I am 67, a mental health writer and a patient recovering from heart surgery, now on the open road.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

New heart, new start. In mid-July, feeling short of breath, my brother drove me to the emergency room. Three days later, a superb and caring medical team was performing a quadruple bypass. My heart was totally blocked. It was a miracle that it was still beating. It's a miracle that I am here. My recovery turned me into a philosopher-patient, asking the kinds of questions to which there are no apparent answers, but ask I must.

I am a mental health writer, who has carved out a niche as an expert patient. Now, as a philosopher-patient, I am looking forward to talking to people who've had major heart surgery and listening to your stories of healing and recovery.

Playing the didgeridoo and being out in nature has done wonders for my recovery and healing. I'm fascinated by the power of the breath (literally spirit), not to mention playing music with others.

I am also looking to strengthen my personal connection with the mental health community. Between the two communities - heart and mind - lies a profound wisdom. I wish to be amongst you. You will be doing a lot more for me than opening your home to me - you will be playing an active role in my ultimate healing.

In turn I am hoping to be the kind of guest you have been longing to receive. The time we spend together will be deeply meaningful for the two of us.

Interests

I am an accomplished didgeridoo-player, and enjoy jamming with musicians of all stripes. As a writer, I am innately curious about everything, which translates to no shortage of things to talk about.

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Gustav Mahler, Louis Armstrong
Movies: I am blown away by Citizen Kane
Books: Anything by Vonnegut. I'm making an attempt at Ulysses, but it's a struggle.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Given hope to thousands through my mental health writing.

Teach, Learn, Share

Didgeridoo, conversations on recovery and healing, nature walks, making music. Possibility of wider gathering where I am a guest speaker.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Insights into healing and recovery, meaningful conversation, music, nature, just plain fun, a deep and lasting friendship.

Countries I’ve Visited

Cook Islands, Mexico, Netherlands, Samoa, Scotland, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Canada, New Zealand