Try this. It worked (after a few tries) for a friend who had the same problem.
1. Unplug the iPad from the USB charger cable.
2. Press and hold the power button (it should not turn on because the battery should have run dry).
3. While still holding the power button, plug the USB charger cable in (it should not turn on yet).
4. Wait for at least 60 seconds while still holding the power button.
5. Once the iPad powers on, immediately let go of the power button and pray.