Jesse Billauer

On March 25, 1996, on the verge of becoming a professional surfer, Jesse Billauer was surfing at his local break at Zuma Beach in California when he was pushed headfirst into the shallow sandbar, fracturing his neck. Billauer sustained a C-6 complete spinal cord injury, which resulted in quadriplegia. He lost the ability to walk and had limited mobility of his arms and hands. Jesse left the hospital and immediately knew two things: he had to surf again and he had to help others be inspired to follow their passions.

As founder of Life Rolls On Foundation, Jesse now serves as the organization's Director of National Outreach. "LRO is an avenue to hope, independence, freedom, happiness, inspiration, and teamwork," he explains. "It is about bringing people together and changing lives one day, one program, and one person at a time. Each of LRO's amazing programs offers the opportunity for the physically disabled to open their minds, help them forget about their challenges and to be thankful for the opportunity to still be alive."

Featured in the surf epic, "Step Into Liquid," Jesse's life has also been made into an award-winning feature film, "Jesse's Story." Recipient of numerous awards including Nike's Casey Martin Award, Open Hearts Foundation's Sports Award, and the Malibu Surfing Association's Lifetime Achievement Award, Billauer inspires millions of people each year through speaking engagements and television appearances.

To see a list of Jesse's upcoming appearances, visit www.JesseBillauer.com.