Motivational speaker, author, athlete and double amputee, Kacey McCallister, is returning to Star Valley for his second visit this fall. McCallister is scheduled to present an inspirational message to Lincoln County School District #2 secondary students on October 27-28. Additionally, McCallister has agreed to present a Star Valley community event on Tuesday, October 28 at 7 p.m. in the Star Valley High School auditorium.  Admission to this event is free.

“We are so fortunate to be able to bring this incredible guy to our valley,” said Shelley Hunsaker, who serves as District Librarian with LCSD #2. “Kacey’s personal story of grit and positivity is truly incredible.”

McCallister, who lost both of his legs at the age of six in an accident, shares his motivational message with youth throughout the region. Following the loss of his legs, his parents chose to push him to learn to do things for himself, despite what many would consider physical limitations.

As a youth, he chose to participate in athletics, including baseball, wrestling, and cross country, which he excelled in. He earned high state and district rankings as a senior wrestler and track athlete in high school, and has continued his athletics as an adult, participating in demanding Iron Man races and other racing challenges. His message to young people is that they can do anything, if they choose. “It’s only impossible if you haven’t done it – YET. Just take one more step, and another and another.”

McCallister plans to share the message that “Failure is a great thing. Failure does not mean you stop trying. It means you have now learned what to do differently next time.”

McCallister’s book, “Rise Up!” will be available for purchase that evening. For more information about him, visit riseupwithkacey.com.