I Won’t Give Up

by Jacqueline L. Jones

Living with a chronic illness can challenge your faith in everything and everyone–God, recovery, other people, the medical profession, and yourself. It’s easy to believe there is no hope when an answer could be just around the corner. It’s also easy to believe change will come when it’s time to accept the inevitable. Knowing the difference is a matter of faith.

How many times have I given up, only to remember that I couldn’t afford to? Too many people needed me, and that need drove me to find more answers.

And now the final challenge. After more than 20 years of ups and downs with my illness, I’ve found a doctor who may be able to help me reach near or complete recovery. Despite having regained the ability to wash my hair, do household chores, and go to church, I never dreamed this day would come. The obstacles–travel funds, money for the initial visit, reliable transportation, and someone to watch Mom while I make the 260 mile round trip–seem so trivial in light of what I’ve already overcome.

This war with illness has strengthened my faith. I won’t give up, and I WILL overcome.