My absolute favorite stories are God stories. You know, those moments when He without question shows up in our circumstance, offering evidence of His presence with grace, peace, hope, and comfort. If we look hard enough, we can all see His fingerprints in our lives. That’s exactly what I loved so much about the conversation I had with my friend, Suzy Biggs. Hers is a story of faithfulness and healing, and I know you’ll be encouraged.
Suzy has been an elementary school counselor for 18 years, touching the lives of children each day. Forty-one years ago she married Kenny, the love of her life, and they raised two sons who are married and starting families of their own. It was in the middle of an ordinary school day that Suzy’s life was radically changed.
Looking back, Suzy had struggled with several odd illnesses over the summer and went into the school year feeling sub-par. The breaking point came in September after school one afternoon, when she felt terrible pain in her back and chest. She and Kenny immediately headed to the hospital to see what was going on. Doctors quickly determined it was not her heart, but unusual blood counts sent her to the oncology wing. Before she even had time to process all that was going on - let alone go home and pack a bag - she found herself hooked up to a PIC line, undergoing tests to begin treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Over the next two years her treatment took many forms, even taking her to MD Anderson in Houston, TX. It was determined that Suzy needed a bone marrow transplant to survive. After many generous strangers and friends were tested, it was determined that her son, Bryce was a match and would be her donor. Through that incredible part of her journey, Suzy saw in flesh and blood a representation of the faithfulness of God giving His own Son to give us life. Hearing her recount that selfless act is incredibly powerful and emotional!
As you might imagine, God was so near to Suzy in countless ways throughout her health journey, reminding her that He is always working. He revealed Himself over and over again, often using other people to bless Suzy as they shared their time, resources, encouragement and prayers to support her and Kenny.
As the days turned into weeks, Suzy set her mind and heart on this promise from God, found in Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not look anxiously about you, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
As I think about Suzy’s story, I can’t help but wonder if we all need to take that scripture and message from the Lord to heart. No matter the circumstance, our mighty God will strengthen, uphold and help us. No matter the stage of life He is able to meet our needs whether big or small. Let’s join Suzy in recognizing that God is always working all around us!
I hope you will take the time to listen to the entire interview found in the link below. I know you will be encouraged!
Click the podcast link to listen:
Meet the Author!
Heather McAnear is a wife, mom, author and speaker with a passion for sharing God's truth to help women understand their uniquely beautiful design and how to use it for God's glory! In fact, Heather hosts the Uniquely Beautiful Stories podcast on iTunes in hopes do just that! She loves teaching young married couples with her husband, homeschooling their three children, traveling the world, enjoying good chocolate and long conversations in coffee shops. CRBC has been her church home for two decades and she is thrilled to be part of the Women's Ministry team, helping women connect with each other and grow in their walk with Jesus!