I Lost My Leg, Not My Life!

Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.--Charles Swindoll

It was after midnight on an unlit desert road when Michael was hit by a car. Traveling fifty miles an hour, Michael's left leg was trapped in the car's wheel well, severing the main artery in his leg. As he was starting to bleed out, the driver made a call--a call that truly saved his life! Within minutes, paramedics arrived and were able to contain the bleeding. Michael was then rushed to Desert Regional Medical Hospital, where a staff of talented doctors were able to save his life. Unfortunately, to do so, they had to amputate his leg!Michael is here today to tell a story, a story about his journey and the discoveries he has made along the way. Self-reflection, perseverance, and a unique way of looking at life and its lessons permeate every page of this book. Overcoming the personal tragedies that occurred earlier in his life helped prepare him for the most significant challenge he would need to overcome.While others might not bounce back quickly after such a life-changing ordeal, with the help of family, friends, and a renewed belief in God, Michael persevered. His recovery is a testament to a commitment to live life as fully as he did before the accident--and to never give up.Walking with the assistance of a new prosthetic leg was a big step. Being able to someday run again along the sandy shores of Southern California will be another milestone.Michael's positive outlook is contagious. As he shares his journey from childhood through his ongoing recovery, you will be inspired by touching moments, funny anecdotes, and a self-effacing assessment of life. Michael's mantra reflects his attitude. It reinforces the fact that we are all lucky, as things can (always) be worse.

-- Michael Merrigan