Back to All Events

43INC Speaker Series: Jesse Cottle

43INC SPEAKER SERIES FEATURING Jesse Cottle

Mission43 and Challenged Athletes Foundation-Idaho are pleased to host a very special 43INC Speaker Series featuring Jesse Cottle. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant, Jesse’s story is one of strength and perseverance. During his service, Jesse lost both his legs after an IED explosion in Afghanistan. Despite the life-altering event, Jesse has positively embraced his journey, becoming a dedicated healthcare professional and a source of motivation for countless others. Join us for an evening that highlights resilience, connection, and the incredible impact of community.

What will you TAKE AWAY?

  • A renewed perspective on overcoming challenges with resilience

  • A greater appreciation for the strength and perseverance of adaptive athletes and veterans

  • Insights on the power of community and connection

  • Opportunities to network with passionate, like-minded individuals

Challenged Athletes Foundation-Idaho will also be presenting a grant to a deserving adaptive athlete—breaking down financial barriers and opening doors to new possibilities in both sports and daily life.

After the grant presentation, we’ll join Jesse for a conversation on resilience, service, and the deep connection between the military and adaptive athlete communities.

Space is limited, so register today — you won’t want to miss this 43INC Speaker Series!

DETAILS

  • Date: Friday, March 28th, 2025

  • Time: 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm MST


MEET OUR GUEST

 

Jesse Cottle is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant whose journey embodies resilience and strength. Born in 1985, he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2003, driven by a desire to serve his country following September 11, 2001.

In 2009, during his fourth deployment in Afghanistan, Jesse was severely injured by an improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in the loss of both his legs. In the months following his injury, Jesse underwent intensive rehabilitation, adapting to a new way of life. In the years following, Jesse met his future wife, Kelly, at a swim meet in San Diego. Their story gained national attention in 2013 when a photo of Kelly carrying Jesse on her back went viral, capturing hearts worldwide.

After completing his military service, Jesse pursued higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from the University of San Diego and a master's degree in physician assistant studies from Idaho State University. Today, he serves as a physician assistant at St. Luke's Clinic – Neurointervention in Boise, Idaho.

Jesse’s path—from overcoming life-altering injuries to building a career in healthcare—demonstrates the power of perseverance, service, and the strength to create new opportunities from adversity.


Previous 43INC Speaker Series

Retired NFL linebacker, David Vobora was selected as the final pick in the 2008 Draft earning him the distinguished title of, "Mr. Irrelevant." After a successful 5-year career was abruptly ended by a devastating shoulder injury, Dave looked to redefine his identity outside of football. Soon after, Dave met a quadruple amputee and military Veteran, Ssgt. Travis Mills. This chance encounter led to the launch of the innovative non-profit gym called the Adaptive Training Foundation in 2014. Over the last 10+ years, David & his team at ATF have put more than 300+ adaptive athletes through their flagship 9-week REDEFINE program in Dallas, TX.

Earlier Event: March 20
Volunteer with CAF-Idaho
Later Event: April 25
Veteran Law Conference
Top