Author: Tammy Coulter
Submitted: July 15, 2022
What was your motivation behind this project? When my daughter was diagnosed with a rare, genetic disorder at 14 months old, my mind and heart went into overdrive. The fear, the hurt, and the disbelief were all overwhelming! We thought she might need a back brace. We weren't prepared for our world to turn upside down after one doctor visit. A stinging start to our new normal fed into long, daily talks with God. As days became months, I found myself in a totally new relationship with Him. My mind eased. Peace was no longer elusive. I accepted the reality that she had a progressive disorder that would worsen over time, because along with the diagnosis came the reality that there was no treatment for it. I also fully embraced the reality that my God is omnipotent, and we began to pray. Four years later, the answer came in the form of a clinical trial for a new drug that could help our little girl. It was in Chicago. We were in Alabama. But with much prayer, we moved forward, trusting in the Lord. She was soon accepted into the trial, and she and I began a journey filled with hope for a good outcome, support from family and friends, and a whole lot of prayer. Through it all, she was helped physically, and I was encouraged spiritually, my faith building through each circumstance. It was amazing to see God's guidance and provision as we walked the path before us. He helped in everything, from the biggest scares to the smallest of conveniences, and even gave us lightheartedness and laughs along the way. This is our story, and I wrote it with hope that it might encourage someone else in their own physical or spiritual journey.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? We all go through trials that we never would have chosen and when those times come, we long for comfort. What a blessing to have others walk alongside you when life is at its most difficult. Even greater is having the Lord who can truly help you navigate the spiritual, emotional, and physical upheaval that make up those periods of life. That is a peace that transcends all understanding.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? In writing this book, I was able to pour back over the years that brought me to where I am in my faith journey today. I remembered each and every instance where God touched our lives, protected us, guided us, and showered us in His love and compassion in so many ways. It also has allowed me to share with others what all He has done. This book is a testament to His work in our lives
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: Never feel that things are hopeless. It sounds easier said than done, but trust in the Lord. Many times, He picked me up, dusted me off, and sent me back into my circumstances with renewed faith and strength. Yes, I said "many" times.
