Have you ever read or heard of a story that just changes your life? Read something that you just can't stop thinking about? And not just for a day or a week, but one that stays with you...for months or years. One that you recall in times when you need strength in your life. I can think of a couple of those stories for me. One that I draw from when I need to.
I read about the Hoyt family a few years ago and it has stayed with me. Their story helped me get through the grueling last six miles of the AF Marathon last month when I really wanted to stop.
Here is an excerpt from their website:
"Rick was born in 1962 to Dick and Judy Hoyt. As a result of oxygen deprivation to Rick's brain at the time of his birth, Rick was diagnosed as a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. Dick and Judy were advised to institutionalize Rick because there was no chance of him recovering, and little hope for Rick to live a "normal" life. This was just the beginning of Dick and Judy's quest for Rick's inclusion in community, sports, education and one day, the workplace."
Fast forward to:
"In the spring of 1977, Rick told his father that he wanted to participate in a 5-mile benefit run for a Lacrosse player who had been paralyzed in an accident. Far from being a long-distance runner, Dick agreed to push Rick in his wheelchair and they finished all 5 miles, coming in next to last. That night, Rick told his father, "Dad, when I'm running, it feels like I'm not handicapped." To see how far they have come and what they have done...you have to go to their website, read their story, and watch the unbelievable video:
http://www.teamhoyt.com/
My friend Kate posted on her blog of three Air Force families in the fighter world community who need prayers right now. And one story in particular stunned me. Imagine finding a lump in your breast....then discovering you are pregnant days later, then having a mammogram and discovering cancer. And undergoing chemo while pregnant with your first child. And ppassing away after only being home with the baby for two days. You can read about this amazing family in the blog they began shortly after discovering the cancer. I just can't stop thinking about it. The most powerful part of the story is that they powered through the treatments with such optimism and strength. They never wavered in their faith and drew strength from God throughout the journey.
The Sullivan Family (http://bandssullivan.blogspot.com): On September 22, 16 days after delivering a healthy baby girl, Sara Sullivan lost her battle with cancer. Brady and baby Chloe are adjusting to life without his wife and her mom. Here's a news story, too: Breast Cancer Claims Young Mom
I am not meaning to depress you all....although I cried my eyes out reading their entire blog...I can't stop thinking about it...these families inspire me to be so much more than I am.
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