The last thing I ever saw was the bear that took my eyesThe last thing I ever saw was the bear that took my eyesI was living in Girdwood, Alaska, a little ski town squeezed by mountains, with hiking and backcountry skiing out my back door. I had a dream job as a recreational therapist for emotionally disturbed kids. I was newly in love, and had just bought a cabin high in the Chugach Mountains with a view that went forever.
Then, after a stellar day of salmon fishing on the Russian River, within sight of the parking lot, a grizzly came at me at a dead run. I dove for cover, but the sow had me before I hit the ground. This bear wanted me dead. She sunk her claws and teeth into my arms, legs, back and shoulders, then flipped me over, clamped her jaws around my face and chomped hard enough to pulverize bone.
Fading in and out of consciousness, lying alone and mangled on the ground, I fought the urge to let go. Long before the paramedics and helicopter arrived, I promised myself, that if I lived, I would never look back and regret it.
I didn’t know at the time the mauling had left me blind.
The next two years were devoted to healing inside and out as I struggled to make sense of what happened. The pain, the surgeries, the nightmares, the depression – all were part of the package. But I refused to let the darkness get in the way of who I am and all I am capable of being. One thing I heard over and over from the doctors and surgeons who pieced me back together is that it’s a miracle I survived. But I’m not just a survivor; I am thriving.
Today, I’m married, have a young son and recently recieved a Master's in Social Work degree from UAA with a 4.0 GPA. I counsel kids and families dealing with trauma of their own. I still fish, though now with my guide dog, Anderson. And I have returned to that spot on the Russian River where I came so close to dying to remind myself how grateful I am to be alive.
Working with a professional writer, I’m now in the process of writing a book about what happened that day and the impact it’s had on my life. This website will keep you posted on the book’s progress as I work through the steps of securing an agent, finding a publisher and so on. Eventually, there will be links provided for purchasing the book.
If you would like to recieve special updates about the book's progress, Dan's unfolding story, media appearances, speaking engagements in your area, or other exciting news please email Dan@danbigley.com.
Special Update Last year I received some very exciting news. I was chosen to receive the "Alaskan of the Year Award." This award is given annually by the Governor's Committee On Employment and Rehabilitation Of People With Disabilities to a disabled person who serves as an inspiration to all.
On September 30, 2008, we traveled to Fairbanks to receive the award and address the committee. My wife Amber and my son Alden were able to accompany me to Fairbanks to receive this special award.
Please email Dan Bigley to set up speaking engagements, media apperances, or just to say hello. Dan would love to hear from you.
Email: Dan@danbigley.com
Thanks! Dan, Amber, and Alden