Inspirational author to speak Oct. 23 at Newhouse School

Growing up, John Robinson never considered himself an inspiration to others. He was born a congenital amputee and stands 3 feet, 8 inches tall as an adult. Although he has no extension of his arms or legs, he has not been limited in his career or in his personal life. After graduating from the Newhouse School, he went on to work for NBC affiliates in upstate New York and today is the director of corporate support for WMHT, the public broadcasting television station in Albany.

Robinson will talk about his journey at 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 23, in room 434 of Newhouse 3. His story is detailedin his recent book from Syracuse University Press, “Get Off Your Knees: A Story of Faith, Courage, and Determination” (2009).

Robinson’s success did not come easily. From learning how to dress himself after going away to college, to making new friends and feeling accepted, he struggled to come to terms with his disability and make a life on his own.

Robinson writes in an honest, personal voice, showing that a disability does not have to get in the way of an education, a career, a family or one of his favorite hobbies, golf. “Get Off Your Knees” is a touching story and, as Robinson says, is for “anyone who feels they need inspiration, whether it be an individual with a mental or physical disability, parents of children with disabilities, or someone looking to overcome an obstacle in life.”

“I knew John Robinson from the time he was a kid,” says the Rev. V. Gene Robinson, Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire. “He spread light and hope to everyone he met. Now, in this account of his life, John once again spreads light and hope to all who will listen. It will inspire and challenge you, while it makes you eternally grateful for all your blessings. I highly commend it to you.”