Riding in a Tool Truck

Tyler wanted to go to his own BYU singles ward this week – and so the preparations began.  Karen brought him a white shirt, tie and black sweats.  John started working on arrangements on how to get him there.  John was about to give up when he thought about one of his neighbors that has a tool truck.  At midnight he texted his neighbor asking if it would be a possibility to transport Tyler using his truck.  His dear neighbor responded early in the morning wanting to help Tyler with his desire to attend fast and testimony meeting.  The morning was crazy.  Breakfast came more than an hour late, so within 30 minutes, they dressed Tyler, shaved him and fed him breakfast.  John used his 4 wheeler ramps to get Tyler into the truck and sat directly behind him, holding his wheelchair in place.  Success!

They arrived on time, but thought service hadn't started and began waiting.  They didn't realize that they were waiting on the wrong floor.   Heavenly Father was looking out for Tyler because Natalie (a close friend) was running late.  The elevator opened and Natalie was standing there and asked them what they were doing on the wrong floor.  If it weren't for Natalie, they would have searched that entire floor in frustration.  

John said it was a beautiful service.  The congregation prayed for Tyler in both the opening and closing prayer.  A few mentioned their visits with Tyler in the hospital and the strong spirit they felt there.  Following services, Tyler was swarmed by those that love him.   It is so heartwarming to see young people join in faith and embark in the service of God in the behalf of someone else…. especially when it is one of your loved ones. 

After sacrament, Tyler was exhausted and his pain was starting to escalate.    When I went to Tyler’s room hours later, he and his two younger sisters were fast asleep listening to Enya.  I woke Becki up taking her picture (hence the cute grin) but she went right back to sleep as well.

Mom (Tyler’s Grandma) was talking to two of the physical therapists that were there the first day Tyler was brought into the rehabilitation facility.  They were telling mom that when Tyler arrived they both had a strong impression that there was something really special about him.  They also bore witness that they have felt the presence of those beyond the veil in the rooms of some patients who have especially difficult recoveries.  To us, it is no surprise.  We have witnessed miracles and know that families are forever.  We love our families.  We know this life isn't the end.  Therefore, it is no surprise that loved ones would stand in wait offering encouragement and help as best they can even after they leave mortality.