ISPA TO RECOGNIZE TOUR DE FORCE LANCE ARMSTRONG AS HUMANITARIAN
LEXINGTON, Ky. – We all know his story and have been motivated by his Live Strong campaign. Now Lance Armstrong will speak to thousands of spa professionals who live spa everyday at the 2009 International SPA Association’s Conference & Expo, Oct. 5-8 at the Hilton Austin and the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. Armstrong will be honored with the 2009 ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award at this premier spa event of the year.
Armstrong will speak about how he beat cancer by simply focusing on one thing – recovery. This message will resonate with spa industry professionals as they are simplifying their businesses and getting back to the basics of spa by focusing on wellness. In taking a step back and allowing himself time to work on his health, Armstrong was able to achieve incredible success. It’s the same message of the spa industry – take a time out and learn how to deal with the issues in your life that are causing you stress. Connecting your mind, body and spirit will get you on the road to wellness.
“Lance Armstrong is an inspiration to millions. His tireless humanitarian efforts have raised awareness and education towards a disease that has affected so many,” said ISPA Chairman Jean Kolb. “As this year’s closing keynote speaker, he will share his story of survival and how he incorporates wellness into his everyday routine, which has helped him overcome so many obstacles.”
The ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award is given to ensure that the late Alex Szekely’s vision for ISPA and humanity continue to resonate for years to come. Past recipients include Deborah Szekely, founder of Rancho La Puerta; Dr. Kenneth Cooper, founder of the Cooper Institute and Aerobics Center; Ruth Stricker, founder of The Marsh, a Center for Balance and Fitness; Dr. Michael Jacobson, co-founder of CSPI; Dr. Maya Angelou, author, actress and civil-rights activist; and Sir Sidney Poitier, Oscar-winning actor, writer, director and diplomat.
Armstrong will accept the 2009 ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award during the closing General Session on Thursday, Oct. 8. Other 2009 award recipients include Dr. Howard Murad, accepting the ISPA Visionary Award during the General Session on Monday, Oct. 5; and Pat and Juanita Corbett, accepting the ISPA Dedicated Contributor award on Tuesday, Oct. 6. If you are interested in learning more about the 2009 ISPA Conference & Expo, please visit the ISPA Web site. Registration is open, and the easiest way to register is online.
About the International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth. More details on ISPA are available on http://www.experienceispa.com/.