Community Corner
Triple Amputee and Motivational Speaker Carol Decker Inspires Others
The mom of two strives to have fun and chooses to be optimistic every day despite her challenges. Sponsored by Grape-Nuts.
About this sponsorship: In honor of the 60th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic ascent of Mount Everest, Patch and Grape-Nuts are teaming up to highlight those who inspire people around them to climb their own mountains.
When you meet 37-year-old Carol Decker you are struck by her bubbly laughter, enthusiasm and upbeat attitude. It is no wonder that the engaging Enumclaw, Washington, mom of two and wife of a dentist has found her calling as a motivational speaker. She is the ideal cheerleader for motivating others overcoming challenges. Raised in Kennewick, Washington, she worked for several years as a medical assistant prior to the birth of her oldest daughter in 2006. In 2008 she had to fight for her life and lost her sight, her feet and her left hand and right ring finger to a massive sepsis infection following the birth of her youngest daughter. Despite all she has lost she rejoices in the “normal life” she shares with her husband Scott and their daughters.
Q. What goal are you trying to achieve right now?
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A. “I am starting my own motivational speaking company Lucky Fin. I offer motivational speeches and have spoken at college, church and corporate events. The name of my company comes from the last movie I watched with my oldest daughter, Finding Nemo. Nemo has a “lucky fin” and we named my left arm that's missing my hand my “lucky fin.”
Q. What inspired you to take on this challenge?
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A. “My kids inspire me every day. My support system, my nanny, my family and husband have also been such a great source of inspiration. My husband is so capable and accomplished, but like many people he is terrified by the thought of public speaking and he keeps telling me how amazed he is by my courage. And I’m inspired by the feedback from my audiences. The first time I was invited to speak was at an event at my church to a group of young women and their moms. It turned out to be a really awesome experience. Many of the women I spoke to at the event came up to me afterwards and shared that I had inspired them. I know I’ll remember that night for the rest of my life.”
Q. What will you do when you succeed?
“I have a challenge every day and a different definition of success. I’m still relearning and enhancing many basic, every day skills including cooking. What I’m learning, which I hope to teach others, is to let go of fear and who you were before your challenge. You can overcome almost anything with a good attitude and perseverance. And try to have fun every day."