In this episode of Gods and Genes, I learn from Dan Shockley, retired US Navy veteran and advocate for attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (AFAP) awareness. Dan shares his journey from a surprising diagnosis of AFAP, a rare genetic condition, to becoming an educator and advocate for early detection and awareness. He discusses his military background, the importance of a positive attitude, and his collaboration with medical professionals globally. Dan's story is one of resilience and purpose, as he continues to inspire others through his advocacy and personal experiences.

Dan Dry Dock Shockley is a retired Navy, Operation Desert Storm, Enduring and Iraqi Freedom veteran. He’s a 13 year hereditary colon cancer syndrome WARRIOR. Dan was diagnosed with attenuated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (AFAP), after his first and only colonoscopy at age of 51. He fit outside of the mold for most healthcare providers being asymptomatic and having no family history of colon cancer. Dan underwent successful total-proctocolectomy with a permanent ileostomy and pancreas-sparing duodenectomy resection surgeries and now shares empowering information about navigating life for others who have also had ostomies. He’s spoken to medical students, graduate students, and other training healthcare professionals to be a live-case presentation for what living with AFAP can look like. Dan shares his story with us today and lives by a simple, acronym-based motto: Always Forge Ahead with a Purpose!

If you’d like to connect with Dan, check out his Instagram @DanDryDock or LinkedIn at Dan Dry Dock Shockley.

Dan shared a meaningful piece with Gods and Genes listeners, this was featured as the tile image of our episode.  He also included a short piece to describe this painting. Here’s his work:

AWE-INSPIRING FEELING, ATTITUDE OF PEACE (Survivor)

The bright orange sun symbolizes my radiant smile and awe-inspiring feeling.

The blue, cloudless sky resembles my clear mind and attitude of peace,

The grey horizon is in honor of my 22 year journey in the Navy onboard 7 ships,

The two sea birds reflect freedom of flight looking ahead in life,

The palm trees are the Shockley and Wilson families,

The coconut on the tree to the left represents my AFAP diagnosis

The root of the tree on the right side of the island symbolizes my gene mutation APC. 

The sand resembles that of an island.  Many diagnosed with a medical condition feel isolated like an island.  My representation is to reflect the opposite.  Even though diagnosed with a rare condition I have the ability to overcome adversity and be a source of inspiration and encouragement for others.  In other words, having the ability of taking a what could be considered a negative experience and turning it into a positive opportunity.

The left side of the island has an anchor which was washed up on the shore and half embedded in the sand.  This reflects several things.  First, at times in life we may feel as if we are washed up on the shores of life.  Second, it has been said not to build on sand rather build on solid ground in order to have a strong foothold.  Third, the anchor looks like the letter “J” on its side symbolizing my journey and forging ahead with my life having APC.

The deep blue ocean surrounding the island resembles several things.  One, the world is covered approximately 75% water. Second the human body consists of approximately 75% water. Third, the island is surrounded by water.  Fourth, we are surrounded by what I like to refer as the “living water.”

That's my story and I am sticking with it!

- Dan “Dry Dock” Shockley

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AFAP, FAP, APC, ostomy, genetic condition, advocacy, early detection

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Gods and Genes is hosted and produced by Amber Sher, MS, CGC. Gods and Genes is a proud member of the Gene Pool Media Network. While you wait, why not check out one of the other incredible podcasts in the Gene Pool Media network? With over a dozen different podcasts to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a podcast in your niche. Logo graphic design on Gods and Genes is produced by Safiah Peeran.

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