Rebekah Gregory
Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor & Mental Health Advocate
Rebekah Gregory
Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor & Mental Health Advocate
Biography
Rebekah Gregory’s life was forever changed due to the bombings at the Boston Marathon on April 15th, 2013. This act of terrorism may have claimed her leg, but it could not claim her spirit.
Forced to leave her normalcy on that Boston sidewalk, Rebekah has devoted the past decade to turning her pain into her life’s purpose.
Today, she is a sought after inspirational speaker, author, coach and Founder of Rebekah’s Angels Foundation, a non-profit that provides funding for mental health therapy for children and families suffering from trauma.
Rebekah travels the world sharing lessons of strength and resilience with audiences of all sorts. Through her gift of humor, and the ability to share from a deep and personal place, she reminds people that no matter what bombs may go off in their own lives, there is life to be lived, even if you are on your last leg!
Speaker Videos
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Speaking highlights
Speaking highlights 2
Speech Topics
Building Resilience to Cross Your Finish Line
Embark on an extraordinary journey with Rebekah Gregory in her compelling talk, "Building Resilience to Cross Your Finish Line." This presentation goes beyond the conventional, offering an authentic exploration of bouncing back from life's most challenging moments—an account that is as relatable as it is profoundly inspiring.
Rebekah's story begins with an act of unparalleled bravery—shielding her son from the Boston Marathon bombing. As she shares her triumphs over adversity, including enduring an astounding 76 surgeries and counting and the loss of her left leg, she challenges the audience to peer into their own lives.
Are they merely surviving, or are they truly living? Rebekah's narrative becomes a catalyst for introspection, urging individuals to confront their challenges with newfound vigor and to embrace every obstacle as an opportunity for personal growth.
From the aftermath of the bombing to the significant act of testifying in the trial of the remaining bomber, Rebekah's experiences resonate universally, prompting the audience to assess their own capacity for resilience. Her journey serves as a mirror, reflecting the untapped strength within each person and compelling them to face difficulties with renewed courage and determination.
Fast forward to Rebekah's triumphant return to Boston, this time as a runner with a prosthetic leg. The audience is invited to consider their own finish lines and the possibilities that lie beyond them. Rebekah's story is a testament to rewriting personal narratives and living with intention, inspiring individuals to approach their goals and aspirations with fresh perspective and resilience.
Addressing the crucial topic of mental health, Rebekah's insights provide practical strategies for fostering resilience. The audience is not only encouraged to reflect on their mental well-being but also assured that they will walk away with the tools to lead more fulfilling lives.
Transforming Pain into Purpose
In this emotionally charged presentation, Rebekah courageously shares her own battle with PTSD in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing—a pivotal chapter in her life that shaped her advocacy for mental health.
Witness Rebekah's unwavering commitment to her own healing journey as she sought trauma therapy not only for herself but also for her son, both deeply affected by the harrowing scenes of the bombing. The audience will be moved by her authenticity as she reveals the challenges she faced in finding comprehensive support, prompting her to take matters into her own hands.
Learn how Rebekah's personal quest for healing led her to establish Rebekah's Angels Foundation, a beacon of hope for individuals navigating their own traumatic experiences. Discover the profound impact of her foundation, providing vital resources and support to those in need, filling the gaps she encountered on her own path to recovery.
“Transforming Pain Into Purpose” offers invaluable insights into how everyone can contribute to their own mental healing. With a message that resonates universally—that everyone faces their own metaphorical bombs in life—Rebekah empowers the audience to embrace vulnerability, acknowledge their pain, and seek the help they deserve.
She Will Rise: Finding Power in Every Woman’s Story
Tailored for women's groups, this presentation combines Rebekah's remarkable story of survival during the Boston Marathon bombing with a heartfelt exploration of the unique challenges women face in society.
Rebekah shares her deeply personal experience of shielding her son during the tragic events in Boston, demonstrating the strength inherent in motherhood and the powerful resilience that women bring to the forefront in times of adversity. As a survivor, she delves into the universal theme of overcoming obstacles and finding strength in the face of life-altering challenges.
This talk is more than a recounting of one woman's journey; it's a call to action for women to recognize the importance of pouring into their own lives. Rebekah addresses the societal pressures and expectations that often weigh heavily on women, emphasizing the need to prioritize self-care and personal growth. Through her story, Rebekah inspires women to rise above societal norms and embrace their innate resilience.
"She Will Rise" is a celebration of the strength and resilience unique to women. Rebekah's message resonates with the challenges faced by women today, offering a roadmap for navigating adversity and finding purpose in every circumstance.
Rising from Adversity: A Survivor’s Tribute to Healthcare Heroes
In this powerful talk, Rebekah Gregory will share her inspiring journey of resilience and gratitude, reflecting on her experience as a survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing. After sustaining life-altering injuries, she endured 76 surgeries and spent months in the hospital, ultimately losing her left leg below the knee. Through this extensive hospital stay and the challenges that followed, Rebekah gained a profound appreciation for the dedication and compassion of healthcare professionals. This speech is not just a personal narrative; it is a heartfelt tribute to those who dedicate their lives to helping others. Rebekah aims to reignite the passion and fire in the careers of her audience, reminding them of the vital role they play in healing and supporting individuals during their most challenging times. Through her story, she will encourage healthcare workers to embrace their purpose and continue their invaluable work with renewed vigor and compassion.