This certainly is an extraordinary love story, since Joni Eareckson is a quadriplegic. I have just posted a couple of blogs about Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, who was also a quadriplegic. It was interesting to go from one book to another.
I have had two women in my life that had ALS and I have always realized how fortunate I am to be able to roll over in bed. Imagine not being able to do so. Both Joni and Philippe lived in that situation, depending on other people for everything, absolutely everything!
Well, Joni has written many books about how her faith has been important in her life, after breaking her neck in a diving accident as a teenager. This book has a wonderful twist, in that she found a great life partner. But it also makes it clear that a loving, caring husband does not necessarily make the path easier. There are complications in relationships and certainly there were immense challenges in this love story.
Joni was really a celebrity when Ken fell in love with her and the love he had for her may have caused him to underestimate the challenges of a marriage to a quadriplegic. Even though she was paralyzed, she had chronic pain and needed constant attention. Add to that a bout with cancer and a broken leg.
Although Ken wanted to take on much of her care, he struggled to keep his teaching and coaching jobs as well. Eventually, Joni and Ken drifted apart emotionally. Much of this book tells how they were able to develop a deeper faith and unite in their purpose and faith in God. They have been married over 35 years.
A very inspiring story.
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