interview Archives - Called To Watch

My husband has chronic inflammatory disease (Katie’s story)

“There are people willing to be with you during the dark times.” May this interview be an encouragement that there are others out there too, struggling to love and seeking to give, all the while figuring out what it looks like to do exactly that.

It’s time… for the first interview with another watcher!

The blog series Another Watcher’s Story is a compilation of interviews with other people just like us who are in a relationship with someone suffering from a chronic illness: mental or physical. They may or may not be in an ‘official’ caregiving role, but they have a unique tale to tell.

The purpose of this blog is to remind us that we are not alone.

So without further ado, let me introduce Katie, a wife whose spouse struggles with chronic inflammatory disease (and also the founder of a wonderful ministry: Broken and Mended!)

My husband has chronic inflammatory disease

1. How does your husband’s illness impact his life?

He is always in pain to some extent. It limits his ability to join in some family activities, but not too many.

2. What has been the hardest part of Watching them?

The way it has taken so much of his energy and focus away from other things. He is using it for the glory of God and so I am proud of him. He is, however, focused on things many people in the 40’s do not have to even think about.

3. How has this impacted you?

I have had to adjust my expectations. We are still working out how this affects our relationship and our family.

4. What have you learnt as a result of this relationship?

To be more supportive. To realize that he has limitations and I have to respect those.

5. How has God been present in this relationship?

Every step of the way. We both acknowledge His hand is how we found out about his disease. We believe he has lead David to start the Broken and Mended ministry.

6. Have you seen any fruits or purpose for their suffering so far?

We see how he and I can relate to others who are suffering.

7. What does Jesus mean to you? What aspect of his character has impacted you the most?

Jesus is my rock. I can not imagine going through any of life’s difficulties without him. I know that he understands each hurt and disappointment. I trust him with my future and know he will bring any good possible from this situation.

8. What’s the best piece of advice or encouragement someone has given you? How have they shown they love you?

Early on we had friends who would help out with the kids in order for me to be with David for doctor appointments and surgeries. It is wonderful to have a network around you to help manage life that cannot stop when you need it to.

9. What piece of encouragement would you give someone in a similar situation to your own?

There are people willing to be with you during the dark times. You do not have to pretend that you are okay with what you are facing. Lean on God for strength.

THANKS Katie!

// Are you a Watcher? If so I’d love to hear from you. Please don’t think your story isn’t exciting enough, or your loved one’s affliction not devastating enough! There are no wrong answers! Contact me at gloryafterwards@gmail.com to be part of this series (you can remain anonymous!)

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I have a chronic illness: Is God calling me to sacrifice my health?

Dear Emily,

I have a chronic illness, and I’ve recently been challenged about what it looks like for me to serve, specifically in mission (whether domestic or overseas).

Today’s post is my thoughts in regards to a series of questions I was asked by Wendy.

Q1. Why does it seem noble to sacrifice personal comfort to serve God in a third world country, but not to sacrifice your energy (as someone who has chronic fatigue) to serve in my own country?

Firstly, I think you’re right when you say there’s a difference between giving up your health security in a general sense (moving to a 3^rd world country) and specifically sacrificing it, knowing exactly what the consequences will be.

Both scenarios involve potential daily suffering, but they are different, and I think it’s very important to acknowledge that at the very beginning.

Continue reading “I have a chronic illness: Is God calling me to sacrifice my health?”

My son is ill and in jail (Mary’s story)

May this interview be an encouragement that there are others out there too, struggling to love and seeking to give, all the while figuring out what it looks like to do exactly that.

It’s time… for the second interview with another watcher.

The blog series Another Watcher’s Story is a compilation of interviews with other people just like us who are in a relationship with someone suffering from a chronic illness, mental or physical. They may or may not be in an official caregiving role, but they have a unique tale to tell.

The purpose of this blog is to remind us that we are not alone.

So without further ado, let me introduce Mary. Her son suffers from Bipolar, Tourette’s, Anxiety, Autism and Dysgraphia, and her Dad struggles with TIA’s (multiple strokes).
Continue reading “My son is ill and in jail (Mary’s story)”

My Daughter has Chronic Fatigue (Helen’s Story)

“The journey is slow, and it consists of tiny steps.” May this interview be an encouragement that there are others out there too, struggling to love and seeking to give, all the while figuring out what it looks like to do exactly that.

It’s time… for the first interview with another watcher!

The purpose of this blog is to remind us that we are not alone.

So without further ado, let me introduce Helen, the mother of a daughter who suffers from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Continue reading “My Daughter has Chronic Fatigue (Helen’s Story)”