Living Life To The Fullest

If there's a lesson I've learned, its's to never give up. Instead, try to take each day we have alive and make the best of it. - Omar "Crispy" Avila, author Under My Skin.

I met Omar a few years back at the SHOT Show. It's opportunities like this that make trade shows and events unique. Yes, we are there to conduct business, but building relationships transcends any transaction.

As with most trade show meetings, time is limited. However, Omar's sense of humor, kindness, and humility stood out in that short time. Even more impressive is his ability to maintain those traits after what he had been through in the 10+ years prior.

For those that don't know his story, on deployment in Iraq back on May 14, 2006, Omar's vehicle was struck with a 200 lb. IED, resulting in burns to 75% of his body, requiring 100+ surgeries, and the amputation of his right leg below the knee.

In his recently released book Under My Skin, Omar details his story and how he continues to live life to the fullest despite what he has endured. He continues to hunt, shoot, and train.

Omar's overarching mission has always been to serve people, and he continues to do that through public speaking, fundraising, and working with multiple organizations supporting veterans.

I am honored to call him a friend and grateful to him for making the time to tell more of his story on Episode 60 of the No Excuse to Miss Podcast.