Red Cross Central Illinois Chapter

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Speakers

About our 2012 guest speaker

1ST Lieutenant Melissa Stockwell, United States Army

Melissa, as a First Lieutenant Platoon leader, was leading a convoy through Baghdad when a roadside bomb exploded nearby. She lost her left leg in the attack becoming the first recorded female to loose a limb in combat.

After 15 operations, 21 transfusions, and more than a year of rehab, she turned this adversity into an inspiration. Over the past 7 years since she lost her leg, she continued her education by becoming a Certified Prosthetist while also committing herself to competitive sports. She earned a spot on the 2008 Paralympics Swimming Team in Beijing, won a gold medal in a world Paratriathlon event in 2010, and currently competes in numerous triathlon and marathon events throughout the country.

Each of these individual accomplishments are inspiring in themselves, yet it is the inspiration and support to others that demonstrate her Face of Strength.

Previous Heartland Heroes Guest Speakers

Douglas R. Oberhelman, Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Inc.

U.S. Congressman Aaron Schock, 18th House District.

Gail J. McGovern, CEO, National American Red Cross.

Gen. Wayne A. Downing, a Peoria native and military hero who served as head of the U.S. Special Operations Command.

Jim Owens, Chairman and CEO of Caterpillar Inc.

Ed Diener, a psychology professor at the University of Illinois.

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Volunteer Chairman of the national American Red Cross Board of Governors.

Jim DeRose, Bradley University Soccer Team head coach.