Joni, your message came at a great time this morning. I am 85 years old. I lost my dear husband 12 years ago. I live alone and have, with wonderful help from God, been able to make life work. I have had some health issues. I have a dear daughter and son-in-law that I couldn’t do without and wonderful friends. My neighbor came to my rescue this morning. I was in the hospital last week with a lung infection. I am on temporary oxygen and my machine stoped this morning. She was here for me in minutes. God has so blessed me with those who care. You and I have met in the past. I did some sewing for you a few years ago. It was such a pleasure to talk with you then and meet your sweet husband when he came to pick up your pants. I wish that I could be to others what they have been to me. I have so many stories to tell. I could write a book. Thank you for your message this morning. It came at just the right time. Love you Joni, Pat Graning😊
I was a caregiver for my schizophrenic/bipolar niece for 15 months with only one brief break but that wasn't the problem. The problem(s) was she treated me like dirt, and her dad helped her. I'm now very ill, and my brother is angry that he has to care for her. God bless all caregivers! ❤
I am cerebral palsied and I looked after a elderly mother for 13 years. She had a stroke in 2010. She is now in a care facility which has been hasty towards her. Unfortunately the manager thinks I am useless. They are not interested in helping me and I am praying for God to move us out of the Methodist retirement village. They have put me into debt and are trying to take my home away from me. This is happening in South Africa. I have been charged R 44, 000 when I only have a state pension of R 2,000 per month. Please pray that God will step into this situation.
I'm having a respite today. My husband has a brain injury and thankfully i rode my bike to the beach and listening to the waves while i listen to you! I am thankful for respite care! God bless you, Joni, for your faithful witness!
Oh wow. God has trusted you with this labour of love..He knows you can do it in a way that will bring glory to Him. The breaking of your alabaster box so nothing of self remains..all for Him & as unto Him. As Joni has said: These hardships are squeezing the self out..while you give care & love to yours you are doing to the Lord. I pray strength for endurance for you. 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18..His appearing is close..keep eyes on Him & be encouraged that He knows your comings & your goings. Eternity with Him will be perfect. I want to encourage you with 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Romans 8:18 I know you will know all that but repetition is good when it comes to God's word isn't it? Blessings & love to you all. May you be blessed with fullness of the fruits of the Spirit to evident within & from your life.
So good to hear you speak, precious Joni. When we cared for my mother in law years ago, one couple would visit us for a barbeque - the wife would then help me settle our Mother into her evening routine, then into her bed. This sweet gesture was a great help for me.
This made me cry as to not realizing the true struggles of families with disabilities. You have an incredible spirit of encouraging others even through your own daily challenges. You and Ken are a blessing. 😊
Joni I remember when you had your accident I’d just become a Christian and remember you were always were in my prayers and you were an inspiration to me many times . I became a registered nurse and now look after SCIs and you again are in my thoughts and prayers . God bless you Joni and all the amazing disability community .
Thank you Joni! May the Holy Spirit ignite the hearts of millions of people to be a shining help to those who are in need. In Jesus’ name I pray 🙏🏼 Thank You LORD!!❤
Joni your a blessing ! I care for my daughter who is 35 now. Lacey can not do anything for herself but breathe and drink from a toddler sippy cup. I'm shunned because I care my daughter. People are getting less friendly by the day. It's sad. I look so forward to Jesus coming in the clouds to call up the true believers. I have been treated so terrible by even so called Christians for me wanting Jesus so badly. It's sad
This is a sad testimony.. that you have no help. You are a good and devoted mother. Keep trusting the Lord to the end. The Bible says:'look up your Redemption draws nigh' & it is more nigh than ever. He will be your exceeding great reward. Meanwhile..I pray God give you someone who will show you physically, His goodness here & now.
Thank you for sharing. You are among friends here... and you're so loved! I'd be honored to intercede for you, Lacey, and the rest of your family, if that's okay. God Bless you. 🙏✝️
I totally understand. I pray for the Lord's return. Sometimes I even pray the Lord would take our adult sons home before us because it's hard not to worry about who will care for them when we're gone.
I'm sorry. I'm praying for you and although that's not concrete help it's what I can do. If anybody out there is able to provide respite care, please do a little bit. Thank you.
I have been a caregiver of my special needs son who is 31. It’s hard most days and I have times that I just cry especially when he is screaming and throwing stuff. Soon I won’t have resources. I try daily to see him as a blessing and not a burden
Thankyou Joni for turning your tragedy into triumph. I ask for prayer for my daughter & 4 children who moved into our home last year to escape a abusive husband/ father. They don't have physical disabilities, but are all in various levels of therapy except the youngest whose only 21 mos old. I'm a nearly 62 yr old Grandma who babysits the youngest & helps with the 3 school age children . I have to admit I'm tired & need a respite, but only have another daughter who also is raising a son & working out of the home.
His grace is sufficient for each day the word says..so keep your eyes on Him every step. I pray He strengthen you for endurance. I can hear your need..its tough going. 'Look up, your Redemption draws nigh'..because: 1 Thessalonians 4 :14-18.
I’m almost 60, single mom with teens and zero daddy since 2010. Respite is something that will come only in a few yrs more, I figure -2027 or 28? Maybe? I’ve done live in dementia care of relatives and hospice for a number too, besides clients thru the yrs.
I moved in with my mother after her stroke. I am so blessed to have a son who has always helped out my parents, even when my dad was still alive. I work full time but we all manage to make it work. I pray that everyone finds the help they need.
1982 read your life story Joni Ericson and listen your tape album Joni Song. I am Willing Lord. I am blessed. Joni God bless. Glory to God to your life testimony in the Lord. ❤❤❤
Dear Joni, What suffering there is in the world! Practically helping people is also what Jesus told us to do. (Matthew 25:40) Greetings from br. San (the Netherlands)
Hi.The past 15 years I have cared for my dear husband who suffers from bad left stroke.I haven't had much respite thru this and now I am suffering.I attend a local church and no-one has helped me with my husband.I am fortunate that carers come in to help with personal care for him.He never gets out the house much.Please pray for me as I am struggling.So tired all time now.I am 68 years old.Was in early 50s when I first started caring for Ron.
Relief might be one of those top ten amazing feelings we can experience as humans...it's a relief the Lord has forgiven us an insurmountable debt we could never re-pay, even if we had all eternity.
Thank you Joni.I am disabled too, since 1988 when I was 17 years old. I have had a traumatic head/ brain injury and whiplash which left my right side paralyzed. My late Momma wrote a letter to you about my situation and you responded back, thank you. I have been since 2014 experiencing an increase in mobility issues and weakness in my arms and legs and always various levels of pain and discomfort. I am glad that I can feel pain, it's a gift from God. I can move around to have less pain and discomfort, but it is always there. Good old arthritis. It's a result of my many injuries throughout the years. I'm taking care of myself and I'm doing okay. I'm slower than most people at a lot of things, but I'm always thankful 🙏🏽for God's help and giving me strength to do what I can. I am and have been volunteering at a shop in town for 19 years and it's been nice, but I can see that I will have to let go soon because of my personal health reasons. Until then I am always trying and giving my best. I always work for God and always give God my best. Thank you Joni,God bless you and your family and friends. Take care. 🙏🏽☝🏽🤲🏼❤⚘🕊🌄
Amen my uncle was in a wheel chair due to a car accident at the age of 15, and my nanny was an angel along with us all. She took such good care on him. Love my uncle, miss him. God called him home at the young age of 55 in mercy.....I know he's home in glory no more chair...and yes all those who take care of anyone with a disability is are heroes to me. I work with autistic children 26 years now, I'm a teacher, and yes it's work but it's all worth it. God bless them all and their families.....Joni love you! Your husband is amazing xo Jesus loves you both so much
I'm so blessed to hear you talk about your daily needs and how the Lord come through for you by meeting tour needs it is awesome. You are a very special blessing.
I attempted to do it all alone for 24 years with three children born with special needs, they have autism. I filed for divorce last year because i was not allowed to have a break. I developed a medical disability because of years of lack of sleep and self care
Very good video on respite! My husband and I have a sabbatical ministry (b&b, non-profit) for Bible believing ministers and their wife, missionaries and their wife ... it is an honor to serve Jesus.
Thankyou, Joni, bless you. What a blessing to have someone provide respite to me this last weekend emotional and prayerful, hospitality and a comfy bed. Bless her, and bless the Lord. And bless you, Joni, and your husband.
Joni you are such a blessing to us. You and Ken are more than the example of God's Love to us. My son is my 5th person that I have taken care of. Just hearing you speak this truth is validating to me. Thank you for your love and God's incredible endurance that he has given you and Ken. We love you both. ❤
This is one of the reasons I Volunteer at the Family Retreats...to Support the Families! NOW I SEE All that they do to take Care of their Loved One! Thank you Joni for the Retreats and for ALL of the work of Joni & Friends, in Lifting Up and Serving these Servants and Families. I join with SOOO MANY People who are praying for you and Ken, Everyday!
I love you Joni. Simply my heart identifies as I broke my neck in a horse accident and lost everything because God was my choice over the farm. Only God sees all the moments….and this truth of life. A ladybug 🐞 landed on my finger yesterday and I’m in tears now as I read Psalm 16 this morning and know that God has us as princesses 👸🏼 and we can’t begin to communicate how truly deep and far and wide is His love for us. Amen 🙏 Thank you Lord Jesus for Joni may I meet a man able to share the joy of the Lord and the battle in this new season of life. ❤ Jesus is my 1st love 💕 Amen
Thank you, Mrs. Tada, for showing me what real faith & dependence on the Lord is, since I was a teen & first encountered your story. You are beautiful & inspire me, a relatively healthy cancer survivor so much. God's mercy & love just shines from you, it can be seen & felt.
Joni, you will always have a special place in my heart. I was saved many many years ago in my hometown theatre, watching your movie “Joni” I will never forget how the love of God came in that room and overshadowed me with such an incredible love. I pray for you and I pray for your ministry. You are so precious and a anointed woman of God. ❤
I believe training people to be caregivers is wonderful! I was a nurse for many years. As a home health nurse for 10 years, I saw what we called "caregiver burnout". Getting some one to fill in as a caregiver was more often a challenge than not. People did not want to help or were unable to help, and this included family. We would contact organizations that would provide care, but a lot of times disabled or elderly individuals did not qualify for help or it was too costly. I always did what I could when I was there. I pray that there are many people who want to be caregivers and will help the disabled, and in turn, will be helping caregivers.
God bless you Joni and Ken snd your helpers,my husband was disabled and had Alzheimers, i was his main care giver, my church family helped, i have RA AND Lupus and few other ailments, but try not complain, i am blessed and what an inspiration you are, and everytime i see you and Vick,think i ve had bad day, realize everyday we can see the goodness of God all around us ❤, love and prayers
Thank you, Joni, for this encouraging video. I, too, am so blessed to be a respite caregiver to a very dear adult friend who has special needs. Not only that, I am equally blessed to serve in my church's special needs ministry called "Thrive" where we care for kiddos with special needs, so both of their parents can worship God in church together. ⛪️ ❤
God bless all those who are caregivers. And God bless you for your honesty and joy of heart when speaking about real life struggles you have everyday. Your beautiful smile and heart felt words are always inspiring. God bless you.
Joni your messages about pain, caregivers, disabilities, etc. are wonderful. They help the weary and discouraged caregivers. I took care of my mother and it is exhausting. After a few months, the doctor came to see my mother and he told me: I think I need to take care of you first and take your blood pressure. I said why? One of your eye is full of blood and he asked me to take a blood pressure pill immediately. How important it is to have good friends, sisters in christ and family that are concerned for you, Caregiver. I always think of Ken, he must be exhausted, but in heaven he will not have to push the wheel chair or care for you. Well I think that you will not be wife and husband in heaven. Amazing to think in our future with our Lord. We love you Joni and I will keep Ken and all caregivers in my daily prayers. Until then, keep sharing and let us enjoy your meditations. ☝🏻🙏🌹
Joni, the average person has absolutrley no idea of the challenges of both the disabled and the care giver. You are so right when you say that the care-giver needs time off. Thank you for remindimg me that my neighbors (elderly) also need help. I'm going to reach out and start asking how I can help. God bless you and Ken.
Thanks for the reminder Joni. I am currently a driver for an Adult Day Care for nearly 5 years now. I needed to hear your perspective in serving the elderly especially.. Thanks again.
You are indeed a lovely woman of god.Love to hear your stories.I thank god for every day despite difficulties. I love my husband dearly and he is worth it.😢
And for the countless others around the globe who are in similar situations, this video is an excellent PSA. God bless them all, their caregivers, and the concept of respite. Amen. Amen. Amen.
So sweet….thank you, Joni for enlightening others regarding the loving path of the caregiver…I know the path well…respite is the best gift and it is overlooked…God Bless you dear Sister…xo
God bless you and Ken. You are such a blessing to so many people. Thank you for your faithfulness, and for your willing spirit to be used of the Lord.❤❤❤🙏🙏
Oh, Joni! You touched my heart with these thoughts. So few people realize how difficult, demanding and exhausting being a caregiver is. Even when, like your husband, you love that person with all your heart. I was my late husband's sole caregiver for four years. Respite care was so hard to come by, yet we both needed it so badly. It can make such a huge difference in someone's life. Thank you for addressing this with such care and compassion!
This resonates with me especially since my husband has recently become disabled (although not to Sister Joni’s) degree. Yet people do tend to think that what they see comes naturally. That this is easy. That I am strong or that I don’t struggle spiritually or that I don’t feel guilty taking a respite. Thank you so much for this post!
Caregivers have a hard job. I care for my elderly sister and help with a neighbor. Its hard but God will bless for all that is done. I had a day of relief yesterday. Such a nice breath.But it goes on. Love does so much. And the Lord will bless.
I am learning so much from your ministry. I pray that awareness of the challenges faced by families with disabilities will spread throughout the world. Especially in places where ignorance and stigmas still exists. May this go out in the Name of Jesus. Thank you Joni and Friends.
Joni I was an RN for years and did have people in wheelchairs as patients and yes was very demanding, I know all the routines, if I ever move to LA I would love to help, you are very strong 😊
❤ Thank you for this message. It is the best I have ever heard❣ You are educating people who want to help and we who live with disabilities who need to accept help.
Just sending love to Joni and Ken. Thank you so much for your Christ-like example of living life, caring for each other, caring for others, and sharing the Holy Spirit with your words and actions.
So good to see you, Joni, rather than to just hear your voice. You are indeed an incredible inspiration - to think of the needs of others as if your own needs are nothing in comparison, I am so amazed. God bless you. God bless Ken to keep him strong & healthy! GOD BLESS THIS MESSAGE & THIS MINISTRY.
Thankyou Joni, there's such a blessing when we serve others. You genuinely feel and experience the love and worship of Jesus Christ. We are truly blessed !❤😊
My husband and i care full time for two adult sons with special needs. We've had 1 night away in the last 7yrs. We've had lunch dates maybe 10-12 times over that period. We're just used to it but i don't know what we would do without our hope in an eternity free from suffering.
God bless you my sis in Christ. Even though I hv disability myself I am willing to help others with whatever I can, will check your website. May the Lord bless you and your family abundantly ❤.
Joni, I treasure your words and God given ministry. You are so right, it is a blessing to help others, and yes, a respite is needed after taking care of those who cannot do for themselves on a daily basis. My wonderful husband has cared for me through 3 surgeries. This last surgery has been very demanding on him because it is taking a long time for me to heal. I feel guilty that he has to take care of me, and there is no one else. He does it in spite of his own aches and pains. All I can say is, thank you, thank you to my husband, and all those who care for others with a willing-giving heart. Mostly, thank you Father for every precious soul that gives of themselves to help others. And Joni, thank you for being there for all of us with words of encouragement in spite of how you feel.
How many of us in our little worlds and our little struggles think we got it so hard when there are others like yourself and your husband have a cross heavier than a Mack truck when we have our crosses oftentimes so much lighter but we complain I guess it's because we only know our own struggles we forget the struggles of others may the Lord richly bless you and your husband as you carry your Mack truck on your shoulders each day I pray for both of you but thanks be to God someday soon the Lord will remove that weight you will be made whole and you're suffering will be no more oh Lord let it be so in Christ's name ❤❤❤
You are my hero, Joni. I find it so had to be joyful in my pain. It’s Mind Body Pain, my brain sending pain signals to one buttock and both hips. They are perfectly fine I fond out a year ago. Have to train my brain to rethink. Very hard. I have ME too. Don’t know if to pray for my brain to get message or accept suffering joyfully, which I find so hard. God bless you and Maranatha ❤
Thank you, Joni! I pray many will share from the abundance God has given them. I have no doubt they will be greatly surprised by how much they receive in return!!
God bless you Joni for your advice and encouragement, I will certainly be looking for opportunities to be a blessing to someone who is needing help. May the Lord strengthen you and Ken in your spirits souls and bodies. And may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Caring for Pam is often taxing, but I often have to push for my respite. Much of the time, that's behind the wheel, fleeing to a church that's open all the time that's 10 miles away, tai chi, playing my saxophone and dulcimer, or writing.
Joni, your message came at a great time this morning. I am 85 years old. I lost my dear husband 12 years ago. I live alone and have, with wonderful help from God, been able to make life work. I have had some health issues. I have a dear daughter and son-in-law that I couldn’t do without and wonderful friends. My neighbor came to my rescue this morning. I was in the hospital last week with a lung infection. I am on temporary oxygen and my machine stoped this morning. She was here for me in minutes. God has so blessed me with those who care. You and I have met in the past. I did some sewing for you a few years ago. It was such a pleasure to talk with you then and meet your sweet husband when he came to pick up your pants. I wish that I could be to others what they have been to me. I have so many stories to tell. I could write a book. Thank you for your message this morning. It came at just the right time.
Love you Joni,
Pat Graning😊
I was a caregiver for my schizophrenic/bipolar niece for 15 months with only one brief break but that wasn't the problem. The problem(s) was she treated me like dirt, and her dad helped her. I'm now very ill, and my brother is angry that he has to care for her. God bless all caregivers! ❤
Well there’s a reward waiting for you to come. God bless you ❤
I am cerebral palsied and I looked after a elderly mother for 13 years. She had a stroke in 2010. She is now in a care facility which has been hasty towards her. Unfortunately the manager thinks I am useless. They are not interested in helping me and I am praying for God to move us out of the Methodist retirement village. They have put me into debt and are trying to take my home away from me. This is happening in South Africa. I have been charged R 44, 000 when I only have a state pension of R 2,000 per month. Please pray that God will step into this situation.
Lord help us to be more sensitive and caring for those with disabilities. Please continue to bless the ministry of Joni and Friends!❤❤
Amen 🙏🏽❤😇
Thank you.
Helped care 14 years for my Mom with Alzheimers. Mental strain, but I lived in prayer and praise. God's presence is so valuable as caregivers.
I'm having a respite today. My husband has a brain injury and thankfully i rode my bike to the beach and listening to the waves while i listen to you! I am thankful for respite care! God bless you, Joni, for your faithful witness!
Thank you for sharing this… I am a mother of a 22 year old special needs son and a daughter of a 84 year old mother who is quadriplegic.
Oh wow. God has trusted you with this labour of love..He knows you can do it in a way that will bring glory to Him.
The breaking of your alabaster box so nothing of self remains..all for Him & as unto Him. As Joni has said: These hardships are squeezing the self out..while you give care & love to yours you are doing to the Lord.
I pray strength for endurance for you.
1 Thessalonians 4:14-18..His appearing is close..keep eyes on Him & be encouraged that He knows your comings & your goings.
Eternity with Him will be perfect.
I want to encourage you with 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Romans 8:18
I know you will know all that but repetition is good when it comes to God's word isn't it?
Blessings & love to you all.
May you be blessed with fullness of the fruits of the Spirit to evident within & from your life.
So good to hear you speak, precious Joni. When we cared for my mother in law years ago, one couple would visit us for a barbeque - the wife would then help me settle our Mother into her evening routine, then into her bed. This sweet gesture was a great help for me.
This made me cry as to not realizing the true struggles of families with disabilities. You have an incredible spirit of encouraging others even through your own daily
challenges. You and Ken are a blessing. 😊
Joni I remember when you had your accident I’d just become a Christian and remember you were always were in my prayers and you were an inspiration to me many times . I became a registered nurse and now look after SCIs and you again are in my thoughts and prayers . God bless you Joni and all the amazing disability community .
Thank you Joni! May the Holy Spirit ignite the hearts of millions of people to be a shining help to those who are in need. In Jesus’ name I pray 🙏🏼 Thank You LORD!!❤
Joni your a blessing !
I care for my daughter who is 35 now. Lacey can not do anything for herself but breathe and drink from a toddler sippy cup. I'm shunned because I care my daughter. People are getting less friendly by the day. It's sad. I look so forward to Jesus coming in the clouds to call up the true believers. I have been treated so terrible by even so called Christians for me wanting Jesus so badly. It's sad
This is a sad testimony.. that you have no help.
You are a good and devoted mother.
Keep trusting the Lord to the end.
The Bible says:'look up your Redemption draws nigh' & it is more nigh than ever.
He will be your exceeding great reward.
Meanwhile..I pray God give you someone who will show you physically, His goodness here & now.
Thank you for sharing. You are among friends here... and you're so loved! I'd be honored to intercede for you, Lacey, and the rest of your family, if that's okay.
God Bless you.
🙏✝️
I totally understand. I pray for the Lord's return. Sometimes I even pray the Lord would take our adult sons home before us because it's hard not to worry about who will care for them when we're gone.
Praying for you, my sister in Christ 🙏🙏🙏
I'm sorry. I'm praying for you and although that's not concrete help it's what I can do. If anybody out there is able to provide respite care, please do a little bit. Thank you.
I have been a caregiver of my special needs son who is 31. It’s hard most days and I have times that I just cry especially when he is screaming and throwing stuff. Soon I won’t have resources. I try daily to see him as a blessing and not a burden
Praying for you ❤ We care for my Mom in law with dementia
Thankyou Joni for turning your tragedy into triumph. I ask for prayer for my daughter & 4 children who moved into our home last year to escape a abusive husband/ father. They don't have physical disabilities, but are all in various levels of therapy except the youngest whose only 21 mos old. I'm a nearly 62 yr old Grandma who babysits the youngest & helps with the 3 school age children . I have to admit I'm tired & need a respite, but only have another daughter who also is raising a son & working out of the home.
His grace is sufficient for each day the word says..so keep your eyes on Him every step. I pray He strengthen you for endurance.
I can hear your need..its tough going.
'Look up, your Redemption draws nigh'..because: 1 Thessalonians 4 :14-18.
I’m almost 60, single mom with teens and zero daddy since 2010. Respite is something that will come only in a few yrs more, I figure -2027 or 28? Maybe?
I’ve done live in dementia care of relatives and hospice for a number too, besides clients thru the yrs.
I moved in with my mother after her stroke. I am so blessed to have a son who has always helped out my parents, even when my dad was still alive. I work full time but we all manage to make it work. I pray that everyone finds the help they need.
1982 read your life story Joni Ericson and listen your tape album Joni Song. I am Willing Lord. I am blessed. Joni God bless. Glory to God to your life testimony in the Lord. ❤❤❤
My late brother was 10 years on a ventilator
at home. Thank God for home health nurses and aids.
Dear Joni,
What suffering there is in the world!
Practically helping people is also what Jesus told us to do. (Matthew 25:40)
Greetings from br. San (the Netherlands)
Hi.The past 15 years I have cared for my dear husband who suffers from bad left stroke.I haven't had much respite thru this and now I am suffering.I attend a local church and no-one has helped me with my husband.I am fortunate that carers come in to help with personal care for him.He never gets out the house much.Please pray for me as I am struggling.So tired all time now.I am 68 years old.Was in early 50s when I first started caring for Ron.
All God’s strength continue to pour on Joni and Ken. We ALL need support.
Relief might be one of those top ten amazing feelings we can experience as humans...it's a relief the Lord has forgiven us an insurmountable debt we could never re-pay, even if we had all eternity.
One more beautiful and humbling reminder from dear Joni
You are right. It is a daily "grind"! I am an old nurse, and people like us get it!! We do it because we love doing it. Love you Joni
Thank you Joni.I am disabled too, since 1988 when I was 17 years old. I have had a traumatic head/ brain injury and whiplash which left my right side paralyzed. My late Momma wrote a letter to you about my situation and you responded back, thank you.
I have been since 2014 experiencing an increase in mobility issues and weakness in my arms and legs and always various levels of pain and discomfort. I am glad that I can feel pain, it's a gift from God. I can move around to have less pain and discomfort, but it is always there. Good old arthritis. It's a result of my many injuries throughout the years.
I'm taking care of myself and I'm doing okay. I'm slower than most people at a lot of things, but I'm always thankful 🙏🏽for God's help and giving me strength to do what I can.
I am and have been volunteering at a shop in town for 19 years and it's been nice, but I can see that I will have to let go soon because of my personal health reasons.
Until then I am always trying and giving my best. I always work for God and always give God my best.
Thank you Joni,God bless you and your family and friends. Take care. 🙏🏽☝🏽🤲🏼❤⚘🕊🌄
Pain is a gift?
Pain has robbed me of my livelihood & ANY income
Amen my uncle was in a wheel chair due to a car accident at the age of 15, and my nanny was an angel along with us all. She took such good care on him. Love my uncle, miss him. God called him home at the young age of 55 in mercy.....I know he's home in glory no more chair...and yes all those who take care of anyone with a disability is are heroes to me. I work with autistic children 26 years now, I'm a teacher, and yes it's work but it's all worth it. God bless them all and their families.....Joni love you! Your husband is amazing xo Jesus loves you both so much
May God help all caregivers and those they care for. I've been a caregiver, and did have some help, thank God. Help is definitely needed.
Amen, people do not know what you go through. God bless you and give respite to you and all those that need it.
I'm so blessed to hear you talk about your daily needs and how the Lord come through for you by meeting tour needs it is awesome. You are a very special blessing.
I attempted to do it all alone for 24 years with three children born with special needs, they have autism. I filed for divorce last year because i was not allowed to have a break. I developed a medical disability because of years of lack of sleep and self care
Very good video on respite! My husband and I have a sabbatical ministry (b&b, non-profit) for Bible believing ministers and their wife, missionaries and their wife ... it is an honor to serve Jesus.
Joni you and Ken are an inspiration to me. Continue to go forward and fight the good fight of faith.
Thankyou, Joni, bless you. What a blessing to have someone provide respite to me this last weekend emotional and prayerful, hospitality and a comfy bed. Bless her, and bless the Lord. And bless you, Joni, and your husband.
Joni you are such a blessing to us. You and Ken are more than the example of God's Love to us.
My son is my 5th person that I have taken care of. Just hearing you speak this truth is validating to me. Thank you for your love and God's incredible endurance that he has given you and Ken. We love you both. ❤
This is one of the reasons I Volunteer at the Family Retreats...to Support the Families! NOW I SEE All that they do to take Care of their Loved One! Thank you Joni for the Retreats and for ALL of the work of Joni & Friends, in Lifting Up and Serving these Servants and Families. I join with SOOO MANY People who are praying for you and Ken, Everyday!
I love you Joni. Simply my heart identifies as I broke my neck in a horse accident and lost everything because God was my choice over the farm. Only God sees all the moments….and this truth of life. A ladybug 🐞 landed on my finger yesterday and I’m in tears now as I read Psalm 16 this morning and know that God has us as princesses 👸🏼 and we can’t begin to communicate how truly deep and far and wide is His love for us. Amen 🙏 Thank you Lord Jesus for Joni may I meet a man able to share the joy of the Lord and the battle in this new season of life. ❤ Jesus is my 1st love 💕 Amen
Thank you, Mrs. Tada, for showing me what real faith & dependence on the Lord is, since I was a teen & first encountered your story. You are beautiful & inspire me, a relatively healthy cancer survivor so much. God's mercy & love just shines from you, it can be seen & felt.
Your upbeat enlightenment on how to get through a day and how to help others is always very helpful to me. Thank you.
Joni, you will always have a special place in my heart. I was saved many many years ago in my hometown theatre, watching your movie “Joni” I will never forget how the love of God came in that room and overshadowed me with such an incredible love. I pray for you and I pray for your ministry. You are so precious and a anointed woman of God. ❤
Thank God for you and your hubby. We all need an example. God bless you both.
When am down I think of you how you share God in your life and always uplift me
I believe training people to be caregivers is wonderful! I was a nurse for many years. As a home health nurse for 10 years, I saw what we called "caregiver burnout". Getting some one to fill in as a caregiver was more often a challenge than not. People did not want to help or were unable to help, and this included family. We would contact organizations that would provide care, but a lot of times disabled or elderly individuals did not qualify for help or it was too costly. I always did what I could when I was there. I pray that there are many people who want to be caregivers and will help the disabled, and in turn, will be helping caregivers.
I love to hear the Lord speak through you to our hearts.i prays for you and Ken
God bless you Joni and Ken snd your helpers,my husband was disabled and had Alzheimers, i was his main care giver, my church family helped, i have RA AND Lupus and few other ailments, but try not complain, i am blessed and what an inspiration you are, and everytime i see you and Vick,think i ve had bad day, realize everyday we can see the goodness of God all around us ❤, love and prayers
Thank you, Joni, for this encouraging video. I, too, am so blessed to be a respite caregiver to a very dear adult friend who has special needs. Not only that, I am equally blessed to serve in my church's special needs ministry called "Thrive" where we care for kiddos with special needs, so both of their parents can worship God in church together. ⛪️ ❤
I have never assumed that your lives are easy, rather the opposite... God bless you both so richly ...
Thank you for this important information! Our youngest granddaughter has special needs and her care can be overwhelming! Bless you!
God bless all those who are caregivers.
And God bless you for your honesty and joy of heart when speaking about real life struggles you have everyday. Your beautiful smile and heart felt words are always inspiring. God bless you.
Joni your messages about pain, caregivers, disabilities, etc. are wonderful. They help the weary and discouraged caregivers.
I took care of my mother and it is exhausting. After a few months, the doctor came to see my mother and he told me: I think I need to take care of you first and take your blood pressure. I said why? One of your eye is full of blood and he asked me to take a blood pressure pill immediately.
How important it is to have good friends, sisters in christ and family that are concerned for you, Caregiver.
I always think of Ken, he must be exhausted, but in heaven he will not have to push the wheel chair or care for you. Well I think that you will not be wife and husband in heaven.
Amazing to think in our future with our Lord.
We love you Joni and I will keep Ken and all caregivers in my daily prayers.
Until then, keep sharing and let us enjoy your meditations. ☝🏻🙏🌹
Joni, the average person has absolutrley no idea of the challenges of both the disabled and the care giver. You are so right when you say that the care-giver needs time off. Thank you for remindimg me that my neighbors (elderly) also need help. I'm going to reach out and start asking how I can help. God bless you and Ken.
Jesus loves you so, Joni, and so do I. In my prayers.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thanks for the reminder Joni. I am currently a driver for an Adult Day Care for nearly 5 years now. I needed to hear your perspective in serving the elderly especially.. Thanks again.
You are indeed a lovely woman of god.Love to hear your stories.I thank god for every day despite difficulties. I love my husband dearly and he is worth it.😢
Much needed reminder Joni sometimes I am so engulfed with my pain and paraplegia I miss how exhausted my daughter/caregiver must be at times too😢
Thanks. This is a good thing you are doing, with helping others with respite. Thanks for God for that. I am disabled and I live with a disabled Dad.
And for the countless others around the globe who are in similar situations, this video is an excellent PSA. God bless them all, their caregivers, and the concept of respite. Amen. Amen. Amen.
So sweet….thank you, Joni for enlightening others regarding the loving path of the caregiver…I know the path well…respite is the best gift and it is overlooked…God Bless you dear Sister…xo
This is what kept me content in covid.
Thank you beloved sister in the Lord. You and Ken are indeed a wonderful inspiration. Thank you ❤.
God bless you and Ken. You are such a blessing to so many people. Thank you for your faithfulness, and for your willing spirit to be used of the Lord.❤❤❤🙏🙏
This is invaluable reminder and encouragement, Joni. Thank you. 🙏💕
Oh, Joni! You touched my heart with these thoughts. So few people realize how difficult, demanding and exhausting being a caregiver is. Even when, like your husband, you love that person with all your heart. I was my late husband's sole caregiver for four years. Respite care was so hard to come by, yet we both needed it so badly. It can make such a huge difference in someone's life. Thank you for addressing this with such care and compassion!
This resonates with me especially since my husband has recently become disabled (although not to Sister Joni’s) degree. Yet people do tend to think that what they see comes naturally. That this is easy. That I am strong or that I don’t struggle spiritually or that I don’t feel guilty taking a respite. Thank you so much for this post!
Caregivers have a hard job. I care for my elderly sister and help with a neighbor. Its hard but God will bless for all that is done. I had a day of relief yesterday. Such a nice breath.But it goes on. Love does so much. And the Lord will bless.
I am learning so much from your ministry. I pray that awareness of the challenges faced by families with disabilities will spread throughout the world. Especially in places where ignorance and stigmas still exists. May this go out in the Name of Jesus. Thank you Joni and Friends.
I know God give you the strength and courage daily.
Joni I was an RN for years and did have people in wheelchairs as patients and yes was very demanding, I know all the routines, if I ever move to LA I would love to help, you are very strong 😊
❤ Thank you for this message. It is the best I have ever heard❣ You are educating people who want to help and we who live with disabilities who need to accept help.
Just sending love to Joni and Ken. Thank you so much for your Christ-like example of living life, caring for each other, caring for others, and sharing the Holy Spirit with your words and actions.
So good to see you, Joni, rather than to just hear your voice.
You are indeed an incredible inspiration - to think of the needs of others as if your own needs are nothing in comparison, I am so amazed.
God bless you. God bless Ken to keep him strong & healthy!
GOD BLESS THIS MESSAGE & THIS MINISTRY.
Thank you Joni and Ken !
Thank you Joni for the eye opening lesson. We don’t have a clue.
Bless you Joni.
Thankyou Joni, there's such a blessing when we serve others. You genuinely feel and experience the love and worship of Jesus Christ.
We are truly blessed !❤😊
My husband and i care full time for two adult sons with special needs. We've had 1 night away in the last 7yrs. We've had lunch dates maybe 10-12 times over that period. We're just used to it but i don't know what we would do without our hope in an eternity free from suffering.
You’re such a blessing to me Joni & to others ❤ as a carer myself spot on!
God bless you and Ken!
Thank you Joni. ❤
Thank You, Lord, for providing respite care for the caregivers of families and shelters of those in need🙏
Love you 🎉❤🎉 so happy you have a loving husband like that he's a definite blessing🎉❤🎉
Joni is very grateful for Ken.
God bless you my sis in Christ. Even though I hv disability myself I am willing to help others with whatever I can, will check your website. May the Lord bless you and your family abundantly ❤.
Thank you so much for sharing this. Prayers for all.
This is wonderful,encouraging!❤️❤️❤️🙏😇🙏😇❤️
Praise the Lord you!
And of course, bless Ken for his faithfulness.
Joni, I treasure your words and God given ministry. You are so right, it is a blessing to help others, and yes, a respite is needed after taking care of those who cannot do for themselves on a daily basis. My wonderful husband has cared for me through 3 surgeries. This last surgery has been very demanding on him because it is taking a long time for me to heal. I feel guilty that he has to take care of me, and there is no one else. He does it in spite of his own aches and pains. All I can say is, thank you, thank you to my husband, and all those who care for others with a willing-giving heart. Mostly, thank you Father for every precious soul that gives of themselves to help others. And Joni, thank you for being there for all of us with words of encouragement in spite of how you feel.
Prayed for u today 👍🏽
Soli Deo Gloria
How many of us in our little worlds and our little struggles think we got it so hard when there are others like yourself and your husband have a cross heavier than a Mack truck when we have our crosses oftentimes so much lighter but we complain I guess it's because we only know our own struggles we forget the struggles of others may the Lord richly bless you and your husband as you carry your Mack truck on your shoulders each day I pray for both of you but thanks be to God someday soon the Lord will remove that weight you will be made whole and you're suffering will be no more oh Lord let it be so in Christ's name ❤❤❤
Amen!
Joni you are such an inspiration 💖
You are my hero, Joni. I find it so had to be joyful in my pain. It’s Mind Body Pain, my brain sending pain signals to one buttock and both hips. They are perfectly fine I fond out a year ago. Have to train my brain to rethink. Very hard. I have ME too. Don’t know if to pray for my brain to get message or accept suffering joyfully, which I find so hard. God bless you and Maranatha ❤
you are a great blessing in my life. God bless you!
Thank you for sharing this special message
Joni you are a great inspiration!
Thankyou dor your grace 🙏 and poise
Thank you, Joni! I pray many will share from the abundance God has given them. I have no doubt they will be greatly surprised by how much they receive in return!!
Joni, praying for you and Ken and your organization! Great word for us to help in our own area and to give to Joni and Friends! God bless you!❤
Thanks for sharing and opening our eyes to the daily routine of a disabled person. Yes practical help is a form of prayer.
God bless you Joni for your advice and encouragement, I will certainly be looking for opportunities to be a blessing to someone who is needing help. May the Lord strengthen you and Ken in your spirits souls and bodies. And may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
So amazing. You are so encouraging.
Caring for Pam is often taxing, but I often have to push for my respite. Much of the time, that's behind the wheel, fleeing to a church that's open all the time that's 10 miles away, tai chi, playing my saxophone and dulcimer, or writing.
I wish I am brave enough to help others and stop being selfish.