Inspirational Cyclist

Louise was among a squad of six cyclists training on country roads in Germany when an oncoming, out of control car hit the pack leaving them scattered and one of their team mates dead. Louise recounts her three year journey to “normality" in her powerful and emotional presentation. Courage and strength, depression and forgiveness – her experience covers the full gamut of emotion. Louise is regularly called upon to share her heartfelt story to inspire and motivate others.

In July 2005, Louise Yaxley's life took an unexpected turn.

Life changed forever for Louise whilst she was training with her teammates, the Australian Institute of Sport Women’s Road Cycling Team, in preparation for the World Championships.

On a quiet country road, an oncoming, out of control car hit the entire team of six and left them scattered on the road.

In an instant Louise lost her friend and teammate Amy Gillett, and was herself within minutes of bleeding to death on the back roads of Germany.

Eight days later Louise finally awoke from a coma, only remembering the words her Father had spoken whilst on vigil at her bedside, “You’re going to be ok, you’re still alive, you are the lucky one".

“The lucky one", from then on Louise had a motto, which gave her the courage and strength to undergo three years of rebuilding her life through a painful journey back to “normality".

By 2008 after numerous operations and hours of rehabilitation, Louise has surfaced with many “survival skills" that now enable her to handle anything life may throw at her.

Presentation

In a presentation that is "Powerful" "Emotional" and "Impactful", Louise shares a heartfelt story that covers the full spectrum of emotions, from forgiveness, loss and depression, to motivation, determination and success. Through a journey of pain and achievements, “I have learned that life and success is about remembering that":

1. The harder the challenge, the greater the rewards
2. Being determined
3. Enjoy the process
4. Staying Motivated
5. Focusing on the road ahead

With an infectious positive attitude and highly engaging style Louise is now asked to inspire others to get the most from their life journey, by sharing her road so far.

You will be moved, inspired and challenged by Louise's story

Testimonials

“Over 300 hard nosed businessman from across the trades and hardware, and not a dry eye in the house, she was powerful, engaging and an inspiration."
John Danks & Son

“250 Office professionals, you could hear a pin drop and then the room broke into applause."
Australian Institute of Office Professionals

“One of the best speakers I have seen for years, natural and powerful. A story about the power of the human spirit."
Graeme Alford, author of “Never Give-Up" and professional speaker

“In my 28 year career in the Plumbing & Building industry, I have heard many of guest speakers, at various types of conferences. Louise, you have taken first place !! Having over 400 people in the audience, I have never heard silence like it before, along with the Tears. Your journey is the epitome of courage, coupled with extreme sadness, you are an inspiration to all."
Everhard Industries Pty Ltd

“Your moving story was so inspirational and made each and every one really access what it truly important in life (our family and our life). On what I’m sure is a difficult story to retell not to mention in front of so many faces, you truly captivated the audience & so naturally. Our committee received so much wonderful feedback about you. Well done Louise!!"
Australian Women Of The Year Awards

“Louise has a great story of inspiration and overcoming adversity to tell. She held the audience in total silence with many emotionally touched by her story. Louise was fantastic"
AMCA - Air Conditioning & Mechanical