43INC Speaker Series featuring Jesse Cottle
Mission43 and the Challenged Athletes Foundation gathered at the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse for the 43INC Speaker Series. The featured guest was Jesse Cottle, a Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, double amputee, adaptive athlete, and living testament to the power of resilience. It was more than one person’s story; it was about the communities that support one another, the strength found in shared experiences, and the unshakable will to move forward together.
Meet Jesse and Kelly Cottle
Jesse Cottle is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant and EOD technician who was severely injured by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Afghanistan in 2009, resulting in the loss of both legs above the knee. His story of resilience, recovery, and determination has inspired thousands. Jesse met his wife, Kelly Cottle, a former competitive swimmer and unwavering source of strength, during his rehabilitation shortly after his injury. Together, they stand side-by-side and embody the power of love, support, and grit it takes to overcome life’s toughest challenges.
A Story of Strength and Support
Jesse’s story is one of perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Although he lost both of his legs in the IED blast, he never lost hope or the support of those who stood beside him. From the medics who saved his life to his wife Kelly, who quite literally carried him at times, Jesse’s journey reminds us that strength is never built in isolation.
His message from the 43INC stage rang loud and clear: everyone needs someone to stand beside them.
For Jesse, that someone became Kelly. The two met during his recovery and what began as a connection rooted in curiosity and compassion quickly grew into a partnership defined by deep love and resilience. Jesse was navigating the physical and emotional aftermath of his injury, grappling not only with mobility challenges but with how the world, and even those closest to him, would perceive him. Kelly never wavered. She saw Jesse not just for what he had been through, but for who he was, and who he still aspired to be.
Their relationship quickly blossomed. Jesse spoke about how vital it was to talk openly, not just about the day-to-day logistics of life with a disability, but about fears, frustrations, and the emotional weight of change. Kelly listened, supported, and challenged him when needed. She didn’t see herself as a caretaker, but as a teammate. Together, they built a life grounded in mutual respect and shared strength.
A photo of Kelly giving Jesse a piggyback ride, later shared widely across the internet, came to symbolize their relationship. Not because of the physical act itself, but because it reflected the heart of their story: when one person stumbles, the other steps in, not out of obligation, but out of love.
Their story reminds us that true strength doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it’s found in quiet moments, difficult conversations, and the steady presence of someone who refuses to give up on you. Even when you’re struggling to believe in yourself.
“You both get to become better versions of yourself through that... the hard things and the valleys... if you can walk through those, you have that foundation, you can enjoy the peaks together.”
Bringing Communities Together
The 43INC Speaker Series wasn’t just a talk. It was a collaboration that showcased what can happen when purpose-driven organizations join forces. Mission43 and CAF, two organizations committed to building community and empowering individuals, teamed up to share a story of resilience and the power of standing by one another through life's highs and lows.
Veterans. Challenged Athletes. Families. Friends. Supporters. Whether navigating life after the military or facing physical challenges, the crowd was a beautiful reflection of how diverse paths can lead to a shared destination: hope, empowerment, and resilience.
Jesse and Kelly’s words reminded attendees that life’s hardest moments don’t define us; our response to them does. The event was more than just a story; it was a reminder of the value of showing up for one another, of creating spaces to share, heal, love, and grow.
Conversations were sparked, hugs were shared, tears were shed, and new friendships were formed. For many, it was a night to reflect. For others, it was a reminder of what’s possible. But for everyone, it was an opportunity to walk away feeling a little less alone.
The Takeaways: Stand Together, Keep Going
Two powerful messages echoed from Jesse and Kelly’s story and the event itself:
We all need someone to stand beside us. Whether you’re an adaptive athlete, a veteran transitioning to life after the military, or simply navigating a tough chapter in life, strength is magnified through community.
The human spirit is indomitable. No matter the setback, the journey forward is possible. With the right mindset and support, we can rise, again and again.
Events like the 43INC Speaker Series are a powerful reminder of the mission behind Mission43 and CAF: to empower people, build meaningful relationships, and foster resilience in every form. This night was a testament to the strength we find in shared experiences and a call to action for each of us to be the person who stands beside someone else when they need it most.