Introduction

In February 2003, Dr. Allen Steven Lycka was walking with his wife and youngest daughter at the “Happiest Place on Earth” when his wife noticed his foot was “flapping.” It was making an audible “flap” with each step he took. In the prime of his life, considered one of North America’s premier cosmetic dermatologists with a thriving practice, a leading philanthropist and committed family man, Dr. Lycka was perplexed by this sudden development. Going through a full range of tests, the dozens of doctors he sought out were equally perplexed. One leading neurologist delivered the devastating blow that he had ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, and he would only live six more months. "Get your affairs in order," the doctor callously said.

After going through depression, anger, rage, and denial—he ultimately decided not to give up.  Instead, he decided to not accept the diagnosis, as his symptoms simply did not match those of this devastating disease and his search for another answer began. His diligence paid off, and he found a doctor who DID have the answer, Dr. David Martz, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was told by Dr. Martz, after more testing, that he had Chronic Lyme Disease. He was bitten by a tick!

Even with this debilitating disease, he maintained his status as a leading cosmetic doctor for another 16 years until he retired from his practice in 2019. His decision was based on wanting to help others get through near death experiences as he had. He decided to serve his fellow man in another capacity. Since finding the appropriate answers to his dilemma, Dr. Lycka rededicated his life to appreciate living fully and being of service to others in living the fantastic life he had found.

Dr. Lycka met his co-author Harriet Tinka who had also lived through a near death experience at an event he sponsored, a leading awards ceremony honoring “Women of Distinction.” Bonded by their shared traumas and their renewed appreciation for the value of life and service, Dr. Lycka and Harriet wanted to give others “The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life” (a book with the same name) that they distilled from their own experience. These 13 essential human elements were founded from the grains of near catastrophe and transformed into “Golden Pearls of Wisdom.”

Offered in the format of a dialogue between the two authors, the book also includes their chronicles of pain and triumph, allegories, stories, and inspirational and insightful quotes. The exploration of each of the 13 Golden Pearls creates a necklace of self-empowerment that will enhance anyone’s life.

The Golden Pearls shared offer a roadmap for living a life that is rich in love, achievement, appreciation, joy, and service. They provide strength, comfort, and encouragement.

Dr. Allen Steven Lycka is on a mission to transform lives. Acknowledged as a leading expert in Living A Fantastic Life and Turning Points, he is a transformational sought-after TEDx speaker, 3x bestselling author, winner of the coveted Quilly Award for bestselling author, thought leader, life-changing coach, and mentor.