Let Me Tell You About Linda

Sometimes the world we live in makes you sad, depressed, feel like just giving up and question your own existence and plan for your life. So many live alone and have nobody to help them or share their sorrows, problems or even their triumphs.

I felt the need to share this story with you today to help shed light on a devastating illness that was turned around because of Linda’s strong will, belief in God and great family support. In Linda’s words, “Sometimes life takes you in a direction you never saw yourself going, but it turns out to be the best road you have ever taken.”

When things get hard in my own life such as the passing of my spouse, sickness and sadness in my own family I just think about Linda Furry. Linda a small featured beautiful human being inside and out reminds me to keep fighting and stay strong to my belief in God my heavenly father.

I share her story to others who are struggling in life, and I know it helps them carry on in their own lives.

Many folks in the community know this story, but for folks who do not Linda has given me permission to write it. I fell honored she has allowed me to do this because at this time in our world with war going on, people dying needlessly and other sorrows this brings hope and gives us all something to cling to.

Linda lost two cousins to stomach cancer, one at a young age of 38. This triggered a red flag that a genetic problem may exist.

After undergoing genetic testing, 11 relatives elected to have their stomachs removed including Linda and her three children. Genetic testing saved their lives. Her heart was breaking but she came to the realization she could not control this. She could however control how she responded to it. Linda knew her children were watching her, and she wanted to take a positive approach so she could focus on things she did have control over.

Linda had her surgery first in June of 2011. Her son Adam had his at the age of 28 in spring of 2012. Her daughter Helen, a 21-year-old college student at the time, had hers in the summer of 2012. Tina, the oldest daughter, had hers in fall of 2012.

Today this beautiful family is doing well and even had t-shirts made that said, “Stomachs are Overrated.” They wore these t-shirts during each other’s surgeries. Today they are very active in supporting stomach cancer research and wear their shirts at fundraising events.

Linda is a pastor’s wife. She is married to a wonderful pastor at Martinsburg Mennonite Church whose name is Joe. Linda carries out the duties of a pastor’s wife: preparing meals, baked goods, always giving. She states as she goes about her duties the first line of a favorite hymn rings in her ears. “Will you let me be your servant? Let me be as Christ to you.”

Linda also went on to have a total mastectomy to prevent the cancer from spreading there. She describes cancer of the stomach as a web-like cancer that is inoperable.

Despite having been given this diagnosis and undergoing all that, she is always giving back. You can find her at the Martinsburg Library reading to children. She is involved in Ladies Encounter. She is also present once a month at the church for Clothing by Grace giving clothes out and praying and providing support to others with assistance of other women of the church. These are just a few things she does.

She also leads a book club group for woman at the church and woman from various churches attend. She was a kindergarten teacher, and her skills are very evident. She is like a magnet you instantly are drawn to.

Joe has been beside her and his family. A quiet, gentle man who’s compassion for others shines through. His sermons keep your interest, and he is always there to lend a listening ear or help solve a problem. Joe encouraged Linda to share her illness with the kind, compassionate folks of Martinsburg Mennonite. He knew they would want to walk the mile and help bear the load. The word to this hymn describes it best: “We are pilgrims on a journey; we are travelers on the road. We are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load.”

In conclusion, when you feel there is trouble in your life, think of Linda and her battle and of her family. Just to let you know, her daughters had their stomachs removed but went on to have babies. Now if this is not a miracle, I do not know what is.

There are many living alone who are sad and feel defeated. Remember God is always with you to help you get through. You are never alone. I am one of these people at times and I think of sweet Linda, and I know God has his hand in all of it. Talk to God and think of miracles like this and things seem a little better. If you need a prayer warrior or help to find a prayer chain, you can call Martinsburg Mennonite Church and leave a message. Ministry team and the folks at this little but mighty church are there for you. You are not alone God is always with you. The phone number is (814) 793-4211.