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“Adversity has proven my mission to show the world that no matter what happens to you, you can adapt and overcome,” said Weiland.
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WIU Alumnus Faces Adversity Head-On

December 8, 2022

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University alumnus, author, motivational speaker, amputee, firefighter, USA para-athlete and ninja warrior Gary Weiland has faced much adversity throughout his life.

"Adversity has proven my mission to show the world that no matter what happens to you, you can adapt and overcome," said Weiland.

Weiland graduated in 2005 with a degree from the WIU Board of Trustees program (also formerly known as the Board of Governors program and currently known as General Studies). Weiland's experience in college was not traditional, being married with two children and working full time all while attending Western full time.

"I originally wanted to be a teacher, but as my wife and I began to have children, I understood that a teacher's salary was going to be tough," said Weiland.

Following graduation, Wieland put himself through the Fire Academy and EMT school and was quickly hired in Denton, TX, in 2011. Seven years into being a Firefighter, Wieland experienced a series of unfortunate events that eventually led him to some great success.

"My leg was amputated just below my knee," said Weiland. "I decided that this tragedy was not going to end my career and passion for fighting fire. 10 months and six days after my amputation, I was back on the fire truck, full-duty, no restrictions. My faith, family and fortitude were the driving factors in getting back to being a firefighter."

Since Weiland's amputation, he has been honored with the ServPro First Responder of the Year Award as well as the Chief's Distinction Award given to Wieland by the Fire Chief.

After facing adversity head-on, Weiland has since become a Motivational Speaker, traveling the country, speaking at schools, churches and business conferences about overcoming obstacles and challenges in life and how to never give up, no matter what. His motto: "Adapt and Overcome."

"I started my own Brand called A&O, which stands for Adapt and Overcome," said Weiland. "My hope is that when people wear the A&O logo, they will have the motivation and confidence to tackle any challenge in life. I want to build some mental strength in this world."

Weiland has accomplished a lot in his life since facing tragedy including competing in the USA Paralympics, advancing to the finals of American Ninja Warrior and most recently becoming the author of multiple children's books.

"My purpose in writing this series is for a few reasons," said Wieland. "I want to take the "shock factor" away from kids when they see an amputee for the first time. Additionally, my books will show that the main characters look a little different than most people but still live amazing lives. These reasons normalize our differences in society. After all, our differences are what make us human."

Weiland reflects on his life before the tragedy and is grateful for his time at WIU. When asked what was one piece of advice he would give a current WIU student, Wieland chose the joy in life.

"Enjoy this time in your life. It goes quickly," said Weiland. "Try to get as much out of each class as possible by talking to your professors. They want you to succeed and care about each and every one of you."

For more information on WIU's General Studies program, visit wiu.edu/academics/majors/general-studies.php

For more information on WIU's General Studies program, visit wiu.edu/academics/majors/general-studies.php

Posted By: Lexi Dittmar (aj-dittmar@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing