This beautiful couple is Eric’s uncle and aunt. I’ve known them for over 18 years. They made the gorgeous flower arrangements at our wedding, hosted us on a trip to Colorado, and provided us with lots of laughter over the years. They are the real deal…steadfast towards Jesus and one another…no matter what is thrown their way. Brenda has ALS. Jeff buried his brother, Herb (Eric’s Dad) in January and then was faced with Brenda’s diagnosis. (Not to mention Jeff and Herb lost their Dad, Carl Stuart, to ALS.) Life is hard and it hurts. I don’t know where we’d be without the hope of a Savior. Our bodies just can’t keep up with our youthful souls…but God will one day clothe us in skin that can.
Taking these pictures and editing them was a sob fest. I want you to know that marriage is sacred. There is something holy about a husband taking care of his wife until the end. There is something holy about a woman suffering with grace and without anger, despite the pain.
Trying to find poses that would work with Brenda without putting her in pain was challenging, but I was happy with the raw emotion we captured. It’s obvious these two will love one another forever. Nothing can take that away from them.
As I’ve thought about ALS and how it has stripped her muscles bare, preventing her from lifting her neck, I can’t help but think of this bible verse. She is covered in grace, no matter how her body tries to reject her. “But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.” Psalm 3:3
May God be merciful to them both in the days ahead. Today, I just praise God for the witness they have had on so many during this journey.
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