... reality is that where a difference is made is one individual at a time, that is something Phyllis recognizes, and she is out to change the world, one heart at a time ... a huge difference is made one person at a time... Thanks for affecting my life. Congressman Jerry Moran.
--taken from his speech during the sendoff celebration, 11•20•05

I have to tell you one more time that your talk was great.
--Edie W.

You truly are an inspiration for all whose lives you touch. I have never seen a Middle School assembly so well behaved! God bless you and Justice on your continued journey!
Thanks!
--Christal Cowan
Chillicothe Middle School
1529 Calhoun
Chillicothe MO 64601

Rarely do I see an evaluation that is so highly rated -- it is evident that you and your message are being affirmed!
--Sheryl Andreason
Rockford Health System
Rockford IL

Most helpful?

• The personal perspective and experiences of Phyllis.
• Hard to say, the whole workshop was excellent, informative and inspirational.
• The love shown by Phyllis -- her spirit and desire to share her life with others.
• Her positive approach to her life and disease.
• Excellent, heart-warming and inspirational.
• Personal experience that was shared.
• Better understanding from patient’s perspective.
• Excellent speaker/very knowledgeable.

Least helpful?

• Never enough time.

More comments:

“I want to thank her for sharing her life-positive approach.”
“Please bring them back.”
“Phyllis and Justice, thank you for inspiring others to celebrate life through your extraordinary story.”
“This is a great reminder to value each person and their value.”
“Phyllis has a passion and she truly is inspiring.”

--Evaluation and feedback for “Living with a Chronic Disease: Finding Value and Purpose While Facing Physical Illness,” Rockford Health System, Rockford IL

. . . an amazing woman . . . wonderful story to tell. She can talk about:

1) Her battle with MS, a battle that she seemed to be losing, and her subsequent "spontaneous remission."
2) Training of service dogs and her own experience with Justice, her 3rd service dog. (Also, how appropriate candidates can GET a service dog, even if they don't have the money.)
3) Living life with an attitude of gratitude, based on a belief that EVERYone is important.

. . . an engaging, articulate yet gentle speaker and will speak to:

1) organizations or agencies (civic or speak interest)
2) school children
3) groups of people invited to someone's home

Last Monday I read an article in the Birmingham (AL) News that said in part:

"Phyllis Burdge, a Kansas woman biked and walked to Birmingham from her home state. . . with a full-length brace on one leg, a cane in her right hand and Justice's harness in her left [Justice is her service dog. a 4-year-old black lab]. [Phyllis] spent 12 years becoming progressively more disabled from multiple sclerosis, including two on intravenous feeding, flat on her back, unable to even comb her hair without suffering debilitating fatigue.

“Now, after a "spontaneous remission," she is touring the country speaking to anyone who will listen, sharing her story, which focuses more on what she has done with her second chance at life than it does her recovery.“

I was interested enough to go to B'ham's ILC last Tuesday and was totally taken with Ms. Burdge's story and demeanor.

--Jackie Goldstein, PhD
Professor, Psychology
Samford University
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, AL 35229-2308
Office: 205-726-2118
Fax: 205-726-2895
e-mail: jlgoldst@samford.edu

Phyllis, I’d be more than happy to share recommendations with anyone who contacts me. I think that you are an excellent speaker and listener.
--Jackie Goldstein, PhD

. . . Your life is an inspiration and you bring great awareness to the cause.
Best Wishes….and Happy Walking!
--Sheree McCall
Director of Programs
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Alabama Chapter
1-800-FIGHT MS

I am a fellow MSer. I am truly blessed by your website and your ministry and the hope that you are spreading. May God bless you.
--Juanita Coy

Results of your presentation are tangible--------W. D. who told you she has MS asked me to tell you that because of you she has begun her exercise program and is walking as much as she’s able. She said that you inspired her.
--J & J Hitch

Thanks so much for sharing your incredible journey with a purpose! And beyond. Hope you will get to do another and another...our country needs caring people sharing...really boosts morale as you share your message of healing of body and soul. keep on keeping on...
--Judy Hanneman

We loved having both you and Justice. You are welcome anytime. Your presentation is so encouraging to others. Best wishes in your travels.
--Martin and Marie Trenary

I really enjoyed getting to know you and Justice. I still have people coming in the office asking for your web site or wanting to know if they can get a copy of your tape. You have really inspired many. I wish you well. I am just trying to squeeze the goo out of every day. Thanks to you!

Thanks,
--Diann Bonifield
RSVP Volunteer Coordinator

We enjoyed your testimonial and your interaction with Justice.
Keep in touch and let us know where your travels have taken you and when you get a book published. I will keep the [MS Support] Group informed.
Thanks Again
--Connie Walker

Thank you so much for speaking to the students of Summerdale School in Rockford, Illinois, about your experiences, about Justice, and about "squeezing the goo out of life." Your presentation was inspiring, fascinating, and memorable. We are grateful for your time and generous spirit.

Sincerely,
--Angela Wartowski
Student Support Specialist
Summerdale School
Rockford, IL

Your talk was so inspirational!
--Rita and Daytona

Your message has universal appeal even though it is told within the context of your own story--living with a disability. The universal message speaks to the worth of each individual, to self-determination, to living each day to the fullest, to hope and to faith.
--Deborah Nebel
Director of Public Policy
Linking Employment, Abilities and Potential
1468 W. 25th Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
216-696-2716 x. 106
dnebel@leapinfo.org
http://leapinfo.org