He was given a 1% chance. He chose to live.
Friday, August 14, 2026, 7:00 PM Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, KS
His story
What happens when everything falls apart?
At age 9, John O’Leary was burned on 100% of his body. His doctors gave him a 1% chance to live.
His mother didn’t comfort him with a lie. She looked at her son and asked:
“John, do you want to die? It’s your choice, not mine.”
His mother, at his hospital bedside
He said: “Mom, I don’t want to die. I want to live.”
That choice set the course for everything that followed.
The message
Faith. How does your faith impact your ability to cope?
Using his story as a framework, John will challenge you to look honestly at how faith is showing up in your own life.
- How faith sustains us when tragedy strikes, and why hope is the most powerful response we can choose
- The reality that life has far less to do with what happens to us, and far more to do with how we respond
- How to move from a victim mindset to a victor mindset, especially when circumstances feel beyond our control
- Practical encouragement for families navigating hardship together, and how the people around us shape our ability to face it
“There is always hope, regardless of the challenge.”
The Speaker
About John O’Leary
John O’Leary has spoken to millions of people across 49 states and dozens of countries. He is the author of “On Fire” and “In Awe,” both instant #1 national bestsellers.
His award-winning Live Inspired Podcast has surpassed seven million downloads, featuring guests such as Brené Brown, Mitch Albom, and Bob Costas.
He is married to his wife Beth and they have four children.
Details
Event Details
Who
Men, women, and families are welcome
Children 12+ recommended
Casual attire
What
75 to 90-minute presentation
followed by Q&A with John
When
Friday, August 14, 2026
7:00 PM
Where
Church of the Ascension
9510 W 127th St
Overland Park, KS 66213
Tickets
Register for the Evening
First ticket
$20
Your seat for the evening
Additional family tickets
$30
Total for up to 3 additional tickets
