These are the words of Ryan Woods who was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in the spine. He was given 1-4 months to live. Ryan's story is one of faith, hope, perseverance, and love. He is a true testament of what it means to live your life to the fullest.
My father passed away 4 years ago from cancer of the brain, glioblastoma multiforme. And like Ryan, they also gave my father a timeframe. It was a very aggressive form of brain cancer and by the time that they caught the tumors he was already at a stage 4.
My dad is my hero. During his illness he showed extreme courage, testing of his faith and perseverance. Not once did he fear death. I remember asking him, "Daddy are you afraid of dying?" He just looked at me and said, "Shannon, why on earth would I be afraid of dying? They are people in this world who are far worse off then me." It's those words that helped me realize that death is just another part of our story. It should not be feared. If anything it should bring us hope that we are that much closer to spending eternity with Jesus. What brings me so much happiness is that my daddy is no longer in that body anymore and his courage and love has led him to a life with Jesus.
Because of people like Ryan and my dad, we are inspired; Inspired to give back to our communities with love and service. I thank my hero, Patrick William Donohue, for making me the woman I am today. Dad you have amazed me in so many ways; Through your courage, strength, faith, and love for your family, friends, and Jesus. It is because of you and God's hand that has led me to the decision to volunteer at Doernbecher's Children's Hospital. Today is my orientation and I am so excited to see what this opportunity brings. Dad, I pray that God gives me the same attributes that he blessed you with during your sickness.I love you with all my heart and truly thank you for being such an inspiration to us all.
We all have the opportunity to have a beautiful story told...what kind of story are we going to live out as we are dying?
I commit to a life of love and giving back.
Thanks for sharing, Shannon. You have demonstrated how much your dad meant/means to you. I'm sure he is so proud of you! It's funny how we can still get kind of anxious about death- even when we have security in Christ. It helps to keep the perspective that our dying is only physical- that we really have nothing to fear, but actually, so much to look forward to. Like your dad said, others SHOULD fear death- we need to remember them in prayer!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the sweet words Anne! Right now at church we're focusing on reaching out and serving our communities. And for me, it has always been that fear that has been holding me back. But like my dad has shown me, we really have nothing to fear with God by our side.
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