Melissa Stockwell: USA Paralympian

Quick Facts:

Highlights:
  • Stockwell’s journey took an unexpected turn when she made history as the first female American soldier to lose a limb in active combat during the Iraq War. 
  • Undeterred by her injuries, Stockwell channeled her indomitable spirit into competitive sports, ultimately becoming a Paralympic champion.
  • Her remarkable achievements in Paratriathlon, including a bronze medal at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, showcase her unparalleled determination and athletic prowess.
  • Melissa Stockwell’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals facing adversity. 


Formats Available:

Preferred Audiences:

Outcomes:
Reviews: (1 reviews)
5/5
  • Travels from: Colorado, USA
  • **Fee range: $20,001 - $35,000

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

If you ask Melissa Stockwell to describe herself one of the first things you’ll hear is, “I am a Patriot, a lover of the red, the white and the blue.” So much so that she had an American flag stitched to the inside of her wedding dress.

Melissa Stockwell proudly wore the uniform of the United States Army, where she very nearly made the ultimate sacrifice for her country. Today, she proudly wears the uniform of Team USA as a World Champion athlete.

Melissa Stockwell shares her remarkable story, from the battlefields of Bagdad to the Paralympic Games, in an emotionally powerful presentation that leaves audiences inspired to see ability not disability, to maximize what you do have and forget about what you don’t and to apply, as she details, “…the amazing power of choice.”

Melissa Stockwell may appear to be the quintessential Midwestern All-American girl, but her story goes far beyond the surface. She is an American war hero, a Paralympic medalist, a World Champion, and a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals around the world. Melissa’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to turning adversity into opportunity.

Born and raised in the heartland of America, Melissa Stockwell’s life took a dramatic turn when she made the courageous decision to serve her country. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, Melissa deployed to Iraq in 2004 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Tragically, during a routine convoy, her vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb, resulting in the loss of her left leg above the knee. While many would have been defined by such a traumatic event, Melissa refused to let her circumstances dictate her future. Instead, she turned her setback into a platform for empowerment and embarked on a remarkable journey of resilience and achievement.

Melissa’s path to greatness began with her determination to overcome the physical and emotional challenges of her injury. Through perseverance and unwavering resolve, she embraced adaptive sports as a means of rehabilitation and self-discovery. In 2008, Melissa made history as the first female American soldier to lose a limb in active combat, and she continued to make history as she became a Paralympic athlete.

As a competitive swimmer, Melissa Stockwell represented Team USA at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, marking the beginning of her extraordinary athletic career. She went on to compete in the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where she captured the hearts of millions and earned a bronze medal in the triathlon—an accomplishment that solidified her status as a world-class athlete.

Melissa’s achievements extend far beyond the realm of sports. She is a two-time World Champion in paratriathlon, a sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running. Her dedication to excellence and her unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible serve as an inspiration to all who have faced adversity.

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Melissa Stockwell is a passionate advocate for wounded veterans and individuals with disabilities. Through her work with various nonprofit organizations, including the Wounded Warrior Project and the Challenged Athletes Foundation, she strives to empower others to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams.

In conclusion, Melissa Stockwell is more than just a Paralympic champion—she is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. As a keynote speaker, she captivates audiences with her inspirational journey and empowers them to overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and live their best lives.

Booking Melissa Stockwell through Speakers Inc is an investment in inspiration, motivation, and lasting positive change.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Melissa Stockwell

Talent Resources

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

You may be interested in...

  • (14)
Alyssa Milano

Alyssa Milano is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry, known for her dynamic presence both on and off the screen. With a career spanning over three decades, Milano has captivated audiences worldwide through her diverse acting roles and engaging persona. Beyond her impressive acting credentials, she has established herself as a sought-after event host, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Celebrity Emcees
  • (36)
Jamie Clark

Jamie Clarke is a trailblazing adventurer, sought-after motivational speaker, and resilience expert. Known for his dynamic, captivating keynotes, Jamie draws upon his experiences as a mountaineer and expedition leader, having successfully summited Mount Everest twice and crossed the Arabian Desert by camel. Jamie’s messages on overcoming adversity, pushing limits, and cultivating resilience resonate powerfully with […]

  • Travels from: Calgary, AB
  • Adventure Speakers
  • (41)
Brett King

Brett King is a world-renowned futurist and speaker, recognized for his profound insights into the future of business, technology, and society. As an International Bestselling Author and media personality, King has captivated audiences worldwide with his compelling narratives on the digital revolution and its implications.  King’s illustrious career is marked by his relentless pursuit of […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (11)
  • (1)

Tracy Tutor is a dynamic and influential figure in the world of real estate and motivational speaking. As a top agent at Douglas Elliman, Tracy has carved out a remarkable career characterized by her tenacity, charisma, and unparalleled expertise in high-end properties. Her prominence skyrocketed when she became a star on Bravo’s “Million Dollar Listing […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (21)
Anthony Trucks

Anthony Trucks is not your average motivational speaker. With a remarkable journey that encapsulates resilience, determination, and the power of identity transformation, he has captivated audiences worldwide. From his humble beginnings in the foster care system to the pinnacle of professional football and beyond, Trucks’ story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to […]

  • Travels from: Antioch, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (22)
  • (2)
Tom Turcich

Tom Turcich is not just a keynote speaker; he’s a living testament to the power of human resilience, the spirit of adventure, and the boundless possibilities of the human experience. As the tenth person to walk around the world and the first to do so with a dog, Tom Turcich has captured the world’s imagination […]

  • Travels from: Cincinnati, OH
  • Adventure Speakers
  • (10)

Dr. Nido Qubein came to the United States as a teenager with little knowledge of English and only $50 in his pocket. His journey has been an amazing success story. The Biography Channel and CNBC aired his life story titled “A Life of Success and Significance.” As an educator, Dr. Nido Qubein is president of High Point […]

  • Travels from: High Point, NC
  • Communication Speakers
  • (28)
Barbara Niven

Barbara Niven has been one of Hollywood’s busiest actresses for over 30 years, and she says she is blessed and grateful to make a living does what she loves. During her career she has appeared in more than 100 film and TV roles, over 2500 TV & radio commercials, and as host in many shows […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Marketing Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel

Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.