[28:58] Deborah McAlexander is a blind para dressage equestrian who "rides by faith, not by sight." At age 24, with a bright future ahead, Deborah received a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa, and was expected to go completely blind. Today, she is totally blind in her left eye and has a tiny amount of central vision in her right eye. Those challenges did not stop her from going on to earn a Master of Music degree in piano performance, becoming a professional pianist, a nationally recognized piano teacher, a motivational speaker, and an extremely focused equestrian. At age 64, Deborah was introduced to the equestrian discipline of dressage, a sport through which she has deepened her ability to communicate.

On today's show, Deborah shares her inspirational and courageous story of overcoming challenges and finding success, one step at a time. If you are feeling discouraged, listen in, and let Deborah's heart and encouragement lift your spirits, as she shares her love of life, dressage, her beloved horse Cornet Noir, and of course, Toastmasters. 

Deborah was featured in a member profile in the September 2020 issue of the Toastmaster. You can read the article here.

Visit Deborah's website at https://www.deborahmcalexander.org

Would you like to invite Deborah to speak at your club, district, or event? Contact her here.

Photo features Deborah McAlexander and Cornet Noir.