We haven’t seen our neighbors for months. The couple purchased the condo next to us about a year ago and had some loose ends to tie up in their previous residence many states away. They were back and forth for a while and were supposed to move in to stay here a few months ago. The next thing I heard was that the husband had to have immediate open heart surgery. He had a few minor complications and was finally able to make the trip this week. They arrived this afternoon. We were happy to see them and talk with them about their journey. The husband was in good spirits and told us that he was making the final rounds of doctors appointments before he left. He saw his cardiologist who did some tests and found that his aortic valve was not functioning properly. Surgery was absolutely necessary. When they did the surgery, the doctors found that his heart had more damage than what was initially shown on the tests. They had to replace the valve and part of the aorta itself. He said that is was truly a blessing as he did not have any symptoms at all. The doctors said that the stress of moving across the country would have likely resulted in a massive heart attack and possibly death. He was truly grateful that he had the opportunity to make his way to the new home and enjoy the next phase of life. He said the valve that was replaced was from a cow and joked that when he gets up in the morning, he moos just a little. His grateful, positive, hope filled outlook was very encouraging.

I Found God today in a grateful man with an encouraging story to share.