Dave Sikes is the focal point of this extraordinary true story. Born to a 15-year-old Chicago mother he would never know, and adopted by a childless couple who raised him as their own, Dave survives precarious patrols through Vietman's killing field, only to have his oldest daughter die on a lonely southern Illinois highway while he sleeps. That terrible event is the starting point for Dave's own physical decline - to the point that only a rare double-lung transplant can spare the ex-Marine from certain death. Dave and his wife, Judy, his devoted partner of more than 30 years, are an ordinary couple who overcome extraordinary obstacles and hardships that test their faith, marriage and will to survive. The Sikes' gradually grow to realize that their union and their struggles fulfill a larger purpose - to stand as an inspirational example to others facing tragedy and serious illness.

Andy Knef is an award winning writer, journalist and healthcare professional with over 20 years of experience. He is employed at BJC Health Systems in St. Louis, MO as the manager of Creative Services.