Bio

Mike Patrick is a motivational speaker and health educator who has spoken to thousands of student, parent, teacher, business, community and religious groups throughout the country. His presentation entitled “Think About It” helps individuals overcome obstacles, creatively solve problems and perform successfully - at school, at work and at home. His message includes candor, wit and humor.

Mike begins his presentations with his personal story of overcoming obstacles. As a high school junior, he looked forward to a bright future. He was a National Honor student and a free safety on his high school football team. His world came crashing down in his first varsity game when he went in to make a tackle. His facemask caught on the ball carrier’s kneepad, breaking his neck and leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.

The basic premise, which underscores the entirety of Patrick’s presentation, is "The problem isn’t the issue, the issue is how you deal with the problem." Using the dramatic example of his accident and his adjustment to daily challenges, Patrick describes how he struggled to develop a mental and emotional process for dealing with the twists and turns his life has taken over the years. Mike points out each and every member of his audiences has problems, obstacles loom before them. Issues that — with the right attitude — can be dealt with successfully.

"Think About It" covers a wide range of topics, which vary with audience demographics and objectives. The themes covered with adult and community group audiences include examination of suicide, depression, peer pressure, sexuality, chemical use, leadership cultivation, and family relationships. In addition, employment, diversity, parenthood and economic challenges are addressed. With all audiences, attitude, perception, decision-making and personal responsibility for the consequences of actions are discussed. Each of these issues is handled with openness, courage and honesty.

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Testimonials

"I was tired and ready to give up, but when you spoke, I was touched very deeply. You gave me the courage to keep on fighting for one last mile and to give my senior year football season everything I had. I am writing you today because I have just been named an all league football player." -- Kevin (Senior), National Teen Leadership Program, Pierre, Phoenix, Arizona

"At the beginning of this week, my English teacher asked us to write about our heroes. Most people wrote about Tiger Woods or Mia Hamm. Theyare both incredible people, but I can't relate to them and they are more like gods to my friends then people. You are a real person and you have an amazing attitude about your life. You are my hero. Thank you so much." -- Laura (Junior), Highland Park Senior High School, St. Paul, Minnesota

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