Double Amputee to Bring Message of Acceptance to Area Schools

By Amber Lester Kennedy Sunday, March 06, 2011

Ron Bachman

Due to a birth defect, Bachman had to have his legs amputated at the age of 4. He learned how to walk with his hands, and was eventually fitted with artificial legs. By 18, he had decided the legs were slowing him down and despite conventional wisdom, found he could move faster without them. Now, he’s a motivational speaker who will bring his story to Walsingham Academy and three Williamsburg-James City County schools next week.

Bachman, who worked in radio before becoming a motivational speaker, was taunted and teased as a child. But his family didn’t let him whine or have pity parties, he writes on his web site. “They literally told me that this was my lot in life, that indeed it was a terrible thing, but it could be worse and to get outside and find some friends,” he says. “And that’s exactly what I did. I was very blessed to have a lot of friends at a very early age.”

Bachman’s presentation emphasizes overcoming adversity, dealing with bullies, understanding the power of words and accepting others as well as oneself. He will appear at Williamsburg schools from March 9 to 11.

At 2 p.m. on March 9, he will speak at Clara Byrd Baker Elementary. On March 10, he’ll speak at Lafayette High School at 9 a.m., then deliver his presentation at 1 p.m. to Warhill students. Jamestown High students will hear his presentation at 1 p.m. on March 11.

Bachman will speak from 7 to 9 p.m. on March 11 at Walsingham Academy’s McAuley Auditorium. To RSVP for the event, click here.