20170307_Birthday Ebook

HAPPY
40th
BIRTHDAY
DAVID

My David,
Happy Birthday!
I wanted to share a quote with you that has nudged me to reflect on what I
appreciate about you and our relationship. (Invoke Mr. Pats’ teacher voice, or,
alternatively, Morgan Freeman).
“In every relationship, in every moment, we teach either love or fear. To teach is
to demonstrate”.
It’s a quote from A Return to Love, which is based on A Course in Miracles. It
made me think of you and how in virtually every situation you lead with love. I
sure as heck know you don’t lead with fear.
I want to thank you for teaching me about love and the capacity of an open
heart. You demonstrate this wisdom every day and now, I’d like to teach you a
thing or two.
Just kidding.
For your birthday, I want to thank you for being the very special man that you
are in my life. After forty years of practice on this earth, you are an incredible
friend and lover and bar none you have given me the most fulfilling relationship
I’ve ever experienced in my life.
Thank you for leading with love and continuously offering your care and compassion.
You have loved me steadfastly and without judgment despite my anxieties
and fears, and even in the face of all kinds of fantastic confusion that I
create. I am keenly aware of your ability to stay when the going gets tough. It
means the world to me. You are teaching me how to love on a daily basis and for
that I will always love you right back. Thank you for showing me how.
Outside of our relationship I’ve seen you give time and again to anyone who
might need a helping hand or heart-y hug. You always know what to do no
matter the person or their story. To me, that is a magnificent ability and a pure
demonstration of leading with love. You are truly the rock who fortifies everyone,
the leader who gives without precedent, and the star who shines when
others succeed.
Thank you for being my lobster, my safe haven, and my greatest challenger all
bundled up into one big, strong, goofy partner. Thank you for being my teacher
about love and beyond. And thanks for turning 40 and being so good at all of
these things. You’re hands down, unequivocally, and undeniably just… The.
Best. Ever.
I Love You,
Ann Marie

We've watched your progression over the years and all the successes you've enjoyed, from sports to
artistic endeavors, to your great professional success. And through it all the most impressive factors
have been your humility, your even tempered nature, your kindness, and your generosity. You have
always had time to spend with your many, many friends and with your family. You have always made
us feel entirely welcome in your home on visits to Portland, even to the point of inviting us to come
out for lengthy visits and use your house as a home base. You've also been extremely generous with
presents and purchases--using money as a means of giving pleasure to others and to yourself rather
than as an end in itself. We've been the recipients of your generosity on numerous occasions, examples
including the Kevin Red Star pony picture and Sonos, both of which we enjoy on a daily basis.
You have a wonderful, giving nature and we are grateful and proud that you are our son. We wish we
could be there to help celebrate this notable birthday with you and your friends but we'll be there in
spirit.
Much love,
Dad and Brenda

David V. McHenry
On one hand, fourteen years really isn’t that long ago – especially when you get older (like
40 for example). On the other hand, it seems almost a life time ago when you offered me this
crazy, stress-filled, awesome job! (Did you offer it or did I just tell you I’d take it???)
When I think back to where we started, all the fun, crazy, hard, things that have happened,
all the entertaining, bizarre, peculiar, remarkable, awe-inspiring people we have met, the
personal struggles, the professional victories, I realize how much it has changed us – myself
most of all.
I don’t know if you realize what a huge influence you have had on me these last years. I’ve
contemplated, many times, how different my life would have been had we never met.
You have never driven me but coached me.
You have never pushed your authority but instead showed your guidance.
You have never inspired fear but instead generated enthusiasm.
You have never used “I” but have always said “We”.
You have never taken credit but always – always – have given me credit (even when it wasn’t
due).
You have never commanded me but instead asked me.
You have never shown disappointment but instead you have taken the time to develop and
love me.
You have never been acted as a boss to me but as a leader, a guide, a friend!
I love you from the bottom of my heart!!

Wishing you a very happy 40th birthday, Brother Dave! I hope it’s a joyous one
and that you’re getting showered with lots of love and gratitude. I have a lot of
gratitude for your influence on my life, most notably during the “Portland
Years.” I consider that time pivotal to our relationship and to the path that I
embarked on in my life.
As step-brothers who didn’t spend a lot of time together growing up, it was
amazing to get to live together full-time and make up for all the lost time. I’m
sure there was plenty of frustration on your part, having a freeloading little
brother who was covered in dirt all the time and crashing in your white-carpeted
basement. But it was a treat. And then when Molly moved out and joined us it
felt complete. I feel so grateful that the three of us got to spend that time
together. I have fond memories of making sweet potato chili together (perhaps a
little too often) and listening to The Be Good Tanyas as we cooked. “China
Town” has a permanent place in my heart.
On a personal level, the “Portland Years” were life defining. That first summer
that I came to visit you marked my entry into the world of farming and to meeting
so many of the people who have influenced me since. I still remember
Brace’s shower bucket and the couch that lived on the front porch, where I spent
a week recuperating from my Germantown face plant and subsequent balloon
scrotum. I also remember the backcountry ski trip that we took with Brace and
Lucretia, where I forgot our dinner in the car and we had to eat the next morning’s
oatmeal instead.
In significant ways, you are responsible for me figuring out how to make a life
that is meaningful and in line with my personality and values. I really do consider
my discovery of The Grinning Goat to have been a stroke of serendipity and
fate. And it wouldn’t have been possible without you opening your home to me
and encouraging me to come out there and see what I could find. When I realized
that farming was something that I wanted to learn about by taking on a
low-paying job after graduation, you subsidized me in doing it. Dave, that was
huge. And it really means a lot to me. Thank you so much. I love you a lot,
brother. Hope your 40th birthday is awesome!
Love,
Sam Dunalp

David, brother.
I write wanting to share my reflections on what our friendship has meant to me and how
much it has contributed to my growth. Both for this and for what is to come I’ll remain
always grateful….
I was a little lost when you came into my life. Shortly after, I can remember nights at
Leisure and in the back yard at your house off Wall St, and you’d talk about life and
being a therapist, and what your career had meant for you. You had some specific reflections
at that time about how much a therapist can actually positively affect another
human being in that role; I’m just beginning to realize that now, and what a gift it is - I
feel like I gain more than my patients do, sometimes. It’s truly humbling. I understand
now where you must have been coming from, and I see how it has shaped you and
allowed your best gifts to come through both as a technician of the body and as someone
who cares deeply. You’re a true giver, David, and you’re sending out important ripples in
the world, and that sort of action becomes even more important when you consider the
mass disillusionment that exists right now. As gaudy as that might sound, please receive
and acknowledge that compliment, because I know you and I know me and I think,
especially as men, it is difficult to receive (It’s important to learn how to do that, so that
we stay nourished). You’ve absolutely changed my life in a positive way. I want you to be
able to really know that you’re an important figure in the lives of the people around you.
I know that you get that intellectually, but to actually feel that in your chest, man. That’s
the ticket. The gathering of people at PACE for your birthday really demonstrated the
love and respect that people have for you. It’s really cool to see.
At that time when we met I don’t think I had many strong male leaders in my life. You
really held me and made space for me, and I really needed that. I don’t know if you know
how much I looked up to you and felt anchored by our friendship. Your old house honestly
felt like home to me; Just walking in and hanging out with you and having dinner
and drinks, I felt a sense of belonging. Recently there’s been some conversation about
me acting as your spirit guide, and I think that’s a beautiful idea and I honor that, but I
want you to understand also how important your leadership and strong fatherly archetype
has been. I have since seen myself act out that roll for others, but I understood that
through you. So now we see the magnitude of the ripple.
I’ve seen you do a lot of work, and it’s fucking impressive….your drive and ability to put
your mind to something without doubt, and just fucking do it - I’m not sure I know
anyone else with the resolve that you have. That’s been important for me to see. You’re
also one of the most lucid and rational thinkers that I know, so it’s been fun to bounce
ideas off of you and collaborate in that way and sharpen our minds together. You’re a
really brilliant guy, Dave.
I’m not saying this lightly or in jest in the least bit, but the world needs strong men with
integrity like you.
Thank you for letting me say this here.
With all the love and respect,
Pat

Dearest Dave
Sometimes I wonder if I’m you….
I’ve never fixed a back, but I’ve let you fix mine.
I’ve never won a game a ping pong, but I’ve let you beat me time after time.
I’ve never grilled the world’s most amazing burger for a crowd of 10, but I’ve let you feed my face.
I’ve never led gold medalist in a workout, but I’ve let you kick my ass at Pace .
I’ve never opened my door to anyone at anytime, but I’ve stayed at your house.
I’ve never shared my talents (none) with my friends, but I’ve watched you help all of us, including my
spouse.
So, when I step back and wonder if I’m you, I realize that not a single human could do what you do for all
of us and ask for nothing in return. Your generosity for each of us has never gone unnoticed and has
inspired me to be more like Dave.
Though my actions may not be as kind and generous as yours…..at least someone may question if I’m you,
even if it’s just our lack of hair and love of robes.
Wris.

David – Hey there cowboy…
Happy Birthday!
Thank you for your friendship,
selflessness, and your
whiskey cabinet. It’s crazy to
think that we met 10 years
ago. I was a fat, injured, and
highly sexual professional
baseball player in need of
good care. You accepted me
for who I was and continue
to do so to this day. You are a
one of a kind human. Looking
forward to many more
years of friendship with you!
-Travis
Happy Birthday to a friend, mentor, role model… the list
goes on. You have a knack for bringing people together
and creating deep, personal relationships. We can’t thank
you enough for bringing together such a wonderful group
of friends to experience cabin life in White Salmon,
sipping whiskey by a raging fire, always having the best
Hvalloween costume, front yard core sessions and coffee
on the porch. One of the most amazing attributes you
have, even within all your fun loving silliness, is your
logical voice of reason that provides sound advice for
nearly any situation. You have mentored many and we all
look up to you, what you stand for and what you’ve done
with your career. Even with all your success you stay true
to your roots. You value your time with friends and you
build up the people around you. We both feel so fortunate
to have you in our lives and look forward to many more
years of friendship… and hopefully another cabin.
Happy Birthday Old Man,
Gus and Colls

Dave—although our paths only cross once in a while, you have supported me as
an athlete, coach, and businessperson for many years, now. Without your belief
and support, I would have retired triathlon ages ago, and would most likely not
be where I am today athletically or in my business.
I see in you the man and coach I aspire to be: generous, calm, knowledgable,
kind, and powerful. I would like nothing better for my life than to emulate your
success as a coach and leader, and your nature as a person. I hope to continue to
be able to learn from you for many years to come.
With a shit-ton of gratitude,
Chris Bagg

As soon as I think about you David, or Mac, as I call you, I think of sensitivity
and compassion. Yes, we all know your sense of humor, quirkiness and fun loving
style, but for those who know you, we also know how sensitive, compassionate
and caring you can be.
March 20th, 2008, I wrote you an email saying that I just found out that I have a
serious heart problem, I’m going into emergency surgery and there is a chance I
will not survive it. I still have all the emails that were sent around at that time.
Your first line of action was to check in on me then check in on Sarah (fiancé at
the time of course). You called and emailed everyone around me to get the latest
information. Your next course of action was to take over my clinic and run it,
with Shawn, while you are running your own clinic. It is hard to run one’s own
clinic, let alone, take over another one. You didn’t complain or worry about
yourself or your business, you just simply did what you do, which is to step up
and take care of business!
My clinic did not lose any money, my income stayed the same and while I was
out for a few months, you just kept things going. You checked in on me at home
and comforted me that everything was ok and not to worry. (I may have milked a
few extra weeks out of that by the way, sorry, J). I felt your true love and compassion
for me and I still do.
You and I can go months without talking, but as soon as we do, its as if we haven’t
skipped a beat (pun intended). We have enjoyed a lot of unique and intimate
opportunities together as friends and business partners. I thank you for your
friendship, your kindness and your compassion. I wish you nothing but the best
for your 40th birthday and hey, just because you’re old now, doesn’t mean we
still can’t have some fun together! Happy birthday friend, I love you and will
always be there for you when you need me!”
Tony Rocklin
I met Dave for the first time in 2007 or so through bike racing. Dave immediately
impressed me with his enormous knowledge of anything sports and physiology
related. However, the thing that has stuck with me over time is what a great guy
he is in addition to his towering professional presence. Early on after I had made
Dave's acquaintance, an ethical choice presented itself to him that had large
logistical consequences. A lot of people growing a small business would have
been tempted to take the easy way out. Dave, in contrast, did the right thing
even though it would not be easy and could have an impact on his bottom line.
This is the kind of guy he is.
Since then, I have seen Dave step out of his way repeatedly to maintain friendships
even though he is one of the busiest people I know. In addition, he always
makes time if you need some help with your body even though he is insanely
busy travelling the globe helping the superstars of today and tomorrow stay
injury free. I don't know Dave half as well as I wish I did, but all I can say is:
Dave, you are a great guy, have a great birhday. I wish you all the best!
Per Bjesse

Dear David (Red October),
Thinking of your upcoming big event, the big 40, I thought I would put pen to paper and think of some memories of
spending 39 years with my best friend.
Teeth marks, myrtle beach, cub scouts, knothole baseball, whiffle ball, the Blan pool, boy scouts, spitballs, spending
the night, main street, Video games, the pit, KY…..
According to our moms, when you were not crying, you would put teeth marks into my bald head. That is when the
abuse started and the friendship began. From the early times – I especially remember the trip to Myrtle Beach,
wearing that white sailor’s hat and hanging with you and Ben, and of course our good friend Brian Sandlin. The
infamous boat trip that ended up with most of us kids puking all over the place. Then being on the same baseball
team playing for Bob Perry, watching you hit a home run in Knothole when you had the flu. Of course the ride back
from the games was always interesting in your mom’s party van – the same van where you actually busted a windshield
mooning folks on the way home. Playing whiffle ball, and buying $5 worth of laffy taffy from Dorsey’s so we
could spit like the pros. Hanging out at the Blan pool, being forced to join the swim club and wear speedos, and you
trying your best to hook me up with Jamie Crowenbaugh. The only good thing was Mugsy’s pizza after the swim
meets. We had plenty of amazing Cub Scout outings, one of which was spent in Brian’s tent with his dad it proceeded
to rain the whole week at Cowan Lake. When we first joined boy scouts – Mr. Lawson challenged us to build camp
gadgets, and we ended up building chairs, a bench, and boot holders – he didn’t know what to say. Then later, Camp
Birch when I hurt my ankle, you built crutches out of a few branches and rope and we hiked 2 miles to the first aid
station. We ended up with 3 Merit badges, no questions asked, when the nurse saw what we did to stabilize the foot,
and the complexity of your crutch design. I still have both the crutch you made, and the crutch you decorated from
the hospital. I remember the day we acted sick on opening day, then calling each other each inning to give the play
by play. Playing Atari, then later Nintendo (Zelda) all night was a must. I loved your house on Main Street. Sometimes
our sisters would be there too for the night. That’s also when we discovered Super Dave Osborne, Gallagher,
and Eddie Murphy. When we got bigger the abuse continued as you wanted to practice all your wrestling and kung Fu
shit on me. Spotlight was amazing, and the pit you and Ben dug was cool but not a great place to hide. I am still
proud of myself that I did not participate in the Toilet Papering incident of Main Street and watching you and ben
pick little pieces of TP was hilarious. Had more than a few trips with you to KY when things changed with your mom
and dad, in the peppermint stick suburban – and a lot of spitballs out of the back on window on the way home.
The move, Cincy, the farm, slide for life, canning, headlights pointing to Morrow, Snow hill, girls, high school, the
dogs, Sega…….
Was sad helping you move to Cincy, and afraid things would change for good. That was not the case. I remember
spending weeks sometimes at the house in Cincy, or at the farm. Talk about a blast. Playing golf at Reeves, then
schooling kids on the court at the Cincy Sports club, then figuring out how to mess with your step sisters was a blast.
Your mom taking care of us, with plenty of mint iced tea (if we picked the leaves) and monkey bread (if we helped).
She had rules, but was so nice to us. We took all of her games, whether it was the bag or the dictionary game and
turned it from Mr. Rogers to Quentin Tarratino level. I was there the first day Misha arrived, and we were pumped.
Playing Sega all night, Madden (broncos 86 vs. bengals 88) – Lakers vs. Celtics, and Hockey – where you would just
put Bob Probert in the game to beat the shit out of my best players. Playing basketball at 3 in the morning in Pleasant
Plain – with the heat lamp on...like that would help? Then we came up with the zip line idea, the “slide for life”,
and the almost near death of me. Thankfully, you had some common sense, and realized I wasn’t in good shape.
Camping out and sleeping by the fire, listening to WGRR and hoping we heard the “Lion Sleeps tonight”. Fishing,
frog gigging, then grabbing the guns in the morning and hoping my mom didn’t show up to take me to church. We
had an epic Bday weekend with Brian, which turned into a bit of a fiasco when his Dad asked him about Darlene. Also
remember your grandpa taking us to the UC/Miami game – and all the “knuckleheads” passing him on the way home,
like 16 wheelers hauling cars as an example. Ben could drive back then, and was our go to for yard jobs, and trips to
Cincy. He didn’t like my creative uses of his Andrew Dice Clay tapes, but watching traffic get pissed was funny. You
guys forcing me to listen to Easy E was not funny. Watching you and Ben ask girls where the bass was – that was
funny. We could then finally drive, and that was a recipe for more trouble and golf. Now we could drive up to Snow
Hill and charge a round and food on our dad’s accounts. We were good back then, but used to always get yelled at by
the pro, for doing dumb stuff. The epic time we drove to the farm around 1 a.m. in a blizzard (took over an hour to
get there) to play football in the snow, then “borrow” ben’s jeep and pull each other behind it on tubes was crazy fun.
We discovered canning, which was a blast until Brian used his hand instead of the can. My laughter stopped when he
tried to pull me through the back window of the truck – yours continued. The time you rammed Tedesco and we
spent 3 hours trying to fix your truck – then your dad asking you how having one headlight pointing to butlerville,
and one toward Morrow is $@#^$@@$ fixing your car was priceless and classic Ron. Going to your games at Walnut

was like we were part of the Entourage; we were David’s friends from his hometown. Watching you get yelled at by
Coach Hammer (is that right?) was hilarious – seeing the Red headed White kid from Blan dunk on the Cincy kids was
badass. Still can’t believe your football skills - 4 touchdowns against Amelia. We celebrated by going to the high
school party, where your friends were more than happy to have us Blan kids join, with paper bags hiding our Snapple.
You would drive after your games from Cincy, and come stay in Blan with your pizza, 2 liter, and your Sega in tow to
hang out instead of staying in walnut. That was cool. When it snowed and you knew Blanchester was off for the day,
somehow you were “stuck” and couldn’t make it to Cincy because of the snow, but you could drive to Blanchester.
Toward the end of high school we started to date girls – who also happened to be friends. This was the only time we
didn’t always get along. What it really was, and my opinion looking back, was that we both felt that the girl wasn’t
good enough for our friend. Luckily we both realized we could never let anything or anyone stop us from being
friends. That long walk from the pond to the house was all we needed to talk it through after months of battles. I
can’t forget to add the putt putt nights, me climbing the fountain, Prewitt using 4x4 drive for no reason, and of
course the infamous “gutter incident” during one of our late night runs to Gold Star. Can’t forget Dickie and the can
to the forehead story. I was ok having you practice all your Hoyce Gracie moves on me, knowing that I would get to
see you and Brian fight later and try to force each other into submission.
College, trips to see Brian, jobs, homes, family, finally becoming adults, and the rest of the story….
The best trip I ever took in college was after my freshmen year, when we decided to drive and see ‘Brian in Maryville.
What a blast. Hiking, and kayaking. The top of Mt. Lookout. Dinner with McHale. Taking photos with Dolly and Kit,
then doing the fake western photo. Losing the CD’s and our bags getting stolen. That summer we played golf and
drove buy Blanchester’s band camp, and I made sure they saw a full moon. I have never seen you laugh so hard, well
at that, and maybe the picture of me with my shirt off standing next to the 1988 beat to shit Toyota Camry at Crossroads
diner next to all the hot rods of the 50’s and 60’s. You were at PSU sending me free shit, and I was at XU sending
you free Student government shit. I remember your first game at PSU when they announced your name and
making all my friends watch you play.
Even though we were professionals and had now moved on from college, we both thought it would be a great idea to
place a construction light outside of Susie’s room, at 3 in the morning. Our trip to the farm thanksgiving 2015, then
Plain folk cafe, then the pond, then later for a nightcap at the cabin was epic in friends reminiscing.
You eventually found a home in Portland. I had the chance to visit in 2013. Another trip I will never forget. My new
big time job at GE footed the bill. Your home is perfect, and meeting your new friends was like I knew them for life.
The trip to the coast was beautiful, and you riding home with me on the way back instead of the rest of the crew so
we could talk, catch up, and listen to old school 90’s rap then hitting up Nike to see your digs was cool as shit. Then
checking out your office in the city and you at work, I have to say that I was actually proud, but mostly happy for you
more than anything. Dave Mac in his element, and seeing that I said – geez we are now adults (although we still lack
maturity).
Whenever you lost a loved one – you called and told me to get my ass over to Cincy to come see you. I called you
when my grandpa passed away too. Our families are so close and we celebrate each other’s successes and comfort
each other in bad times. Love your family big time. Your dad used to take me to school even after you went to
walnut hills, and then gave me advice before my football and basketball games. I can’t say enough about Susan, she
is truly my second mom. Ben (Dover), I learned more than I wanted from him. Love Molly – such a big heart and
my other sister. Earl, Susie, Catie, Brenda and Sam – all amazing people and you are fortunate to have them in your
life. Oh, the abuse has passed on to your young nieces and nephews who also like to beat up on James.
Dave, you’re an amazing friend. Besides all the memories and stories I have told here, there are many more.
Through all of the years, and between all these memories were some fantastic conversations about friendship, family,
jobs, girls, politics, sports, and life. It’s always fun when we are together. Even more when you add Brian and Chase.
Sometimes my face hurts from all the laughter.
I’m looking forward to the next 40 years of conversations, stories, laughter and making more memories along the
way. Love you man.
Happy Birthday Red October!
Your friend,
Jamie (Bowles) Bowling

BIRTHDAY VIDEOS
Ann Marie Smith
Click Here
Molly McHenry
Click Here
Kester Cotton
Click Here
PACE
Click Here

Dave,
Well shit, where do I even start. I suppose first by saying Happy Birthday!! I feel
so lucky that I have had you in my life for so many years Dave. You are truly one
of those people for me where I can’t find the words to explain or describe my
appreciation and love for you. From me being a little senior in high school, to
college healing days, to drunken hilarious hot tub nights, to wonderful conversations
over beer and food. I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today
without you and your support Dave. You allowed me to follow my passion with
starting my own training business and never once did you expect anything in
return. You are one of the most selfless people I know. You opened your doors in
a heartbeat when I talked about wanting to build stupid skateboards You have
been a constant in my life. Someone who I know will support me in my ideas, my
passions, my crazy dreams and every injury that my little body will ever endure.
Your words are there to comfort me, your touch is there to heal me and your
heart and entire spirit are there to make me feel supported and loved. I’m not
sure I have ever been able to truly tell you how I feel and how much you have
given me in my life. Your friendship means an incredible amount to me and I
look forward to so many more years of laughs with you Dave. I love the time I get
to spend with you and I feel so grateful for my connection with you. I will never
be able to thank you enough and I will continue to try and give you back a fraction
of what you have given me. AND you have always supported my C cups….so,
that is basically the most important thing. I love you dearly Dave. You deserve
not only the best of birthdays this year, but you deserve the most wonderful of
days all of the time. Happy Birthday, lets drink to you!!
Becca Meierbachtol
OK, so David is turning 40? Are we certain about this?
Nevertheless, if he thinks he’s 40, God bless him.
To be honest, David is a mystery to me. He’s surrounded by wonderful friends, a
beautiful and intelligent girlfriend, a successful business, a spectacular house,
and he’s into pottery for Christ’s sake! The dude actually makes his own mixing
bowls. What the fuck?! Anyway, somehow he’s pulled all of this off with just the
slightest amount of intellect, reprehensible bad humor, and all the while having
an appearance of a hairless bear. Like I said, a total fucking mystery.
Anyway, somehow I’ve been coerced into David’s bizarre world and I consider
him a close friend. It pains me to say this, but I’m a better, happier person for
knowing David. David is one of those guys that immediately lights up the room
when he walks in. His confidence and kindness project on to others in a flash.
One cannot help themselves but to jump on David’s wavelength and positive
energy. A whiskey with David is a whiskey with all that’s possibly good in the
world.
Here’s to many more whiskeys with ya David. Happy Birthday.
PJ (Pete Julian)

Happy Birthday David!
As a leader, whose goal it is to develop other leaders, you have really risen above
and made quite an impact in our physical therapy world! The first time I met
you in a coffee shop I knew you were a visionary. You had a plan, confidence,
unafraid to dream big and the charisma to pull it all off. I’ve loved watching you
evolve and do what so many others thought was not possible. You certainly
embrace Muhammed Ali’s belief that “impossible is just an opinion”.
When I met your runners, I was expected big ego’s and spoiled athletes. What I
experienced that day were humble freaks of science and nature who all praised
you for getting them to where they were with their athletic goals. Now many of
them are gold medal winners and they credited you with their success. That is
not phony or contrived, it was from the heart and I could feel it when they
spoke. They think the world of you and are not afraid to shout it out!
Keep doing what you are doing and show the rest of us how it is done. You have
created something so unique and special it is the envy of many. I know it didn’t
come easy and most would fail but you have shined and shown others what is
possible. So, enjoy the big 40, I can’t wait to see what you accomplish in the
next 40!
Thanks so much for being at my retirement party and sitting at my table as well.
It meant a lot to me that you took the time away from your crazy schedule and
honored me with your presence. We enjoyed meeting Ann Marie as well.
Sincerely,
Steve Anderson
Dave,
First, let me start by saying THANK YOU. I am terrible at writing this sort of
thing so bear with me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. I cannot
thank you enough for your generousity and dedication that you showed day in
and day out for well over 100 visits to P.A.C.E. where you tried to put this fragile
frame back together. Not only that, but the blood, sweat, and tears you put into
your craft. Well, mainly your blood when we started playing catch, which resulted
in my sweat and tears. All jokes aside, thank you for all that you have done
and continue to do. Now that you’re 40, maybe Vetters will respect his elders and
let you ride shotgun in a smart car, instead of cramming the urban yeti in the
“trunk”.
Happy Birthday Man,
Varce

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y, D A V I D !
Since my first day of training at Sports Lab,
David has always been there. I wouldn’t
know as much as I do about training, how
to take care of my body, and how to rehab
correctly without David. I can remember all
the times he scraped and rubbed out my
calves, me wincing in pain on the massage
table. I now know how truly thankful I am
for that. Now, being a college athlete, I have
used all the lessons and tips from David to
better not only myself but my team. I’m
really lucky to know such a talented guy
who works with professional and Olympic
athletes daily, and is also a really fun
person to be around. I’ve looked up to
him since I was about 8 years old. It’s still
great to catch him at PACE when I’ve come
home during my breaks.
David, you’re the best!
Giovanna
David,
Thanks so much for all your help and kindness over the years.
PACE has done so much for me as an athlete and I am incredibly
grateful for the space, the rad pts like you, and the community.
Gabriella
“Life’s too short for bad form”.
“Life’s too short to drink bad wine”.
Quotes from brillliant minds.

Thank you, David, for the support you've provided me during my coaching
career, particularly in the fall of 2010 when I was without a coaching home. What
means the most to me is that I've been included in this special community that
you make possible, and I have made some of my most treasured friends here. You
have been generous with your gifts and talents, and the rest of us have benefited
greatly. I'm grateful to be part of the PACE family, and I can't imagine the last
few years without it.
Happy birthday, David! May you live as long as you want, but never want as long
as you live.
Leslie Poole
"David, you took me from not weight bearing after surgery, to racing again. Your
generosity with your knowledge, resources and positive attitude go way beyond
what is necessary or required, thank you for that! It wasn't just giving me back
the exercise but giving me back a greater quality of life... Thank you for all of
your hard work it has been great working hard to make that work pay off... But
seriously, those were tears of joy, not tears of pain all those times... Honest!
Thanks for everything! Happy Birthday!
Grant Finney
Happy Birthday David!
I strolled into town in 2015 and with out so much as a blink of the eye David
agreed to meet with me to discuss my future. Little did I know I was sitting with
greatness the first time we met. David has been instrumental in giving me the
confidence to pursue my first entrepreneurial role as a movement specialist for
multi sport athletes. The PACE family has shown me support unlike any other
organization I have encountered and I believe it comes from the top down.
Thanks to David I am situated among the PNW's best and brightest. Thanks for
giving me a home "Old man" and Happy Birthdays to come, you deserve them.
Stephen Merz
Dave,
40 years old!? I would have never guessed. I hope it's a special one. Thank you
for working with me through the years and helping me reach new levels every
single season. I don't say often enough how much I appreciate it. And more
importantly thanks for putting up with me and being a good friend, I've heard it
can be very hard.
-Lady J
(Eric Jenkins)

David,
Happy 40th Birthday! It's hard to believe that we've known each other for over 20
years. I wish we were a larger part of each other's lives today but you have always
been and will always be a special person in my life regardless of the physical
distance between us.
As you, Jamie, and I navigated our transition into adulthood together, you were such
a grounding person to me. You taught me about love, friendship, being present, and
appreciating life. You were one of the first people in my adult life that made me feel
truly seen, understood, and loved.
I remember how open you were to learning about Jamie and me and about yourself. I
have so many fond memories of the three of us just lying around being totally content
to just be with each other. I remember the physical and emotional closeness we
all shared… all the laughing, goofiness, and the long conversations we had about
everything, anything, and nothing at all.
I still have the many letters you wrote to me in the years after college… Hand written
letters!!! In each one, you described your view of the beautiful people and places
around you. You taught me to see beauty everywhere. I will always treasure your
letters.
Thank you for being such an important and influential person to me, especially
during such a critical time of transition in my life. You are an amazing person. You
set the bar so high for the qualities that I look for in a friend. I love and appreciate
you very much and hope we can find a way to be face to face very soon.
Have the happiest of birthdays!
With love,
Heather Chang

Dave has meant a lot to me over the years. I've known him even before I can
remember. The time we spent in Blanchester and hanging out in high school and
when Dave would come and visit me in TN in college nearly stood still for me. It
seems like so many of my memories came from those times that it exists nearly
as a lifetime for me.
My mom was friends with Susan McHenry before I was even born, that is how I
came know Dave. Whether it was back at the lake on his Dad's farm, or hanging
out at his mom's house we always had an awesome time either telling stories
about stupid/funny stuff we had done or creating new stories.
Whenever I see Dave, even if it has been years, it feels like we were just hanging
out a couple of days ago. Me, Dave, Jamie and Chase could spend a whole night
telling stories we have told dozens of times over. I hope we never forget those
stories and may there be more to come.
-Brian Sandlin
Many analyze the pathways to success and two features are commonly
described, talent and hard work. These describe the individual or organization,
can be cultivated or measured, and represent tangible characteristics that are
vital to our human spirit and success. What is not often discussed, is a third
variable. One that is less controllable and unsexy to discuss as it seems to
undermine the first two. However, success in any aspect of your life isn't possible
without talent, hard work, and meeting the right person at the right time and
not fucking it up.
Thank goodness I didn't fuck up my first meeting with Dave (or maybe Shirley).
Certainly time would show many times I did aggravate his calm demeanor, or try
his patience. Yet for a reason unknown to me, he gravitated to my success.
Encouraged my prospects, provided variable employment, gave me a bed when
in need, fed me a beer when thirsty, taught me a lesson when hungry, and never
asked for anything in return.
I came to David by accident during the lowest portion of my life. Whether that
was known to him at the time I am unaware, but he provided an environment to
distract from my troubles. The stepping stone I needed for the next journey in
my life. Later he provided the accolades necessary for admission to my higher
education. Eventually, we intertwined our financial portfolios by purchasing a
home together. And though life pulled me in new directions, I still orbit his
world wherever I go.
Forever grateful,
Paul Cooley

I can't begin to say enough great things about Dave. He truly devotes all his
time to others. I first met Dave when I was just still in college at the University
of Oregon. He gave up his Sunday mornings to meet me halfway in Salem to
work with me on my lifting program. Looking back now, I was so bad at even
the basic lifts, but Dave still treated me like a rock star and guided me through
each exercise making me think that I was so tough and strong. Now we look
back and laugh at how weak I was! It just makes me appreciate that he took
that time away from his day to help in my development. Without his belief and
guidance I would not be half of the athlete that I am today.
Now that I've been with Oregon project for 3 years, Dave continues to guide
me and be an integral part of my professional running career but more importantly
a great friend. I look forward to his hugs whenever I get the privilege of
recieving them! Thanks Dave for everything! Happy 40 years young...you'll
always be a giant to me (photo says it all haha!)
Jordan Hasay

Happy Birthday David
Thanks for enabling my body parts
Stewart Yaguda
David enhanced
Davidenhanced
David enhanced

When I came to the NOP, I was an accomplished athlete. I had trained hard and tried my best to
be strong, but Dave transformed my collection of strong parts into a well connected whole.
Since I started working with him, I have been able to train harder with less breakdown, and I
have had the best years of the athletic career. More than that though, Dave's generosity, humor
& insightfulness have made every training day a good one. He is an excellent man and one I am
so grateful to have on my team!
All the best,
Shannon

Dave,
Happiest of birthdays my friend! You are one of the kindest, most self-reflective humans I
know and I am a better therapist, man, father, husband and yes, Buddhist for knowing you. I
can’t tell you how much I’ve appreciated our talks over the years about the deep stuff, the stuff
that really matters – whether it’s in the woods, in a butt-ass cold snow cave or in a bar – your
company and your thoughts always make me lighter. It is amazing how the memories I have of
us weave throughout my adult life: playing racquetball on the eve of my Libby’s birth (and
getting crushed, thanks a lot), attending a puppet show with 2 year-old Libby in Boulder on
your shoulders and having an “accident”, building the coolest knee model ever for a
bunch of ungrateful high school physics students, our first backpacking trip together, stacking
Jon’s cards (“read ‘em and weep boys!!”), attempting to climb Mt Bierstadt and having to turn
around due to my, ah, lack of caloric intact (you should have carried me), but most importantly
the earnest, heartfelt conversations. Your friendship means more to me than words can
express!! Happy birthday to a wonderful guy!!
Joe (JP3)

Hi David
Happy 40th big guy. It’s been great to get to know you better these last few
years. Thank you for keeping me sane at track meets! Remember You’re not big,
but you’re not fast!
Love you
-Alex
The silver lining to tearing my ACL in 2010? Mr. David McHenry. Long after my
insurance stopped paying for sessions, Dave generously encouraged me to keep
coming to the clinic to do my exercises and check in. Later, when other clinics
couldn't help me solve the tightness in my right pec, Dave felt around for a few
minutes and popped my spine back in place, and I could raise my arms overhead
for the first time in months. And though my mountain-climbing [read:
laptop-using] and marathon running [read: breastfeeding] injuries are no more
riveting than the next Olympian, Dave treats me with the same kindness and
excellence. He entertains my intellectual interest by answering all my questions
about how things work together, though I'm pretty sure he just adds "us" to the
end of words to make it sound fancy. (Like they'd really name the long tendon
"longus.") Happy birthday, Dave! Thank you for being the bright side to my
physical setbacks!
Alexis Kennedy
Happy Birthday David,
I can’t believe you and Karey are going to be 40 this year. As you were growing
up I saw you touch so many lives in a wonderfully positive way. I also remember
thinking you just might be a film director when watching all the funny skits you
guys would put together. I think there was a cape or two involved and at one
point you thought you could fly off the club house on the farm. Most of all
David, I want to tell you thank you for being there when Chris left to lead a
different life. You made me smile at a time of sorrow and gave me strength
when I most needed it. I don’t think you realized it at the time just how much
you did to make me pull myself up by my boot straps and move forward. You
introduced me to Crossroads church and it remains in my life still today. One
more thing, do you remember Little D, named after you because you both had
the same color hair.
Love ya David, have an amazingly Happy Birthday.
Annette Williams

Dave,
Happy Birthday Dave!
Thanks for always making me feel welcome and exceptional just as a person, not for what i do, or
what i have accomplished, but just for the person I am.
I remember once you told me that you admired Kurt and I because we seemed to have it all figured
out. I almost laughed in your face, except you seemed seriously genuine. I seemed to have stumbled
around on a series of mistakes to get where i am, and i would not be here if it wasn't for the
generosity of certain people in my life, you being one of them.
You have touched more people in 40 years than most of us will in two lifetimes. I thank God for
your presence in my life, for your friendship, for the tremendous amount you have taught me, how
you have inspired me, and for the beer i've snorted out of my nose because of something ridiculously
inappropriate you have said/continue to say.
Hope to see you soon and share some whiskey/bourbon....the jury is still out on which is better.
I'm extremely proud to call you my friend, even though you're super fucking old.
Lara Stone
(Picture of you and Flurry Olivier, 5.5 now?!! Back before you were super old, just kind of old).

Dave McHenry: We have known each other for many many years, we have had some great times
together at Social functions, PACE events, Drinking beer….and of course kicking your Ass Arm
Wrestling….LOL…..And in the end I think you are very generous, giving guy, and in your field of
work, probably one of the most respected, brilliant people I know…. You have helped me personally
overcome injury and helped dozens and dozens of my mates and athletes recovery from injury
over the years….I have learned many things from you and incorporate them into the way I coach
to this day….I appreciate everything you have done for me and Hammer Velo all these
years…..Thanks and super sorry we are in Bend and cannot be there…..thanks for everything….
Jeff and all my mates from Hammer Velo send you a Big Birthday Hug.

David Vance McHenry,
You have been one of the greatest shining lights in my world. We don’t get to talk anymore,
but the amazing mark that you placed on me carries on year after year. I remember when we
first met; I mean due to my almost complete memory loss I’m probably going to butcher the
dates, times, and details but in my head, I remember like it was yesterday.
Sophomore year we had that reading literacy simulation class. That was the class right?
There you were a big tall red headed stranger until the day I heard you volunteer to read some
of your poetry out loud to the class. That’s when you first touched my heart. You read beautifully;
eloquently, full of passion, and most of all, full of emotion. I wanted to get to know you
better and find out what lied deeper inside of you so after class I approached you to start
talking (I think…. does this sound accurate?)
I can’t remember what happens next and how we first decided to hang out but it doesn’t
matter much. All that matters is that you became my best friend. My favorite friend. I trusted
you fully. You taught me so much and I taught you so much. We showed each other things
and parts of life that we didn’t know before knowing each other. You showed me how to be
kind and relaxed with lots of different kinds of people and how to be kind and relaxed ALL of
the time with people. Your patience, kindness, emotion, and calmness always amazed me and
inspired me Dave.
Plus, you were FUN all of the time. It was fun to lie around with you and do nothing. It was
fun to go partying with you. It was fun and hilarious laughing with you. It was fun going for
walks down the street or on beautiful hikes with you. It was fun, really fun, eating with you.
It was fun helping football players with their work with you. It was fun studying with you. It
was fun learning from you; you always had great knowledge and a wealth of spiritual insight.
It was fun, and safe, having new experiences with you. It was fun visiting your incredible
sister Molly with you. Shit, it was even fun crying with you. Especially, after college when we
were just visiting each other and pouring our hearts out to one another. Man, you were fun. It
just felt good to be around you. So…. it seems weird that I’m writing this in past tense. I’m
sure you still ARE fun but, hell, I don’t actually know so I don’t want to falsify here
Speaking of your spiritual insight, all of your hand-written letters to me were mind blowing. I
remember reading them and feeling open, new, smarter, and more willing to be the best I can
be and enjoy life as much as I could. The thoughts and emotions in your letters would stay
with me for days or weeks. I always used to say that you should be, well were, a philosopher.
Remember??? Are you still coming up with incredible thoughts like you did? Hope so…. and
if so, I hope you’re still writing them down. If you decide to write a book, let me know and I’ll
dig up all of the letters you wrote to me.
David, thank you for all of the love, tenderness, kindness, support, and incredible friendship
you shared with me. I am forever grateful for you. I wish you all of those things forever and
ever.
Happy 40th Dave!! I can’t believe that we are 40 years old now. Ouch. I mean fantastic. I
mean ouch. Yeah, I’m sticking with ouch. You might need to send me a letter to feel more
open about this.
Oh, and about you and I not talking anymore…. SCREW YOM!
Forever,
Jamie Liebman-Miller

David,
First and foremost, happy 40th birthday!
I wanted to take a moment to simply say thank you. Thank you for your continued
support of my career. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you and
your team at PACE. You continually make yourself available, even when I am
across the country. It does not go unnoticed and is very much appreciated.
You may not know, but I have gained an immense amount of knowledge since I
have met you and surrounded myself with the PACE family. Specifically, as an
older guy in the locker room, you have showed me how to engage with and
mentor younger guys. I truly attribute a lot of the ability to do so, to watching
you work with kids. I respect your position as a former athlete an renowned PT
and your ability to relate to many of your patients, it is inspirational.
Finally, I cannot thank you enough for embracing not only myself but my best
friend Dominic as well. Very rarely do we find friends that we can consider
family, and Dominic is that for me. You have taken such great care of him during
his recovery from knee surgery, you have shown him as much respect as you
have shown me and it truly shows a man of true character!
May you have a year filled with a lot of happiness, love, health, wealth and success!
Ndamukong Suh
Happy 40th Dave! I'm so grateful for you and the many times you've been the
only person able to get me back to full health, whether that was during my
running days or when recovering from back surgery. It's always been a pleasure
to spend time with you, from Sports Lab to PACE, and exciting to see your
hard-earned and well-deserved successes. Happy birthday, and please enjoy an
extra drink for me.
- Beno Frisbee

David,
I feel very blessed to have had you as a physical therapist over the past 7 years.
Thanks in large part to you, I managed FAI and recovered from arthroscopic hip
surgery, plantar fasciitis, patellar tendonitis, back strain, and several ankle
sprains. Thanks to you, I am still running, biking, skiing at age 45 despite all
those conditions and muscle imbalances.
I really appreciate how you have always been there when I had a question or
needed injury advice, whether in person at PACE or via email. Your laid-back
manner and reassurances kept me from getting too down and have given me a
sense of optimism that my injuries were not immovable obstacles. I look
forward to my appointments with you, knowing that I will be challenged, my
body strengthened, and that you will probably be a little goofy.
Happy 40th Birthday!
Drew Puckett
“Sitting is the new smoking”
David McHenry
Dave,
What a world you introduced us all to! IT bands, Thera bands, foam rollers,
scrapers and stem. We discovered muscles and parts of our bodies that we never
knew existed. Things started to hurt and you made them hurt more! Then those
parts started to feel better and stronger! You have been a gift to our family. Our
lives have been touched by you in so many ways.
When Noelle had plantar facisitis,(among other things) you were there. When
Marie had her brain injury you were there. When I had shoulder, back and hip
issues you were there. Now, if only you could have handled that pesky cancer
issue! Seriously, we are so grateful to you for always making time for us and for
your help leading us on the path to living strong and healthy lives.
Now that you are 40 however it is time to take a step back. Don't worry though,
you will have Noelle in your corner. When you need a new knee or hip she will
be there for you. When you neeed a geriatric doctor she will be able to recommend
one for you. I don't know about the prostate.......you are on your own
there!
You are awesome Dave. Thanks so much for everything and I hope you have the
very happiest of birthdays. You deserve the best! We love you.
The Van Rysselberghes

Dave,
It’s hard to even think about where to start this. You have helped me in so many
ways, most of which you probably aren’t even aware of. I will admit something
embarrassing at the risk of looking like a big asshole (which we both know I am
anyway, so what’s the big deal, right?) Way back in the day when I first started
coming to see you as a patient, I chose you for two reasons: #1. I knew what a
skilled clinician you were and knew I would have a lot of respect for your assessment
and input, and #2. I wanted to see someone that wouldn’t be afraid to tell
me to suck it up and grow a pair because there wasn’t really anything wrong,
and/or I should just figure out how to fix it myself. I figured because you’re kind
of a big deal that you’d be just the right jerk for the job. I was right about #1, but
I could not have been more wrong about #2. I’ve always wanted to tell you that,
but haven’t really found the right opportunity to do it. As a therapist you are
present, engaged, thoughtful, inquisitive, and determined. You commit so much
of yourself and your energy to those you work with, and that is something I truly
admire about you. As a friend, I am constantly amazed with your generosity,
compassion, and support. I can’t express how much your friendship has meant to
me over the past few years. I know how extremely valuable time is, and how
little of it you have to spare, yet somehow you consistently make time to offer
help, support, and a listening ear without any benefit to yourself. The input and
advice you have given me has truly helped to shape my path both professionally
and personally, and your support in that process has been invaluable. I hope you
hear many more messages like this, because I know there are so many people
who have similarly benefitted from your generosity, time, and support which you
give so selflessly. I’m so grateful I have had the opportunity to get to know you
better and feel so blessed to have you in my life!
PS – Disregard my face.
Love, Jess Smith-Blockley
I'm sorry I couldn't write something more profound than I love you. There are
too many times I smile to myself at the thought of you to write. Happy birthday
my wonderful cousin. Blood brought us together but hearts made us friends. I'll
never give you the silent treatment again. Guess we are too old for that
now....but always remember if we would of been from Kentucky you were my
first choice for a husband. You are perfect in every way.....we still could have
those mansions with a tunnel connecting them so we never be too far apart. I
love you David, never forget all the cool shit I made you watch and listen
to....hee hee.... Youre the greatest. A peice of my heart has your initials carved in
it.
Love Karey

My Brotha David -
At this point in your life, you have touched
model for everyone around you.
This picture represents the fact that over the
last 7-years, I have seen you build PACE into
a HOME. This home has helped people hone
their professional skills, build their businesses,
chase dreams, as well as just become better
human beings.
I’m inspired not only by what you have
passion for helping others achieve their
goals and potential.
Much Respect!
Happy 40th Birthday.
Eric Trice

It has been such a pleasure knowing you over the past 11 (Holy shit ELEVEN!?)
years and watching your dream grow from a tiny office inside SportsLab to
PACE—a second home for so many awesome people. You have been a hugely
influential person in my life, likely in more ways than you know. From angsty
adolescence to neurotic college distance running to slightly less neurotic
post-collegiate running, you have consistently brought me calm comfort because
I know that whatever pains I inflict upon myself, all I need to do is make it over
to PACE and you will heal me. You always do so in such a way to not only abate
my current symptoms, but to fix the root cause of the problem so that I will be
more resistant to other injuries in the future. It’s all thanks to you that I was able
to stay injury-free throughout high school, a fact which likely expanded my
college choices and no doubt impacted my future in many positive ways. So
thank you for that.
Besides helping me get strong and symmetrical, you have also empowered and
inspired me. It’s no secret that I used to (ok maybe I still do) invent reasons to
come see you; this is because I always left feeling a little more capable than I did
before. You always treated me like you had the utmost confidence in my fitness
and my toughness and this enabled me to believe in myself a little more too. It
didn’t matter if I’d just choked in my last race or if I was nursing my way back
from injury, you made me feel like I was on my way to a great season.
I suspect you don’t know how much you have inspired me professionally, so let
me tell you now: The day I fell in love with the musculoskeletal system was that
day (at SportsLab) when you drew me a diagram to explain why my knees hurt.
That love deepened the more that I learned from you about how my tissues
communicated with each other, how they worked together to allow me to run,
and how they could be manipulated to restore function when they became
impaired. The way you would “talk shop” with me about the human body made
gave me so much respect and admiration for it and sparked a desire to learn
more, a desire which has now grown into a full-fledged passion for orthopedic
surgery. As I look forward towards that, I hold close in my mind the example you
have always set for me for compassionate, empowering patient care. I talk about
you often with my friends and medical colleagues; it’s difficult to explain the
pantheon you’ve built for athletes or your obsession with excellence, but I try
my best. When I think of my ideal future work place, I think of the example you
have set: of thinking big, working tirelessly, and surrounding yourself with
passionate people who buy into a common vision.
Thank you so much for all your support over the years, for inspiring me towards
a career which I’m totally pumped about, and for becoming one of my dear
friends.
Much love,
Noelle Van Rysselberghe

March 7, 1977
to
March 7, 2017