Joni Eareckson Tada

Guide Note:

Joni Eareckson Tada, a writer, artist and devout Christian, in 1979 founded Joni and Friends, a Christian organization that helps people with disabilities by extending the message of Christ into their lives.

In July 1967, she broke her neck during a diving accident, and became a quadriplegic. Following the accident, she learned to paint by holding the brush in her mouth. With therapy, she learned how to move her arms again, allowing her to drive in a specially adapted van. Her story was chronicled in several autobiographical books as well as in the film Joni.

Tada credits her faith for helping her following the accident. She created Joni and Friends to assist others with disabilities to discover how faith can help them in their struggles as well.

She has since continued to paint and also released a musical album, Spirit Wings, in 1982.

Fast Facts:

  1. Born: October 15, 1949
  2. Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland
  3. July 1967: Broke her neck at age of 17 in driving accident
  4. 1982: Married Ken Tada on July 3rd
  5. Begged family and friends to help her die
  6. Credits God for continued good health
  7. Paints with brush in her teeth
  8. Drives specially adapted van

The Mahalo Top 7

  1. Official Website: Joni and Friends
  2. Wikipedia: Joni Eareckson Tada
  3. Google Books: Joni Eareckson Tada Books
  4. BBC: Joni Eareckson Tada Interview (2007)
  5. Christianity Today: "A Heaven Made Activist" Joni Eareckson Tada Profile (January 1, 2004)  Mary: A look at being paralyzed
  6. Reformed Theological Seminary: Joni Eareckson Tada Interview (1999)
  7. YouTube Video: Joni Eareckson Tada (Time: 9:49)


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