Sometimes you have no idea what God has in store for you. On June 13, 2024, my husband, John was unaware of how the day would play out. He had a physical therapy appointment and had been working very hard on standing and strengthening his legs. His therapist, Nicolas, asked him if he would like to try a walker. He was able to walk over three minutes by himself with a walker (of course they had safety measures in place.) I think he surprised himself too. Nicolas had to tell him to take smaller steps since he was so excited to do this first walk in over 21 years!

God has been with him through this hard journey of disability and chronic pain. Chronic pain has been gone for at least three years now. Praise God! In 2022, he had multiple surgeries, including a heart valve replacement. Since this was behind him and he was feeling so much better, John started to think maybe he could try to strengthen his legs to at least stand. He made an exercise bike that would move your legs by using your hands to operate it. He used that for over six months. It was very frustrating getting insurance to supply the nerve stimulator that he needed. We finally got that device and also with the help of his new doctor, got set up for physical therapy sessions. Don’t give up! If God puts a desire in your heart, pursue it. God will direct your paths. Remember God expects us to do our part. “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.” Psalms 25:4

People who do not know the Lord will be moved by what has happened to John. Maybe they will start to believe the Lord can do great things and put their trust in Him. So thankful and proud John always knows where his strength comes from and voices that when he speaks with others. “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

God has blessed John for his faithfulness. So glad our children and grandchildren can see and experience all God has for their Dad, GPA/ Papa. (John did not know he would try walking on that day but he wore his “Press on Shirt” that day-God knew!) “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14

Since that day in June, John has doubled the time and distance he is walking with a walker. He will continue to do his physical therapy and get stronger each day.

God is a God of miracles!

All glory goes to God.

(See the link to view John’s walk)

https://youtu.be/IsvkeMjvfEI?feature=shared (https://youtu.be/IsvkeMjvfEI?feature=shared)