Mary Neal

Dr. Mary C. Neal is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon recognized for her work at the intersection of medicine, faith, and the human experience. Neal graduated from the University of Kentucky, attended UCLA Medical School, and completed her orthopedic surgery training at the University of Southern California, where she became director of spine surgery. Following her surgical training, she lived in Sweden, Switzerland, and Los Angeles while completing a year and a half of specialty training in spinal surgery. Neal later became a founding partner of Orthopedic Associates of Jackson Hole.

Neal's life changed during a kayaking trip in Chile, where she experienced a near-death event that redefined her understanding of life and death. While kayaking on the Fuy River, she was forced over a waterfall, became trapped underwater, and drowned. After being underwater for 30 minutes, Neal survived, made a complete recovery, and underwent months of hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and rehabilitation to walk again. Her extensive medical background contributed to her skepticism before this event, which ultimately shifted her perspective.

During her time submerged, Neal describes a profound near-death experience, including a life review, a separation of her spirit from her body, and encounters with radiant beings. She documented her experiences in two bestselling books: "To Heaven and Back," a New York Times bestseller and Books for a Better Life finalist, and "7 Lessons from Heaven." In these works, Neal shares insights about near-death experiences, spiritual growth, and the impact of faith on healing. "To Heaven and Back" has sold over one million copies and both books have reached millions of readers worldwide.

Neal's story includes navigating profound personal loss. During her near-death experience, she was told of the future death of her eldest son, a prediction that was later fulfilled. She has spoken about how her experience provided a framework for coping with grief and building resilience. Neal has served as a church elder, participated on several nonprofit organization boards, and established the Willie Neal Environmental Awareness Fund in honor of her son.

As a speaker, Neal has shared her story with audiences globally across platforms focused on medicine, spirituality, and personal growth. She has appeared on Fox & Friends, NBC's The Today Show, Dr. Oz, and other major media outlets. Neal has presented a TED Talk titled "Death Brings Context to Life" and has been featured in the Netflix series "Surviving Death." Her background as a physician who has personally confronted death informs her perspective on hope, purpose, and resilience, making her a respected voice in discussions about near-death experiences, faith, and healing.