I was so much helped and cheered in the beginning of my experience with Christian Science by the testimonies in our periodicals that I trust this one may also be of use to some sufferer. Many years ago I had a very serious illness, which brought me nearly to death's door. After partial recovery, for more than ten years I hardly knew what it was to be without pain. During part of that time I was made to lie in a poroplastic jacket, never raising my head from the pillow for six months. Afterward, in spite of everything the doctors could do, both at home and abroad, the pain increased and was so constant that for more than two years I lay quite helpless from paralytic trouble, and could only move a little with support on both sides.
In this state Christian Science found me. I began to read "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, and I felt that I had at last found an understanding of God which would help me to overcome sin and to love my neighbor in a way I had thought would never be possible to me. I did not know if Christian Science could help me physically, but as I read Science and Health, and later had the loving help of a practitioner, to whom I can never be sufficiently grateful, I found one slight improvement coming after another. I could turn myself a little on my bed, I could sit up straighter without falling forward, and the pain was being overcome. I was not healed quickly, but the healing has been sure and is still coming. I am now well, and able to go everywhere alone and to lead the life of a strong person. Although some movements are still slow, I know the Christ heals now as he did two thousand years ago, and I am realizing that it is Truth that sets us free.
My gratitude is very great for the physical healing, — for the freedom from pain and helplessness, — but I am still more grateful for the spiritual help that Christian Science has brought me through the beautiful life and work of our Leader, Mrs. Eddy, who has pointed us back to the teachings of the gospel and shown us again how to go to the Christ who not only takes away our sins but who also heals all our diseases.
