Craig MacFarlane is a superstar in the hearts and minds of anyone who has watched him take on one of life's greatest blows and turn that into a tower of inspiration for the world to see. The victim of a tragic accident that left him totally blind at the age of 2, Craig went on to become a world-class athlete, winning over 100 gold medals in a variety of sports (the majority against sighted competition) including wrestling, downhill skiing, water ski jumping and track & field. As a downhill skier, Craig has been clocked at over 50 miles per hour. In golf, he's shot a score of 91 using a technique he calls muscle memory. Craig has brought his message of Inner Vision and PRIDE - Perseverance, Respect, Individuality, Desire and Enthusiasm, to over 2,500 schools throughout the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Europe. Students are amazed and encouraged by his story. They are left with the message that if a blind man can do all that, just imagine what I can do.
In November 2006 Craig was invited to the Vatican in Rome to have an audience with Pope Benedict XVI. Craig's life long dedication, passion and commitment to help our youth earned him the invitation to meet the Pope. During this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity Craig and the Pope discussed 20/20 Inner Vision's mission and Craig's continuing work with our youth.
Craig has had a profound impact on the lives of many other prominent people, such as Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Bobby Orr, Paul Newman, Mario Andretti, and Evander Holyfield. NBC sports commentator, Bob Costas, narrated a documentary on Craig�s amazing life, including his childhood, sports accomplishments, music, and personal achievements. Craig travels extensively, without the use of a guide dog or cane, and has spoken at numerous corporate conferences and at three Republican National Conventions. To that end, Craig has been honored by presidents and numerous governors for his tireless commitment and passion to help so many students.
President George W. Bush, speaking about Craig's passion for life, said, "Children are our most precious resource. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to teaching them that there are no limits to what they can achieve. You are a great role model and an inspiration to our younger generation". Former president George Bush Sr. considers Craig a close friend and wrote the foreword to Craig's life story in the book "Inner Vision".
Although Craig was required to attend a school for the blind, he graduated with his high school diploma and went on to study law at Carlton University. Later, he obtained his Stock Brokers license through Edward Jones Investments. Craig's book, "Inner Vision", his website ( www.cmpride.com ) and the documentary hosted by Bob Costas chronicle his amazing life in detail.
Craig is happily married to his beautiful and energetic wife Patti. They have three wonderful children - a son and two daughters. Their son Derek was born in 2001, daughter Ashley was born in 2003, and daughter Morgan was born in 2006. Craig also has a son, Dalton, who was born in 1989. Craig's wife Patti is an instrumental part of his career through her constant encouragement and tireless support. In Craig's own words: "I feel blessed to have such an awesome and supportive wife who shares my dreams and vision. I'm also blessed to have such wonderful children. What more could I ask for?"
