Department of Nursing invites public to special guest speaker Thompson
MINOT, N.D. – The Minot State University Department of Nursing invites the public to Limitless: Finding Strength when Everything Changes in an Instant with special guest speaker John Thompson.
The speaking event is on Tuesday, March 24, at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. MSU is offering one free continuing education credit (CEU) to nurses who attend the event. For more information on CEU, contact Kim Tiedman, MSU associate professor of nursing, by phone at 701-858-4453 or by email at kimberly.tiedman@minotstateu.edu.
“I think hearing about his resilience and perseverance would be really applicable to all MSU students, nurses, and really everyone,” said Tiedman. “We are excited to offer one free CEU, which is great for our area nurses.”
Thompson will share his remarkable story of survival through this speaking engagement and his book, “Home In One Piece.” In 1992, an 18-year-old Thompson faced a life-changing accident on his family’s North Dakota farm when a piece of equipment severed both of his arms. After calling 911 by holding a pencil in his mouth, he was airlifted to Minneapolis, where surgeons successfully reattached both arms. His resilience, optimism, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire audiences across the country.
“Mr. Thompson will bring a message that one event may change your life, but it doesn't define you,” Tiedman added. “Just to hear his story of how, at 18, he was able to open the door to his home, use a pencil to dial the phone to get help, all with no arms, is amazing.
“I hope he can inspire people to not focus on what you can't do as easily as you could before a tragic event, but to move forward and look to what you can do.”
Along with his presentation, Thompson is excited to engage with students, especially in healthcare, and will feature a Q&A session at the conclusion of his talk.
“He is encouraging people to come out and ask questions,” Tiedman said. “Anyone can hear his story and ask questions, and not exclusively in healthcare; everyone is encouraged to attend. He was determined to live that day, and I think that is what saved his life.”
For more information on the event, see the attached informational poster.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 03/09/26
