As I settle back into work after a two-month health break, I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought me here—a journey filled with unexpected trials, resilience, and faith. During these two months, I underwent two major operations—one on my spine and another on my heart—endured three emergency visits, including two stays in a cardiac ICU, and made countless urgent care trips. Today, I count myself blessed to be here, but I can’t help but wonder: how did I get here?
The Year That Changed Everything
2024 started like any other year. I had my plans neatly laid out—I was looking forward to a promotion at work, renewing the lease on my apartment, securing my permanent residency visa so my wife could work, going on vacation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But as the saying goes, “Man plans, God laughs.” While not a direct biblical quote, it aligns with Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
This verse, along with Psalms 91, has been my anchor during this storm. The first six verses of Psalms 91 remind us of God’s protection and faithfulness, something I’ve clung to when hope felt out of reach:
- Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
- I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
- Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
- He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
- You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
- nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
A Battle I Never Expected to Fight
Twelve years ago, I was diagnosed with pericarditis, a condition that causes swelling and irritation of the pericardium—the sac around the heart. Doctors assured me it was nothing to worry about, and I believed them. But on December 21, 2024, my world turned upside down. I found myself in the ICU, unable to breathe properly as fluid built up around my heart.
A pericardiocentesis procedure was performed to drain over 600ml of fluid just to allow me to take a normal breath. I remember the fear vividly—the cardiologist carefully inserting a needle into my chest wall, delicately avoiding puncturing my heart, and then inserting a catheter to drain the fluid. Every breath I took felt like it could be my last. My wife was devastated, but we held on to hope, because at that moment, hope was all we had left.
A New Perspective on Life
When I say no one should take life for granted, I mean it. This experience has given me a new appreciation for the little things—the people in my life, the opportunities I’ve been given, and even the simple joy of breathing without pain.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
Appreciate the Present – Life is fragile, and every moment counts. Don’t wait for a crisis to start valuing what you have now.
Value Relationships – Cherish the people around you. Tell them you love them. Show appreciation. Time is fleeting.
Embrace Change – Plans change. Life throws curveballs. Learn to pivot and find meaning in every twist and turn.
Practice Gratitude – Even in the darkest moments, there’s something to be thankful for. Gratitude shifts your perspective.
Prioritize Well-being – Your health is your most valuable asset. Don’t take it for granted.
"This experience has given me a new appreciation for the little things"
Daniel Mainye
Founder, DanMan Group
For Those Facing a Storm
If you’re going through a crisis, whether health-related or not, here’s what I want you to know:
- Acknowledge Your Struggles – It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Accepting where you are is the first step toward healing.
- Reflect on Your Goals and Values – Reevaluate what truly matters. Focus on what aligns with your purpose.
- Set Achievable Goals – Small wins lead to bigger victories. Start with what’s manageable and build from there.
- Stay Connected – Surround yourself with people who uplift you. Avoid negativity and seek genuine support.
- Stay Open to Change – Nothing is permanent, and that’s a good thing. Growth comes from adapting.
- Spend Time With Yourself – Self-reflection and meditation can bring clarity and peace.
- Invest in Learning – Read, write, and challenge yourself to grow mentally and emotionally.
- Stop Comparing, Start Appreciating – Everyone’s journey is different. Instead of comparison, celebrate others and find joy in your own path.
Seeking Support
If you’re struggling, don’t do it alone. Seek help in whatever way works for you:
- Professional Counseling – A therapist can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
- Books & Resources – The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz and Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett are great places to start.
- Online Communities – Find support groups that align with your needs. Just be mindful of where you seek advice.
- Personal & Professional Networks – Talk to mentors, friends, and family. Sometimes, the right conversation can change everything.
Looking Ahead
As I step into 2025, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose. I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know this—I will be more intentional about how I live, love, and lead. I’ll focus on what truly matters, and I hope you will too.
See you at the finish line.
Job Mainye
February 1, 2025 at 3:55 amThanks Little brother. I remember during your wedding you published yet if not but really similar article on life’s milestones. Each floor of life God’s way will matter. To be honest dad was really affected more than all of us. Staying in a far country and we were so scared over what Cammille was going through. Just to say a little “Keep God in your Path”