Can you imagine sliding down the side of a 12 story building and the only thing keeping you from crashing to the ground is a thin wire and no air bag below? R. David Smith, the first one-armed Hollywood stuntman can because he actually performed this stunt in the movie Predator II. In fact, David can imagine doing a lot of stunts because he has been a stuntman for over 24 years. This native San Diegan was born missing his left arm just below the elbow and grew up with a severe learning disability, but it never stopped him from following his dream of working in the film industry. Smith has worked on such shows as Predator 2 , Artificial Intelligence, Tales from the Crypt, and Star Trek-First Contact , just to name a few.

“Young people are captivated and motivated when Mr. Smith presents to them and works with them.”

Catherine Baird California Governor’s Committee Executive Director

When David is not on a movie set, he is passionately working with Stunts Ability, the nationally acclaimed non-profit organization he founded 10 years ago. One of Stunts Ability programs trains amputees and other disabled individuals for stunts, acting, and effects. This organization provides the entertainment industry with a pool of talented, highly trained performers, and has placed over 125 of its students in movie and television projects.

However, it is the disabled awareness and youth outreach program that is closest to David’s heart. Stunts-Ability has a new program called PLAY (Programs for Limb deficient and Amputee Youth). This program is designed to help children who are born with a limb deficiency or amputation. David himself knows first hand what it is like to grow up feeling unapproachable by others, feared and feeling ugly. These disabilities are usually not physical disabilities, but social disabilities.

“One of the best motivational speakers and story tellers I ever heard.”

Ed Fletcher San Diego Downtown Lion’s Club

One of David’s biggest thrills is speaking at schools; he identifies with children with disabilities and makes them the heroes. David’s assemblies help change attitudes about children who are different and those who are targeted by “Bullies”. “I wish someone would have done that for me when I was younger”, David states. Through assemblies, David tells his story, which gives these kids hope and inspiration. Stunts-Ability’s mission statement is to help young people and adults build self-esteem and confidence, while emphasizing capabilities not disabilities through education and opportunity.

Book Stunts-Ability’s R. David Smith for your next school assembly: (619) 542-7730