Author
Jim Valavanis
Jim Valavanis is an author, parent and inspirational public speaker on overcoming daunting adversities in family life and how we can benefit and empower ourselves and others by changing negative expectations of just ‘surviving’ life’s challenges to ‘thriving’ in life’s challenges. He is the international author of Life Through Sam’s Eyes – How our Blind Son Helped Us See.
Jim has shared with many the moving and inspiring story of how his son, Sam, was diagnosed with retinoblastoma (eye cancer) and how he and his wife, Lisa, not only coped with confronting and difficult circumstances, but how they became more resilient, created a positive environment and a compelling future not just for Sam, but for the family as a whole.
He’s been involved with many charitable organisations such as Beyond Sight Auxiliary, Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Camp Quality, Challenge, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Cancer Council, Guide Dogs and Vision Australia.
Jim has a diverse range of qualifications that has bridged over two decades including Sports Medicine, Massage, Football Trainer, Real Estate, Sales Consultant, Business Development Manager and his most important role yet ... parent!