You are not your body: Janine Shepherd at TEDxKC

We often define ourselves by things that are "outside" us: relationships, work, family - even our own bodies. But what would it mean to have your life dramatically altered and your body irrevocably damaged? Who would you be then? This talk explores the impact of loss on the human psyche and the universal quest to find meaning and fulfillment. It is only through the process of losing everything we thought we needed that we find who we truly are.
BIOGRAPHY
Janine Shepherd is a walking paraplegic; she is also a qualified pilot and aerobatics instructor, international speaker and author. Once voted as one of the world's most outstanding and inspirational people, Janine devotes her professional life to empowering others to overcome adversity.
www.janineshepherd.com
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations).

[@seanzawko09]

I'm sitting in my tractor trailer eating Wendy's. I want to do something bigger than drive trucks. I run in the mountains. I recently lost my son(he was murdered) and my mother in law(cancer). You are wonderful. You have inspired me to be better! To do better. Thank you. I will be better.

[@katherinneaguilarp]

❤ Yes you will!

[@twainjones]

that's positive energy. i love you.

[@strawberrylala5529]

How are you now?

[@seanzawko09]

Loving life. Making it. You?

[@francmendoza1642]

@@seanzawko09 Never too late ! I'm a truck driver too and also a commercial pilot multi and single engine with a flight instructor license let me tell u driving a truck it's way harder than flying but I found my freedom trading crypto currencies. Just think what you wanna do visualize your self doing it and it will come to you. God bless!

[@witchplease9695]

"You are not your body. You are not your skin. You are the heart and soul that lies within."

[@AlchemistOfHecate]

Des Nice rhymes.

[@witchplease9695]

Raoul Duke It's a quote from a famous poem. I forgot what the poem is called though.

[@SamyaDaleh]

+Des India Arie - I am not my hair?

[@witchplease9695]

***** Yes that's it, thank you! I thought it was a poem instead of a song because I read it online somewhere once.

[@fuldagermany]

+Des Lovely words ... and true ...

[@dhmccarriston]

Janine the machine made an old man cry like a baby. No more excuses, no more feeling sorry for ourselves, Time to raise are straws and live!

[@chaserofthelight1737]

And an old lady...

[@glenrichardson6396]

They should play this in schools everywhere. There are so many forces at play attempting to keep us all scared and in our place, we need people like her to remind us that we're human.

[@chiefoosha6658]

Glen Richardson we are not human. We are immortal beings having temporary human experience.

[@catherinedoyle7451]

@@chiefoosha6658 Bhutto buy to nip nyo bi bio bio VIP

[@natad6599]

Chief Oosha my???tv ,Bob.

[@narayanlaxmi4990]

@@chiefoosha6658 absolutely truee

[@scottjensen6221]

This was an incredible story! I had typed in suicide into the search window ... and after two clicks this popped up ... I cried so much while watching this. We all have Issues, Challenges & perceived injustices that make us question the value of continued life, at least I imagine so ... This was Positively a Message I Needed!! Thank you Janine for sharing your insights!

[@ravenkama6922]

Scott Jensen Hope you are doing well Scott

[@okterlox0]

Scott Jensen That's how I am now. I'm torn. Wanting to die but hunting for reasons to hang in this world.

[@annalynardona7056]

Laura Lanter Hello, hope you have found a reason to hang on. Sending a prayer and an invisible hug your way.

[@robynew1]

Sending you love

[@MayaRoseXO]

Scott Jensen im so happy you found light in this video

[@timberwolf90]

My life changed after having a spinal injury too. After my L12 was shattered, I was partially paralyzed. I had to live at a rehab center for 6 months to learn how to walk again. I remember looking at the trees around me, in awe. How could I have been to blind to these beautiful creations? Now I am a disability advocate and feel like I am living a whole new life.

[@omz6313]

Hope you are doing better

[@timberwolf90]

I am thanks. Life is a roller coaster, ups and downs, but still gotta think positive.

[@NJSMKMMS]

Interesting as well as inspiring except for the fact there is no L 12. There are only 5 vertabra in that level. 23 likes what a pack of idiots.

[@suzesinger6762]

@@NJSMKMMS .... 😉🙄

[@cynaculeu111]

Good luck for your future!

[@WiltshireMan]

I'd give that talk a THOUSAND thumbs up if I could:)) I am a brain tumour survivor and I also fly:)))

[@bobrussell3602]

Congratulations and best wishes.

[@WiltshireMan]

@MadisonRhea I have ups and downs but generally quite well Thanks

[@bestrong1854]

I was just watching fr John hollowell and the value of suffering. He also had brain tumour

[@HDvids101]

Don’t get addicted to being human. This is only temporary." - Robert Monroe

[@aphysique]

Tmi, & Robert Monroe!!👌👏🙏

[@supahacka]

I just wish there was an easy option to drop your body once your human experience becomes unbearably hard and to start over again ... as what millions of people are going through in life is not really productive and most of the times also not triggering enlightenment.

[@dmcarden]

@@supahacka That would be a wonderful option

[@veganearthling3102]

Yes, I was born in the wrong body. I'm a bird and would like a "species change!"

[@citisamsjw5513]

@@supahacka , there is . Read Steve jobs favorite BOOK # autobiography of a yogi ...

[@emmalikesflowers]

“I was at a crossroads. I knew if I didn’t return to my body I’d have to leave this world forever. It was the fight of my life.” Fkn profound!!! Sincerely. Thank you!

[@DWJCESQ]

It is exceptionally rare I rate anything a “MUST” and this is hands down a MUST watch….

[@girlpower148]

i absolutely love all of Ted Talks but wow this is something else, a truly inspirational story and such a strong woman behind the story

[@haladysheelaprabhuprabhu3024]

Miss Shy everything is in the mind and the heart

[@OneHippiesMusings]

Strong person. The meat suit is neither here nor there to the story.

[@estherhaberman1840]

Miss Shy so wonderful!

[@c-za.c7085]

❤

[@PatriciaMauck]

I just broke my right foot and I am wearing a very uncomfortable boot to help my foot heal. I was feeling a bit sorry for myself. I can't do most of the things I used to do, most of all just walk around. Have to stay off of my foot. I don't have any equipment for getting around my house and I am a widow living alone. I made it to my office and computer and started to listen to TED, when this young lady started talking about her life. I listened mesmerized to her story. Her faith absolutely floored me. I don't know how I am going to get by in the next few months. I don't know what I can/want to do at this point. I do know that I will pray and ask God for help. My cats and plants will be taken care of. I just know. And so will I. Thank you for the inspiration, Janine. I really needed to hear you. I feel very connected to you.

[@RamonaMcKean]

How are you doing now, Patricia?

[@PatriciaMauck]

@@RamonaMcKean It has been a year and I am doing very well now. Thank you, Patti

[@kimdeane3145]

Why did 279 give this video a thumbs down? She is a brave and deeply inspiring human in the highest order!

[@Tk-iz2ws]

They must of hit the thumbs down by accident & couldnt figure out they only had to hit the like to change it. Fabulous talk. Sending to my friends. 😊

[@mlkirkl09]

One of the best TED talks I have heard! Very inspirational! She is a wonderful speaker!

[@chrisd8580]

They really shoud make a movie about her

[@cambi2797]

They should

[@scottpreston5074]

Silverpeace I'll make the film. No problem.

[@NJSMKMMS]

There is a Telemovie about her it's called The Janine Sheppard Story.

[@scaz357]

Yes!

[@andrewvardanega2251]

u can get bad karma if bad or negative people touch u so avoid touching peple unless it's a loved one and avoid shaking hands .bad peple use their hands to do bad things and u share and trade energy's wen u shake hands.germs r least of ur worrys.we connect to different energy's each day good and bad .b careful.hold onto trees branches ..this can connect u to them and nature.cleansing with sage and prayers is very important twice a day .once aftr u wake up to rid urself of negative dreams then at end of the day or as many times as u want .ul feel lighter and happier every time

[@AlphaGeminorum1]

Just wow. What an absolutely amazing story! I was mesmerized. Thanks so much for doing this TED talk all the way back in 2012. It's 2022 and your message is still alive, girl!!!

[@DmitryShevkoplyas]

wow!! Janine, you're the door opener for so so so many lost souls!!!!! Thank you!!!

[@Wutzthedeal]

I've probably watched over 100 Ted Talks. This one rules them all.

[@Sam-gn6og]

How does this rule ? Will you tell us....

[@dal8963]

Her spirt is so cheerful and wonderful it's amazing to witness God's creations in all their forms but some like her just leave you better off by their presence

[@vonhuben]

the power of the human spirit. Awesome.

[@patricemarie2960]

..... HUMAN TRAUMA ....???? & HOW THE HUMAN "SPIRIT" CAN STILL THRIVE ..... AND STAY ........ ALIVE ...... IS SO MYSTERIOUS!

[@jmitch8483]

Janine Shepherd just changed my life and I am beyond grateful.

[@Jkl306]

I wish we all just saw souls instead of flesh and bone.

[@duaneayers6117]

January 5, 1984 I finally found a person who has my story. Thank you

[@dayanithi1947]

She is a Goddess of Inspiration - I worship her for her extraordinary resilience to bounce back into life with hope and optimism , we ordinary human beings could even dream about. Let us hold the straw that she had extended.

[@latenitetubing]

Dreaming is the whole point ❤

[@larrytucker3693]

Every morning I try to find something inspirational to begin my day. This one is truly one of the best. Thank you for this.

[@ShakeMyWay]

How can there be 85 people that don't love this? Crazy! She's amazing and reminds me of how amazing all of us can be. it is our Spirit that keeps us strong. Kudos!

[@troywhite1734]

Accidental unlikers we hope.

[@ylekiote99999]

About 5% of people in this world are assholes.

[@larslee1001]

UNBELIEVABLE!! ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!! AMAZING!! INSPIRATIONAL!! MOTIVATIONAL!! EXTRAORDINARY!! MOVING!! My entire perspective on life has been completely and forever changed!! THANK YOU, Janine, for sharing!!!! The whole world needs to hear your story!!! Your life-changing experience has totally changed my life!!! You have sky-rocketed my level of gratitude and appreciation for everything, and to take nothing for granted. All of humanity can benefit from your story!!! You are touching many lives!!! SUPER-HUMAN, SUPER-WOMAN!!! P. S. My husband is an Airline Pilot. He has those same many ratings as you. For you to have completed ALL OF THAT in less than 1.5 years is UNREAL!!! I am without words to express myself!!! AWESOME!!! INCREDIBLE!!!

[@Jchathe]

Absolutely inspirational, I was moved to tears. A beautiful story and message for the planet. Thank you for posting 🙏💕

[@AstroNOT-yet]

From one pilot to another, I have mad respect for her. Honestly you go girl ,the world of aviation can be challenging enough at times without what shes faced, and she still nailed it. Rock on girl

[@mysterygideonman]

That was the most inspirational and touching story i've heard in a long time. This woman deserves a medal, damn this was good.

[@PamelaHale1]

Just watched this again with my husband, a lifelong pilot. It's a wonderful, inspiring story, delivered with passion and style!

[@dilletante4ever]

You are a real inspiration to all of us! Bravo!

[@AthenaWeaver]

I needed this today. I feel like I am in a body cast right now, spiritually and emotionally healing after many years broken and paralyzed. And unsure of my future. It's time to start dreaming. Thank you, Janine.

[@kenwalker1111]

Healing thoughts and energy to you.

[@latenitetubing]

Wishing you well Athena 🙏

[@teriliebmann3491]

Hope you are still on your healing journey ❤

[@teriliebmann3491]

Hope you are still on your healing journey ❤

[@cindyhalpern3187]

Both my brothers died young from Muscular Dystrophy. But while they lived, they really lived! They were not just victims of their bodies, they were souls who willed themselves to have meaningful lives!

[@latenitetubing]

Powerful ❤

[@kristicabana5004]

The ABSOLUTE BEST TEDx Talks speaker ever!

[@Curlymcgurk]

Her closing words have just given me the 'heck yeah I feel you' goosebumps, I was connected, to her every word.

[@CoachAllisonTodd]

Indeed we are all difference makers, if we are recognize the real source of our strength is not our body....but our spirit. Thank You @JanineShepherd for sharing such an empowering journey. I will always remember you as, the girl who wanted to fly.....and did! I AM raising my straw!

[@indrinita]

goosebumps listening to this talk!

[@geraldmartin8195]

In complete awe of this fantastic woman..! So I'll wipe the tears away and watch this again sometime soon. And perhaps then comprehend more clearly what she was saying without words.

[@emmam-d1410]

What a amazing woman. How fortunate she was also though, to have the financial means to just book a flying lesson? How many other's who have spinal injuries would be able to turn their lives around so dramatically without the financial means? I only mention this because I am studying embodiment and considering how our finances play as big a part in who we are and how we use our bodies and this proves a point I am trying to make in my essay. But not to take it away from Janine, what a strong woman, filled with drive and desire and ambition.

[@kellyshaw7271]

Glad someone else had the same thought's too. I think this woman is inspirational but what about the one's out there in the same position without the finances to pick something and be able to do it if you have money to throw at goals. Those are left stewing at home depressed with pipe dreams that sadly will ever remain but dreams.

[@greenmanga987]

I believe it was from the traffic accident payout. You too could have a payout if you went through what she did. Finances are just one excuse that people use. Janine had plenty of excuses and chose to ignore them. I think that's the whole point of the story. Work with what you have now.

[@drewinhou]

I was thinking this to. But not so much where did the money come from, because I am sure if she got hit by a Company utility truck, and the driver was at fault, she got a substantial payout. But I am curious about how she described jumping right into a cockpit of an airplane, even with a trainer. Without first learning and passing the the written exam, as well as obtaining a student pilots certificate, and an aviation medical exam? Not to take away from her extraordinary story, but I am not understanding parts of it.

[@rosethornil]

I also loved her story but an wondering about some of that too. Like, how did she get into an airplane in a body cast?

[@bugrist]

@@greenmanga987 Finances an excuse?? Really? Sorry, not for me.

[@puikwanlam9347]

If only I can give 100000000000000000000000000000000 likes more to her! Thanks for sharing your story!! My body is limited, and I believe it is time to let go of who I thought I should be, too!!

[@haladysheelaprabhuprabhu3024]

Pui Kwan Lam our mind is conditioned from childhood about fear anger etc and limitations too ...if we let go of these then we will rise to a different level ....this battle can be won hands down

[@puikwanlam9347]

Thanks! ^^

[@normbabbitt4325]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This is the anthem of this age, beyond the political maelstroms, biases, stupidities and all the inhumanity that besets our world. This made me cry for joy! This helped me to let go, at least for the moment, all focus on what is wrong and needing to be fixed or stopped or made to happen. This is a beautiful human being with a most beautiful message. Boy, did this touch me to the core of my true being!

[@SavioShetty]

Chairborne to Airborne. that's what this TED talk should be named. *respect*

[@francismarcel2897]

ive been really inspired by this ted talk, i guess my life will change because of this...

[@susanstone4403]

Thank you. You will never know what you saved me from.💙💙💙💙💙

[@melodygodbey3092]

Susan Stone ......you are in my prayers.......Lord I ask you continue to bless her with your Devine Intervention and meet her needs.Amen

[@troywhite1734]

What an inspiration,couldn't stop tearing up. Absolute legend.

[@nicolaspahde5517]

Dear Janine, eventhough you gave this talk 8 years ago, you made me cry today. Thank you for giving me the strength to find new meaning and purpose to my life! I’m so proud of you!! Keep flying high!

[@varmine5099]

This is the best talk I have ever heard. Truly inspiring.

[@Salvation7]

Varmine You are a spirit and you have a character. you cant become aware if your spirit without God's word

[@stephenwilliamson5300]

What an incredible moving true story from an incredibly beautiful, talented brave lady. God bless you.

[@DJayFreeDoo]

The thing she said about getting home and becoming depressed over all the things she had worked for being gone.. A thought came to my mind, When you are born you havn't yet gotten anything you have worked for, your life is new and you are in the present. and you will do what you can do to have a good time within the limits bestowed upon you. you can't yet walk, you can't yet talk, but you can experience and you want to discover. Even if you are severely disabled you can still experience and discover within the boundries set by your body. just the same as when you were born. you were happy, you were sad, you were confused, you had questions, you had so much to look forward to. and you still have all that. you were limited then, you are limited now, physically or mentaly damaged, you are just within a limit as when you were a child and you only moved forward.

[@LAChantrose]

+FreeDooMusic That is one of the best things I've ever heard anyone say. And you are absolutely right. Thank you for sharing that little epiphany, you gave me a much needed perspective shift on my own challenges. Over the past few years I have felt like an infant learning how to do everything all over again, and have been enormously frustrated, traumatized, and depressed to the point of despair (Not anymore, everything's much better now). It never really occured to me to see it as an opportunity to start over, clean slate. But looking back, that is exactly the way it's been.

[@DJayFreeDoo]

+Leigha Chantrose I'm glad to hear that i could be of help. I got a mild asperger syndrome. Others may not notice it, but i do. While it limits me in some ways, it's something i've overcome quite well by looking at those limits in a different way. For me, the main thing i do is to become more self aware. When i know my limits and differences set by my disability, i accept them, challenge them and overcome them. It's almost like striving twards enlightenment of sorts, and evolving. After all, no one would become any wiser if there were no problems to overcome. And in this day and age, there is alot of help to find, and ways to help oneself.

[@studland123]

Gosh, that’s so enlightening. How eloquent.

[@dr.anantchaudri1118]

When any BODY is suffering from any disease, any accident, when any calamity strikes the family, the brain, mind and intellect. all disapear. It is the unassuming ungrateful helpful BODY that, comes in to help spontaineously. All others, jonly wait and watch.

[@dr.anantchaudri1118]

At birth and even later. There was tremendous rejoicing all around. All were relieved that the new born was a human body, nothing else. It was a lesson that all bodies all over the world over were born with a body, A life threatening accident on a holiday, all bones broken coming to normal. Doctors worked day and night reassured all that her body was coming to normal. In the midst of all the celebrations the main persons were totaly forgoten. What was needed was some greatfulness for bringing all to normal. spontaneously. A heart felt thank you from the patient should not have been by passed, being the hard work and dedication by living bodies. Please pardon spelling mistakes

[@summerrose2082]

The best TED speech! very motivational!

[@uniqueone2731]

I have had 12 total back surgeries. I have been through the depression and the pain. I have to say thank you for sharing your story it has opened my eyes and my heart.

[@ZosiaSamosiaOo]

She's also brilliant at writing and delivering speeches.

[@blessygeorge8520]

A survivor's journey. It touched my heart. Made me see that there are so many things that I take for granted. So many things I should be grateful for in my life. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Truly inspirational.

[@kevinokeefe5709]

I’m a stage 4B lung cancer survivor-the cancer had also metastasized to both of my adrenal glands & to my brain where I had a 3.5cm lesion and 4 other “baby” tumors that were found on the MRI. The tumor board at my Catholic Hospital in Fort Lauderdale said that in my advanced state I would be “Lucky to live another year”- That was on July 26, 2015- When I argued that I was only 57, in excellent physical shape and fully insured they said my odds of living another 5 years was 100 to 1. Undeterred, I started my “mission” at that moment. After 4 major operations including the removal of my left lung, my left adrenal gland & brain surgery to remove the tumor- Then Gamma rays shot into my brain, (10 minutes at each tumor, killing each one) My Oncologist left my right adrenal gland in my body- He felt it was better than having no glands an become a victim of Addison’s disease, where you have NO immune system and have to rely strictly on steroids in their place.I had all of this completed by the end of September, 2017. I actually kept working and would use vacation or personal time to have these surgeries. In between these operations I had to forgo gallons of chemotherapy & brand new immunotherapy drugs, as well as at least 50 targeted radiation treatments. Unfortunately, it all became overwhelming and I had to “Retire” from my job of 36 years after about a year into the “Mission”. I became 100% disabled but you still must wait 30 months until you can apply for Medicare. If it wasn’t for the affordable care act, aka “Obamacare” I would have had NO insurance at all and would most certainly be dead. Thanks to the skill of the surgeons and Merck Pharmaceuticals new cancer drug, “KEYTRUDA”, my “10 to 12 months” has turned into 76!! I still have cancer in my right adrenal gland, but with Keytruda and targeted radiation this, my only remaining sign of cancer, has been cut in half and my CEA# (a main blood test to measure carcinogenic cells in your blood) went from an astronomical 136.8 (normal is 3 or less) to 0.50!! Or, the bottom of the scale. I take my “Mission” one day at a time and I stand on a verse from the book of Romans, 8:28, which reads as follows- “God causes ALL THINGS to work together for GOOD to those who love him and are called according to his purpose.”- ALL the credit goes to Jesus who walked through the fire with me- every single step. On April 30th, 2021- I welcomed my first grandchild, Connor Patrick into the world- what an incredible feeling. My world was changed by 180 degrees, and everything I did or people that I knew for DECADES was also changed. Cancer taught me so many lessons, and led me to so many hard working dedicated health professionals that I cannot say enough positive things about them. Every single word we speak or any little act we may do, both good and bad, can make or break someone else’s day…indeed, even their life!! So remember what you have!! It’s all Gods glory and it surrounds you every day!! Be kind to each other and remember that our time here is very brief- so use it wisely. I will go home when my “Mission” is complete. May God Bless you all! 🎚🙏🇺🇸🍀….⏳….

[@loridunstan1129]

Wow. I'm in tears. Your message is so powerful and you tell it so passionately it's impossible not to be moved. I carry my straw high, we are truly all connected and need to focus on our spirits and unconditional love. I love you Janine! Thank you for sharing your amazing story, I will never forget it.

[@Aum_shantishantishanti111]

That was so pure and authentic, bless your heart . Call you braveheart .

[@haleymonson8352]

I'm not sure why someone would dislike this video! So inspirational!

[@chetantayal6542]

Thank you Janine. You are an angel sent for giving us hope and inspiration. The short sharp story of 2 lives, before and after, and method you used to transform, is so powerful. I listen to this every week at least once. Different words shout at me on different days. This morning I heard the sentence about choice. To rebuild life and one has all the options to choose. Such freedom and positivity in your situation. Also the deep and poignant words of " this is not your life, this is life, this is not just your pain, it's pain for everyone". So one keeps fighting or accepting the situation and do something with life. And the magical transformation from "why me to why not me". Thank you for continually helping, motivating inspiring people since then. The choice you had was again, move on for financial reasons, status, or keep in front of people who needed your example everyday, all these years. I am guessing millions of people have done your bidding, make the choice to grow, give back, than 'why me self pity mode' being a taker. Multiply that with books movie articles about you, and you are a certified angel. Not some painting in a church or books, with beautiful myths from ancient times. Maybe they existed. But for a person with cynical logic scientific reasoning, it is not effective. Nice. Calming for the moment maybe. But to make a fundamental difference in values, to inspire one into action and continually strive, I needed a real human who has done it. And shown that " don't tell me never " is not empty rhetoric. My heartfelt thanks to you and your supportive family friends who have stood by you. Believed in you in the early days when it would be critical to be encouraged. It's so easy for well meaning people to quote specialists, about you will never walk so don't waste our time. Especially your parents. Thank you Janine.

[@tickedoffnow]

I choose to not take life for granted now, I'm unbelievably lucky and blessed

[@hrishikeshkelkar79]

hey there, thank you giving hope and inspiration. I am also a paraplegic below chest, and am sitting on the second chair. :-) your story has given me immense hope :)

[@chasinglighttoo]

What an incredible , wonderful lady! She's an inspiration! Thank you Janine! Be Blessed!

[@sarah-5798]

This was beautiful. My favorite Ted talk.

[@joanlantis9833]

judge each other by our spirit not our physicality, wouldnt that be amazing.

[@patriciabailhaodasilva5928]

joan lantis what about not judging at all?

[@BlargeMan]

@@patriciabailhaodasilva5928 making value judgments is important. What we should not do is outright condemn others unless they prove themselves worthy of it beyond a shadow of a doubt.

[@jadendcruz3720]

@@patriciabailhaodasilva5928 That's precisely my thought. It's difficult but not impossible. Work in progress.

[@CoopAssembly]

I am reminded of John and Yoko's "bagism". You put a bag over your head so no one can discriminate. From Wikipedia: "Yoko said that bagism was inspired by the theme of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince, which was "One sees rightly only with the heart, the essential is invisible to the eyes.""

[@melodygodbey3092]

Joan Lantis ............ I love the way you think......

[@Karin6509]

This is the most beautiful, inspiring thing I've EVER heard in my life. I'm at a loss for words. THANK YOU FOR SHARING.

[@janeholmes8202]

This is absolutely sensational! Unbelievably touching! Thank you for telling the story! I cried.

[@ketutrai5682]

You are absolutely talking with your soul

[@susank580]

Incredible Resilience of SPIRIT! Thanks for sharing Janine Shepherd!!!!

[@rebeccaroberts3334]

Janine, what an amazing & inspirational lady you are...!!! I’ve only just discovered my spiritual journey and you are amazing. I raise a straw ton you 🍹(the only one I could find was in a glass!). Thank you for such an inspirational talk 😘

[@phamlinh304]

She could be a comedian too :) anyway... she can be anything she wants to be :)

[@sharonchevalier922]

Wow! Most inspirational TED I’ve ever seen, I think! Eighteen months just blew my mind! I feel like I can certainly reach my goals of physical wellness and increase my stamina after three primary cancers, including losing most of a lung. Inner strength and resolve go incredible distances. I am so grateful I listened to this TED talk. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@sum2automation]

I'm reminded: St Francis, what's looking is what your looking for. Amazing, thanks for sharing your life with the world, very helpful.

[@julianwieser9824]

It was exactly her body in pain that teached her the lession about life. withouth the body, without the pain she probably would not have had her realizations. So, concentrating on bliss without feeling the pain first might lead you in a total different trajectory.

[@MadhusudanDadhich]

Really worth watching and inspiring ! Thanks for sharing.. love it.

[@jennydavis5492]

Yes, definitely need to make a movie about this young lady. I am in awe of her amazing strength of character. We can all learn so much from her experience......I know I have! Thank you for sharing.

[@danseabreeze1404]

GREAT confirmation for me! At 17 (A long time ago) I had a heart virus and left my body feeling a dual consciousness and you've confirmed going through the same thing at 02:25. I had the same feeling of freedom and being carefree from the consciousness outside of my body yet total fear and panic from the consciousness from within my body.

[@egarciaeg420]

that was extremely beautiful

[@clooneytunes117]

this is beautiful, really. It is so inspiritional, and just wonderful. It really puts a perspective on things now. Im glad you got to sharethis with the world

[@arnabbordoloi700]

Thank you **Raise straw**

[@bloom_94white39]

I was having a bad day nt like hers ,but... this is truly inspirational . thank you for telling that story

[@StuartCant]

The most inspirational story I have ever heard. From one of the most amazing women of this world.

[@Growthisinthedirt]

I so needed to hear this and your story. I have chronic pain and just don't know if G'd wants me to cross over or if I have more work to do on Earth. If after these next 2 surgeries go well... I'm going to carry your story as a beacon of light for the rest of my life....Thank you!!

[@crankyyankee7290]

I hope all your best hopes come to be,and all goes as well as it possibly can, I've sort of been there,, I was enjoying searing pain any time I needed to move more than a few inches at a time, and didn't know why(was told it was muscle spasms) it had been increasing a little at a time for months, I was coming to the point that if it was going to continue that way without end, I wasn't so sure I wanted to go on, finally, after 6 months I was 15 min late for a doctors appointment(the pain of getting ready, and getting there delayed things a bit, and the DR refused to see me), a physicians assistant sat with me and listened to what I was relating(had already told the doctor the same things previously, and had been sent for massage therapy, I was starting to get determined to get pain meds that would help, over counter stuff did nothing-had I got them and had the pain masked it would have been a very bad thing as it turned out (turned out my neck -C1, C2, and skull connection had failed to the point of fracture from an infection -massage was exactly what I didn't need. The P.A. listened , and sent me for an MRI at the large medical CTR about 1 block away(by Ambulance-not a good omen) the MRI was done, and I went home(I had been using a Walmart foam neck brace to prevent the pain, so I was using that. the next morning I got a call to come in for another MRI, and to have my neck stabilized on the way(back into an ambulance) while in the medical center after the MRI a surgeon came in and announced "I've called an ambulance for you-(another good omen !) you're going to ( 1 of 2 huge medical centers) and you are going now, and that's where things started to turn around, 2 operations(spinal fusion) -so I got to spend some time in the spinal ward,12 days in the hospital,7 weeks in a halo,2 1/2 months in a nursing home, and I eased my way out to go home with my walker, at first I had to be lifted out of bed to my recliner(at the nursing home) , assisted to even sit up. I well remember my first 4 or 5 faltering steps (1 person on each elbow, one in front, and the wheelchair following me-5 feeble wobbly steps for some, but a huge accomplishment for me,I even got cheers from the nursing station nearby)- so thanks to the therapists I steadily advanced from there, in June I started to wean myself from the Miami collar(I was fitted with that on arrival at the 2nd huge hospital, and that helped eliminate the pain right then) it was replaced with the halo after the operations, then I wore it again when the halo came off. In August I got to take my drivers test over(at 68 years old) Now I can do pretty much anything I want, and in a few days with luck will have my last follow up with the surgeon who put me back together, the only lingering effects are very limited neck movement,(to be expected), the pain is a thing of the past , Sister Morphine helped me escape for a short time, but I have needed nothing for a very long time (stopped needing anything while in the nursing home) If it any help to anyone facing one, a halo(for me anyway)wasn't bad, not really uncomfortable -(contrary to how they look), a bit cumbersome and clumsy, but not bad. In all the experience was valuable, as it taught me a lot of lessons, perhaps worth it, but not one I would willingly volunteer to repeat .- Her trip through her adventure makes mine seem like nothing! She puts me in mind of a lovely female incarnation of Douglas Bader!

[@Growthisinthedirt]

@@crankyyankee7290 thank you!! What a triumphant story. I'm barely walking with stenosis and bone degeneration..at 47 had a hip replaced. Right hip stage 2 of 4 dying. Knees blown. I'm praying hard for recovery. Ive done all the shots and procedures I can do. Not wanting to do the internal pain pump or get on any heavier meds. I'm 52 and bent over like I'm 92. Thanks for sharing ur story. May G'd bless and keep you close all the days of your life!!💕💐💜

[@crankyyankee7290]

@@Growthisinthedirt May you be blessed with all the strength you need and more.

[@Growthisinthedirt]

@Black Health Talk Thanks for your offer. In what way? I still have Chronic Pain... 10+yrs now. I'm beating drums for healing. 🌌☃️

[@Growthisinthedirt]

@Black Health Talk Yw Ofc? Can u please break that down for me?😆 Thank you!!

[@DivaMiaow]

Janine - You are a vast inspiration. It isn't the body that makes one beautiful. It is, instead, the brilliant unquenchable light that shines within and inspires without. Thank you for shining so brightly. Fly HIGH, my girl! You rock!

[@Vurti0]

This is the strongest video i've seen on youtube. And i watched alot of em. Thank you so much!

[@divyaadil4801]

u r one of the strongest people i have heard of!

[@funseeker77]

Such a wonderfully inspiring story. Bless you and Thank you Janine. Namaste

[@ariemulchand]

Namaste dearest!

[@jaobnp]

What an inspiring talk. What an inspiring woman. I had tears watching this, realizing how much I take for granted each day. Don't complain. Let go of who we think we are. Let the spirit soar! I've heard this so many times, but Janine really drove those ideas home with this short talk. Janine is so engaging & a great speaker. Loved this talk!

[@joannemacneil3901]

Just Winging in to say hi from Canada...you are a beautiful Soul...I absolutely love your story...keep soaring my friend!❤️

[@adventurous_bri]

Simply beautiful. & so well put.

[@vettatertiary820]

What a beautiful, moving speech. I loved it.

[@janinefarris2748]

Thank you Miss Janine Shepherd you had a powerful impact on my heart and mind and sparked the creativity that I needed put in Alignment an immediate step that is n keeping with my my dream 4 today so I thank you very much for helping me connecting my straw with yours and many others God bless you and us all

[@howedelamitri]

Don't ever give up, especially in the darkest times. Once you battle through them you'll have the ability to inspire others and sell your story as a book or movie . Keep moving forward 🤘

[@alexc.1745]

Wow, This is the most uplifting thing I've watched in a long time.

[@jeannegilmore]

So thankful she chose to share these amazing insights 🥰

[@veganearthling3102]

You are amazing!

[@ronrendon]

Her story made me cry. It also made me realize that sometimes I need to get OUT of my head and just LET GO AND LET GOD. (God = the universe). So glad I saw this. Will share and come back to it when I start feeling down. xo

[@larissajenkinson1480]

I love this! How incredibly inspirational and powerful this message is! Thank you for the reminder of who we truly are! ❤

[@Fabianelaube]

Wow! I cried with you, beautiful story, so inspiring, thank you!❤️❤️❤️💐💐💐

[@craftydafty1100]

Such a wonderful video, this lady Janine, just shines with light. I feel so happy for you and I am so pleased I watched this.

[@GaryEdge88]

You. Are. An. Amazing. Person. The very definition of indomitable spirit. Thank you very much for sharing your story Janine.