Joni Eareckson Tada

Joni Eareckson Tada is a Christian author, speaker, artist, and advocate for people with disabilities, whose inspiring life story has touched millions around the world. Born on October 15, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland, Joni was an active and athletic young woman until a diving accident at the age of 17 left her paralyzed from the neck down. This life-changing event marked the beginning of a profound journey of faith, resilience, and service.

In the years following her accident, Joni turned to her Christian faith for strength and comfort. Despite the challenges of living with quadriplegia, she learned to paint using a brush held in her mouth, and her artwork has since been displayed in galleries worldwide. Her story of finding hope and purpose through her disability became the basis for her autobiography, Joni: The Unforgettable Story of a Young Woman’s Struggle and Triumph (1976), which became a bestseller and has inspired countless individuals facing hardships.

Joni went on to establish the Joni and Friends ministry, a nonprofit organization that serves people with disabilities and their families, advocating for their inclusion and support in churches and communities. Through Joni and Friends, she has led outreach efforts globally, providing wheelchairs, prosthetics, and resources to those in need, as well as promoting disability awareness within the church.

In addition to her ministry work, Joni has authored numerous books and devotionals, and her radio program, Joni and Friends, has reached millions with messages of encouragement and faith. Despite enduring ongoing health struggles, including cancer, Joni’s unwavering faith and determination continue to inspire people of all backgrounds.

Joni Eareckson Tada’s life is a testimony to God's grace and the power of perseverance, and she remains a powerful voice for individuals with disabilities around the world.