From Stroke Survivor to Published Author: My Miracle Status

On October 24, 2020, my life changed forever.

I suffered a devastating stroke that affected both sides of my brainstem. Three stents were placed in my basilar artery, and my survival was far from certain. Doctors would later describe my recovery as nothing short of a miracle.

But surviving was only the beginning.

I had to relearn things I once took for granted. Walking, talking, swallowing, and navigating everyday life became challenges I never imagined facing. Along the way, I lost hearing in my left ear, experienced vision problems, and discovered that my brain didn’t always cooperate with my ambitions.

Fortunately, I never lost my sense of humor.

With the unwavering support of my wife, Tonya, I slowly began rebuilding my life. Somewhere along the way, I discovered painting, an unexpected creative outlet that opened an entirely new world for me.

And then something else happened. I became an author.

My new book, Miracle Status, tells the story of my stroke, my recovery, and the sometimes hilarious moments that helped carry me through the darkest days.

Six years ago, I was fighting to survive. Today, I’m creating artwork, sharing my story, and hoping to inspire others facing seemingly impossible challenges.

My message to fellow stroke survivors is simple:

Your life may never be exactly what it was before your stroke. But that doesn’t mean the best chapters have already been written.

Sometimes, the most unexpected chapters turn out to be the most meaningful.