From Tragedy to Triumph: Amy Downs' Journey of Transformation
Introduction
- Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
- Guest: Amy Downs, Oklahoma City bombing survivor, CEO, and Ironman triathlete
- Overview: Amy Downs shares her story of survival, transformation, and the power of hope.
1995 Oklahoma City Bombing
- Amy's Background: 355-pound bank teller, struggling with math, and living a complacent life.
- Bombing Incident: Amy recounts the day of the bombing, her survival, and the harrowing experience of being trapped under the rubble.
Moments of Realization and Rescue
- Initial Impact: Amy describes the immediate aftermath of the bombing and her feelings of falling and being buried.
- Rescue Effort: The painstaking process of her rescue, the fear of a second bomb, and the moment she was finally pulled from the rubble.
Hospital and Community Response
- Hospital Stay: Eight days of recovery, including dealing with the loss of coworkers and her best friend.
- Community Spirit: The unity and support within the Oklahoma community post-bombing, known as the "Oklahoma Standard."
Path to Transformation
- New CEO's Influence: Introduction to the "magic wand" question, leading to significant organizational and personal changes.
- Personal Goals: Amy's journey to overcome her educational setbacks, weight issues, and ultimately becoming an Ironman triathlete.
Overcoming Obstacles and Self-Doubt
- Ironman Challenge: Amy's experience of completing the Ironman, including the physical and mental hurdles.
- Importance of Community: The role of her coach and community in encouraging her to persevere.
Life Lessons and Philosophies
- Resilience and Hope: The importance of not being defined by tragedy but using it as a catalyst for positive change.
- The Role of Failure: Emphasizing that failure is a crucial part of the journey to success.
Dr. Lycka's Insights
- Power of Perspective: How changing one's outlook can transform their life experiences.
- Historical Example: Roger Bannister breaking the four-minute mile barrier as an illustration of overcoming limiting beliefs.
Amy's Recommendations for a Fantastic Life
- Magic Wand Question: Encouraging listeners to ask themselves what they would do if they had a magic wand.
- Small Steps: The importance of taking incremental steps towards one's dreams.
- Living Authentically: Finding and living a life true to oneself to avoid future regrets.
Conclusion
- Recap: Amy Downs’ remarkable journey from a bombing survivor to an Ironman and CEO.
- Final Thoughts: The significance of hope, community, and taking actionable steps towards one's goals.
Call to Action
- Book Promotion: "Hope Is a Verb: My Journey of Impossible Transformation" by Amy Downs.
- Encouragement: Listeners are urged to reflect on their lives, ask themselves the magic wand question, and take steps towards their dreams.
BIO:
In 1995, Amy Downs was one of the last survivors to be pulled from the rubble following the Oklahoma City bombing which killed 168 people including 18 of her 33 co-workers at the Federal Employees Credit Union. Embracing her second chance at life, Amy launched a campaign of self-improvement and transformed from a 355lb teller who couldn’t pass a math class to a CEO with a master’s degree in business administration and is a Full Ironman Triathlon Finisher. Amy is the author of a book called Hope is a Verb: My Journey of Impossible Transformation which is available on Amazon.
Social Media:
Linkedin.com/in/amydownsspeaks
Facebook.com/amyon2wheels
LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL
Discover the golden pearls of wisdom within you! Dr. Allen Lycka has been acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped develop several new technologies and has spoken at podiums worldwide. In 2003, Dr. Lycka was diagnosed with ALS and given six months to live. After courageously fighting the diagnosis, he is here today as a result of his courage, determination, and tenacity. Dr. Lycka used his experience to co-author "The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life" with a foreword by #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author Jack Canfield, author of Chicken Soup For The Soul.
Brushwood Media Network is thrilled to congratulate Dr. Allen Lycka on reaching a remarkable milestone—his 500th episode of the popular series "How To Live a Fantastic Life." Dr. Lycka's inspiring show has become a staple for listeners seeking advice on living their best lives, and this milestone is a testament to his dedication and the impact of his work.
“LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL” will offer a dynamic blend of features, ensuring that each episode provides something unique and exciting. Listeners can look forward to intriguing conversations with authors, captivating lifestyle stories, travel and food adventures, exclusive celebrity insights, and the latest in beauty secrets.
Dr. Lycka has an incredible ability to connect with his audience and provide valuable insights that inspire and uplift. Don't miss out on the fun and inspiration. Dr. Lycka also has the #1 syndicated radio shows How to Live A Fantastic Life, Doc Fix That, and Driving Biz, on the Brushwood Media Network, with millions of listeners each month.
Dr. Allen Steven Lycka was acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world for three decades. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped to develop laser-assisted tumescent liposuction – an advanced body sculpture technique, and Moh’s Micrographic Surgery, an advanced means of removing skin cancer with 99% success. He has lived and practiced in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada since 1989. He’s written 17 books, 30+ academic papers and hosted the number one internet radio show in the world – Inside Cosmetic Surgery Today. He is a co-founder of Doctors for the “Practice of Safe and Ethical Aesthetic Medicine” and founder of The Canadian Skin Cancer Association. He won the prestigious Consumers Choice Award For Cosmetic Surgery for 16 consecutive years.
In 2003, Dr. Lycka’s life changed drastically when he suddenly developed a right foot drop while on vacation with his family at Disneyland. He promised his wife he would explore it, and after seeing many doctors was misdiagnosed with having ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Still, he maintained his status as a leading cosmetic doctor for 30 years. He later discovered he has Chronic Lyme disease.
Because of what he learned through his experience, he left his practice and co-authored the bestselling book, “The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life” with Harriet Tinka, a former fashion model and Woman of Distinction.
He has also authored two more books: one with Corie Poirier entitled, “bLU Talks Presents: Business, Life and the Universe” and one with Jack Canfield entitled, “The Pillars of Success.” Both books also became bestsellers during the Covid crisis in 2020. Currently acknowledged as a leading expert in Living A Fantastic Life and Turning Points, he is a transformational speaker, thought leader, coach, and mentor.
Dr. Lycka is happily married to Dr. Lucie Bernier-Lycka for 38 years and they have four lovely daughters and seven beautiful grandchildren. He counts his family as his most important accomplishment.