Alumnus Is Named First Inductee to Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame

Saint Louis University alumus John O'Leary (Cook '99), is a man known for his perseverance in overcoming obstacles, success in reaching goals and just being a really nice guy.

O'Leary recently found himself speechless when he opened the front door to find a film crew, men with balloons and a giant pink bunny surprising him with the news that he would be the first inductee to the Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame.

John O'Leary, his wife, Beth, and their son, Jack, pose for a picture with the Energizer Bunny. submitted photo

O'Leary was one of thousands of nominees from across the nation who fit Energizer's search guidelines for "ordinary people with extraordinary spirit, determination and courage who never give up and, like the Energizer Bunny, keep going."

That spirit of determination and courage is at the heart of O'Leary’s story. As a 9-year old, a fire left him with third degree burns over 80 percent of his body. O'Leary spent four months in critical condition enduring surgeries and skin grafts. Years of additional surgery and physical therapy not only strengthened his body but helped develop his strength and perseverance. His experiences and the encouragement he received from so many people inspired him to spend his life helping others.

Today, O'Leary is married to another SLU alum, Beth Hittler (Doisy '01) and is the father of a 10-month-old son, Jack. As a chaplain at Cardinal Glennon Children’s hospital, he helps families in crisis. He also is active in Big Brothers, Big Sisters and shares his story with others as a motivational speaker. O'Leary is still a little stunned by all the attention.

"I’m just a very, very ordinary guy," O'Leary said.

As the first Energizer Keep Going Hall of Fame" inductee, O'Leary received a welcome letter from baseball Hall of Fame player Cal Ripkin, a $10,000 cash prize and a $5,000 donation to the charity of his choice. The $5,000 will go to Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Parkinson’s research. O'Leary plans to share the $10,000 with his nine co-finalists. Induction ceremonies will take place Monday, Sept. 18 at the Energizer headquarters in St. Louis.

O'Leary also will ride in the Energizer Bunny Balloon at the Great Forest Park Balloon Race Saturday.

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