Canyoneering survivor and motivational speaker Aron Ralston paid a visit recently to the New Image Youth Center – a nonprofit organization located in the Parramore neighborhood within Orlando, Fla. More than 45 children and teenagers filled the New Image Youth Center to hear inspiring words from a man who they admire.
Millions of people from around the world are aware of Ralston’s story thanks to the movie “127 hours.” In 2003, survived a climbing accident in Utah, during which he amputated his own right hand with a dull multi-tool in order to free himself from a dislodged boulder, which had trapped him there for five days and seven hours. After he freed himself, he had to rappel down a 65 feet sheer cliff face to reach safety.
Ralston doesn’t let the accident or the amputated arm stop him from following his passion and now part of his life’s mission is to uplift others. “I think our boulders give us the opportunity to reach our potential in our life,” said Ralston.
The Center’s Founder and Executive Director, Shanta Barton-Stubbs, said, “Hearing Aron’s story made our youth realize what he’s gone through, and it clearly gave them hope and inspiration. Ten-year-old Steven Morrisant said it best when he yelled to Aron’s departing car ‘We love you! You’re our hero!’”
“Aron’s visit clearly meant so much to the Center’s staff and children. Inspiration and hope is the key to lifting up Orlando’s struggling Parramore neighborhood. They’re on the right track and making a difference in young people’s lives every day,” said long-standing supporter and nearby business owner Bob Owens of Owens Realty Services.
“After hearing Aron speak, all the children and staff said they feel like there is nothing they can’t do,” said Barton-Stubbs. “Thanks to Aron, it was a really positive week at the New Image Youth Center.”
