About Russ

img

About Russ Burris

On June 3, 1990, Russ Burris was just minutes from home when he dozed off while driving. That moment changed everything. Paralyzed from mid-chest down, Russ refused to let tragedy define him. He transformed his pain into purpose, becoming one of the nation’s most impactful safety speakers. His mission? Save others from making the same mistake.

Speaking with ThinkFirst (brain & spinal cord injury prevention) since Oct 1992

Whether you’re a school, organization, or corporate group, Russ delivers a message that saves lives one story at a time.

    • Injured in 1990 at age 18
    • Paralyzed from the chest down
    • Sleep Summit 2002 with Dr. Dement
    • Relearned life in a wheelchair
    • Spreads awareness through lived experience
    • National Sleep Awareness Week 2000

Why Audiences Trust Russ

When Russ speaks, people listen not because of slides or stats, but because of raw honesty. His impact has earned national recognition, including the VIP Speaker of the Year award. From classrooms to conferences, Russ inspires positive change wherever he goes.

    • ThinkFirst VIP Speaker of the Year 2019
    • Featured in national safety programs
    • Regular guest at high school assemblies
    • Trusted by educators & lawmakers
    • Rated top presenter in surveys
img