From Tragedy to Miracle — One Woman’s Battle to Save Her Husband and the Community that Rallied Behind Them

Book talk and presentation with author Maria Brophy and her husband Drew

When the COVID pandemic struck her strong, athletic husband, Maria was forced to say goodbye through a hospital window.

Doctors placed Drew in an induced coma on a ventilator and delivered devastating news: he had little chance of survival. Before going under, Drew promised, “I’ll beat this.” Maria whispered back, “I’ll be here every day until you wake up.”

What followed was an extraordinary survival story that defied medical expectations. Drew endured 70 days on a ventilator, a collapsed lung, multiple infections, complete paralysis, and a near-death experience. When the medical system urged Maria to remove life support, she refused. Instead, she fiercely advocated for alternative therapies and leaned into faith, prayer, and the unwavering support of their community.

Against impossible odds, Drew survived. His recovery stunned doctors and nurses alike and became nothing short of a medical miracle.

Books will be available for purchase.

Doors open at 6 pm
Presentation begins about 6:30pm

$5 General Admission
Free for California Surf Museum members

To purchase tickets and to RSVP, please call 760-721-6876