Jared Estes
CurrentThrough my motivational speaking, I work to rally people to rebel against their circumstances with hope, grace, and perseverance by sharing my story. As newlyweds at age 25, my wife and I, along with two friends were struck by a drunk driver going more than 120 mph. I barely escaped death, suffering 2nd- and 3rd-degree burns on half of my body. As I began to endure more than 50 surgeries, doctors delivered devastating diagnoses, including a lifetime of pain and loss of functionality. Even worse, my bride of only six months was killed in the crash. I sank into a deep depression. I had trouble recognizing myself in the mirror and battled feelings of resentment toward the person who caused my situation. I was truly at a crossroad in my life... torn between giving up and surviving. With the love and support of my family and friends, I was able to find a new perspective that helped me emerge from the darkness. I realized the value of gratitude and forgiveness, and became determined to recover beyond the doctors’ diagnoses. My character was molded as I maintained an optimistic attitude throughout my physical therapy and numerous complex surgeries. I had a realization that I could decide to surpass mere survival… I could FIRE BACK.