The survivor of a harrowing ordeal doles out inspiration and motivation.

Here’s how Bryan Cuerrier’s blog begins: “I am just an average guy. I live an average life and am not any better or worse off than the average Canadian. I am given a day at a time to do with it what I wish. Sometimes I am productive, sometimes I am at a loss as to what to do with the day I was given, but mostly I consider every day a gift.”

Not so different from any other amateur blog, right? Think again. Cuerrier goes on: “Someone once said to me ‘You are the poor fellow that got Flesh Eating Disease.’ I replied, ‘No, I am the lucky fellow that got Flesh Eating Disease.” 

In May of 2010, 54-year-old Cuerrier went to bed with flu-like symptoms and was found half-conscious in his home by his then-girlfriend (now wife) Marijo – his hands blue and unable to speak.

Alana Hurov, CEO of Hotel Yoga and Fitness, Inc., who recently wrote about Cuerrier’s inspirational story, reported that he was rushed to the hospital where he was eventually diagnosed with Strep A Streptococcus bacteria – better known as flesh-eating disease. He was in intensive care for over a month, where doctors amputated his left leg from the hip, his left arm below the elbow, his right leg below the knee, and the fingertips of his right hand to save his life.

After years of rehabilitation, Bryan has re-learned how to stand, walk and hold a glass again. “Miraculously, his positive outlook and courageous attitude have allowed him to sail, golf, play tennis, ski, blog and travel,” Hurov writes. To mark the third anniversary of the incident, he and Marijo have signed up for the Toronto Marathon on May 5th. Bryan will do a 5km walk and Marijo will run a half marathon.

If you find you need a quick attitude adjustment, read his blog – it’s full of positive and responsible messages that can benefit anyone facing adversity. “I try to remember each day that had I not made it through the events of May, 2010, I would not be here to enjoy the day in front of me, and that would make me poor. But I am here – living – breathing – being loved and loving back. That makes me lucky.” 

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