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On the cusp of beginning a new church branch in New York, a sudden diagnosis of ALS changes one woman’s journey but not her destination in this poignant memoir and collection of sermons. Preparing to embark on a journey of faith with her husband, a prophecy of a challenge ahead turns true when the author receives the news that she has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. With her faculties weakening, leaving her unable to move or speak over time, her commitment to her faith keeps her going, and she continues to find ways to share her beliefs. The sermons that she wrote and delivered at first over the internet before simply providing them to her husband as pastor to share with the congregation are included, giving readers a glimpse at the incredible courage and determination exemplified by the author’s continued work in her church community.
This book opens with an autobiographical history of the author’s life surrounding her diagnosis of ALS and challenges and successes beyond it. It provides an unflinching, honest account of the various ways in which her body weakened and became no longer self-sufficient while at the same time showing how her spirit remained strong. With a family to support her and a goal in mind, the nine included sermons are both a testament and proof to her commitment while also sharing the thought-provoking inspirations and insights that she provided to her church community with the rest of the world. Powerful and inspiring, this memoir details one of the most devastating illnesses but also proves that while no cure for it yet exists, there are ways to live on, create change, and pursue passions.