John McFall

John McFall is a distinguished British Paralympian, trauma and orthopaedic specialist, and motivational speaker who continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his remarkable journey. Following a motorcycle accident at the age of 19 that resulted in the amputation of his right leg, John defied expectations by becoming a professional track and field athlete, specialising in sprinting. He represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland as a T42 Paralympic sprinter and achieved numerous accolades, including a bronze medal in the 100m at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and the title of IWASF World Champion in both the 100m and 200m categories in 2007. His incredible athletic achievements, combined with his resilience and determination, make him a powerful keynote speaker for events focused on overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.

John’s inspiring story extends beyond the athletic field. After retiring from professional athletics, he pursued a career in medicine, graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Cardiff University School of Medicine in 2014. He later became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons and is currently a Trauma and Orthopaedic Specialist Registrar in the south of England. His dedication to his medical career is evident from his recognition as a runner-up for the Queen Alexandra Hospital Junior Doctor Awards in 2018 and his various research contributions, including receiving the John Charnley Trust Research Bursary. John’s experience in both medicine and sport allows him to deliver unique insights on perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

In 2022, John McFall broke new ground once again by becoming a member of the European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut reserve. Selected for the “Fly!” feasibility study, he is part of a pioneering initiative to explore the potential for astronauts with physical disabilities to participate in space missions. This bold move by the ESA is a testament to John’s relentless spirit and ability to break barriers, proving that disabilities need not limit one’s potential. His journey to becoming a “para-astronaut” serves as a testament to his unyielding determination and vision for inclusivity in all aspects of life, making him an ideal speaker for organisations seeking to inspire change and innovation.

Beyond his professional endeavours, John McFall remains actively involved in mentoring and community service. He served as a mentor for the Paralympic Inspiration Programme in 2012, helping to guide aspiring Paralympians, and was an ambassador for the International Paralympic Committee during the London 2012 Paralympic Games. His commitment to supporting others and his personal story of overcoming significant challenges provide a powerful message of hope and inspiration, making him a highly sought-after speaker for conferences, corporate events, and educational institutions.