My Next Step is a remarkable memoir of one man coming face to face with the darkest moments of his life and how, through his own drive and the unwavering support of family and friends, he never succumbed to despair. Dave Liniger had it all: four successful children, a lifetime filled with adventure, and a company he’d founded, RE/MAX, that became one of the most prominent real estate brands in the world and made him a success beyond his wildest dreams. He had served in the Vietnam War, parachuted out of planes, raced cars, and once even attempted to circumnavigate the world in a balloon. And then overnight his full and varied life almost came to an abrupt end. Doctors discovered he had a horrific staph infection along his spine that left him paralyzed from the neck down and in excruciating pain.
My Next Step chronicles how Dave found reserves of strength to fight through his pain. He drew inspiration from his wife, Gail, who had shown incredible grace and courage during her recovery from a tragic airplane crash twenty-nine years earlier. His guiding light was the mantra, “Just 10 steps.” If he could take 10 steps, he could take 20. If he could take 20, he could walk a mile. After three critical surgeries and six grueling months in the hospital, Dave finally returned home. He continues to heal, but is back running the company he loves and getting stronger every day. My Next Step will inspire those facing tragedy to find the courage to accept their situation and do what’s necessary to take the next step toward a meaningful life.
Dave Liniger is the visionary leader of the Denver-based global real estate franchise he co-founded with his wife, Gail, in 1973. Dave was born and raised in the small town of Marion, Ind. Prior to starting his real estate career, Dave served in the Air Force and completed three tours in Vietnam. He first became interested in real estate after successfully buying and selling properties to supplement his income while stationed in Phoenix, Ariz. After working for both a 100-percent commission company and a traditional brokerage, he co-founded RE/MAX in 1973. He and Gail reside in Castle Pines, Colo., and love to visit Scottsdale, Ariz., as often as possible. They enjoy a number of outdoor activities, including golf and hunting. They also breed Arabian horses.
