"POWERFUL!! As a mother and a health & safety advisor, I found John's talk riveting and heart-wrenching. Understanding the preciousness of life and what happens in an instant does not define the end, but a beautiful new chapter."
"John's speaking session was immensely moving and personal. As someone who does a lot of driving in both my personal and professional life, there were certainly a lot of important reminders to keep at the forefront of my mind. We are all guilty of days where we feel rushed, grumpy, etc. Where we've driven a little too aggressively, a little too fast, or a little too far when we get tired. Thank you so much for sharing your story and having the courage to relive that night, so that you can prevent similar incidents from happening. If you've been looking for a speaker to be at your event, look no further. I sincerely cannot recommend John enough!"
Morgan Paulson NCSO & GSC Safety Professional Maple Reinders Constructors Ltd.
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Your story was very heart touching and it made me realize that how much we are needed to our family and friends. Especially the part in which you said to put ourselves in your shoes put me in a deep thinking and shock for couple of minutes. It needs a lot of courage for one to come out of that trauma and motivate others to do better everyday, every time they drive. I also shared your story with my family to make them know that how much they matter to me and they always need to be safe while they drive. Your talk is life changing and we take driving risks more often than any other kind, you sharing the story is a symbol of Strength, Motivation, Positive Change and Love for our family and friends! Thanks again for all those great and kind words.
Kind regards, Ann Sandhu
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"John’s message was very clear and would benefit anyone who is struggling with some of life’s challenges. John is a true Survivor and gives back so much to his fellow survivors and for that we are grateful."
Deborah Blaney Ward
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"I have seen John present on a few occasions. He spoke at a virtual conference with the Canadian Burn Survivors Community, a virtual session with the Ontario burn group, as well as when he was the keynote speaker at a conference in Winnipeg. Each time was unique, and John challenges the audience to think more critically about their own perspectives. Both virtually and in person, I was thoroughly engaged every time I got to experience John's presentations. If you want a speaker that is powerful, honest, and thought provoking, I recommend John for your next event!"
Victoria V.
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"I had the pleasure of listening to John Westhaver speak at the Mamingwey Burn Conference, and I enjoyed both of his presentations. His presentation on "UnLabelling" was insightful, interactive, and energetic. It never occurred to me how we unconsciously add these labels to us and carry them throughout our lives. It's a heavy load. By the end of his presentation, I was feeling free from labels. I am more than labels. I highly recommend John to any audience; he has a powerful story to share and a unique way of getting his message across. Thank you, John."
Athanasia H *********************
Student testimonials
“Your story is very inspiring and I thank you for sharing. “
****************** “You are amazing! Your story is so inspirational and I really enjoyed listening to it.”
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“Hi, I just wanted to tell you to thank you for sharing your story with us. It really touched my heart and it opened my eyes that even the smallest decisions have consequences. I feel lucky that I came to school today and I feel lucky that I was one of the many you shared your story with. Thank you so much!”
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“I'm in grade 11, and John came to my school, Carson Graham Secondary. He really touched my heart and made me think about how I should be careful about my choices, and his speech gave me a better perspective on life and what actions can lead to. I hope my peers also listened to what he said because it will definitely help another youth in making decisions from knowing someone's life-changing experience.”
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Dear John, I would like to thank you for speaking to my class and me on Wednesday. I think that it is so brave of you to speak out about your story and what happened to you. I am so sorry for what happened to you all those years ago and I hope that you can find peace. Thank you for everything and I hope you live a wonderful life full of joy and happiness. Sincerely,
Andrew M
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"I'm a student from SHSS that heard your talk today. I just wanted to say thank you for coming to our school and sharing your story with us. It was truly amazing. In that moment, I felt so overwhelmingly filled with emotions. I cannot believe what you've been through and that's why I thank you for being so courageous and humble. You are making a change. Thank you." Mia
********************* "My name is Cameron and I am a student at Wellington Secondary School. Given the opportunity to listen to your presentation, I would like to thank you again for taking the time to come to the school to speak to us and share your story. Your story has resonated with me, and I am grateful for having the chance to hear it." Cameron *********************
Client testimonials
"John’s message rings loud and clear, with both students and adults. From his battle with horrific tragedy to his celebration of an amazing life. His challenge for us to take responsibility for our choices and be the active director of our future is simply inspiring. John’s presentation comes straight from the heart and is received by his audience in the same fashion. Mixing raw emotion with sharp wit and a clear message makes for an amazingly powerful presentation."
Jeff Nelson Principal Quispamsis Middle School
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"The sessions on Resiliency, Responsibility and Safety that John Westhaver provided the students of Kumsheen ShchEma-meet were first-class. Mr. Westhaver's questions and medium of presentation made not only the students self-reflect, but multiple staff made the comment that their thinking has been changed, too. For example, a student wrote in their response to one of Mr. Westhaver's questions, "...I have to look at things differently and take things more seriously. I'd want to apply his strength to keep going even though it's rough." In the future, our school will definitely be working with John Westhaver again."
Shawn Merkle Principal Kumsheen ShchEma-meet School
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"In the spring of 1994 John Westhaver was a senior at St. Stephen High School and at that time I was a Vice Principal at the school. John was the lone survivor of a single vehicle accident that claimed the lives of three of his closest friends. John suffered serious injuries and burns to a large percentage of his body. From this terrible tragedy, John has made it his life’s passion to share his experience and prevent similar accidents from occurring. He has now spoken to thousands of students across North America from his Victoria base. I welcomed John back to St. Stephen High four years ago to address our student body and will do the same this coming fall. His presentation gave a lasting impression and in my mind is a must see/hear for all adolescents. Congratulations John on the tremendous work you are doing." Jamie Waycott Principal St. Stephen High School
********************* John Westhaver is an amazing man! I have heard John tell his story of survival and recovery after a horrific car crash several times. He is very inspirational and I take something new away every time I hear him. At our most recent Mamingwey Burn Society conference, John presented a new session that he called “UnLabelling Myself”, where he encouraged all survivors to see themselves beyond their burns. This is a very important message and it was delivered in a kind, caring, and empowering way to our audience. John lives a message of hope as he shared that his scars do not define him; he exemplifies dignity, caring and by living the life he leads, he proves that life’s struggles give one strength. I would highly recommend John to any audience, and will share some responses directly from our attendees. "I found that with John Westhaver's presentation, he was such a captivating speaker that I didn't even realize how much time had passed and was surprised when he was done." "John Westhaver's "UnLabelling Myself" was especially thought-provoking. As a burn survivor, I struggle with this…" John is a true leader, and his message will blow you away!
Barbara-Anne Hodge Chair, Mamingwey Burn Society Inc. Co-Chair, Canadian Burn Survivors Community
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"I've heard from so many folks that really thought the sessions were impactful and on target. The main sponsor said she was proud to have her company's name on the event. We appreciate your message so much."
Scott W. Scheffler Executive Director Permian Road Safety Coalition
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"John has presented to our students multiple times over the years. He connects well with students and his story, told simply and clearly, resonates with every student in the audience. After his presentations, many students chose to stay and speak with him more informally, and every one of those students said John’s presentation will leave a lasting impression with them and will help them make wiser decisions when they step into a vehicle."
Antony Blaikie Vice-Principal, Outdoor Education Teacher Howe Sound Secondary School
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"Thanks again for coming to Belleisle High. I have heard many great comments on your talk from both students and teachers. One was from our principal who was at the presentation who said he was amazed at the attention that the students were giving you. As you know, students can sometimes be chatty at these, but you held the students attention. Keep up the good work! Your message is a great one! Oh, by the way, you are AWESOME!! Thanks again,"
Kim Giddens Belleisle Regional High School Athletic Director
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"King George and myself want to send a big thank you out too you! It was truly amazing to have you at KG and speak to our grade 11/12's, in which they have expressed great gratitude. Your story expressed towards staff and students left a very powerful meaning and we truly appreciate you opening up and letting us hear that."
Josh Morabito SACY Youth Engagement and Prevention
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"Your presentation was poignant, and came from a place of genuine care for young people and the choices they will make. Your willingness to answer personal questions honestly at the end of the presentation was a testament to this. Our students responded to your authenticity with a standing ovation. Thank you John for your courage and commitment to continue to tell your story and make a difference in youths’ lives."
Andrea Felix Brentwood College School
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"Dear Sponsors of the Zero Fatalities, Your support of John Westhaver's Zero Fatalities Tour is so greatly appreciated. I am an educator with over 20 years of experience and it is presentations like John's that our youth desperately need to experience. John's presentation will save lives because his message is meaningful, timely and resonates with young people. He made a tremendous impact on our students and I am confident he has helped youth across Canada make better decisions. Without support of generous sponsors like your company this would not have been possible. In effect, your support has also saved lives - we are very grateful for the opportunity you helped create."
Jody Miller, M. Ed Vice Principal | Athletic Director South Colchester Academy
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“John’s story, while difficult to hear, really engaged the students for a whole hour. One student said to him afterwards, “I was impacted by the fact that you had a designated driver and there was still a crash.” He shares that there are four areas to consider when getting into a car with someone or operating a car themselves; Impairment, Speeding, Distractions and Seatbelts. He invites them to listen to that voice in their head and to have the courage to speak up. He reminds them that they have choices. John’s willingness to share his experience and the “hell” he went through allowed students to make an emotional connection with him that I believe will make a difference.”
Sandra Pond Principal Charles Hays Secondary School
Parent testimonials
"My name is Kathy Cormack and I am a teacher at HSSS and a parent of a grade 12 student. I felt the need to contact you about the amazing presentation that your speaker did at the school on Wednesday. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to attend personally but my son found it very powerful. That says a lot as he and his friends are exactly the target audience for this talk. Several of them have lost their licences for speeding and others just haven’t gotten the ticket yet, but still drive far too fast. Your presenter had a very powerful message that he relayed in a way that really connected with our kids. My son was especially touched by the connection of how one’s actions effect others in our lives- friends and parents. I’m hoping that you can forward my message to the presenter so that he realizes what a powerful impact he made. My son is normally a young man of few words but he spent about 30 minutes telling the family about the entire presentation. So I wanted to send a big THANK YOU! The presentation may very well have saved a life. Thank you," Kathy Cormack
********************* "As a parent of 2 teenage boys, John's story was very powerful. It brought home how one night can change the lives of so many, the importance of choices and what a great example John is for overcoming adversity. Very pleased to have the opportunity to hear John speak."