September 18th, 2007 my husband and I awoke early to catch the bus headed to Mayo Clinic. This was a courtesy extended to patients by the motel we had selected.
As we took our seats, a kind lady leaned across the isle. “Is this your first time to come to Mayo?” “Yes it is,” I replied, “And you?” I asked. She went on to say that they had been there several times and was so thankful that they had been sent there. She spoke of how helpful people were, and that although the clinic was very large, you were treated with respect.
We chatted for a few moments as the bus made stops along the way. As we reached our destination, she advised us not to become overwhelmed with everything. She said there would be many people along the way to help us. Smiling and waving, we got off the bus and went our separate ways. I never saw her again but was touched by God’s love and compassion to send someone to help calm my fears.
We made our way to many appointments during the day. One of my appointments was a CAT scan of the brain. I was directed in to a room much like a dressing room to change into a gown and given a key to leave my personals and clothing locked. Once in my gown, I was told to sit on a bench and wait for my name to be called.
There were two other women sitting on the bench ahead of me. As we waited, we began to chat. One was a delightful young woman who had just recently been married.
She told us that she was there because she had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. In fact, this would be her third!
Her face radiated as she spoke of her new husband and shared with us the previous surgeries. She said that after testing, the two of them planned to go on a trip to Florida before surgery. The trip would be their honeymoon.
Nurses soon interrupted our conversation by calling her name. I dropped my head and prayed for this vivacious and brave young woman and gave thanks for all the people God brought across my path.
My last appointment of the day finally arrived. I made my way back to the room and waited patiently for the doctor. I heard a knock on the door… inviting the visitor in, I was greeted by another beautiful smile and a card. Seeing the confusion on my face, she explained that while reading my chart, the staff realized that it was my birthday.
I thanked God again for his love and compassion. Isn’t God amazing that he would take the time to send his love in so many ways to his children? Our Lord cares about the smallest details of our lives. He knows just what we need and when we need it.
As each day passed, we had the opportunity to meet many people with many trials in their lives. Most had a positive outlook and were trusting God for their healing. Some were already praising God for his healing touch as they came back for check-ups.
Checking out of our room at the end of the week we found on more blessing awaiting us. The motel had given us a sizeable discount because I was a patient at Mayo Clinic. God is good! Praise his holy name.
This Thanksgiving, I have much to give thanks for. With a joyful heart I will hold my family a little closer, love my neighbors more, pray for the healing of our country, and pray for God’s touch for every person who walks through the valley of sorrows.
May God richly bless you this Thanksgiving. May he give you hope, joy, and peace in your heart. May he meet your every need.
