Kaleb Dahlgren never thought he would be an author, but he also never imagined he would have a story that could help and inspire others.
Dahlgren, one of 13 survivors of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in April 2018, has written about the tragedy and his life in a book called “Crossroads.”
“I want people to take away some resilience, hope and family,” he said. “I think if you’re able to read the book and take one thing away, it would just be at every crossroad, find the challenge and pick the right path.”
Dahlgren said writing about that fateful night was one of the hardest parts of the experience, but also the most rewarding.
“Chapter 16 is my favourite chapter in the whole book,” he said. “I think that was one of the hardest chapters to write. It’s a tribute to those lost. It’s a special chapter in my heart.”
The cover of the book features a powerful image of Dahlgren standing on the road at the crash site.
“It brings on many, many emotions,” he said. “I wouldn’t say it is an easy place to go, but I honestly feel safe there. As weird as it sounds, I feel like I have my family members there still. For me, it’s a sense of healing and also a sense of hurt.”
The book covers Dahlgren’s life before and after the crash, including his recovery from a brain injury.
Dahlgren said he realized he needed to write the book after hearing from so many people who were touched by his story.
“It did not click until I got out of the hospital with all the support we (had) received,” he said. “Honestly, it leaves me speechless today. There’s no words to put in how grateful and thankful I am for that support.”