At just 18, Joe DiMeo’s life changed forever when he fell asleep at the wheel and crashed his car, which exploded into flames. He suffered third-degree burns over 80% of his body, losing his eyelids, lips, fingertips, and nearly his life. Joe spent three months in a coma, caught between painful, vivid dreams and the fight to survive.

Despite overwhelming odds, Joe pulled through. In 2020, he made medical history as the world’s first successful face and double hand transplant recipient—a grueling 23-hour surgery involving over 140 doctors. Recovery was long and painful, both physically and emotionally, as he learned to use his new hands and face while navigating life with permanent scars.

While in a coma, Joe says he had visions he believes could have been glimpses of the afterlife—most memorably, walking his late dog up an endless hill, a peaceful contrast to the suffering he endured. The experience, though traumatic, gave him new purpose: to inspire others by sharing his story of survival, resilience, and transformation.

Joe found not only a second chance at life but also love. His girlfriend, Jessica, became his anchor, helping him find happiness again. “I would never choose to go through what I did,” Joe says, “but I like my life now—because she’s in it.”

Today, Joe raises awareness about organ donation, burn recovery, and mental health, reminding others that even after the darkest moments, it’s possible to rebuild, heal, and find joy again.