Her granddaughter died from complications of a brain bleed. Just days later, Helen was at her volunteer post for Radical Love.
July 7, 2021: Natalie was 25 years old and full of life, love, and hope for a bright future. Just recently engaged, she and her fiancé had just put a deposit down on a wedding venue. Later that day, without any warning, Natalie suffered from a brain bleed that left her in a coma.
“The night of the accident, we raced to the hospital, where we stayed up all night in deep deep prayer while Natalie hovered between life and death,” recalls Helen.
Natalie fought for her life, and ultimately was able to go home to begin a long path to recovery. Her parents cared for her night and day as Natalie was unable to do most things for herself. But she persevered – with grace, courage, and gratitude; each night when she went to sleep, Natalie thought of 3 things she was thankful for.
Natalie’s outlook helped Helen to find Radical Love. “I needed to be others-centered, to find purpose in the pain,” shares Helen. “Helping others cultivates gratitude, which was key to keeping my sanity. Radical Love has been a healing balm, and helping in the nursery with the precious little ones was the best medicine. I was able to share stories from Radical Love with Natalie, and she loved it!”
This June, Natalie underwent surgery to remove scar tissue from the brain bleed. The surgery was successful, but the complications that followed were too much for her body. She passed away on June 14, 2024.
Just days later, Helen returned to serve at Radical Love. She was honored that morning for her unwavering love and service in childcare at Radical Love. “I keep thinking of Psalm 23:4; it brings new meaning to me now. I can feel the presence of God all around me,” Helen shared in the days following Natalie’s death.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
“If sharing my story – and Natalie’s story – helps anyone going through a valley of suffering of any kind, know that you are NEVER ALONE. God has never left your side for one second. When you are weak, He is strong! Don’t stay home and be sad or scared; be the hands and feet of Jesus by coming alongside friends at Radical Love. There’s something for everyone to do, and I guarantee you will feel better when you leave than when you got there. And you will have made a beautiful difference in many lives.”
