with multi-articulating bionic hands in the world.
Today, Jason shares the pivotal role his resilient parents and hardworking grandfather played in shaping his indomitable spirit, the immense physical and emotional challenges he faced and how he turned these obstacles into a driving force to help others. Plus, he shares the unexpected journey to becoming an ambassador for the manufacture of his hands… it’s truly remarkable.
My friends, Jason’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering human spirit. If you need a reminder of the importance of living a purpose-driven life, regardless of the hurdles, this episode is for you.
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SHOW NOTES:
- With $1,500 to his name, Jason watched his mother and father grow a successful construction business and taking the money from selling scrap metal to grant Christmas wishes to those less fortunate.
- “I never would have realized that the things he did in front of me shaped me and who I am today.” Three months before his accident, Jason’s Papa Hayden, the only other person he knew to have lost a limb, passed away.
- March 1, 2008: While riding four-wheelers, Jason came across a down power line and was electrocuted with 7200 volts of electricity for 30 seconds.
- Jason reminds us that when one is electrocuted, you’re burned from the inside out, releasing poisonous toxins inside your body.
- Days after waking from from multiple amputation surgeries, Jason told Dr. Jeffrey Guy that his only goal was to be able to hold his children.
- Welcome Home, Jason. Expecting to stay in hospital for two to three months, Jason was discharged just 12 days after the accident.
- “I want to be the person to show any upper limb amputee of what can be done.”
- Peter Lenkov, executive producer of Hawaii Five-0, asked Jason to be a stand-in for a character Peter Weller (known for RoboCop) was portraying, igniting a friendship that led Jason to be the brand champion for Touch Bionics, a provider of world-leading prosthetic technologies designed to achieve positive outcomes for people with upper limb deficiencies.
- “It doesn’t matter how famous we are. It doesn’t matter how much money we have, anybody and everybody can be inspired by somebody.”
- “God doesn’t sentence us to pain and suffering, but he does trust us with it.”
- John 13:7: You did not realize now what I’m doing, but later you will understand it.
- Get a copy of Jason Koger’s book Handed a Greater Purpose here.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Rebekah Gregory. As a shining example of not letting circumstances define our lives, Rebekah was just feet away from 2013’s Boston Marathon explosion, was severely injured and spent the next 56 days in the hospital. And yet, she and her son Noah choose not to be left shattered and instead choose to live vibrantly. Refusing to be labeled a victim, Rebekah shares the challenges she’s overcome since that life-changing moment and how in the midst of overwhelming pain, there is still hope to be found on the other side of tragedy. Her resilience, faith and courage will remind you that our best days remain in front of us. Listen to Rebekah Gregory on ep. 262 now.
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About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
JASON KOGER'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Inky Johnson: An Amazing Story of Faith and Perseverance. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. Always work hard and never give. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. My Bible. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. My grandfather. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Give more than you ever want to receive. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Trust the process. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. I want people to remember me by the things that I've given, the things that I've done, the faith that I've had and everything that I stand for. I want my kids to understand of who their dad is. I hope and I pray every day that they will learn how to be better than I am right now.
