Attention: The following program contains a topic which may not be suitable for young viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
Dean Wardak sustained a spinal cord injury and brain injury as a teenager, after a drunk driving accident nearly killed him. He learned to talk again, and how to tell time and to accept help with daily activities that he used to do for himself. He has been on an intense rehabilitation program ever since. Nancy visits Dean at his home to discuss the strategies and supports that helped him to persevere through some extremely dark times.
While still in the hospital, Dean made a commitment to use his story to discourage other people from drinking and driving. Dean has been a motivational speaker since 2012. What started as public speaking for the Peel Police about the dangers of drinking and driving has transformed over the years to something much bigger. He is on a mission to inspire people to be more loving, motivated and responsible by making the right choices. Dean has given over 80 talks at places such as high schools, church groups, youth groups, police seminars and charities. He shares how he is still finding the strength to do great things with his life. He credits his daily exercise routine with helping to stay optimistic and promote his mental health.
Dean graduated from York University magna cum laude in 2023 with a degree in professional writing.
