For nine years I was an invalid, suffering from an intestinal disorder and many complications. We were residing in Kansas City at the time, and in 1896 I had a friend who was healed of the same disease by Christian Science treatment; she was most enthusiastic over it, and insisted upon my giving it a trial. I was thoroughly discouraged over my condition, as I had faithfully followed all the directions of my many physicians, but to no avail. A new course would benefit me for only a short time, and I had really given up all hope of ever being well again, so I was loth to try Christian Science; but her persistency finally won my consent, and I began treatment. I did not even tell my husband that I was trying it; as I was so sure that it would not help me.
One evening, however, he noticed that many things which had often disturbed me seemed to pass unnoticed, and in his amazement asked me what had happened. After I told him he insisted on my continuing the treatment, and very soon we had a test of our faith. I had at times suffered from attacks which were called congestion of the brain, and these were considered most serious. I felt the symptoms coming on, but decided that I was not afraid to trust to Christian Science for a while, knowing that I could call my physician in half an hour if necessary. The practitioner came and gave me a treatment, which did not bring me any relief; but she immediately gave me another, during which I went to sleep. When my husband wakened me in the morning, I was normal in every respect, all traces of suffering had gone, and I felt well and strong. This instantaneous healing seemed a miracle to us, and from this demonstration dated our love for and faith in Christian Science. My treatment, at intervals, extended through several months, but I have never regretted it. as I was learning the beautiful truths of this Science, which at first it seemed impossible for me to understand and apply. My health became thoroughly established; as drugs were discarded, healthful and refreshing sleep followed, the heart action became strong and regular, and nervousness gave place to strength and peace.
I had another remarkable experience of instantaneous healing which showed that space is no obstacle to Mind. The next year after my health had been restored I was in Rome, and an attack of bowel disease came on. I was not afraid, and tried to overcome it myself, but as I was not succeeding, I wrote in a few days to a practitioner in Kansas City for a week's treatment. I would not cable for fear of alarming my husband. When I returned, we compared dates and found the letter was three days later than it should have been, but the first treatment had healed me. I had grown weaker, but was not confined to my bed; would lie down for a few moments whenever I felt inclined, and know that it was my understanding of the truth and the constant application of it which sustained me. Late in the afternoon of this day I suddenly began to feel better, and my heart was filled with gratitude as I felt the strength I so much needed returning; and from that day my bowels were perfectly healed.
