Society often defines people by their titles or qualifications in life. However, selfverification comes from deep within ourselves. It comes from overcoming hardship leading to growth. Jason chose to look deep within for evidence of a selfverifying identity.

A yardstick, such a common item, but to Jason Schechterle it represents his goals, feelings, understanding, and life. In 2001, Jason Schechterle survived the impossible. Engulfed by a raging fire, he had 4th degree burns over 40% of his body, blind, and lost half his fingers. Jason made a choice to go three feet a day in his recovery, which came through as forwarding momentum and laughter. Sometimes the most beautiful, inspirational changes will disguise themselves as utter devastation. Be patient.

At the age 26, Jason achieved his goal to work on the streets of Phoenix as a rookie police officer. Then 14 months into his career, Jason’s life took an unexpectedly tragic turn. A catastrophic crash left Jason with lifethreatening injuries. After 50 surgeries, Jason is able to accomplish the daily tasks most take for granted. He now retells his story across the nation letting others know that anyone can overcome their unimaginable circumstance and grow from it.
Jason Schechterle is a native of Phoenix, USAF Veteran, and former Phoenix Police Officer. On March 26th, 2001, Jason was involved in an onduty crash that almost ended his life. He recovered from the lifethreatening burn injuries and returned to work. Today, Jason is a proud father, motivational speaker, and considers himself the luckiest person in the world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx