Three years ago, I fell down a flight of stairs while holding my 16-month-old granddaughter. While she, Baruch Hashem, did not have a scratch, I unfortunately became totally paralyzed. After three weeks of physical therapy in the hospital and six months of outpatient therapy, I was able to recover about 75 percent of my mobility. I had some residual damage, but I learned to live a normal life – driving, working and doing whatever was necessary. I never complained because I was thankful that Hashem had saved my granddaughter and me.
Today, I walk at a slower pace and am a little off balance. I recite the morning blessing of “zokeif k’fufim” (who straightens the bent) with heightened appreciation.
Every year, I make a seudas hoda’ah (thanksgiving meal) to thank Hashem for His kindness to me. I feel fortunate to be able to function normally, and a day doesn’t go by that I don’t realize the miracle I experienced.
Recently, I went to my neurologist for a routine checkup. He told me that I would need surgery to correct my deteriorating spinal stenosis and repair the spinal cord injury I incurred during my fall. I got opinions from a number of other neurosurgeons. All concurred with the first surgeon’s opinion. I chose a surgeon and proceeded to plan the surgery for after Pesach.
During the waiting time, I prepared myself spiritually. I gave more tzedakah than usual, davened to Hashem with increased kavanah (concentration), said Tehillim, and called a number of yeshivos to ask the students to learn for me. I visited the cemetery where my grandmother is buried and davened at her grave.
On the day of the surgery, I met my surgeon and anesthesiologist at the hospital. Suddenly, all the bitachon (faith) I was hoping for permeated my body. I wasn’t frightened, since I knew that Hashem would be with me.
As I write this, I am recuperating. I cannot yet drive, but my bitachon keeps me going. I am hoping that all will be well at my six-week checkup.
I wish everyone facing difficulties arefuah and a yeshuah (healing and salvation). Please, put all your faith in Hashem. He won’t let you down.