JT Mestdagh

I still remember coming home, laying on the kitchen floor crying, telling my mom: I just want to be able to read and write like every other kid.
So she found the program that changed my life. 🙌

That’s a big piece of why I wrote No Bad Days, because “no bad days” doesn’t mean life is easy.
It means there are hard days… and you keep going anyway.

If this message hits home, grab a copy of No Bad Days… link in bio. 📘

I stick a tube in my belly button every day.

It’s the reason I get to do the things like climb Mount Kilimanjaro

I was born with VATER syndrome and spent 250 days in the hospital before I turned 3. I’ve had 16 major surgeries. But this daily routine is my reminder that I got another chance.

Nothing like it! 🏔️

There’s a reason I bring a red backpack everywhere I go.

It’s a reminder.

In 2018 I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and at one point, the altitude was crushing me.

That’s when my friend Ladi did something I’ll never forget: he took my backpack and carried the weight so I could keep moving.

I made it to the summit because someone in my tribe was willing to shoulder the load and now I carry that pack to remember two truths:

1) There are no bad days, only hard days.

2) When your pack gets too heavy, don’t quit, lean on your tribe.

Nothing resets you quite like fresh air, open water, and good company. 🇧🇸 ⚓️

Unbelievably thankful for this time in the Bahamas with my dad and

Take a moment to step away from the screen today, connect with the people who matter, and enjoy the beauty around you.

Nothing like it. 🎣

Throwback to the time I paddled 62 miles from the Blue Water Bridge all the way to Belle Isle.

There is something about being 36 miles in that really tests your spirit.

Growing up with VATER syndrome and 16 major surgeries, I was told my body had limits.

But out here on the water, I’m always reminded that we are capable of so much more than we think.