Francis Xavier Baltazar
2013
My dream car was quite reserved and wasn’t at the level of a Ferrari or Lamborghini, but it was the car I’d wanted since high school. I finally bought it in 2013 feeling like I’d hit the jackpot. I never imagined I’d be able to purchase the car especially that I grew up in a third-world country where resources are at a minimum. Two months after purchasing around Christmas time a car accident left my dream car totaled. Though my time with my car was so brief, I am always thankful that I walked away without a scratch.
Days later, I was found unconscious on the bathroom floor. The diagnosis was epilepsy, and it shook me to my core. My future felt uncertain and I kept asking myself: What does this mean for my future? The reality that this thing can wipe me off the face of the Earth at any second, and make my son navigate life without me was pretty terrifying.
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At the time, I was stuck in a job that had very little potential for growth, and I had no real sense of accomplishment. I hadn’t achieved the success I’d hoped for or made my parents proud in the way I wanted. I knew I needed to do something, not just for me, but more importantly for my son. I wanted to leave him something solid—a foundation to build a better future. In facing my own mortality, the phrase "One Day at a Time" became my guiding principle, which eventually gave birth to the book. A book that I hope will serve as a beacon of light for my son, and hopefully for others, when the road ahead feels uncertain.
One Day at a Time
was released on Father's Day in June 2023. In the book, the author embarks on an insightful exploration of the intricate relationship between trauma and resilience, uncovering a paradoxical truth that reshapes our understanding of life's most challenging events.
Drawing from his own experiences, one man describes trauma as a lasting psychological response triggered by overwhelming difficult situations. Unfortunately, many of these responses can become compulsive and harmful, diminishing the quality of life.
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Discover how this man transformed his journey through trauma into essential stepping stones, ultimately revealing the key to the elusive fulfillment we all strive for.
About the author
Francis is a deeply compassionate family man and a dedicated nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience working to create meaningful social change. As Chief of Staff for one of San Francisco's esteemed nonprofits, he leads initiatives that provide essential housing and mental health services to individuals struggling with homelessness and complex behavioral health challenges. His work is a true reflection of his commitment to improving lives, using his skills to address some of society’s most pressing issues. With a career that spans business intelligence, organizational development, research, and global communications, Francis draws on his background to lead transformative projects that make a real difference. His ability to bridge expertise from both the private and nonprofit sectors allows him to innovate and reshape complex organizational landscapes, delivering solutions that directly impact communities in need.
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Outside of work, Francis values time spent with his family and indulges in a variety of activities for emotional expression. Whether playing the drums, traveling, experimenting in the kitchen, graphic design, or immersing himself in thought-provoking documentaries, he finds healthy and creative channels that fuel his passion for both personal and professional growth.