Full of heart

the long version

This book tells the story of an inspirational journey from tragedy to triumph. In 2003, at age nineteen, the author was on a routine patrol in Iraq when the Humvee he was driving hit an antitank mine, resulting in severe injuries and burns. Out of that tragedy came an improbable journey of inspiration, motivation, and dreams come true. Raised in Louisiana and Arkansas by a single mother from El Salvador, he was well known for his good looks and his smart mouth. When his college football dreams collapsed, he turned to the U.S. Army. After his Humvee hit a mine, he spent 34 months in grueling recovery. His spirits were low, until he was asked to speak to another young burn victim. He then realized how valuable and gratifying it was to share his experiences with other patients and listen to theirs. He had found a calling. His resilience, optimism, and charm were also noted by Hollywood and scored him roles on All My Children and Dancing with the Stars, where he was the season 13 champion. Today, he tours the country sharing his story and his lessons for overcoming challenges and embracing hope, lessons that abound in this book.--From publisher description.