In 2013, 23-year-old Cody Byrns was considered dead after he was involved in a tragic car accident. It wasn’t until first responders saw the slightest movement of his hand to rush him to the hospital, where he fought for his life and eventually made a full recovery. In this episode of Lift U Up: Inspiring Health Stories, Cody shares his story of the accident, his recovery, and the lessons he learned from the experience. As an International Speaker, Bestselling Author, and Nonprofit Founder, Cody uses his story to connect with people around the world. He empowers others to break free of yesterday’s scars and motivate themselves in the future.
Born and raised in a small Indiana town, from a young age Cody was motivated to inspire. Part of a family who loved to have fun, Cody got his start in “Clown Ministry”, where he used comedy to break down barriers among his audience and deliver a message of hope. He later transitioned into a role as a children’s pastor with a talent for juggling, and traveled the country to speak at kid’s camps.
Then, in May of 2013, his life took a different path. While sitting at a red light, Cody was rear ended by a truck, and his vehicle blew up on impact. He suffered burns on 40% of his body, and many other injuries, which left Cody fighting towards a full recovery for the next three years. During this experience, Cody started to wonder, “Why me?”. Luckily his community was there to motivate him and give him perspective that he will walk away from the experience stronger. It is the hardest moments in life that help us find our purpose, according to Cody.
He lives by the quote, “The key to success is playing the hand you were dealt, like it was the hand you wanted.”
Today, Cody has chosen to not allow his scars to keep him bound in bitterness and defeat. Instead, he uses his story to uplift others. As an award-winning speaker and best-selling author, Cody has touched thousands of people through his story and outlook on life. Cody also spreads his mission through his nonprofit The Cody Byrns Foundation for Burn Survivors and his Podcast, Scar Release 2.
