"We need more courageous voices! Owning the story requires vulnerability. Once you own it, you can change it. When you don’t own the story, it owns you. Vulnerability leads to owning our story, and that leads to owning our power, and that leads to resilience. And [Jean-Paul], you’re awesome. You’ll never know the lives saved and changed because you spoke out."
–Brené Brown, American scholar, researcher, and international best-selling author of “Daring Greatly” and “Rising Strong”
"Jean Paul Bedard has uncovered some of life’s greatest lessons within his resilience project. He is a true example of how one can turn deep pain and anguish into a beautiful and powerful force for good. I am deeply humbled to be a part of this project and proud to know him and support this revolutionary movement."
–Rhiannon Traill, President and CEO of The Economic Club of Canada
"JP presents his own incredible story of survival, rediscovery and triumph. And he manages to do it with a balance of humour and solemnity that touches every police officer in the room. It is invaluable for officers to see and hear a survivor, especially outside the comfort zone of their own police station. No form of learning can better create true understanding of another’s perspective than hearing it well articulated by someone with that experience. Accordingly, JP’s openness and professionalism will resonate long with those fortunate enough to see and hear him. With this presentation, and the commitment with which he speaks, JP has ensured that police officers have a fuller understanding of what survivors face. This makes us immeasurably better equipped to do our job, and for that we are very grateful."
–Detective Stuart Blower, Toronto Police Service, Program Coordinator for the Sexual Assault Investigator's Course
"I wish to express my deepest gratitude, for Jean-Paul's attendance as the keynote speaker at the Children’s Treatment Centre Fundraiser Breakfast. He is indeed a most powerful speaker, and delivered a profound and inspiring address which no doubt has left an indelible impression in the minds of all of us who had the opportunity to listen to his life journey. Jean-Paul struck the right balance when he spoke about the effects of child abuse and the need for early intervention and treatment. He gave the greatest tribute to our community, which has maintained this service when he said the service the Centre offers to child abuse victims is a indeed a gem. I was truly moved by his closing remarks: “As I stand before you, I am sure of one thing and one thing only. Yes, I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, but I am no longer defined by that."
–Angelo Towndale M.S.W., Project Coordinator, The Children's Treatment Centre of Cornwall
"Jean-Paul’s talk at Mindfest took us on a journey through his story of resilience. With compassion, humour and honesty, he guided us through the pain and abuse he experienced in the past, the strength he cultivates in the present, and his dedication to the future of mental health."
–Dr. Benoit H. Mulsant, Professor and Chair, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto
"Running is the ultimate faith healer, restoring belief not only in oneself but life’s possibilities. Jean-Paul beat the odds one step at a time, and he keeps on inspiring."
–Bart Yasso, Senior Editor at Runner's World Magazine
"I first encountered Jean-Paul from a distance, as a voice of a survivor. He manages to share his triumphs without a hint of boastfulness and his pains without martyrdom or fostering pity. His unapologetic enthusiasm for living shines through in the way he revels in the small stuff while deliberately taking the darkest part of his life and transforming that energy into lightening. Since then, I have followed his voice and eventually had a chance to talk with him directly as he was harvesting stories for this book. In our chat, JP was at once compassionate and funny, and shared himself while giving room for me to do the same. His candor in fact demanded it, and I was humbled to talk with him. This book will resonate with any human who has had life breathed back into them after trauma and will be a lighthouse for anyone whose own light has been temporarily dimmed. It'll remind you that the cracks are okay...because that's how the lights gets in."
–Lucy DeCoutere, Gemini winning actor, Activist
"Jean-Paul's genuine, empathetic style was easy-going and very relatable. We really appreciated his sharing his stories, resources, and inspiration with our students. The presentation and question period afterwards were well-received and the students were so engaged. Jean-Paul gave them many tools and resources to deal with mental health issues and trauma. It was helpful to hear that we are all in this together and that we are not alone. Jean-Paul set the stage for us to continue the conversation and support our students on the path of healing and moving forward in resiliency. Jean-Paul has made a difference in the lives of our staff and students."
–Eric Dallin, Principal, Yorkdale Secondary School TDSB
"As someone working globally on the frontlines of the struggles for human rights and the environment I know that change is our only constant: economic, social, political and climate volatility are the new normal for everyone. Who better than JP then to share, in this timely important book, the secrets of resilience — by someone who lives courageously, loves boldly and knows how to teach us that no challenge is insurmountable."
–Joanna Kerr, Executive Director, Greenpeace Canada
"As a young journalist and filmmaker living in New York City's East Village in the early 1980s, I witnessed first-hand the resilience within a community desperate to respond to the AIDS epidemic. Jean-Paul’s resilience project is an important reminder that as is often the case, within crisis and trauma, our own resilience arises, and no doubt, amplifies our ties to community."
–David France, Academy Award nominated filmmaker ,and Peabody Award winning author of "How to Survive a Plague"
"Jean-Paul spoke to a crowd of 200 people with the honesty and intimacy one would expect over a cup of coffee. His astounding ability to run 6 marathons in a row pales in comparison to ability to inspire an audience by merely sharing his truth."
-Alyson Musial, Communications Officer, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto
"As the mother of a daughter who suffered online sexual exploitation and cyberabusive behaviours of others, and who ultimately took her own life, the traumas of anguish and loss of hope in both victims and their families are very well understood. Jean-Paul Bédard has created a space where he is able to speak and write honestly, loudly, and graciously about the return hope, love, and resilience that can arise from uneventful circumstances that often surround life. JP brings out the inner beauties in those he meets and creates a wave of strength that scatters like wild flowers in a field that touches us all. His unselfish actions are what exemplify a hero.”
–Carol Todd, Founder of Amanda Todd Legacy Society
"We are made of more than Blood and Bone. We are made of Music and our Song is Resilience. Jean-Paul is a fighter seeking to map the road to his own Survival so we can all better understand how Strong we really are."
–Séan McCann, singer and songwriter and founding member of the band Great Big Sea
"Resilience is, for me, one part courage and another part just continuing to try. Accepting your imperfections, and continuing on despite them, is part of being resilient. This has been key for me in fighting for equality and social justice. I love that Jean-Paul inspires me in this pursuit with his awesome resilience and determination."
–Michelle Douglas, Canadian human rights activist, Board Member at ME to WE
"Jean-Paul Bedard is an athlete and writer who has made an impact on countless readers as one of our top bloggers on HuffPost Canada. His voice and message are much needed -- honest, raw, eloquent, passionate, speaking to so many about endurance, resilience and the importance of speaking out. On a personal note, he was literally a personal lifeline on my very own road of resilience -- in 2009, JP was a pace bunny for a marathon, and I was the last runner in his pace group. He ran along side me and pulled me to the finish with the same humour, honesty and positivity I see in him today."
–Kenny Yum, HuffPost Canada Managing Editor
“I was honoured to join Jean-Paul on his run,” said Wynne. “I admire his dedication and bravery in opening up about the sexual abuse he endured, and, as a male survivor, starting a dialogue about these important issues.”
–Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario
"The word resilience does not do JP justice. He not only survived. He not only is changing the world. But he is doing it smiling And hugging all the way. He has one of the biggest hearts of anyone I have ever met.."
–Stacey Brotzel, Anchor of CTV "Morning Live"
"It takes village to foster resiliency, and if anyone knows that, it is JP. He has been on both the nurturing and building end of those communities for decades. This work is a testament to the amplifying power of resiliency through community."
–Todd Minerson, Executive Director White Ribbon
“As an accomplished runner, JP learned the metaphor that when we feel the weakest, we are at our strongest and unconquerable. This powerful self-empowerment soon brings good meaningful people into our lives!”
–John Stanton C.M. LLD(Hon)CEO & Founder Running Room Inc.
“We’re greatly moved by JP Bedard’s decision to expand his crusade against childhood sexual abuse, and run a triple-double Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon 2016 as his grand finale,” says Brookes. “Last year, JP’s triple STWM showed the world that “victims” are not victims but “survivors” who are indestructible. This year’s message is to build a team, who will tell the stories of other survivors and provide team support, and to raise money for the broader cause at two important local charities. We’re honoured that STWM and the Scotiabank Charity Challenge can build a stage for ‘JP’s Team’, and look forward to sharing their journey.”
–Alan Brookes, Race Director for Canada Running Series
"Two of the most courageous people I know are Jean-Paul Bédard and Kathleen Wynne. I admire both of them for their desire to make the world a better, kinder place. The courage demonstrated by JP, his advocacy, his determination to share his story with the goal of changing lives, had made him a beacon of hope for countless numbers of people. Both JP and Kathleen are runners too, a passion they share, and an understanding and appreciation they have of the healing power of sport. Thank you JP and Kathleen for your compassionate leadership."
–Eleanor McMahon, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport for the Province of Ontario
“Jean-Paul, you not only touched our hearts but you opened our minds to see the possibilities of a positive future during times of great adversity. The stories you shared were poignant, honest, and relatable. Every person in the room could see themselves in the experiences of resiliency that you described. You have the exceptional ability and talent to inspire others. When someone is in a good place, inspiration can come easily but to inspire resilience in difficult times is truly a unique ability. Your advocacy for victims of sexual violence is so important and your courage to do this work is highly admirable.”
–Stephanie Suppa, Training Coordinator for the City of Toronto’s Parks, Forestry & Recreation
“You are a skilled presenter and your honesty came through. Staff received you extremely well and I have been receiving lots of positive feedback. The coaches were advised in my opening comments that to grow, they need to get out of their comfort zones and you most certainly delivered on that. Your presentation, on its own was great. But sometimes magic happens. Having your message follow the presentation from Chris, our EAP Psychologist sent things into overdrive and I know we actually changed some lives. For that, I would like to personally thank you.”
–Bruce Schneller, Manager Divisional Training & Development for the City of Toronto’s Municipal Licensing and Standards Department
“Jean-Paul Bédard is an amazing individual to be around. His personality and positive attitude are contagious. He exemplifies the strength of the human spirit—survival, overcoming adversity, and fighting back. Jean-Paul is an excellent role model and is someone that I personally look up to.”
–Kelly Arnott President of VR Pro, Race Director of the Chilly Half Marathon
“His efforts are incredible and so helpful to generate both awareness of the cause and the race. He has the incredible ability to take a cause for a difficult situation and turn it into something so positive.”
–John Halvorsen, Race Director for Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon
–Brené Brown, American scholar, researcher, and international best-selling author of “Daring Greatly” and “Rising Strong”
"Jean Paul Bedard has uncovered some of life’s greatest lessons within his resilience project. He is a true example of how one can turn deep pain and anguish into a beautiful and powerful force for good. I am deeply humbled to be a part of this project and proud to know him and support this revolutionary movement."
–Rhiannon Traill, President and CEO of The Economic Club of Canada
"JP presents his own incredible story of survival, rediscovery and triumph. And he manages to do it with a balance of humour and solemnity that touches every police officer in the room. It is invaluable for officers to see and hear a survivor, especially outside the comfort zone of their own police station. No form of learning can better create true understanding of another’s perspective than hearing it well articulated by someone with that experience. Accordingly, JP’s openness and professionalism will resonate long with those fortunate enough to see and hear him. With this presentation, and the commitment with which he speaks, JP has ensured that police officers have a fuller understanding of what survivors face. This makes us immeasurably better equipped to do our job, and for that we are very grateful."
–Detective Stuart Blower, Toronto Police Service, Program Coordinator for the Sexual Assault Investigator's Course
"I wish to express my deepest gratitude, for Jean-Paul's attendance as the keynote speaker at the Children’s Treatment Centre Fundraiser Breakfast. He is indeed a most powerful speaker, and delivered a profound and inspiring address which no doubt has left an indelible impression in the minds of all of us who had the opportunity to listen to his life journey. Jean-Paul struck the right balance when he spoke about the effects of child abuse and the need for early intervention and treatment. He gave the greatest tribute to our community, which has maintained this service when he said the service the Centre offers to child abuse victims is a indeed a gem. I was truly moved by his closing remarks: “As I stand before you, I am sure of one thing and one thing only. Yes, I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, but I am no longer defined by that."
–Angelo Towndale M.S.W., Project Coordinator, The Children's Treatment Centre of Cornwall
"Jean-Paul’s talk at Mindfest took us on a journey through his story of resilience. With compassion, humour and honesty, he guided us through the pain and abuse he experienced in the past, the strength he cultivates in the present, and his dedication to the future of mental health."
–Dr. Benoit H. Mulsant, Professor and Chair, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto
"Running is the ultimate faith healer, restoring belief not only in oneself but life’s possibilities. Jean-Paul beat the odds one step at a time, and he keeps on inspiring."
–Bart Yasso, Senior Editor at Runner's World Magazine
"I first encountered Jean-Paul from a distance, as a voice of a survivor. He manages to share his triumphs without a hint of boastfulness and his pains without martyrdom or fostering pity. His unapologetic enthusiasm for living shines through in the way he revels in the small stuff while deliberately taking the darkest part of his life and transforming that energy into lightening. Since then, I have followed his voice and eventually had a chance to talk with him directly as he was harvesting stories for this book. In our chat, JP was at once compassionate and funny, and shared himself while giving room for me to do the same. His candor in fact demanded it, and I was humbled to talk with him. This book will resonate with any human who has had life breathed back into them after trauma and will be a lighthouse for anyone whose own light has been temporarily dimmed. It'll remind you that the cracks are okay...because that's how the lights gets in."
–Lucy DeCoutere, Gemini winning actor, Activist
"Jean-Paul's genuine, empathetic style was easy-going and very relatable. We really appreciated his sharing his stories, resources, and inspiration with our students. The presentation and question period afterwards were well-received and the students were so engaged. Jean-Paul gave them many tools and resources to deal with mental health issues and trauma. It was helpful to hear that we are all in this together and that we are not alone. Jean-Paul set the stage for us to continue the conversation and support our students on the path of healing and moving forward in resiliency. Jean-Paul has made a difference in the lives of our staff and students."
–Eric Dallin, Principal, Yorkdale Secondary School TDSB
"As someone working globally on the frontlines of the struggles for human rights and the environment I know that change is our only constant: economic, social, political and climate volatility are the new normal for everyone. Who better than JP then to share, in this timely important book, the secrets of resilience — by someone who lives courageously, loves boldly and knows how to teach us that no challenge is insurmountable."
–Joanna Kerr, Executive Director, Greenpeace Canada
"As a young journalist and filmmaker living in New York City's East Village in the early 1980s, I witnessed first-hand the resilience within a community desperate to respond to the AIDS epidemic. Jean-Paul’s resilience project is an important reminder that as is often the case, within crisis and trauma, our own resilience arises, and no doubt, amplifies our ties to community."
–David France, Academy Award nominated filmmaker ,and Peabody Award winning author of "How to Survive a Plague"
"Jean-Paul spoke to a crowd of 200 people with the honesty and intimacy one would expect over a cup of coffee. His astounding ability to run 6 marathons in a row pales in comparison to ability to inspire an audience by merely sharing his truth."
-Alyson Musial, Communications Officer, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto
"As the mother of a daughter who suffered online sexual exploitation and cyberabusive behaviours of others, and who ultimately took her own life, the traumas of anguish and loss of hope in both victims and their families are very well understood. Jean-Paul Bédard has created a space where he is able to speak and write honestly, loudly, and graciously about the return hope, love, and resilience that can arise from uneventful circumstances that often surround life. JP brings out the inner beauties in those he meets and creates a wave of strength that scatters like wild flowers in a field that touches us all. His unselfish actions are what exemplify a hero.”
–Carol Todd, Founder of Amanda Todd Legacy Society
"We are made of more than Blood and Bone. We are made of Music and our Song is Resilience. Jean-Paul is a fighter seeking to map the road to his own Survival so we can all better understand how Strong we really are."
–Séan McCann, singer and songwriter and founding member of the band Great Big Sea
"Resilience is, for me, one part courage and another part just continuing to try. Accepting your imperfections, and continuing on despite them, is part of being resilient. This has been key for me in fighting for equality and social justice. I love that Jean-Paul inspires me in this pursuit with his awesome resilience and determination."
–Michelle Douglas, Canadian human rights activist, Board Member at ME to WE
"Jean-Paul Bedard is an athlete and writer who has made an impact on countless readers as one of our top bloggers on HuffPost Canada. His voice and message are much needed -- honest, raw, eloquent, passionate, speaking to so many about endurance, resilience and the importance of speaking out. On a personal note, he was literally a personal lifeline on my very own road of resilience -- in 2009, JP was a pace bunny for a marathon, and I was the last runner in his pace group. He ran along side me and pulled me to the finish with the same humour, honesty and positivity I see in him today."
–Kenny Yum, HuffPost Canada Managing Editor
“I was honoured to join Jean-Paul on his run,” said Wynne. “I admire his dedication and bravery in opening up about the sexual abuse he endured, and, as a male survivor, starting a dialogue about these important issues.”
–Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario
"The word resilience does not do JP justice. He not only survived. He not only is changing the world. But he is doing it smiling And hugging all the way. He has one of the biggest hearts of anyone I have ever met.."
–Stacey Brotzel, Anchor of CTV "Morning Live"
"It takes village to foster resiliency, and if anyone knows that, it is JP. He has been on both the nurturing and building end of those communities for decades. This work is a testament to the amplifying power of resiliency through community."
–Todd Minerson, Executive Director White Ribbon
“As an accomplished runner, JP learned the metaphor that when we feel the weakest, we are at our strongest and unconquerable. This powerful self-empowerment soon brings good meaningful people into our lives!”
–John Stanton C.M. LLD(Hon)CEO & Founder Running Room Inc.
“We’re greatly moved by JP Bedard’s decision to expand his crusade against childhood sexual abuse, and run a triple-double Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon 2016 as his grand finale,” says Brookes. “Last year, JP’s triple STWM showed the world that “victims” are not victims but “survivors” who are indestructible. This year’s message is to build a team, who will tell the stories of other survivors and provide team support, and to raise money for the broader cause at two important local charities. We’re honoured that STWM and the Scotiabank Charity Challenge can build a stage for ‘JP’s Team’, and look forward to sharing their journey.”
–Alan Brookes, Race Director for Canada Running Series
"Two of the most courageous people I know are Jean-Paul Bédard and Kathleen Wynne. I admire both of them for their desire to make the world a better, kinder place. The courage demonstrated by JP, his advocacy, his determination to share his story with the goal of changing lives, had made him a beacon of hope for countless numbers of people. Both JP and Kathleen are runners too, a passion they share, and an understanding and appreciation they have of the healing power of sport. Thank you JP and Kathleen for your compassionate leadership."
–Eleanor McMahon, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport for the Province of Ontario
“Jean-Paul, you not only touched our hearts but you opened our minds to see the possibilities of a positive future during times of great adversity. The stories you shared were poignant, honest, and relatable. Every person in the room could see themselves in the experiences of resiliency that you described. You have the exceptional ability and talent to inspire others. When someone is in a good place, inspiration can come easily but to inspire resilience in difficult times is truly a unique ability. Your advocacy for victims of sexual violence is so important and your courage to do this work is highly admirable.”
–Stephanie Suppa, Training Coordinator for the City of Toronto’s Parks, Forestry & Recreation
“You are a skilled presenter and your honesty came through. Staff received you extremely well and I have been receiving lots of positive feedback. The coaches were advised in my opening comments that to grow, they need to get out of their comfort zones and you most certainly delivered on that. Your presentation, on its own was great. But sometimes magic happens. Having your message follow the presentation from Chris, our EAP Psychologist sent things into overdrive and I know we actually changed some lives. For that, I would like to personally thank you.”
–Bruce Schneller, Manager Divisional Training & Development for the City of Toronto’s Municipal Licensing and Standards Department
“Jean-Paul Bédard is an amazing individual to be around. His personality and positive attitude are contagious. He exemplifies the strength of the human spirit—survival, overcoming adversity, and fighting back. Jean-Paul is an excellent role model and is someone that I personally look up to.”
–Kelly Arnott President of VR Pro, Race Director of the Chilly Half Marathon
“His efforts are incredible and so helpful to generate both awareness of the cause and the race. He has the incredible ability to take a cause for a difficult situation and turn it into something so positive.”
–John Halvorsen, Race Director for Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon