Lightning Strike Survivor’s Second Chance Inspires Nationwide Impact

Richard Rogers was an ordinary man, living an ordinary life, until one fateful day in 1995 when a lightning strike would forever change his existence. Asleep in a hunting cabin with his two sons and a friend, a bolt of lightning tore through the roof, hitting Rogers directly. The impact was so severe it stopped his heart and ignited his body.

Rogers recalls the harrowing incident with a depth of emotion that is palpable. “I didn’t wake up,” he shared with CBS News. “I was dead.”

In the midst of this life-threatening situation, one of his sons began CPR, while Rogers experienced an out-of-body phenomenon. After a grueling two hours, rescuers managed to transport him to a burn center in Chattanooga. It was here, in the throes of his fight for survival, that Rogers made a solemn vow. “I sat up in bed and I prayed,” Rogers recounted. “It was, ‘If you will let me live, I don’t want to live for me. I want to live for others that I can help.’”

Despite the lingering effects of the lightning strike, such as impaired balance and hearing, and visible scars, Rogers has remained steadfast in his commitment to his promise. Today, he is the founder of the Just One More Foundation, a charitable organization that has granted $120,000 to individuals across 17 states, offering them a second chance at life.

Rogers’ resilience is not limited to his personal life. He is also the Chairman of the U. S. Stove Company, a business he inherited from his father, who tragically took his own life. When the company faced financial difficulties, Rogers and his family refused to declare bankruptcy or abandon the business. Their hard work paid off, and the company is now a successful enterprise with a 150-year history of serving customers.

“The doctors told me I would never walk again, and so I proved them wrong there,” Rogers stated, demonstrating his indomitable spirit.

In addition to the Just One More Foundation, Rogers is involved in other philanthropic endeavors in his community. His company collaborates with The Launch Pad in Chattanooga, constructing homes for women who are overcoming drug addiction.

Scottie Bowman, a beneficiary of The Launch Pad, noted the similarities between his and Rogers’ stories. “What Richard likes about his and my story is that they correlate so closely together because we’ve both been given a second chance at life,” he said.

The Just One More Foundation offers second chances through grants to individuals and nonprofit organizations. These grants, which prioritize education, health challenges, mental health, and drug misuse, provide the necessary resources for recipients to “rise again.”

The foundation’s website not only facilitates the grant application process but also provides links to other resources and information about local events. Revenue from the foundation’s shop goes towards funding these life-changing grants.

The notion of second chances is a powerful one. It acknowledges our human propensity for mistakes, while also offering the opportunity for growth and improvement.

When we give someone a second chance, we allow them to demonstrate their capacity to learn from past experiences. This act of forgiveness can also be beneficial to us, reducing stress levels and potentially strengthening relationships.

The recipient of a second chance often experiences a sense of relief and gratitude, which can motivate them to strive for better. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all situations warrant a second chance, especially when the actions have caused significant harm.

For Rogers, the risk is worth taking. He believes that a lack of resources or opportunities often hinders people from achieving success. His philanthropic work is a testament to the power of second chances, as he continues to change lives, one person at a time.

Our Thoughts

Richard Rogers’ story is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. It’s an inspiring narrative that illustrates how tragedy can be transformed into a purposeful mission for the betterment of others.

The lightning strike was a life-altering event, but Rogers chose to view it as a call to action. His promise to live for others is a powerful reminder of the potential we all have to effect change.

Rogers’ commitment to his promise, despite the physical and emotional scars from the lightning strike, is commendable. His charitable work through the Just One More Foundation is a tangible manifestation of his vow.

His actions exemplify the concept of second chances, a principle that underpins his foundation’s work. This sentiment resonates deeply with us, as it acknowledges our shared human fallibility and the potential for redemption.

Rogers’ story is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of second chances. It demonstrates how adversity can be a catalyst for change, inspiring us to strive for a better future not just for ourselves, but for others as well.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source