Joni Eareckson Tada

Joni Eareckson Tada is the founder and president of JAF Ministries (Joni and Friends), an organization that accelerates Christian outreach in the disability community. A driving accident in1967 left Joni a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the sholders down. Living most of her life in a wheelchair has taught her many things, such as how to paint by holding pencils and brushes in her teeth. She catalogued the story of her life in her first book, Joni, which has been translated in over 40 languages. Through JAF Ministries, Joni has strived to pass on encouragement to other people with disabilities and their families worldwide. Of the scores of awards and honors presented to her, Joni most often refers to her appointment to the National Council on Disability under Presidents Reagan and Bush. She has actively campaigned as a disability advocate, always seeking to promote a Christian perspective on issues that affect people with disabilities. Joni and her husband, Ken, have been married for over 13 years and make their home in Calabasas, California.