June 09 Update

In Life Is Short, News & Stuff, The Italian Incident by David157 Comments

June 01, Coming home and crawling.

On June 01, the good folks at The Ottawa Hospital kicked my ass to the curb, threw confetti in the air and told me to come back some time when I couldn’t stay quite so long. I’d been there for 34 days, and left hospital a full 40 days after the accident. It’s fantastic to be home.

It’s hard to put into words what this experience has done for me. It’s been, at times, frustrating and painful, and scary. There were times when I felt I’d reached the absolute bottom, most of those involving humiliating efforts to move my bowels after the narcotics had plugged me up and I couldn’t get to a toilet. At one point my nurse, God bless him, gave me an enema and as he, uh, drove it home, he said. “Up yours, David.” Funniest thing I’d heard in days but it turns out enemas and laughter aren’t a great combination. I’ve learned to rely on people for the simplest tasks, a challenge for someone so usually independant. I’ve learned that recovery doesn’t happen to you, you bring it. You make it happen. And I think the same applies to life. I was sharing a room towards the end with a man determined to be miserable, and his presence in my room taught me more about living life than watching Dead Poets Society a hundred times might have. Life happens to you, what you do with the hand you are dealt is up to you, and it’s there that you find the choice to be happy, to find meaning.


My first set of stairs but aided by my official assistance cat, Cocoa, aka The Brown Bastard. Hey, don’t look at me, I didn’t name him that. (Or did I?…)

Of all the lessons I’ve learned over and over it’s that life is made of moments. They add up to create a life. So to wish any of them away, to not look for something in each of those moments, is to wish away a piece of life. And if you do so in hopes of something better coming around the corner, you could miss life entirely. I don’t want to get too Zen about all this, but man can life be beautiful. I am so, so grateful to be alive and I’m more than ever aware of the fragility of life. More than ever aware that life is what you make it. I watched UP last night and, aside from crying my way through the first 11 minutes, was reminded again that Adventure is out there! and that it’s up to us to seize it or not.

Anyways, I’m home. I won’t be walking again until August, I think, and I’m a little nervous about that. In the meantime I crawl wherever my wheelchair won’t take me. I’ve got more spare time than I’ve had in ages – time to write the first eBook I’ve written in over 6 months (look for it on the 28th), time to work on a series of Ltd. Edition prints – the first of my work I’ve put out in over a year, and time to answer emails, be more engaged on Twitter and Facebook, and just sit with my mother on the porch with a Gin and Tonic. I’ll be back at the Ottawa Hospital in 2 weeks for x-rays and follow ups and I’ll know more then. Hoping, perhaps a little too optimistically, that they let me weight-bear on the left leg so I can begin to use crutches.

Thank you all, again, for such kindness and support.

Comments

  1. I once broke my wrist and that was bad. I couldnt hold a camera in my hand.
    It takes a long time for bones to heal.
    I hope this doesn’t affect your work too much.

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  3. The mental battle is the toughest..hang in there. Photography has been my rock. As you know, it’s a great “rock” to have. Looking forward to the new material.

  4. It’s so hard to learn things anew that one takes for granted – like being able to just walk to the kitchen, the toilet, anywhere. Distances and getting there get a whole new meaning! I sometimes take things just for granted and perhaps need a reminder from time to time, that they might be different.
    I absolutely respect and admire your positive way of dealing with obstacles – and in this very moment I’m so grateful that tonight I’ll be able to tie my running shoes and just go for a nice, long run! 🙂 I hope you don’t mind! 🙂

  5. From someone who was in an identical situation 15 years ago (wheelchair with2 broken feet)

  6. Dont drink too many gin&tonics, alcohol is bad for bone recovery….drink guiness

  7. David,

    Your smile says it all. Through it all, you glow. You are an inspiration. Recovery is an amazing process. Only those of us who have been through it one way or another know the frustrations and the triumphs.
    I wish you only the best. Remember the good days when you have a bad one. Virtual hug. ~ Janet

  8. You continue to inspire with or without a camera. Wish you a speedy recovery David!

  9. Glad to see that you are doing well. A little crawling never hurt anyone, right? Definitely appreciate your writing here too. It is so easy to take things for granted and you never should. Reading your posts help me to remember that and stay as mindful as possible. Hope each day gets better and you are back on your feet soon.

  10. Author

    Anna, isn’t that the truth? We take our moments and the people in our lives, for granted as though we have forever…

  11. David, so happy to see that you have found the upside to your accident and that you are out of the hospital hanging out with Mom on the front porch. Enjoy it as much as you can, there may come a time where you wish you could be doing just that.

  12. David I’m a recent follower, you inspire me on many levels, at the end of that list photographically on the top as a person. I wish you a speedy recovery!

  13. Hi David – from the first time I picked up and read Within the Frame on Christmas morning I knew I loved and could really feel the way you expressed yourself. I got a lump in my throat this morning remembering where I have been with my many surgeries in St Pauls – and how far I have come. Today I am so grateful for life and my new found hobby of photography. You have had a lot to do with helping me along the way. Today we are at The Cove Lakeside in West Kelowna with our two mini Dachies. Life is good. Wishing you the best – Go Canucks Go!!!

  14. there will be good days ahead and probably a bunch of bad ones, too. but please keep writing about it all ~ and keep writing about your art and craft as well. I am enjoying learning from your books and blog; and I am very much moved to be keeping you company on this bigger journey on which you have embarked. thanks!
    Adair

  15. Good to see you out and about David! Since I started reading your blog I have considered it one of the most honest and inspirational blogs on the web (on any subject). I came here for photography and I left with life lessons:)

    It’s great to see that you stay the course even during difficult times.

    I wish you a speedy recovery.

  16. After reading this post, I began your ebook, The Inspired Eye Bk1. Page 20 says, “But saying yes to what comes your way, allowing it to be what it is and moving with it, that’s an act of grace you bring to the situation…” You go on to say how it leads us to ideas and possibilities larger than ourselves, to create something bigger than initial plans or concepts. “Call it an act of grace…” You have shown us Grace, David. A deep, heartfelt, inspired thank you. Continued prayers for a smooth recovery.

  17. Yay! Cute crawler!

    You may not have a choice in it, but experience each and every moment to the fullest. It is not often that we are given the opportunity to really enjoy time with family and friends in modern life. Take these chances and embrace them, they will be with you always.

  18. Hey David! Glad to see that you are settling in. It is going to be a hell of a lot of work, but you can do it. Whatever the end game is going to be, I know that you will make it work.

    I am in the metropolis of Petawawa. If you need a change of scenery, just let me know.

  19. Continued wishes for your full recovery!

    Thank you for your witness & your honesty! This part of your journey may do more to change lives than all that has preceded it.

    Blessings!!

  20. Great to see that you’re home… and that you have a smile on your face. 🙂
    Continued prayers and best wishes for your recovery.

  21. Hang in there David…it only gets better. there is a light somewhere at the end of that freaking tunnel. Home is good there is real food, your own bed and pillow and all the other good stuff.
    Take care…and keep those blogs coming.

  22. Home is good….there is real food and all the good stuff like your own bed and pillow and of course the BBcat. (great name by the way)
    Keep trucking man. there is a light somewhere in that there tunnel.
    Keep the posts coming
    Barb

  23. Oh sure David, sheesh, way to make me feel like a jerk! 🙂 When we are both better I’ll have to sign up for one of your trips…then I can tease you again in person! 🙂

  24. David, you’ve been talking the talk for a while, man, but it sure is fantastic to see that, despite two shattered legs, you are able to walk the walk. What a great example for us all to live honorably and with humor despite all of the flaws and fallibility’s that the human species was endowed with. May God continue to bless and comfort you (with the help of some REAL beer 😉 ) throughout your recovery.

  25. Greetings from Denmark.

    Good to hear you’re back home. Its a milestone in recovery. I am impressed with your — in spite of everything — positive view on things. Such an inspiration. Thanks and godspeed.

  26. Author

    Geoff – Thank you. 🙂
    Melissa – Those red gloves were bought to sail in Croatia. A trip I didn’t get to do. I wear them in mourning. And also because I have no others. They look just as bad with any other colour shirt, I promise.

  27. Wait a minute, are those RED gloves with a purple shirt? Hmmmm…looks like we need to work on your fashion! 🙂 Being crippled doesn’t mean we can’t still be stylish! Ha! Ok, I could use one of those 13% beers right now…

  28. David, I just wanted let you know I’ve been a regulate visitor to your blog for a long time now but was devastated to hope on one day and find you in such a banged up state you are trying to recover from. You are such an inspirational bloke and just wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for all the work you put into your blog and the great books you write (I’ve only got ‘Making a life and a living in photography’ so far). Having said that, as a photographer I’m increasingly coming to this blog for both advice on life as well as photography so cheers for putting such heart into all you put out there… All the best with the recovery, I’m sure you’ll only be all the stronger for it, even though I’m sure currently you don’t feel so hot.

  29. @Tom, funny, I was referring to working on drinking more, not putting on weight, although that tends to happen when you quit smoking and supplement cravings with grape hubba bubba and chocolate milkshakes…

  30. Ok my friend, I will happily let you prove me wrong! Bring on the 9% -13% beer! 🙂 Maybe I’m just wimpy – I think at 120 pounds and not drinking much lately my tolerance is down…I’ll have to work on that!

  31. Great to see you crawling around happily 🙂 Couldn’t agree more with your post – life is what you make it! Would love to see pics from ground level perspective – I’m sure there’s lots of great stuff to capture from that vantage point! Take care, enjoy the gin & tonic 🙂

  32. All the best for a soulful and speedy recovery.
    You need one of those evolution crawl-walk-photographer t-shirts.

  33. Author

    Melissa, them’s fighting words. I am a British citizen and required to drink G&T. Secondly, if you ever use the word Michelob on this blog again, there will be serious repurcussions. Keep that crap to yourself and there will be no harm done. We have laws against that kind of swill up here. We also have beer that clocks in happily between 9% and 13%, so you can see why I’m a little non-plussed by your the humourous way you implied Michelob was actually something someone would want to drink. 🙂

  34. Sorry, iPad typing is not easy. First line should read “There is a fact in your words that most do not want to deal with” – sorry about that.

  35. There is a fact in words that most donor want to deal with, and that is that we can choose how to deal with the life that happens to us – it’s not a given reaction, it can be chosen. I applaud your choice David! As mentioned, there are times we struggle with this decision, but I think you’re in the right spot. Good to see you making the most of it! Looking forward to your new book, and the new adventures!

  36. It’s wonderful to see that only your bones were broken. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with your guts David.

  37. Gin and Tonic an old ladies drink? All depends on the temperature outside…….very refreshing in hot weather! 😉

    A little more “punch” than Pinot as well!

  38. Nice pictures David! Gin and tonic though?!? Whoa! I’ll stick to a nice Pinot Noir or a Michelob Ultra…gin an tonic seems like an old lady drink to me! 🙂
    Regarding the delay of the book-get your but in gear already. let’s see-you have to crawl around-well, bring the camera with you and start snapping! Could be some interesting results-photos taken from the ground level! 🙂

  39. You may think you can’t give a swift kick in the butt in your condition, but I come to your words to get one…..thanks.

  40. David-
    Glad you’re home and you still have your sense of humor and optimism. We all learn so much from you in every way.
    Looking forward to the new book.

  41. David,
    Great to see you SMILE!
    Glad things are coming along!
    Keep up the good cheer!

  42. Welcome home! It’s amazing how your own environment contributes to the healing process and, of course, we’re waiting for that next book.

  43. Man, your approach to life is an inspiration. Thank you for letting your light shine into the world, despite the internet trolls and nay-sayers. I’m very happy to hear you’re doing so well and your wit is as sharp as ever!

  44. David, nice to have the update and see your smiling face again. Thank you. If your mother is anything like mine, I’d guess she’s working a little harder at keeping the floors clean these days. Good to hear you’re making steady progress.

    rc

  45. Encouraging to see the progress. Looking forward to hearing of more soon. Keep on pushing. We’ll keep on praying

  46. I always enjoy reading about your outlook on life and how you are dealing with this slight “detour” – a real inspiration!

  47. You are an inspiration, David. This is your time to breathe and be still. Keep working towards recovering fully, and writing, and enjoying life from your Mom’s porch.

  48. “I’ve learned that recovery doesn’t happen to you, you bring it. You make it happen.” Indeed – thank you for bringing it David – you hold up a big light and I am grateful.

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  50. David, well done! Your lessons come in many forms, and I am grateful for all of them. Keep thinking good news, all is well1

  51. Lovely to see you out and about. The photographs made me smile, and your words were so right. We raised a glass to you while in Camogli yesterday after I told my group about this really wise and talented photographer I know. Over in Belgium, they say ‘Sterkte!’ to which you strength for the journey/the trials ahead. I think you have tons of it but the wish is there too.
    Di

  52. Hi David, will you be selling any “Up Yours, David” t-shirts anytime soon? LOL Thanks again for all the inspiration you give all of us as we try to make the most of our lives. Here’s to a speedy recovery!

  53. David, Love your amazing attitude, seeing your great smile on the stairs with The Brown Bastard, and that you watched UP, surely one of the best movies of all time! Your adventures are far from over, so like that old man, nothing will stop you. Patience & persistence, my friend whom I simply haven’t met… 🙂

    Janine Fugere
    As Seen by Janine: Eyes of the World Images

  54. Pingback: Today’s Shared Links for June 9, 2011 – Chuqui 3.0

  55. Hey man, good to see you ‘smiling. With your good humor and determination, not to mention the gin and tonics, you are well on your way.

    I know it‘s not going to all be a bed of roses, but as you say, it’s wonderful to be alive, and pain and hardships are sometimes a part of it all.

    Keep ‘smiling and when it gets hard “grin and bear it.“ You inspire many people, and that is a blessing.

    Sitting on the porch doesn’t sound too bad either!

  56. Oh, I got those first two photos wrong… I thought you were on your knees begging for more hospital food!

  57. I so admire you courage and sheer determination to “live your Life”. That attitude is so inspiring!
    Happy crawling! Then the first baby steps to follow. You WILL make it!

  58. You do inspire! It makes me smile to read your words and see your images. I can imagine there are times between, where the scene isn’t pretty. To see life as a journey and not a destination is beautiful. Thank you for sharing!

  59. Wow! It’s awesome to see you smiling through it! :c) Glad to know you’re home and moving around on your hands and knees! :c) You’re funny! Still praying for the remaining of your road to recovery! Lots of blessings! And looking forward to your e-book and your book! :c)

  60. There’s something strong and true about how we say to our bodies, “I’m going to get through this!” I see it on your face, and in your writing. There is a path and a confidence to follow it when it’s about envisioning the place we want to talk to when we can walk again. Thanks for the reminder, David.

  61. thanks for sharing. continuing to pray for a quick recovery.

    blessings

  62. I’m speechless and touched. I so love the way you share your heart. I’ve heard it said knowledge is gathering information and experience but wisdom is actually applying it to your life. I’m glad to see you understand that nothing is wasted in life or in what God allows us to go through. I will be praying for healing and amazing growth during this time. It’s so exciting!

    All the Best to you!

  63. Great to hear you sounding happier.
    It’s good to take (or forced to take) the opportunity to look at the world at a slower pace sometimes. 🙂 Definitely gave me a different perspective when I was hobbling around with stitches in my knee.
    Keep up the good recovery!

  64. So glad to hear your home (and still have your wonderful sense of life and humor)!

    If you need another animated movie to watch — try Bolt — you and your med asst cat Cocao — can enjoy it together!

    Sending happy thoughts and prayers your way!

  65. Nice looking shoes behind those fancy knee pads… wonder if Herman Munster is missing his???

  66. Author

    Innes – Not too forward at all. Right now we’ve pushed things back two months. I’m still hopeful. The problem is this: while I can resume writing at any point, I am now missing 3 months of the photographic opportunities I was planning to use to create the photo resources. So at this point still hoping for an October release, but we’re taking it one step at a time.

  67. Your persisitant smile in each photo drives your point home successfully David… if you’re gonna live with whatever life hands you, might as well do it with as many smiles as you can muster 🙂 I smiled at the mention of a new ebook… horray!

  68. I love your spirit and outlook, David. Looking forward to the ebook and… if it’s not too forward to ask… any update or ETA on Photographically Speaking? Take care.

  69. Author

    Peter – Thank you. I get it. Fortunately we can talk about things – even things about which we’re passionate – and do so with respect. That’s the only way any of us will hear and learn. I see the the world of commerce as a mixed bag and no model is perfect. It’s how we engage those models that I think is important. Anyways, I don’t consider you voicing an honest opinion in any way a stirring up of the hornet’s nest. And even if it were, sometimes these things are necessary, or at least keep things interesting 🙂

  70. Your ponderings remind me of something I was taught flying jets in pilot training – the ABC approach – Always Be Correcting. It applied to holding heading, altitude and airspeed in flying but it applies to our life flight too. Being human means being fallible. Consciously living and correcting back to the heading, altitude and speed we’d like to be flying is to live in the moment.

    P.S. My apologies about stiring up the hornets nest yesterday. I’m in a priviledged position so maybe it’s easy for me to say but it’s not just about “adapt or perish” considerations to me. It’s about how money often causes us to treat each other with less than ideal respect on this little blue sphere at times. Oh well… ABC. Bravo, by the way, for the way you handled the dicussion and worked to keep it a discussion.

  71. Your words are an inspiration on how to look at what life hands you. Glad your home and hope the healing goes quickly.

  72. Nice to see you home! Looking forward of joining you in one of your workshops.

  73. Just finding your blog and am truly inspired by your attitude. Sending prayers your way for complete and total healing and that every part of your story will be a blessing to you and others.

  74. Great words as always, David! Check out those little scooters that you can cruise around with kneeling on with your bad leg(medical supply store). A lot easier on the armpits than crutches and a lot more fun!! 😉

  75. What a great and inspirational post. It really resonates with my present situation, although it is so completely different from yours, and much of what you have written I have also thought in the past days. Life is fucking (can I write this) awesome and if it kicks you in the groin some time it just shakes you out of your complacency and makes you more aware of how great it is at all other times (which is not to say that the pain becomes any less painful for this of course, but maybe the good parts become better for the realization of their specialness).
    I truly wish you the best of luck for your further recuperation and your office work. One way to look at it is that you can finally catch up on those edits of past trips I am sure you have sitting around on your computer somewhere.

  76. You’re transformation to cyborg was bound to be painful, but when you emerge as Robographer your images will be more precise and parallel than ever!

    Jokes aside, I started following your work after hearing you on TWIP a year ago. I’ve greatly enjoyed the ebooks, and am actually a Vancouver friend of Trevor Meier.

    Your words have always been backed up a positive philosophy, but since your accident they have taken on a new, deeper meaning. You have reason to be pissed at the world, yet that same positive philosophy remains.

    I look forward to your swift recovery, and to the future images and ebooks to come from your robo eyes, and your robo heart.

  77. Apparently I really needed the “up yours” LOL moment today. What a story. Thanks for the update. And may God spede yer healin.

  78. Glad to see you’re moving on your own! My wife is a hospital nurse and it’s amazing to hear the variety of responses people have to sudden “bumps” in the road like this. I’m not sure how I would respond, but I truly hope is half as well has you have. Enjoy a Gin & Tonic for me!

  79. Hey David — glad to know you’re out of the hospital and doing better. Hope you get on your feet soon.

  80. Awesome to see you mobile – but, I know this has been a dark night as well. Take care, see you soon.

  81. I am going thru nothing like what you are David, but your words are truly what I needed to hear. Thanks so much. You are a hero, a warrior and such an inspiration to me.

  82. David, you are sharing very wise words with the world. Be sure to pay good attention to them yourself…I find that sometimes it is much easier to share wisdom and lessons than it is to “hear” it yourself. The world and I continue to send you good healing energy and the wisdom to know and understand what exactly is for your highest good..

  83. Your post made me think of one of my favorite quotes by Jon Kabat-Zinn:
    “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” Glad to see you working those waves, David. 🙂

  84. Glad to see you’re moving about nicely, David! Regarding the miserable person “trapped’ in the hospital room with you — It’s crazy and amazing how sometimes one person can really change the way you view life and make you re-evaluate you’re future and your goals. I’m sure you’ve changed a lot of people’s lives yourself (sans the “miserable” bit, haha). I can’t remember who said it, but it’s like the saying “You can be someone’s Jesus.”

    I’ve been praying for a speedy recovery for you, and look forward to keeping up with your slightly less mobile journeys in the next few months! God speed brother!

  85. Life throws so much at us, it’s great to see that your spirit is strong and that even during this trial, you are truly living each day as it comes.

  86. Hey David, so great to read this and see you’ve regained a positive attitude. Going through life’s challenges is what makes or breaks us. Even going through cancer and feeling down, I would remind myself that there was people worse off than me, so I had nothing to complain about.

    Today it’s my 1 year anniversary of having finished treatment. I’m thrilled to have survived a year and can’t believe what I have been through. I’m sure you’ll find the same when you look back a year from now. You won’t believe what you were able to endure.

    Keep strong and keep finding those positive moments :-).

  87. When I was diagnosed with MS, it gave me a whole new perspective on life. Those moments when we realize…REALLY realize that life is all we have and death is keeping an eye on you after all, those are the moments we should embrace as tight as we can.

    You’re an inspiration to me, David and with the kind of attitude you’ve got, you’ll be walking before you know it.

  88. all I can think of is “go go gadget!” lol. Looks like you’re doing great! Summer is always a good time to sit on the porch and enjoy a drink anyway. 🙂

  89. Just the fact that you stay positive, with a little added humour,through the trails that you’ve been through, speaks mountains of words… It’s encouraging to read your blog… Keep on keeping it real… It serves a purpose! (more than you realize..) Thanx.

  90. I hoist a gin & tonic toast to you and look forward to more of your work. Thanks for updating us.

  91. I said it on Twitter, you’re taking my paycheck $5 at a time! But I’m happy to pay it, the C&V books are the best. I have all but one (not saying which 😉 )

    I always enjoy reading your blog. I know you must have down days, but you always come through as one of the most positive, uplifting people on Earth.

    All the best for a very speedy recovery.

    …Mike

  92. David – In a few weeks from now when you ae wearing shoes instead of knee pads we will look back at the photos and laugh. I can’t wait!

  93. The level of joy on your face in these pictures juxtaposed to your situation is amazing. It really is. You look like a happy kid in the last one. I know your journey is not easy nor do you portray it as such, and for that honesty I say thanks. Many people are not willing to be that honest.

    Your joy is inspiring though. My favorite part of this post is “Life is made of moments. They add up to create a life. So to wish any of them away, to not look for something in each of those moments, is to wish away a piece of life. And if you do so in hopes of something better coming around the corner, you could miss life entirely.”

  94. Thanks for the update, David. Glad to hear you are out of the hospital, and are improving. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Your attitude is inspiring!

  95. I have recently discovered the Stockdale Paradox…..Google it, I believe it applies to your situation. Godspeed.

  96. David,
    You have a great positive attitude! That is in character from what I have read about you. I am taking one of your books on vacation with me next week and will keep you in my prayers to continue on mend and to be walking as you say in August and not far after be journeying to capture those wonderful images throughout the world. In the meantime, I will do my part to make images with a little of your philosophy in mind. Take care,

  97. UP is is clearly the direction you are heading David and you inspire us to do the same by keeping a positive attitude and sharing your thoughts. Thank you.

    PS – getting around like you are in those photos, wow think of you upper body strength! Think of the gear you will be able to carry! 🙂

  98. Such a motivating post David! Glad to hear you’re home and doing well. Hope you’re walking/running around real soon!

  99. This post found me on a day when I was feeling crummy. Thanks for changing my perspective. Keep up the great advice, photographic and otherwise. We’re all pulling for you.

    Jason

  100. Thank you so much for this post David! While I am not going through what you are, I needed to hear this today. As usual, you are a God send.

    Praying for you~

  101. Great attitude still David! Amazing, I’m sure it’s not always like this but you have the right big picture that’s for sure. If I were still living in Ottawa I’d offer to come down and mix a few Manhattans for the porch…they’re a tasty treat and great for the bowels 😉

  102. David, you get serious man points for this post. I look forward to your upcoming eBook.

  103. (really not meaning to sound cliche but…) your life, David, is an absolute gift to this earth! from my first meeting with you at delany’s on denman and everytime after that, even if not face to face….you give live life from the inside out! looking forward to seeing much more to come!!! peace – tanya

  104. Dude..
    You are going to have really strong arms…..
    (just focusing on the positive)

    Seriously glad that you are out of the hospital bed and back home. May the healing go as fast as possible.

  105. All I can say is Halleluja! What a comeback, David! UP!!!

  106. you continue to inspire. I have purchased you ebooks, and I learn so much from you and your books! thanks for sharing yourself with us, it is such a priviledge. best wishes janice

  107. All the power to you David for a swift and thorough recovery. Thank you for sharing your most personal thoughts and experiences. The reality is that this could happen to any of us at any time (heck I took a fall last month and smashed $4000 worth of gear on the rocks!). Your “glass is half full” approach is what defines your life and work, and is an inspiration to the rest of us.

  108. Glad to hear you are home, but more importantly that you are maintaining a positive outlook. Best of luck using your free time to get caught up. I never seem to.

  109. David you truly are such an amazing human being and a god send to us all. Your spirt and drive is road map to us all as we live on this beautiful Earth. Thank you for caring and putting yourself out there to help inspire us all and get us back on track when our thoughts take us to a place of negativity. Looking forward to viewing all you are working on. Most of all thank you for being you.
    Warmest, Piper

  110. Thanks for the update. You continue to inspire despite your best efforts 😉

    I kid, of course! Sending you all the best wishes in your continued recovery. Soon enough, you’ll be back on your feet, and I don’t doubt that all facets of your work will be even more amazing. Best wishes always, Bob

  111. David,

    So glad to have read this post and see that you are home and although crawling (love the pics) that you are somewhat mobile. I’ve been following your blog for awhile now and have read your books. You’ve been an inspiration and have learned alot from you. I’m heading to Italy next month and have read and re-read your Venice monograph so many times that I probably know it off by heart. Keep getting better and I’m looking forward to more photos, more books and more advice. Thanks Edith

  112. lol @ Chris Ward. I hope David gets as much of a laugh out of that as I did!

    Sometimes life strips us down to the barest essentials, and it’s only then that we find out what really matters. Good luck David!

  113. David, I haven’t posted much to you lately, but I’ve been reading every update waiting to see this! I’m really glad to see this hasn’t changed the way you view life. Hemmingway once said: The world breaks everyone, but some grow stronger at the break. You are living proof of that. Thanks for sharing David!

  114. A man on his hands and knees. Some might swoon! Good to hear you’re back home.

  115. Hey David, I discovered your work and your blog (and quickly became a fan) after hearing an interview on a podcast. I’m not sure which one, TWiP or Typical Shutterbug, I think, and it could have been an older episode that I was catching up on. I was just getting into reading your site for about three weeks before your post about your accident.

    Anyway, I just wanted to send a note of support for a speedy and full recovery as I consider which of your eBooks I want to purchase first. I’ve only been trying to develop my photography for a year now, and lately I’m turning more to the vision aspects rather than the technical. I’ll be travelling in Europe later this year. Do you have a suggestion to start me off?

    Cheers!
    Glenn

  116. Hi David, good to hear that you are home and have started crawling 🙂 soon you’ll be walking.

    Get well soon David… Jesse is calling you 😉

  117. All good to hear. It’s obvious you’ve found the upside to the whole experience and your current mobility hindrances.

    I mean, it’s a trend that most people over 25 end up back with their parents after they move out. In my mind I see your boyhood room untouched and you screaming from the porch “MOOOMMM! Another G and T woman! Hey, just like in “Wedding Crashers”

    Will Ferrell

  118. I think what you’re putting out into the world is very inspirational, David. I can only hope that you make a full recovery soon and continue to teach us all more about what lies out there to be discovered.

  119. Glad to see you are getting around if not yet up and around. Best to you on your continued healing.

  120. I can’t thank you enough for sharing your thoughts! They are so inspiring!
    So glad you are back home!

  121. The images are ok, but you left too much clutter within the frame. I don’t see how the backlight in the first image contributes to your vision for the image. I think an off camera flash would help. Also, do you try that in black and white?

  122. David, I’m a “professional amateur” photographer and am recovering from substance abuse. I’ve been clean and sober for almost 17 yrs., and you are a great inspiration to me. What you said about your roommate in the hospital floored me. It is so true about us making our own happiness. Peace and Good Luck, Mark

  123. Good to see you back home and good to see you recover.

    Really makes me think when you say –
    “life is made of moments and they add up to create a life”

  124. Hang in the David…I am looking forward to the new e-book. I have quite a few of them now and they are really great, thanks for that!
    Cheers,

    Jus

  125. Great to hear your finally home and improving. You’ve got the right attitude to get you where you want to be! Thanks for sharing.

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