Cindee Snider Re embodies these words from the author J.R.R. Tolkein:
Courage is found in unlikely places
I met Cindee in an unlikely place — at a writers’ workshop on the western coast of Lake Michigan. We were among a dozen writers, many of whom were still waiting on the Lord to show them how to use the gifts He’d bestowed on them. It quickly became evident that among Cindee’s gifts are photography and writing, as well as joy, compassion and a servant’s heart. What wasn’t evident was the fact Cindee was also given the gift of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a chronic disease comprised by “a group of disorders that affect the connective tissues that support the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues.” (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
Four of Cindee’s five children also have this genetic disorder.
Cindee didn’t talk much about her condition, but there were moments when we could see she was pushing through the pain and discomfort to participate.
Cindee left our week-long workshop telling us she didn’t think the Lord wanted her to write words, but that she would focus on telling stories with her camera lens. God had other plans.
Just one year later, Cindee’s experience with chronic illness has led her to write “Discovering Hope: Beginning the Journey Toward Hope in Chronic Illness”. The Bible study is a product of her partnership in a new ministry with her friend Pamela K. Piquette, who also has Ehlers-Danos. Chronic Joy has as its mission “equipping those affected by chronic physical and mental illness through community and education rooted in Jesus Christ.”
“Discovering Hope” is an uplifting yet challenging workbook that will not only plunge you into the healing Word of God, but will draw from you your own story of chronic illness. Punctuated with insightful, inspiring stories from Cindee’s life, the study is a map through which the participant explores the tough issues and the joys associated with trial. While it is intended for use by those in a personal struggle, it would also be useful for anyone walking through chronic illness with a friend or loved one.
Working through the eight chapters, participants examine their story, perspective, sacrifice, humor, trust, gratitude, promise and choice in living with chronic illness. Instructions for doing the study with a small group are included at the back of the book, as well as a listing of scriptures used throughout the study. The book is also peppered with inspiring quotes, like the one from Tolkein and this one.
Cindee’s study will be followed up by a book authored by Pamela Piquette entitled “Finding Purpose”.
I am giving a copy of this book to a friend who walks this journey, with prayer that it will minister to her. You can order the book and contribute to Chronic Joy by ordering at www.smile.amazon.com and typing in Chronic Joy as recipient. If you agree, all future purchases through Amazon will result in a donation to Chronic Joy.
Chronic Joy can be found on Facebook and on the website.
Chronic illness is seen as anything but a joy. However, Cindee reminds us “It isn’t our circumstances that make life worth living. It’s God.” If you or someone you know is living with a chronic illness, consider this study by Cindee. She is, indeed, courageous, and you will be blessed.
“Crossing the Waters” book giveaway winner — Laurie Sherck! Laurie will be notified by e-mail. Thank you all for entering!
Hey, Ingrid! I actually clicked without looking who wrote the newsletter! My friend has a Christian fiction book entitled Discovering Hope and I thought the newsletter was about it!
I’d love to get this workbook. 🙂