Welcome to the Strong Women Podcast, where we explore a deeper understanding of the humanity, value, intellect, and creativity of women.

I'm your host, Erin Kunkel.

And I'm your co-host, Sarah Stone Street.

Well, thank you for joining us today.

I would like to introduce you to our special guest, Johnny Erickson Tata, and tell you just a little bit about her before we jump into our conversation with her.

So Johnny is one of the world's leading international advocates for people afflicted by disability. During a diving accident when she was 17 years old, so in

1967, she became a quadriplegic and is now in a wheelchair. After two years of rehabilitation,

she emerged with new skills and a fresh determination

to help others in similar situations. She founded Johnny and Friends in 1979. So that's a,

you have been in ministry. Johnny, Aaron and I were talking about this. I was not even born yet

when you started.

Oh, my goodness, you're making me sound old.

Oh, I know.

That wasn't very kind, was it?

You're a very distinguished lady.

So, okay, let me keep going here.

So she founded Johnny and Friends in 1979, which quickly grew to provide Christ-centered programs to special needs, families, churches, and communities.

Johnny survives stage three breast cancer in 2010, praise the Lord, and keeps a very active ministry schedule.

Now, you may have come across one of her 50 books, including her

best-selling autobiography, Johnny, which my girls have totally enjoyed, which was made into a feature

film, where you were an actress, Johnny. That was 40 years ago, Sarah.

Well, you did a fantastic job.

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