Joanne O' Riordan was born with a rare physical condition known as Total Amelia - she has no limbs. There is no medical explanation for this condition, but despite this, Joanne and her family never allowed it to hold her back. In 2011, Joanne single-handedly lobbied the Irish government to reverse a proposed cut that would affect those with disabilities. In addition, she spoke at the United Nations in New York, explaining how technology has advanced her life. She is currently making a biographical documentary entitled "No Limbs No Limits".

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)