“The book is a candid, inspirational, and well-written. It is written from the patient's perspective, and offers valuable insights into brain injury that can be helpful to people with a brain injury and their loved ones.” - Greg Ayotte, Director of Consumer Services, Brain Injury Association of America
"This is a powerful book that far transcends medical issues. Although it provides keen insight into recovering from a major medical catastrophe, anyone that reads it cannot help but think about “what if” and how quickly a person’s life can be turned upside down. It is a thought-proving book that is appropriate for anyone that is too comfortable with their life and that takes things for granted, which is almost everyone in America." - Noe Negrete
"Your book saved my family's sanity. My brother was recently in a terrible motorcycle accident and suffered a significant brain injury. My entire family found the book to be not only informative regarding the steps involved in treatment, but very inspirational. It has offered us hope in the face of major adversity and has allowed us to have our eyes wide open about the rehabilitation that lies ahead of us. I work in health care and found many pearls to help me deal with tragedy. Thanks for writing this book." - Barbara Weis-Malone, NP Renal Division
"When I first picked up the book to read it, I couldn't put it down (except when I HAD to) and I was finished at 2:30 am the next morning. I loved it! I get you and your sense of humor, especially under such trying circumstances. Then there were the parts where I cried, trying to be in the shoes of your wife. It's an exceptional read about an even more exceptional miracle-based event. I love it when the "bug" doesn't win! "- Mindi Brawner
“This story is an impressive testimonial to the power of positive thinking, and focusing on the achievement of even the smallest of goals. Although the author focused on his perspective, a strong level of family/friend support also is evident throughout. This book would prove inspirational and helpful to anyone experiencing a life-changing injury or illness, prolonged recovery, and rehabilitation. Life can be good again!” - Karin Keller MS, RN, CS-FNP
“I found “Life After Near Death” to be an extremely interesting and entertaining book. Matt’s candidness provides good insight as to how someone who has gone through such a traumatic experience really feels when they are faced with such drastic changes in their life. It highlights how many basic tasks we take for granted on a daily basis that can be stolen from us in an instant and it inspired me to be a more appreciative person towards our gift of life and physical health. The family support and personal growth aspects of the story were heartwarming and provide a good example to others going through tough times.” - Michelle Canen
“A reflective account of one mans journey from broken to blessed as he deals with near-death, pain and ultimately, permanent disability. A recommended read for anyone professionally or personally touched by a serious medical condition.” - Tricia Brown, PT, DPT, NCS
"The book is almost equal parts drama, comedy, tragedy, and mystery, but 100% reality. I recommend it to anyone interested in three of the most important things in life: family, faith, and personal growth." - Craig Walsh, English professor, Vanguard University
“I am so overwhelmed with happiness that today I am able to write this email, and that the outcome wasn't a different one. I've been raised to not question why things happen, but to always remember there’s a reason for everything. Matt you are truly an inspiration! I feel like I have always done ok when it came to my priorities, but reading this book has enriched my life. The book provides a perfect example of what a marriage and a family should be and what it means to stick together thru the hardest of times.” - Angelica Rodriguez
“In his book, Life After Near-Death, Matt Stepien is refreshingly honest about his values and outlook on life, both before and after his life threatening illness. He has amazing recall of his feelings and perceptions, leading up to, and soon after, his coma, as well as during his rehabilitation. It is a “must read” for health professionals, as it gives a glimpse of health care from the other side and reinforces the importance of what you do every day.” - Jodi Lenocker, RN, Associate Director of Clinical Services for San Gabriel Pomona Regional Center (retired)
Testimonials