In 2018, at the age of 56, Dan Matis experienced a life-altering moment — a massive stroke that left him unable to walk. Doctors recommended immediate surgery. But Dan paused. Deep down, he felt called to try a different path — one rooted in trusting the body’s wisdom, not just treating symptoms.His father had faced similar struggles, and Dan knew he wanted to write a new story for himself. So he started with one powerful belief: healing is possible.
What followed was nothing short of a transformation.
Dan immersed himself in learning. He discovered Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn’s work on plant-based nutrition and the idea that food can be medicine. He began exploring herbs, natural remedies, and wholesome, intentional eating. He returned to the kitchen — not just to cook, but to heal. Every ingredient became a choice toward life, energy, and clarity.Then came a series of serendipitous encounters — the kind that only show up when you're walking the right path. A friend introduced him to a doctor in Mexico City who offered nutrient injections designed to stimulate stem cell activity. After just a few treatments, Dan felt a significant shift in his energy and mobility.He moved to Playa del Carmen to dedicate himself fully to recovery. There, he added daily walks, refined his plant-based diet, and dove deeper into holistic practices. He began exploring breathwork, meditation, and spiritual alignment — reconnecting with parts of himself that had long been silenced.
And he didn’t stop there.
Every day, Dan incorporated advanced wellness tools into his routine:
💨 Hypobaric oxygen therapy to oxygenate and repair his cells
💡 Light therapy to support his nervous system and energy flow
✨ BEMER therapy to enhance circulation and cellular regeneration.
He also began a powerful detox protocol guided by a holistic expert — green juices, fasting, grape-only days. It was tough. But with every challenge, he shed more than just weight — he released what no longer served him.With the love and support of his friend Alan, Dan turned inward, embracing a deep spiritual journey. He didn’t just rebuild his body — he rekindled his soul.
And then, the miracle.
Although major arteries remained blocked, Dan’s body — in its extraordinary wisdom — formed new ones. It adapted. It healed itself. He walked again. He thrived.
That’s when the real mission began.
A phoenix necklace from his mother became more than a symbol — it became a purpose. From the ashes of illness and fear, Dan rose — and he wasn’t going to rise alone.
🌿 The Birth of The Phoenix Project
The Phoenix Project wasn’t born from a business plan — it was born from a need of the heart. Dan had found his way through darkness, and he couldn’t keep it to himself. He wanted to share what had saved him — not just the therapies and tools, but the wisdom, the people, the knowledge, and the deep belief that every person holds the power to regenerate and heal.What started as small food drives and community care in Florida and Mexico quickly grew into something bigger — a sanctuary where science, soul, and community come together in service of transformation.Today, The Phoenix Project offers a comprehensive wellness experience — one that blends advanced wellness technologies with ancient holistic practices, addressing the mind, body, and soul simultaneously. We welcome individuals on healing journeys, burnout survivors, and seekers of holistic well-being. We call them our community.
🌞 Our Philosophy
At The Phoenix Project, we honour each person’s journey as sacred. We believe that healing isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution — it’s a whole-person experience, rooted in deep respect for each individual's unique path.
We don’t “fix” — we support, empower, and walk beside.
Because true wellness doesn’t come from doing more — it comes from coming home to yourself.
Dan turned his pain into purpose. And from that purpose, he built a space for others to rise — just like he did.
Welcome to The Phoenix Project.
Come as you are. Leave reborn.
Today, Daniel Patrick Matis continues to lead by example, embodying the values of integrity, kindness, and perseverance. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and the profound impact of collective action.
Through The Phoenix Project, Daniel invites us all to join him in building a brighter future, where empathy, solidarity, and holistic wellness prevail.
The Phoenix Project: Transforming Lives
The Phoenix Project (TPP) is born from Daniel's personal journey and commitment to service. Our mission is to share a different way of life, focused on holistic wellness and community support. Through TPP, we aim to:
Educate: We provide education to both children and adults on topics such as healthy eating, growing nutritious food, preparing wholesome meals, holistic healing, and essential life skills.
Support: We offer support to individuals facing various challenges, including trauma, depression, anxiety, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to us. We're here to guide you through your journey.
Whether you're seeking support or looking to lend a helping hand, The Phoenix Project welcomes you with open arms. Together, we can create positive change and build a healthier, more resilient community.
+1 (239) 849-9509
Playa del Carmen, México.
1180 8th Avenue West , Suite 240
Palmetto, FL 34221, USA