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The Sunday Series (126), with Mark Brodinsky

October 23, 2016 By markbrodinsky 2 Comments

Once in a while you meet them, pure souls so in tune with the richness and depth of life’s spirit, you can’t understand why everyone else isn’t exactly like them… including yourself.

Certainly their lives have been perfect, untouched by human drama or misfortune, for if so, how could they possibly be so kind, so giving… and so forgiving?

Yet it’s those who come from the depths, those who fight to survive and those who continue to climb, who live as examples of the best of this human existence.

We are illuminated by their light, we support them through their darkness, we learn from their story.

Everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (126): A Difference In The World

jo-and-don

Get your motor running,
head out on the highway.
Looking for adventure
and whatever comes our way.
– Lyrics by The Cult

It’s always been about the road. It’s where life truly began together for Don and Jo Dente and the same place that nearly brought an end to life for someone, whom together, they created.

Don and Jo met at a prom at a Nevada high school in the late 70’s, albeit there with other dates, but there was an attraction neither could deny. It wasn’t long before the two were finally on a date, up all night, talking in Don’s truck outside a bass festival. Fishing had always been Don’s love, but he quickly realized he had found another… her name was Jo.

high-school-picture

The two got to know a lot about each other, including Jo’s story of her life up to that point, trapped in a family with troubled and abusive parents. Don decided he wasn’t going to let Jo live this way, and so on that night in August of 1979, Romeo decided to rescue Juliet.

Don showed up at Jo’s house on his motorcycle, Jo had packed her belongings in a sleeping bag, jumped out her window and onto Don’s bike and the two hit the open road. The ride of life for the young couple was about to start, though the two had no real place to begin, nowhere to call home. They feared Jo’s Italian family, with some serious connections, would be after them, so they eventually wound their way from Nevada to Idaho and found a small farm. The two lived in a shack that winter with no refrigerator, keeping their food cold on a porch out back, and only a small wood burning stove. They survived on Don’s skill as a fisherman, eating mostly fish and Top Ramen. They slept on a blanket on the floor and had only a small radio, but they had each other… and lots of love.

when-we-first-eloped

Don eventually found work in what was a high-paying job at the time – working as a chain-hand on drilling rigs in Wyoming. The pay was 18-dollars-an-hour. At 20 years-of-age it was good money for Don Dente, but life on the road, at least for the time being, was about to end. Jo’s parents came calling – asking her and Don to come back home. The young couple eventually married in a small 24 hour Silver Bells Wedding Chapel in back in Reno, Nevada in 1981. They were home again, but not for long.

The twists and turns in the Dente’s lives since the two first ventured out together on Don’s bike have been amazing, more than can be recounted in one short story. But at the core of their life’s adventure have been a few things, including Don’s fall and rise in the insurance business. He first found a company called UGA back in the early 80’s and went 0-for-20 on his first 20 appointments, nearly forcing him back into work on the drilling rig. “I was driving home from another unsuccessful appointment thinking this isn’t going to work”, says Don. “I see a drilling rig and thought I will just go back to what I know. They hired me on the spot. That night I worked the graveyard shift, I came home and fell on the floor. I said I’m not doing this anymore, I’m going to make this insurance work.”

Don went to his manager and asked for help, he recorded his manager’s presentation and memorized it. “If people saw me driving down the road they would see me talking to myself, saying it over and over”, says Don. I said a prayer to my heavenly father, I won’t drink or do anything if I can make these next four sales.” Don went 4-for-4 and went on to become one of the top ten agents in the company, helping to train others along the way.

“I saw how good he was”, says Jo. “He is so good at helping people, he loves helping people and I told him you should get into management. He tells me no way, my only day off is Sunday and I won’t get to fish.” But the couple had a growing family and so Don took his wife’s advice and asked for a management position, but it meant another move, this time to Des Moines, Iowa. The couple sold their home, took the $6000 they had to their name, made the move and they made it happen. Jo, now 6 months pregnant with the couple’s second child, got licensed, and the two sold policies, recruited and trained new agents, eventually getting promoted to a Regional position.

don-jo-1987

The insurance business found the Dente’s traveling everywhere from Iowa, to California, to Hawaii, to Florida. And all the while the other focus of their lives, their family, kept growing.

living-in-hawaii family-in-melbourne mother-daughters daughter-london-high-school-grad-hawaii

The Dente’s now have twelve children in all  – four from natural childbirth and eight others they have adopted through the years. One of the pure threads that bind Don and Jo together and why they share such great love is their deep passion for helping others, opening their hearts and their home to those in need. What you give you attract and what you get you deserve. And it’s the reason why, when right now the Dente’s own family is in need, so many have come calling.

Cassidi Dente

Cassidi Dente

It was August 13th of this year when the Dente’s oldest daughter Cassidi was critically injured in a car accident on a Florida road. Her vehicle flipped over several times, trapping her inside.

accident-cassidi

The other driver involved in the accident, Nate, came to her rescue and tells the story of how another person appeared at the scene as well. Nate says the man came over said a prayer and Cassidi – at that point barely conscious  – awoke to say a single word – Amen. Nate says he never saw the man again, and told the Dente’s though he’s not a god-fearing man, he now believes.

As do so many others who believe in the Dente’s. For Cassidi, this is the second battle of her still young life. Born premature, Cassidi was initially diagnosed with cerebral palsy, but Don and Jo say after another set of prayers and a blessing around the age of two, Cassidi began to improve, much of it because of her hard work. Don says Cassidi works harder than anyone: “She was a bit slower than her peers, but she works harder. She worked twice as hard to get good grades, worked twice as hard at sports, worked twice as hard for everything. The doctors missed the diagnosis at childbirth and this accident is the second time around for her, she’s determined to prove them wrong.”

high-school-long-jump-cassidi

Since the accident Cassidi has been mostly paralyzed from the neck down, a quadriplegic, but by medical definition only, not by spirit, mindset, or will. Jo has spent nearly every day in the hospital and rehab with her daughter and says Cassidi’s favorite thing to tell the doctors who treat her is to be more optimistic: “She says to them, ‘I’m going to surprise you, come back, walk in and give you a hug.'”

day-20-of-accident

“What she’s known for at the hospital is her attitude and her will,” says Jo. “It was a big deal when they pulled her trach tube out, (which essentially happened by accident), and she could speak again. Her talent is speaking and inspiring people. She inspires everyone who comes into her room. The entire staff connects with her. They come in on their days off to see how she’s doing. They just love her, they take shifts just to be with her.”

cassidi-and-staff

But it’s not only the staff who loves Cassidi and the Dente family, Don and Jo’s insurance life eventually led them to USHEALTH Advisors, where over the past few years they have built a new region, and found a new extended family. The Dente’s say the incredible outpouring of love from the USHEATLH Advisors home office and agents since Cassidi’s accident has been overwhelming, and it has helped her to fight.

hope-service-project-dengte-region-2016

“There are more questions then there are answers with Cassidi’s condition,” says Jo. “Her grit and her attitude definitely were inspired by the support that was lent to her early on. When she saw the support she got, it led her to fight. When she saw how many people cared about her it made her believe ‘there is something I’m still meant to do. I can still influence, I still have a voice.’

cassidi-smiling

Jo says after therapy Cassidi always asks the staff, “so what can I do today when I go back to my bed to improve? Tell me what to do because I want to move through this.” Jo says the family has a slogan: “Never give up, never surrender. And we say that a lot when the kids complain. Never give up, never surrender, don’t quit, eventually you’ll get it.”

Don says there’s a life philosophy he has learned climbing hills and mountains that he has tried to pass down to his children: “It’s in the climb of life when you learn the most”, says Don. “When you walk down the hill there is no growth or inspiration. Only when you are engaged in the climb and overcome the obstacles. It’s in the challenges of life where you find the opportunity.”

Cassidi is echoing her father’s philosophy as she fights back to improve her situation. Now at the Shepherd Center for Brain and Spinal Injury in Atlanta, Georgia, Cassidi is making strides, partly because of her own internal power and partly because of the generosity, giving and love of so many around her. Don and Jo believe in their daughter’s will and God’s help, to battle and find a way back. And they are buoyed by Cassidi’s continued optimism about her situation and her never-ending desire to give to all those she meets.

cassidi-and-friend

It’s a testament to what Don has tried to impart to his children: “I learned some time ago to focus on four words: listen, learn, love, lift. If you do that with everybody you come in contact with, listen to them, learn from them, love them – acknowledge they’re on the planet, say their name, acknowledge they’re alive and then lift them – and if you do that with everyone you meet, then you’re making a difference in the world.”

dente-and-family

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark

(You can support the Dente family, Cassidi’s recovery effort and future medical expenses by donating to the GoFundMe campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/2swp3858)


More about Mark Brodinsky:

USHEALTH Advisors: http://www.ushagent.com/markbrodinsky

Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6)

Huffington Post: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/)

The Profile: (http://www.talkinggood.com/profiles/MarkBrodinsky)

The Podcast: (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sunday-series-courage-inspiration/id1028611459)

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Comments

  1. Taylor Reed says

    November 2, 2016 at 1:48 pm

    Amazing story, amazing family, and amazing woman, Cassidi Dente.

    Reply
    • markbrodinsky says

      November 2, 2016 at 3:13 pm

      Yes!!

      Reply

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Mark Brodinsky
Emmy Award Winner, 1996

Ever thought about writing a book? check this out!

Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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