Do you want the good news or the bad news First?
Two weeks ago, I wrote to you and shared how I have a concussion. Many of you have reached out (thank you) to check in on me so I thought I'd take a few minutes and give you a quick update. So, do you want the good news or the bad news first?
Bad News:
I'm still at home... in the dark... for almost 5 weeks now. I'm still struggling with headaches, light sensitivity, sporadic dizziness, trouble sleeping, and some vision issues. Every time, I think I'm getting better, I get hit with another blast of symptoms or have a really bad day. I've been going to appointments with a physio who specializes in concussions and while I do certainly see a difference, it's painfully slow. It's like I take one step forward and three steps back. I've missed speaking opportunities, had to cancel a trip to New York where I was supposed to be a plenary speaker, let down people I care about and fallen behind at work. To be honest, this is the loneliest, darkest, and most discouraged I've ever felt. I feel like I'm fighting lies and attacks every day. I worry about failing people, not getting things done, wondering if things will ever get better and if I'll be able to go to Africa on time. Let's just say there are a lot of tears shed in the dark.
Good News:
While this has been one of the hardest seasons of my life, I have absolutely been blessed to see some glimpse of sunshine in the dark (figuratively speaking of course). God IS moving.
- I have been blown away by incredibly supportive friends, church community and family (like you) who have reached out, stepped up, checked in on me, filled in and spoken truth to my heart. Showing me love and forgiveness in action.
- I went from 19% to 45% of my monthly support raising target in only 4 weeks - all with me unable to do any support raising.
- My coworkers, our clients and my boss (hi mom) have been amazing - sending me flowers, calling to see if I'm okay, picking up my slack and praying non-stop.
- Best of all...because I stayed home from that New York Conference that I was supposed to go to, I was able to support a young adult through a suicidal crisis. Speaking God's love and light in her darkest time. I honestly believe God used a concussion to save a life.
So bad news... this has been horrible. Good news... God is bigger.
I am now 45% funded with 59 days before my financial deadline (where I need to be 100% funded). Fundraising in the dark feels like an impossible task ... but I have faith God can raise the money even when I'm not able to leave the house. Would you join this movement of faith as a monthly supporter? I still need $1375 more a month and gifts of $10, $25, $50 or $100 can make a huge difference! There is a link below where you can sign up. Special gifts towards outgoing expenses (flights, housing, set up, visas, training, etc.) are also very much appreciated.
I'd really appreciate your continued prayers.
Please pray for:
- Continued healing
- Support Raising
- My friend, as she will continue to grow in her relationship with the Lord and she seeks support for her mental health.
Faithfully yours in the dark,
Tori
*All gifts are tax deductible. Please select "specific missionary" and enter Tori Bissell.