Keynote Speaker

Specialist Steven C. Baskis

In 2008, while serving in Baghdad, Iraq, Specialist Baskis suffered severe wounds by an improvised explosive device. He lost his sight and suffered multiple shrapnel injuries to his head, neck, arms and legs. Steve endured significant blood loss, hearing loss, loss of smell, and nerve damage to his left arm.  Thanks to his courageous and selfless service, Steve was immediately awarded the Purple Heart Medal by the US President.

Today, nearly a dozen years post his original injuries, Steve is an established author, presenter, athlete, motivational speaker, and a trailblazer in the adaptive community bringing more opportunities and understanding to people with loss of sight. I am sure you will find his perspective moving beyond words.