The second night of the upcoming Republican National Convention will begin on an inspirational note when bi-lateral below-the-knee amputee, Christian singer Gracie Rosenberger, performs the national anthem to open the evening. Known professionally simply as “Gracie,” the noted singer/inspirational speaker will share the stage that night with featured speakers First Lady Laura Bush and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The Republican National Convention, scheduled for August 30 through September 2, 2004 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, is expected to draw in excess of 18 million viewers during the nightly national television broadcasts.
Gracie’s inspiring personal story details surviving a devastating, near-fatal car accident in 1983, resulting in more than 65 operations over the ensuing two decades and costing her the amputation of both legs in separate surgeries. Her faith, perseverance and resolve weave together in a life that includes not only concert and speaking appearances, but also active participation in such rigorous activities as snow skiing, white-water rafting, and rock climbing.
“According to the latest statistics, more than 50 million people in the U.S. live with some kind of disability, and it’s estimated to be about 600 million worldwide,” says Gracie. “Each week, there are 3,000 new amputees just in America alone. I want this extended family of mine to know that there is hope – there is an active, dynamic life out there for them.”
Overcoming her daily challenges, Gracie continues to share her story, her music and her message of hope with audiences across the country. In June 2004, Gracie was invited by Republican senators Rick Santorum (PA), chairman of the Senate Republican conference, and Bill Frist (TN),
Senate Majority Leader, to speak and sing at a Walter Reed Army Medical Center dinner honoring wounded soldiers returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
“Only in America could an individual live through what I have, and then have such opportunities as I do,” says Gracie. “This is the America President George W. Bush believes in. This is the America I live in. I’m honored and proud to lend my voice to the millions of Americans with disabilities who feel they don’t have a voice.”
