Siskin Hospital’s

Possibilities Luncheon

March 12, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.

Life-long athlete, combat army veteran and nine-time gold medalist in the Armed Services Competition, John Register was no stranger to facing fear head-on. Qualifying for the Olympic trials in 1988 and again in 1992, he seemed destined to compete as a member of the 1996 Olympic Team. That all changed on May 17, 1994, when a training misstep altered the course of his life completely.

A faulty hurdle landing hyper-extended John’s left knee, resulting in a severed popliteal artery. Just seven days later, after multiple attempts to repair the damage, John was faced with an impossible decision: keep his leg and be wheelchair bound or amputate and use a prosthetic. With the support of his wife and his Christian faith, he chose amputation and began his rehabilitation journey, while still fearful of what his life would be after his injury.

Returning to his roots, John began using sports in his journey to recovery. During a swim session with a personal coach, John became inspired to compete again. With just 18 months of rehabilitation and training, John qualified and made the 1996 Paralympic Team. Inspired by his fellow Paralympic athletes and wanting to overcome his fear, John began on his next goal – competing in track and field at the 2000 Paralympic Games. He not only competed, but won the Silver medal and set the American long jump record.

Since his injury, John’s exceptional story of courage and overcoming fear has touched the lives of thousands. Serving as an inspirational speaker, he helps his audiences on the journey from fear to freedom.

Possibilities 2024 Recap