Feedback from Speaking Engagements at Youth and/or School Groups

"You provided a message we have been trying to get across to our students for a long time. The population from which our students come from is varied. The majority comes from low economic and educational backgrounds. We have a variety of speakers and presentations in an attempt to motivate and encourage these students to rise above the limitations due to their environment. Your talk was the most effective presentation in the seven years I have taught at this school. Not only did you provide a personal struggle, but you exemplified the success of what an individual can do with determination." Joanne Woods, Learning Disabilities Teacher, Holmes Middle School Washington, DC, May 1994

"On behalf of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council, we would like to express our overwhelming appreciation for your contribution to the NYLC students´ experience. The students were not only excited about this event, but they took it to heart; they immediately began to ponder the ways that they might affect those around them with a tenacity and commitment similar to yours. In fact, one young leader wrote, ´This speech was wonderful. It was so touching and gave me a great saying to take back to my school—Step out of your comfort zone.´" Anne Humphrey, Director, National Young Leaders Conference, December 2000

"This year I was blessed with having the opportunity to introduce Thaddeus to my students. He very effectively demonstrated what I teach by ´walking his talk´ and sharing his accomplishments as well as, himself. The knowledge he has obtained through his experiences with diabetes, a college education and working with the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, coupled with a positive attitude and willingness to achieve his goals effectively demonstrated what we are capable of achieving when we put our minds to it, despite our limitations.

Thaddeus very effectively held the attention of the many students who either had the class or came to listen from other classes/study halls. He public speaking skills are commendable! His personableness is heart warming!" Maureen A. Murphy, Heath/Physical Educator, Mountain View High School, Kingsley, PA, June 1991

"Thank you for sharing your story of inner strength and courage with the students at East Grand Middle School. You are an inspiration to people with and without disabilities. Your perseverance and indomitable spirit are commendable.

The video tape you shared was well done and informative. I was impressed with your ability to interact with an adolescent audience during the question and answer segment. You gave the students confidence by saying, ´That's a great question!´ before responding. It would have taken hours to address all of the students who were waiting for you to answer their questions. You won the respect and admiration of the entire student body, witnessed by their standing ovation. Thank you again, we wish you the best." Jill Stegner, Character Education Teacher, East Grand Middle School, Granby, CO, April 2002

Feedback from Corporate Speaking Engagements

"Your comments hit home with so many of us because you represent what a typical, hardworking individual can do to overcome some not-so-typical challenges. I loved the meeting where you talked about helping your students to experience what it is like to be blind by giving them blindfolds and then playing soccer. That was a profound example of how you have turned a setback into a giant leap forward in your life; that really impressed all of us.

I hope that many more people will get to meet you in your travels…because you touch peoples´ lives in a way that no film or brochure ever could. You will be in my thoughts and prayers daily." Patricia Smith, United Way Campaign Coordinator, Aetna, October 1991

"The story of your life and your positive attitude which gave you the strength and courage to overcome many obstacles gave everyone something to think about in their own lives and in their work as Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives. Your presence was truly inspirational and very motivating. Your quick wit kept the audience attentive and amused." Robert Radie, Director Critical Care East, Eli Lilly and Company

"Thaddeus Neumann is a man of great personal courage, a man who would be a wonderful advocate for diabetes care and the need to improve education on the value of glucose control and how to attain levels of control, and an advocate on the need for improved delivery of care in diabetes. The setbacks he has encountered in his life are significant, but his faith and optimism have left him without bitterness, both positive and an inspiration to those he meets and those who hear him." Glyn Parkin, Executive Director Diabetes Care USA, Eli Lilly and Company, May 2000

Feedback from Speaking Engagements at Churches and Nonprofit Organizations

"A month ago today, the Senior High Youth Group at our church were graced with your presence at our gathering. We want to let you know how much we enjoyed meeting with you and listening to your story. It was an evening all of us will remember for a long time." Bev Bailey, Director of Christian Education and Youth, Potomac Presbyterian Church, Potomac, MD, April 1991

"On behalf of everyone at the Red Cross, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to you for taking the time to join us for our United Way rally.

Your remarks were very inspiring to our staff. A number of them mentioned to me afterward that you are a shining example of the spirit of giving. With your help, so far over half of our staff has contributed to the United Way after only two weeks into the campaign." Mildred Lloyd, Pubic Support Associate & Rally Co-Chair, American Red Cross, National Headquarters, October 1990