Episode 024 - Dave Dravecky
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Dave Dravecky is a speaker, communicator, and co-founder of Endurance with Jan and Dave Dravecky, a non-profit organization based in Salina, KS. Dave and his wife Jan were inspired to create their foundation after Dave’s major league baseball career ended when he developed cancer in his pitching arm, then his mental and spiritual health suffered in the wake of this life-changing event. Dave is passionate about using his story to reach out to those who are dealing with loss and suffering and gives speeches all over the USA to inspire and encourage by sharing the faith and hope that got him through the most challenging time of his life.
Dave joins me today to discuss the lessons he learned throughout his playing career, from college to the major leagues. He shares the value of being part of a supportive community and relates how the encouragement of his wife Jan guided him when he was unsure of his place professionally. Dave also dives into his cancer diagnosis, subsequent rehabilitation, then the amputation of his pitching arm and shoulder and how at that point, he recognized the significance of God’s love as he dealt with an uncertain future.
“Go out and work as hard as you can, to be the best you can and whatever it is you choose to do, have fun” - Dave Dravecky
This week on The Wow Factor:
How Dave Dravecky learned early on to make the right choices in his career
Why he made a 10-year plan while he was still in college
Why a move to the San Diego Padres opened him up to exploring his faith
The importance of building a community
The pitfalls of trying to be something you’re not
How discovering a lump in his arm in 1987 changed the trajectory of his career and his life
Why he turned to God when reflecting on his life up to that point
His determination to get back out on the baseball field and how the subsequent loss of his childhood dream significantly affected his mental health
Dave’s long road back to finding himself with the support of his wife and family
Dave Dravecky’s closing Words of Wisdom
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“It’s not what you do that matters most, it’s who you are”
“Release your fears, talk about them”
“Are you willing to push the pause button of life to examine who you are?”
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