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Greetings!
In my 22 years as Executive Director I have been working with other people’s disasters and trauma. Disasters are never friendly. They don’t knock on your door or ring your doorbell and ask for permission to enter your life. Such was the case a couple weeks ago when Karen and I had a bicycle accident on the New River Rail Trail in rural southern Virginia. It was my fault. Karen remarked that her hat was about to blow out of the back of the basket on her e-bike. I cruised up beside her and proceeded to flick it back in with my left hand and I lost control. We both were catapulted over the handlebars, landing in the gravel. It happened so fast. The two couples camping with us that weekend shortly arrived behind us on their bikes and lent first aid. There were many interventions by people that I look back on and marvel – park rangers, paramedics, volunteer firefighters, helicopter medivac team, other bikers on the trail, trauma doctors, nurses, physical therapists, family, church family, and you—my MDS family.
To personally experience trauma… at one point not knowing if Karen would survive this accident. Replaying the last words I said to her…
One morning, at the Roanoke Hospital, when the bedside chair and I finally had enough, I went for a walk on a trail that runs through the city. Along the way, I watched hundreds of hospital employees walking from the parking garage and beginning another day of work.
And then I thought of all the volunteers offering hope and comfort through MDS.
As I walked, I said a prayer for you—thanking God for your dedication and asking God to strengthen and encourage you.
I was reminded of these words:
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people.” —Hebrews 6:10
Karen is resting at home and making a slow recovery. Doctors are pleased with her progress.Thank you for your prayers for Karen and me. And thank you for the faithful work you do.
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