Marcus Engel - Turning Tragedy Into Triumph

Marcus Engel’s impactful story is one that should be heard by all nurses, healthcare providers and caregivers. Although his experience is one that no one would want their son to go through, I’m sure his parents are so proud of the way he has turned tragedy into triumph.

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Marcus Engel - Turning Tragedy Into Triumph

As a college freshman, Marcus and his friends were on their way home from a hockey game in St. Louis when they were hit by a drunk driver. Marcus suffered catastrophic injuries that forever changed his life. He lost his sight that night as well as his ability to live the life of a carefree young man. His injuries resulted in more than two years of rehab and over 300 hours of reconstructive facial surgery at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.

Throughout his journey to recovery, he maintained his goal to overcome his injuries and recapture life. He has used his experience to illuminate the importance of human interaction in the form of compassionate communication between patient and caregiver in the process of healing. His books highlight the hospital experience from the other end of the stethoscope.

While at the 2017 Magnet Conference, part of the allnurses team had the opportunity to meet and talk with Marcus. I invite you to listen to our conversation... Hear the passion in his voice... Hear how he has turned tragedy into triumph.

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tnbutterfly - Mary

About tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I was also fortunate to help with this interview. Mark is phenomenal. He took a tragedy and completely turned it around. He really explains what it is like to be without sight and be in a very vulnerable place. Yet, he is a positive and upbeat man and genuinely appreciates all that nurses do.

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Specializes in Med/Surge, Psych, LTC, Home Health.

I read his book, I believe it was entitled _I'm Here_, and it was about his experiences as a patient, and how he appreciated all that his nurses did for him, but what he wished his nurses knew. In the book, he highlighted things that certain nurses did that made him feel more assured, relaxed,

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Specializes in LTC, CPR instructor, First aid instructor..

The nurse manager Jennifer is a super nurse. You are awesome for being there with Mark during the time he needed someone with him who really cared. God bless you dear.

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Physician's Office, Clinic & LTC.

I had the opportunity to hear his story when he came to my workplace. His story is beautiful and demonstrates the power of a nurse's presence and kindness to a patient. I am very proud that he has come so far in life and is now an author and professional speaker, and is able to share his experience with, and challenge others to do the same.

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