Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Wilborn.
Hi Dana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia a real ATLien, a Grady baby. I’ve always marched to the beat of my own drum and have always loved trying new things. I graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor’s in History and later received my degree in Culinary Arts. I’ve had every job imaginable from driving cars at auctions, owning a café, and working in higher education. The one constant in thing in my life has been migraines. My migraines became unbearable and a CAT scan confirmed a Brain Tumor. It seemed like it came from out of nowhere but apparently, I was born with a tumor that slowly grew over time. I had brain surgery at 22 years old and spent months at Emory’s Rehabilitation Hospital. After the surgery I lost all hearing in my left ear and had paralysis on the left side of my body similar to that of a stroke victim. I had to relearn how to walk, talk, and function normally. I know you’re thinking, whoa! This is heavy, where is the bright side to this story? After that surgery, my whole outlook on life changed. Life was beautiful and fleeting and I wanted to learn, explore, and do as much as I could with this second chance.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has never been smooth for me but I always had the ability to see the glass as half full. I just had another brain surgery in June of 2022, Emory here I come again. But this time was smoother, almost 20 years to the date. I was only in the hospital for four days compared to months of treatment and needed no rehab. My story often makes me reflect on the mythology of the Phoenix, rising from the ashes and starting over again and again.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Like any working mom, I wear multiple hats. I still cater, am a Published Author, and currently work at a University.
What matters most to you?
I am now a mother, a chef, and work in higher education. What matters to me the most is that I encourage my son to try new things, that’s it’s ok to fail and you don’t have to choose just one path. I know that I’m here to encourage and uplift as many people as I can. I just released two books, another goal of mine was to be a published author. As long as I keep growing and never stop learning new things, I know I’ll keep rising from the ashes and overcome any obstacle that comes along. You can take a look at my books at; Legendspublishingllc.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: Legendspublishingllc.com
- Instagram: legendspublishing150
- Facebook: Dana Wilborn
