Mary Neal Goes 'To Heaven and Back'

A Glimpse of the Afterlife

Dr. Mary C. Neal is a surgeon who had an extraordinary experience: death and a glimpse at the afterlife. Her book To Heaven and Back shares the true story of dying, coming back and finding new purpose for life on earth.

A Doctor's View

There have been many books out about afterlife experiences, but few (if any) are from the perspective of a doctor. How did your medical career influence the writing of this book?

My surgical career influenced the writing of this book in several ways. My job requires that I am focused, pragmatic, and analytical. I evaluate data before thoughtfully coming to conclusions and do not follow fads. After my drowning, I knew what I had experienced but analyzed the experiences, reviewed my medical records, and corroborated the events with others who had been involved before coming to an unequivocal conclusion that my after life experiences were real. I think this added an element of certainty to the writing of my book.

It is with a jaded ear that I listen to the often exaggerated descriptions of lay people regarding their traumatic events or medical care, so when I began to write this book, I chose to present the information as simply and factually as possible.

Lastly, the success of my medical practice gave me the tools, time, and resources to write and successfully publish my book.

Living to Tell

So few people have an afterlife experience and are able to tell it. Why do you think you died and were able to come back?

Actually, many thousands of people have had near-death experiences, and they are described in many cultures and religions. Most people don’t talk about these experiences, because they do not think they will be believed, and many people do not have the resources needed to share their story. It is not that I was “able” to come back, as I didn’t want to return. I was involuntarily sent back with a mandate of sharing my experiences as accurately and precisely as possible, knowing that all of the opportunities of my life have contributed to my ability to do so. Other than fulfilling God’s expectation of me, I have no agenda and am not threatened by the disbelief of others, which may increase the credibility initially given to me as a physician.

How to Forgive Someone Who Isn't Sorry

Jesus taugt us to forgive those who offend us. Read next feature >