From the depth of a grateful heart I want to testify to the wonderful healing power of Truth as demonstrated through Christian Science in the healing of my little daughter of what is called membranous croup. The question was asked Mrs. Eddy (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 44), "Can Christian Science cure acute cases where there is necessity for immediate relief, as in membranous croup?" and her answer was : "The remedial power of Christian Science is positive, and its application direct. It cannot fail to heal in every case of disease, when conducted by one who understands this Science sufficiently to demonstrate its highest possibilities."
Our little child had been suffering for three days with what seemed to be a throat trouble, which we had tried to overcome with our understanding of Christian Science. By four o'clock of the third day the symptoms became so alarming that we felt we must have help, and we telephoned a practitioner to treat the child. By six o'clock the condition was such that the whole household was terror-stricken, for suffocation seemed imminent. After the first paroxysm the child lapsed into a comatose state, with every appearance of passing on. Hastily we summoned the practitioner, telling her that death seemed to be at the door. Her strong declaration, "There is no death; be not afraid," set us all to working as we never had before to put out fear and to realize the all-power and presence of God. The practitioner soon arrived, a fearless doer of the word, and went into an adjoining room to work. I remember one statement she made: "The power of Christian Science and divine Love is omnipotent. It is indeed adequate to unclasp the hold and to destroy disease, sin, and death" (Science and Health, p. 412).
In less than half an hour the breathing became somewhat easier. After an hour the child broke out into a profuse perspiration, then closed her mouth, breathed naturally, and opened her eyes and asked for water. She drank half a glassful, swallowing without difficulty, then turned on her side and fell into a quiet sleep. The practitioner remained through the night to watch and pray. Words fail to express the deep gratitude, awe, and wonder that filled our hearts. We felt as must those who witnessed the wonderful works of the Master, for surely the Christ had passed our way with his words of authority, "Damsel, I say unto thee, arise."
