Spending four minutes a day with Joni Eareckson Tada is a real treasure. I have cerebral palsy, and I use a wheelchair. I’m 34. Listening to her radio program is a highlight in my day. Her broadcasts have inspired me to teach, minister, and write. I’m the author of a children’s book and I have a Blog. I teach kids in the Awana program at my church and I’m always quoting Joni’s sayings with the kids such as, “I’d rather be in this wheelchair knowing Him, then on my feet without Him.” I grew up in a Christian home. Joni has re-enforced the values my mother has taught me like, “Focus on what you can do.” Joni and her radio program have had such an impact on my life, as my writing advances, I’m trying to make my writing similar to hers. I want to have the same impact on special needs families she’s had on me. Not only do I volunteer at church, I also volunteer at my local hospital. I share Joni’s story all the time and tell people how she paints with her mouth. She doesn’t give up. When I think of Joni, I think of Philippians 4:13 where it says, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength!”

This year I gave mom something special for Mother’s Day. It was a cookbook with quotes from famous people and recipes. Instead of buying her a card, I decided to write the greeting in the cookbook. After all, I’m a writer. What better to show love then write something by hand? I did it, but let me tell you. It wasn’t easy! I wrote: