Kennesaw, August 20 ─ VJI President and CEO Valerie Jordan and Business Development Coordinator Courtney O’Connor attended “An Evening with Aimee Copeland” event sponsored by Cobb Executive Women on August 19. Copeland, a 24-year-old grad student at the University of West Georgia, became known nationally in 2012 when she had serious complications after an accident.

Copeland was a student at the University of Georgia when she fell while zip-lining with some friends. She suffered a gash in her leg, which became infected with so-called “flesh-eating” bacteria. Doctors worked frantically, first to save her leg and her hands, and then her life when her vital organs shut down. After she recovered, Copeland was fitted with a prosthetic leg and hands after her doctors amputated them to save her life. Now recovered, she works for several community organizations while pursuing her second post-grad degree. She also makes appearances at various community events.

“When I was listening to Aimee, all I could think about is how inspirational this lady is and how she has a very positive outlook on life,” says O’Connor. “Not only does she have a great sense of humor, but she is also very independent.”

Copeland said her experience has changed her for the better. She doesn’t fear death nor does she feel the need to prove herself to others. “Aimee is an ambitious person who has not let the accident get in the way of accomplishing her life goals or taking on new adventures,” says O’Connor. “She said that the cliché’ about enduring hardship is important to remember: It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters. I really admire how she has embraced her situation so positively and continues to take on her life challenges.”

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Valerie Jordan and Courtney O’Connor share a moment with inspirational speaker Aimee Copeland at recent Cobb Executive Women event