In a Stroke of Love by Lisa J. Plett
Can you take my place?
Ten years after his first MRI, my 12-year-old son Bryson faced another scan due to increased seizure activity. While the MRI itself went smoothly, getting the IV inserted proved challenging. Bryson, a seasoned patient, guided the technicians through his preferred methods, but success remained elusive.
After multiple attempts on both arms, Bryson looked up at me, arms outstretched, and asked, "Can you take my place?" Those words pierced my heart. Any parent who has watched their child endure pain understands the overwhelming desire to shield them, to take their place. I could only tell him I would if I could.
Bryson's resilience shone through in moments like these. He never complained about his struggles, speaking only the truth from his heart. His question wasn't a complaint, but a simple expression of his discomfort. The technician who finally succeeded left the room with tears in her eyes, remarking on Bryson's remarkable character.
Throughout the rest of that day, I grappled with the ache in my heart. I’d often questioned God, asking "Why Bryson?" Yet, I'm repeatedly reminded that God makes no mistakes. Bryson has taught me more about God's grace and love than any other experience in my life.
The image of Bryson with outstretched arms reminded me of Jesus on the cross – He did take our place. It's difficult to comprehend the depth of my Savior's love, just as it's hard to understand why Bryson must face such challenges. However, even without understanding the reasons, I know that God is always there to heal the brokenhearted and comfort those who are hurting.
God's love never fails, and His plans are always for good, not harm. This knowledge brought me peace, even when my heart ached. Through Bryson's experiences, I've learned profound lessons about faith, love, hope and healing.
About the book:
A Stroke of Love: Through a Mother's Eyes" chronicles a 25-year journey parenting Bryson, who suffered a pre-birth stroke. This book holds more stories like the one you just read. It explores medical challenges, family dynamics, and personal struggles while highlighting the importance of community support. It also addresses overcoming depression and caregiver burnout, Lisa encourages special needs parents and those facing unanswered prayers and insecurities to find hope and healing in our Heavenly Father, one stroke of love at a time.
About the author:
Lisa is a Jesus lover, author, and mother to four sons (one adopted) and a daughter-in-law, with another DIL joining soon. Married since 1994, she balances family life with her passion for writing. Even though residing in Northern Indiana, Lisa loves the desert. Her other loves are dogs (though her cats currently rule the roost), the Chicago Cubs, and ice cream. In her downtime, she enjoys reading and listening to music from her favorite rocking chair.
Want to connect with Lisa?
Find her at lisajplett.com
Follow her Instagram journey @lisajplett
Join her Facebook community at Lisa J Plett.
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