... Dedicated to everyone whom I ever met. However, I wanted to acknowledge some special individuals and organizations who have been very kind to me:

My loving wife, who daily permits me to be myself. She’s also the better half of our relationship. My adorable son, who reminds me each day to live each day to it’s full potential and carefree. My business partner, who didn’t give up on this project or me. Financially, he has made this goal come true. To my closest friends and my four siblings, who provided me with the inspiration to become a better person---and also bring me back down to Earth each day. For my co-workers, who assist me all the time in my various work projects. To my students, who allow me to stand on my soapbox and provide insight into the American political system. And also to my parents. They gave me direction in life. Also, they gave me the courage to stand up for my beliefs and the self-esteem to pursue my dreams, including writing this book.

Lastly, my heartfelt thanks to the staff at Woodridge Family Practice, the staff at Cardiac Surgery Associates, the Cardiovascular Unit at Edwards Hospital in Naperville, Illinois, Midwest Heart Specialists, and the Lord for keeping watch over me during the past year. They reminded me, once again, what is truly undervalued in life --- our health.