Boston Marathon Bombing Survivor to Keynote on “Survival Starts the Story. Resilience Builds the Rest.”
LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. – June 25, 2026 – Selected Independent Funeral Homes, the premier association of independently owned funeral professionals, announces its 108th Annual Meeting, set for September 2–5, 2026, at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Annual Meeting will unite leaders for four days of meaningful connection, innovative educational sessions, and fresh perspectives on the funeral profession. Attendees will gain actionable leadership insights, professional development opportunities, and the chance to connect with peers committed to advancing independent funeral service.
The event’s keynote address will be delivered by Rebekah Gregory, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing and bestselling author of Taking My Life Back: My Story of Faith, Determination, and Surviving the Boston Marathon Bombing. Gregory’s presentation, “Survival Starts the Story. Resilience Builds the Rest.,” explores how individuals and organizations can navigate adversity, rebuild after unexpected challenges, and emerge stronger through resilience.
“Rebekah’s story is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always control the challenges we face, but we can choose how we respond to them,” said Barbara Risher Welch, Selected President. “Her message of perseverance, courage, and personal accountability offers valuable lessons for funeral service professionals as they lead their businesses, support their teams, and serve families through life’s most difficult moments.”
Standing less than three feet from one of the explosions at the Boston Marathon finish line, Gregory shielded her five-year-old son from the blast, losing her leg and enduring 76 surgeries throughout her recovery. Through her experience, she has become a nationally recognized speaker and advocate who inspires audiences to find strength in adversity and purpose through hardship.
Registration is open for in-person attendance at this year’s Annual Meeting. Members interested in attending should visit the Annual Meeting page on the association’s website.
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About Selected Independent Funeral Homes
Celebrating more than a century of service excellence, Selected Independent Funeral Homes advances the independent funeral profession through best‑in‑class education, peer connection, and innovative member solutions. Its Annual Meeting serves as the premier gathering to shape the future of funeral service. For more information, visit the website and follow the association on Facebook, “X”, and LinkedIn.
