Alyssa had been complaining of excruciating back pain for the past week & after everyone left our house on Sunday evening after her farewell, she could barely move due to the pain shooting down her lower back & into her legs. She, literally, cried in pain. Her dad gave her a father's blessing & she was able to sleep a little with the help of Tylenol, Aleve & all their friends.
I got an appointment for her to see an orthopedic back surgeon Monday afternoon - after x-rays & an exam, he told her that she could NOT leave on her mission as he suspected a ripped / torn / or herniated disc in her lower back. She was DEVASTATED! I kept telling her to take a breath, ask for a priesthood blessing, pray & THEN, see what happens.
Our new Home Teacher (ironically, the partner to the orthopedic surgeon we saw earlier in the day) came over & helped her dad administer to her. Afterwards, he said, "you will know by tomorrow what your path should be..." So, we all prayed & Alyssa read Matthew 6 & by Tuesday morning - she knew that she would stay the course & plan to report to the MTC today - Wednesday, October 16th.
She still moved very slow & very guarded & painfully yesterday. I was worried about her, but knew that she was completely in tune & I don't doubt her inspiration at all. She said, "I am supposed to just keep the faith & report as planned... If I get worse, we'll take it from there."
This morning, she woke up - was able to move pretty easily & without the excruciating pain - which I consider a TRUE miracle! From experiencing the same disc issues early in my marriage - I remember the excruciating pain & the physical therapy I had for 11 months to rehabilitate me - I KNOW without a doubt that the Lord worked a miracle for her to be able to leave on schedule today & what a tender mercy it is for us all. I testify of these things: The power of the Priesthood is real & tangible & on this earth today. Miracles still happen, big & small, every day. The Lord hears & answers our every prayer.
Such huge smiles, such great faith & such an infectious spirit this morning as she hugged & kissed us all & walked away through security, waving.... Such a strong confidence in this new & exciting adventure. The Lord has a powerful tool in His faithful daughter, Hermana Miller.
She is going to be incredible!!!!!
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