Each week, he visits Gaylord stroke and brain injury patients (more than 1,500 to date!) to share his story, listen to their concerns about the future and ultimately offer hope that ‘progress is possible.’
What have been your significant contributions to your organization in the past year?
It’s rewarding to know that a former patient was inspired to become a peer mentor because of my visits. Seeing her at Gaylord still supporting others makes me very proud.
This past year, I’ve made more than 100 patient visits. After each shift, I sit in my car, close my eyes, and replay the day’s conversations in my head. Realizing I may have helped someone find hope is a great feeling. I sometimes wonder who benefits more from these visits, the patient or me!
Tell us about a challenge in your role that you were able to overcome.
Not every peer mentor visit is a home run, and that’s expected. Sometimes, patients are not ready to talk or hear my story. I don’t take it personally, but I am patient and keep showing up.
Often, I’ll see that same patient the following week, and the second conversation creates the opportunity I missed the first time.
What’s your next major goal?
Last month, I finished writing a memoir called ‘A Stroke of Luck’ that details what my family and I went through on my recovery journey. It took years to write, and I am very proud of it.
I hope if one person who had a stroke reads it, they will have hope again. Another goal is to publish it on Amazon.
How are you involved in the community?
I volunteer on Gaylord Hospital’s art committee and patient and family advisory council. I’ll do anything possible to find new ways to improve the hospital experience for patients and families going through something life-changing.
Fun Fact
I love art. My idea of relaxing is working on very intricate paint-by-number kits and being with my grandchildren!