I had it. I beat it. I survived it. I am tougher than a stroke.

Two months ago tonight, I experienced a life-altering event: a major stroke. It was a moment that changed everything for me. The photographs I took a few days later, after being transferred to rehabilitation from the hospital and ICU, capture a pivotal time in my recovery journey. The other two photos I have taken are from today, showcasing the progress I have made. I have come a long way, yet I recognize that I still have a significant journey ahead of me.

As a prideful man, I find it challenging to share these images, as they are not the most flattering representations of myself. However, they are an integral part of my journey and the experiences that have shaped my life. Over the past decade, I have faced numerous challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of my wife, Dawne, who was the love of my life. Her struggles with addiction added layers of complexity to my grief, and I have had to navigate my own path forward while coming to terms with her death.

The accumulation of stress, emotional upheaval, and psychological turmoil from various sources has taken a toll on my well-being, ultimately contributing to the stroke I suffered. Despite these hardships, I have always sought to find the silver lining in every situation. This stroke has become a catalyst for change in my life—a reset, a restart, a refresh, and a reboot. It presents me with a unique opportunity to restore and reclaim my life in ways I never thought possible.

In case I haven’t made it clear, I want to emphasize that I am awake, I am alive, and I am breathing. For me, life is good. I have faced my challenges head-on, and I have emerged victorious. I beat the odds, I survived the ordeal, and I have proven to myself that I am tougher than a stroke. This experience has not only tested my resilience but has also reinforced my determination to live life to the fullest.