“Why is this happening to me?” Maybe that’s a question you’ve asked yourself. If you have, you are not alone.
I’ve fought many battles throughout my life—battles that led me to write a memoir chronicling my extraordinary journey through open-heart surgeries and personal transformation. Scar Tissue is a miraculous story of survival, faith, healing, and most of all, hope. I'm thrilled to announce that the expanded edition of Scar Tissue is now available! With a new introduction and bonus content, this new release offers even more insight into the journey that changed my life.
I’ve always loved being creative. My parents used to joke that I was born with a pencil in my hand. From a young age, I was constantly drawing and entertaining anyone who would look or listen.
Yet behind the laughter and creativity, life has not always been easy. I’ve undergone eight heart-related surgeries, including four open-heart operations. I’ve nearly died on the operating table three times and was repeatedly told I would never be able to physically excel. But I refused to accept that verdict as final.
In 2017, after surviving a ruptured aortic arch—which required yet another major surgery—I went on to earn a black belt in jiu-jitsu. That achievement stands as a testament not only to persistence and discipline, but also to the grace of God. The fact that I’m alive today is nothing short of a miracle, and one I do not take for granted.
I believe there is meaning in our suffering—that nothing we face in life is truly random or accidental. Through my story, I hope to offer encouragement to others walking through their own difficult seasons. If my journey can become part of someone else’s survival guide, then every scar has served a purpose. Every day we are given is a gift—and I’m honoured to share that gift with you.
Got a burning question or comment you'd like to share? Are you interested in booking me for a speaking engagement, podcast interview, or community talk? I’d love to speak with you and share my incredible story.
Neil Armstrong said, “One small step for man… one giant leap for mankind.” While my own journey to the moon is still TBD, I’m hoping to take one small step for Dan that leads to one giant leap for two incredible hospitals.
My days are filled with marketing, design, video and—once upon a time—teaching and illustration (though I’m often reminded I also have a wife and kids). If you’re curious, feel free to explore some of my work.
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Do you really want to avoid all pain and all it could produce?