He Made Us Better

Going for the “W”

Peter Boone was born with a serious birth defect that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Then when he was eleven years old, trauma to his brainstem caused him to lose his ability to talk, eat normally, and breathe without the assistance of oxygen and a ventilator at night. More than 80 surgeries—many critical—and long hospital stays were a way of life.

So how did Peter handle all of this adversity? Through faith, courage, determination, a passion for sports, a zest for life, and the love and support of family and friends, he became one of the happiest, most fun-loving people around. He regularly stepped out of his comfort zone, viewed obstacles as just challenges to be overcome, and continually amazed his family, friends, and doctors. He even made it into Sports Illustrated!

Along the way, he learned how to use his disabilities as an opportunity to give back and serve others with challenges through Joni and Friends Family Retreats. He also found avenues of service in his church and work. His courageous and positive approach to life both inspired and made an indelible impact on countless friends and acquaintances. And it caused many to take a second look at how they view and approach their own lives. Let Peter and this collection of funny, heartwarming and poignant stories challenge you to “elevate your game” too!