In 1886, while still a child, I fell very heavily on my back, and after that I suffered a great deal from backache. This increased in severity with the years, but I refused to see a physician about it. I took large doses of a nerve-quieting drug till it would help no more. When at last I could not take a step without agonizing pain, I consented to consult a physician, and according to the diagnosis only an operation could help me. I was operated on in February, 1911, but the relief was only temporary, and I had to return to the hospital in June of the same year for a second operation, which proved unsuccessful. The doctors admitted this to my sister while I was still under the influence of the anesthetic. I think it was about three more weeks that they gave me to live. They gave a name to my ailment, but it meant nothing to me till I was told it was a malignant form of fibrous growth. I was suffering from excruciating pains and longed to die.
My sister, who had two years previously come into Christian Science, begged me to try it; but I had always been indifferent toward it, even antagonistic, although I had seen what great changes it had wrought in her, both physically and mentally. My stubbornness would not let me give in till, broken by insufferable pain, at last one night I asked for help from Christian Science, if it could be given me. My sister telephoned to a practitioner, but she could not come to me that night, so she gave me absent treatment. In about an hour and a half I was asleep, and that was the last of those dreadful pains. Chronic bowel disorder, from which I had suffered since childhood, disappeared at the same time. Very soon I was strong enough to return to my work, and there have been no further symptoms of the trouble. My case has been a miracle to the doctors and to my friends, and it has caused many to inquire into and seek Christian Science.
Christian Science has not only proved itself a curative but also a preventive. While I used to be troubled greatly with colds and minor ailments, I seldom have them now, and when I do they are quickly overcome through the knowledge I have gained in studying Science and Health. Christian Science is also helping me greatly to correct faulty mental habits, and I have been told that I am a better daughter, sister, and friend than before. I know I am happier and more contented. Can any one wonder that I feel very grateful? I never run up-stairs or take a walk without rejoicing in the ability to do so and not suffer pain, and without rejoicing in the Father love of our God, who has shown me that His power and willingness to heal the sick is the same now as in Jesus' time.
