My Story

I became paralyzed in September 2003 due to lupus myelitis. Through rehabilitation, I regained mobility with the use a walker. Being disabled has taught me three lessons. The first lesson is emotional. When I needed them the most, my family supported me. My husband was incredible. He nursed me, helped with my rehab, and took on the household chores without complaint. Mom stayed with me everyday when my husband went to work, made meals, and ran errands. Friends and family members sent get well cards, baskets of cheer, and their prayers. The warmth I felt from those prayers helped me recover. The second lesson is no surprise. I learned how difficult it is to be disabled. Every task becomes a challenge. Opening doors, bending down, standing in the grocery line, climbing stairs, etc., all take time and effort. Your life literally goes into a time warp. The last lesson is spiritual. I never really understood why God permitted so much suffering in the world until I experienced the charity of others. Their kindness and prayers blessed me and in turn they were blessed. God made me an instrument of His grace. I think this prayer describes God's plan for us beautifully.