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In this episode of The Optimized Mind, Dr. Kate talks with healthcare advocate and liver transplant survivor Dan Bonner. The discussion focuses on Dan’s journey from first getting sick through his liver transplant and beyond. Central themes which emerge through this powerful conversation include making sense of life- threatening illness, the physical and emotional experience of transplant and recovery, the complexities of navigating the medical system, the spiritual aspects of the transplant experience, and the complex and powerful connection with donor families.
Dan Bonner is currently 51 and living at the New Jersey Shore. He was diagnosed with a chronic illness at the age of 24 and a debilitating liver disease at age 29. While Dan was not in immediate danger, the liver disease would progress, and he would one day need a liver transplant to survive. On March 12, 2005, Dan received that life-saving liver transplant, which gave him a second chance to fulfill his life’s dreams. Approximately 16 months after his transplant, Dan married the love of his life, Sue, and the two began a new journey together.
In 2011, Dan self-published a book;Gifted: An Extraordinary Journey Through Illness and Liver Transplantation. Sharing the story of his medical journey leading up to and receiving his transplant. Then, after retiring from a corporate career in February of 2024, Dan embarked on starting his own business, Aegis Health Advocacy, to be a patient advocate that empowers patients, guides healthcare clinicians, and interacts with corporations and government agencies to promote a compassionate healthcare experience for all patients. In addition to running his business, Dan is a powerful keynote speaker that uses humor and empathy to engage others in promoting.
With a mission to help patients on their medical journeys “one person at a time” Dan has transitioned from a survivor to a professional advocate who is passionate about improving patient outcomes. He leverages his unique insights to educate healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and patient advocacy groups, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to patient care. Dan’s work extends beyond one-on-one advocacy; he is also an engaging keynote speaker and consultant who collaborates with medical organizations to develop protocols that prioritize the patient experience.
To Learn More, visit:
www.katelundspeaks.com
Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/kate-lund
