I would like to thank everyone who reached out, wishing me a speedy recovery. 3 weeks ago I had emergency surgery, I had a tumor the size of my fist, a hole in my intestines, and severe life threatening sepsis. As you may have known I had been struggling with health issues on and off for the last 3 years, I remeber during Hive Fest mexico, there were days I could barely walk. Everything from terrible insomnia, to various infections, to unbearable pain for stretches of months at a time. I got various diagnoses, tried different things, changed my diet, everything within my power, I tried. 3 weeks ago, everything came to a head. What I thought was food poisoning turned out to be something very different. 4 weeks ago, something changed, for the worse, and as the days crept by, my health fell off a cliff. Until, Friday, at about 1am, I felt my body start to stop functioning, by 5am, I was barely able to move. We went to the ER at 5am, it was in Tijuana, over a hour's drive. Thankfully, my wife chose the right hospital, because if we had chosen wrong, I would not be here today to thank you all. The surgeon said, had we waited any longer, he feared the worse. The surgery was the worst they have ever experienced, my condition was as bad as they come. They pumped over 5 liters of pus and poison from my body, opened me up, and did emergency surgery. I remember the last thing I wanted was surgery going in, I had no idea what I had in store, but I am thankful for how it turned out, and lucky to have a world class surgeon. When they said we need to have surgery now, I took a breath, aligned myself, and trusted in god. For some reason, almost as if a voice told me, trust this surgeon, you will be ok.
I woke up in the ICU in a deep fog. As I wiped my eyes, I lifted my shirt, and my entire stomach was covered in bandages. I had a colostomy bag, and I had no clue what had happened or what was going on. I didnt even look at my wounds, I just lowered my shirt, and rested my head. Usually, I would have a million thoughts intruding my mind, from all directions, the past, the future, but in that moment there was nothing but silence. Out of the silence, a voice said, one moment at a time, and the first 3 days in the ICU proved that to be true. All I could do was live in the moment, ensure my breathing was correct, as it was hard to breathe those first days.
3 weeks later, here I am, at my computer, typing this to you all. I didnt even like getting my blood taken before this. When I had left the hospital, there wasn't a vein in my body that had not been poked. I had marks all over my arms. But when you are faced with your biggest discomforts, you realize something about yourself and life in general. A, release, a letting go, it was out of my hands, and that is a very humbling feeling.
As a poker player, whenever you get a free roll, your gameplay feels light, easier, you don't fear so much about what will happen, you just play your game, in the moment, and let the chips fall where they may. I have that feeling, the lightness, the fact I could have just as easily played my last hand that day, but instead, I've been dealt another hand, with new chips, and this time, I will play with all of my heart.
I realized how much of my life I wasn't actually living. When you are on that bed of uncertainty, not knowing what the next hour will bring, you don't think of all the riches, or even glory, you think of the small things, to see your kids grow, to hug your wife, a call from your brother, the smile of a friend. You realize you have everything that is most dear to you, right in front of you, but it's just the thoughts of the future/past that suck you away from the moment, dampening the things you cherish the most. Once stripped of all ego, you have nothing left but humility, and what is most important shines so bright, you feel foolish at the time you spent in your head, instead of life.
I've had health issues for so long, and though I might feel weaker today phycially, the lightest I've ever weighed as an adult, I feel stronger than I ever have. The days don't just wash by like they used to. I always caught myself saying, "Where did the time go?" the time went because I never paid attention to it, constantly living outside of the moment. What the hospital instilled in me was focus.
There are too many to thank, so many stepped out when I needed them the most, and that is a feeling I won't soon forget, and the actions I will always appreciate.
Before my surgery, I was working on 5 apps for Hive, I believe these apps can help shape the future of how Hive is perceived. For me, my biggest passion has always been what we are all doing here, building freedom tools, working as a community, and helping make the world a better place. I wish to teach my kids the way, the Hive way. For me, family, friends and Hive is my focus, and I've never been more focused or deteremined in my life.
I am thankful to be able to continue building, and build I will. All the health issues I had, the extreme pain, the sleepless nights, the restless mind, the agony I didn't even know I had because I had grown so used to living in such conditions. I feel like Picollo, when removing the weighted vest, all that weight, crushing me for so many years, and I had no idea I was bearing such a burden. I feel completely different now, my mind is at ease, the pains I experienced on almost a daily basis are gone. Now I get to see how I build, how I live, with a clean slate. I am not out of the woods yet, but I certainly see the light through the trees. I feel like I am finally moving in a direction that will better serve me, my friends, and my family. I live in the moment now, but can't help but feel excitement for what the future may bring, whatever it brings. I made my peace, I feel at peace, and now it's time to help build peace. I really believe in what we are doing here, with all of my heart, and it is a blessing to be able to be alongside you all for the next leg of my journey.
I wish you all abundance in all things, especially health. There is no greater teacher.
The surgeon said something that has stayed with me, "sometimes in life we fall, but you have to stand back up, and keep going" - simple words, with a powerful effect. Well, I am standing now, tall, stronger spiritually than I've ever been.
Dude... you were born again! One day I'll share my story with you. You have no idea how much of this resonated with me.
I was remembering today the first time you and I spoke. A lifetime ago at this point. If you feel like going down the memory lane.
I still have the video!
Un abrazo!
Thank you. Time for a trip down memory lane, awesome you still have this video. I look forward to hearing your story. Cheers
What a moving story. I am so happy that one of Hive's biggest builders has come out of this whole process. It really sounds like the universe has given you a second chance at life, and you have come out of this moment with the awareness that you are going to receive it in that way and that everything will be quite different from now on.
I once wrote a post here on Hive about hospital corridors and how I have seen the greatest warriors become small in those moments, but then come out much greater than they were before, and I think that post applies completely now. I am totally convinced that just by being there, in hospitals, we become better people, more grateful and humble before whatever gods you believe in. In that place, we learn to value what we have, whether it is little or much, and above all, we learn to prioritize what really matters. All of this is what I am reading in your story, so I am very sure that you are already becoming that warrior who grew ten times stronger once you finish going through this whole process, like so many others I have seen.
I wish you a speedy and full recovery, Dan, and I thank God and science for keeping you here with us. 🙏🏼
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I am so very glad you made it. The blessing of life is so wondrous, isn't it?
Have a good rest. And then more rest. Keep having a good rest as a part of your life, you need it, we all need it.
What I hear you say is that you remembered the little things, the relationships, and how they matter more than our achievements - let us enjoy them. :) The problem solving can wait. Let us enjoy each other, beautiful things come out of that which we couldn't imagine.
I am grateful you got a second chance. :) Think about looking for help with mental health, maybe it will also make a difference.
In every process, there’s a purpose.
Life often sends us signs — little reminders through our own body saying, “Take a break.”
But sometimes we don’t see them until something happens.
The important thing? It left you with a valuable lesson.
It’s comforting to know you’re feeling better now and surrounded by your family.
Sounds like a total nightmare, but it's good to see you power through it and feeling in a better space than before. I hope it's the end of all that nastiness for you and you get back into things soon.
I wish you recover well. The worst part belongs to the past. Be patient and stay strong. 🙌
Geez, so sorry to hear about this. And I’m glad you made it through your surgery and you are back here alive and active. Here’s a great testimony for us all here. Welcome back ❤️. With love we hug you back. Please stay true to your remaining medications and stay healthy and alive. We love you 🥰
Thankfully you went to the right hospital.
You all but died, so everything from here on out is a gift.
Hoping your recovery goes as well as it can
This is a life changing experience. It admirable to see you lived through it and now able to talk about it. Only a few can say something about overcoming such health challenge. In the end health is wealth. Welcome back!
Welcome back!
Much strength and health. Every moment in life is a moment of learning. I'm glad you shared your life experience. There's nothing deeper to learn from than these kinds of experiences, which are what connect us to life again.
Thank you for the good wishes and the lessons!
Wow, that's serious stuff. I had a friend go through something similar and he ended up in a coma for a few weeks. He is recovering well now and I hope you can do the same. Hive is cool, but health and family matter much more.
Thank you, I hope your friend makes a full recovery.
Health issues are a very dangerous life game. Only people who have gone through the worst of it can truly understand the beauty in mundane things that were not appreciated before.
I pray full healing comes your way. You fought a battle you were barely aware of and survived. That's good news.
Welcome. You’re a strong man! Keep staying healthy and keep building. Thanks for updating us, we wish you well.
I didn't know about your health issues, but I am glad that everything is going in the right way for you and your family. In life is easy to lose the focus, many people don't get it right never again, you have now in the start line with fresh energy.
🙌
!BBH
Glad you've made it through the worst and have a huge positive outlook on life that's going to help greatly as you continue to move forward. Stay strong, stay positive, do good and be a powerhouse in the world.
my god, I had no idea! I wish you all the best and happy you are back. Hope you have a speedy recovery!
I thank God you are back. When life hits us hard, especially with serious health issues, that's when we realize how vulnerable we are, and we learn to look at life differently because of what we've seen and experienced.
The things that matter after all are not the wealth but the relationship you have with your family, friends, and community at large. I'm happy the surgery was a success and you can enjoy a better life free of pain with your family.
Welcome back 🙏 ☺️ 😊
Glory be to God. I really thank God for your health. Have a nice time
I’m grateful to God on your behalf for making the surgery successful and also for making it possible that your wife took you to the hospital that she took you to.
Being close to death is the best teacher. It makes us realize the things that truly matter, usually the little things. I have been there and I can relate a little.
Keep going and keep pushing! This is a new chapter for you and I’m excited of what you will bring to those around you because it will be beautiful. Thank you for also sharing your experience with us. 💜
Powerful words! In the end none of our money, statuses or assets matter, this is a powerful reminder to pay more attention to those around me and live more in the moment than for the future... Wishing you a full recovery.
Greetings @theycallmedan ,
A very powerful post......so true health issues have a way of bringing reality front and centre...do they not. With God and humility..you are on a winning team. Here's hoping you are a believer in Jesus Christ....It is faith alone in Christ alone for salvation...for eternal life.
Thank you for the update, such a beautiful story of winning.
All the best to you and your good lady,
Bleujay
It must be very difficult to go through the circumstances you have told us about. I have also experienced difficult times in terms of health, and feeling your body fading away is sad. Having a new opportunity to play your cards is a real reason to be thankful, especially when you have so many goals that help build a better world. Even if it is only in a small part of the world, it is a very valuable and altruistic act. My best wishes for your full recovery =)
Its very sad to hear that you went through toughest phase in your life. I am a doctor(pathologist) and i can understand the situation that you went through. There is a perforation in the intestine and it needs emergency surgery and a tumor(can you specify which tumor-adenocarcinoma??). The agony you had is unbearable and Thanks to God for succesful surgery and i tell you that Postop follow up is very important and it is equal important as a surgery. So plz take care of this thing and i hope and pray for you that you will be completely recovered✨✨
Stay strong @theycallmedan we are with you❤️✨
It's sad that you had to go through a lot of health problems, but glad you met with the right doctors. Welcome back and you are a strong man. Wishing you very good health.
Great to have you back to your old self and yes I can concur a medical scare giving you another chance does make you focus. I am a changed person from my scare 6 years ago and the biggest change is focus. You think differently for some reason and it is actually a good thing. It is like having a super power and you will notice the difference and others close to you will as well.
Wow! What a huge shock.
So glad they worked out the problem in time tim save you.
It just shows that health & family are the most important things in life.
Glad to have you back with the Hive community.
I wish you quick recovery. You shall not die. Thanks for your health
Hope you get well soon and to normality. You did not look bad or weak in Hivefest México. Hope you come back stronger.
Wow, wish you a speedy recovery.
Health is the most important, try to clear your mind from all other stuff.
You must have gone through a hell of pain, but I'm glad you're back up standing strong, may it be permanent . Wishing you a speedy recovery and abundance in health too.
Happy to have you back with us. I wish you speedy recovery, stronger health in body, mind and soul.
So heart broke to hear this. Firstly I appreciate the almighty God for saving your life. You shall live long. Sorry my friend, I wish quick recovery.
It's good to see you back. I didn't know about what you have gone through, but I hope that from now you will be better with time.
I'm sorry that you had to go throut that but I'm glad that you were able to make it. I'm also happy that you have a better mindset regarding life. Praying for your fast recovery. Always take care of yourself and I'm praying for fast recovery. Stay Blessed!
All thanks to the almighty God for your life, I wish you quick recovery in Jesus name, Amen
Welcome back to hive ,may God guide and protect you,quick recovery I wish you
Welcome back, thank God that despite the difficult health situation you went through and in the midst of so much pain, you were able to pull through as the doctor told you. Good health is one of the most important things in life and the one we appreciate the least. I hope you can feel better again and be surrounded by your family. Hugs! 🤗
Thank God for your health
And thank God you're back
You really went through hell.Not everyone can go through that needle pain and survive it.
Welcome back brotherly
Wow! Everything I've read is incredible. In your writing I notice a lot of humility and a lot of learning, sometimes we must learn that our health is not a game. All in all, I'm so glad you're okay now. Now keep recovering so you can have a better Dan!
This is indeed a heartfelt post. I felt every word and yes, we really need to always live in the moment. One day at a time. It's good to have you back. I wish you speedy recovery and strength. Take care of you.
Omg, get well soon :)
Namaste🙏 Sir, Great to hear that you are back now from the hospital and recovering well. Wishing you a speedy recovery, nice to see you back on #hive.
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What a story... Get well soon! Insanely fast!
There were some people who came even to me to offer to help. Some very prominent Hiveans who I would not have expected to offer help! This community is incredible! U were in a bad spot and u have no idea how much ammunition u had behind u, even then in ur most difficult time, just from this community alone, never mind all the rest around u from outside of hive too.
Keep fighting Dan. The world needs the good Vikings much much more than u could ever know
Hello my friend, I was deeply moved after reading your words.
There’s an old Chinese saying: “Those who survive great hardship are destined for good fortune.”
Having gone through such a life-and-death ordeal, you’ve not only regained your health but also found the true meaning of life.
I believe that in the days to come, you will live in peace, stay healthy, and enjoy a life filled with happiness and ease.
God gave you this second chance in life because of me. I love going through your blog and activities. Seeing all you're doing and working tirelessly in making sure hive becomes a better place for people like me gives me the more energy to keep going.
Your story is touching. Despite all you're passing through, you kept enduring and working on our behalf. That is selfless service. You deserve to be appreciated.
Kudos to your amiable and beautiful wife. She deserves some accolades. Who else could be there for you to make this kind of important decision for you if not her. That is real love. Nevertheless, I must also appreciate you for recognizing her roles. True love is speaking!!!
Please, remember, safety first. As you passed through such surgery, please don't overstress yourself because even if there is no one else that need you in this platform, personally, I need you.
Better health to you!!!
how great to continue enjoying hive
This is amazing news!
Welcome back Dan!
That’s some story! But awesome news for you and for Hive! Take your time to recover, and profit from the new opportunity life has thrown at you!