After Gabe Poirot’s skateboard collided with an object on the road at nearly 30mph, it became a pivotal moment in his life. The incident catapulted the then 20-year-old 6ft into the air, resulting in a headfirst crash onto the pavement, all without wearing a helmet.
During the accident, Gabe’s friend, John Michael, witnessed the harrowing scene. Describing the moment, John Michael recalled finding Gabe unconscious on the ground, with closed eyes, surrounded by prayers for his recovery. Despite his unconscious state, Gabe later revealed that he was aware of the prayers being offered for him. He mentioned feeling a sense of calm and witnessing a tunnel of light before being taken to the hospital.
Upon arriving at the hospital, medical professionals, led by Dr. Forrest Moore, Vice Chief of Surgery, diagnosed Gabe with severe head injuries, including subdural and extravasation hemorrhages, as well as contusions. The medical team worked to provide necessary support for his brain’s healing process.
Gabe recounted his extraordinary experience during his coma, sharing that he felt transported to a realm of pure light and love, encountering a divine presence that profoundly impacted him. As his condition worsened, doctors expressed concerns about his prognosis, indicating potential long-term neurological impacts even if he survived.
Despite the grim outlook, a turning point came when a family friend named Ginger visited Gabe in the hospital and prayed for his recovery. Gabe described seeing bridges formed by prayers connecting him to Jesus, leading to his eventual awakening from the coma. His recovery astonished medical staff, with Dr. Moore acknowledging it as a miraculous outcome.
Gabe emphasized the role of divine grace in his recovery and shared his newfound perspective on life’s purpose and the significance of prayers. He highlighted the importance of recognizing one’s value and purpose in the world, as illustrated by his own transformative journey.
Having documented his experiences in a book titled “18 Days in Heaven: I Left My Body. I Met Jesus. What He Told Me Will Wreck You,” Gabe’s story serves as a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and resilience in overcoming life’s challenges.
