It was a beautiful day on December 26th, 1993. Our family of five had just celebrated Christmas the day before, and now, we were on the road to visit grandparents. Our precious kids, Paul (9), Carissa (9), and Sarah (2), were buckled in, excited about celebrating Christmas with extended family. As always, we started our road trip with a prayer, asking God to watch over us and protect us. My last memory of this day is crying out: “Oh my God!” I’d like to believe that it was the start of another prayer.
As we traveled 60 mph on a two-lane highway, another car collided with ours, and our van rolled several times. Thankfully, the van landed upright on its wheels (miracle #1). My husband Kevin was hurt and without his glasses. Paul and Carissa were hurt but ok, still in shock. Their first concern was to find Sarah, who had been ejected upon impact. At the other end of the field, a lady was frantically waving her arms: “I have your daughter.” Paul and Carissa helped their dad (without his glasses) as they made the dash to hold Sarah. Sarah had landed in a puddle of mud a few feet from the two-lane highway (miracle #2). We believe that an angel had gently placed her there.
Next, they turned their attention to me, pinned in the van and unresponsive. As they waited for the EMS and Fire Rescue Team, a couple showed up and offered to pray over me (miracle #3). My family describes the couple as possibly dressed for church and carrying a bible. This couple stretched through the broken glass, laid their hands on me, and prayed. A few minutes later, Kevin turned to thank them, but they were gone.
Sarah and I were taken by Life Flight. Kevin, Paul, and Carissa were being prepped for their ambulance ride; praying, crying, and watching the helicopter. Honestly, I don’t remember how many days later I woke up. 1, 2, 3? (miracle #4)
I do remember the doctor saying: “I can’t find anything wrong with your miracle child (Sarah), so I’m going to give her a popsicle and send her home.” (miracle #5)
Our lives were forever changed on December 26th, 1993. I know that God rescued each one of us that day! I know that God protected us, healed us, and reminded us that “Each day is a gift.” It is a HUGE blessing to live life understanding this simple truth! May your lives be blessed walking in the truth of our Father’s love and protection.