Haven Shepherd | Bomb Survivor and Paralympic Swimmer (ep. 728)

Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Born in a small town in Vietnam, Haven Shepherd was just 14 months old when she miraculously survived a bomb explosion that resulted in the loss of both legs below the knee and left her orphaned. Later adopted into a loving family with six athletic siblings, Haven discovered swimming—a sport that brought her freedom, purpose, and a path to Paralympic success.

Today, Haven is a celebrated athlete and advocate for adaptive sports. She joins us to share how tragedy shaped her strength and gratitude, why perspective defines what’s possible, and the importance of grace in overcoming life’s challenges.

My friends, this conversation is a powerful reminder that adversity doesn’t define us—it reveals our capacity to rise above.