After 43 years of living paralyzed from the neck down and recently learning that she now has breast cancer, Joni Eareckson Tada remains all smiles.
"I want to assure you that I am genuinely content to receive from God whatever He deems fit for me even if it is from His left hand because better something from His left hand than no hand at all, right?" the beloved disability advocate and quadriplegic said in a video message to supporters.
Tada, 60, was diagnosed with cancer early last week and it was confirmed on Tuesday that it is malignant. She is scheduled to undergo surgery on Monday when doctors will better understand what stage the cancer is at.
For decades, Tada has assisted and given hope to those affected by disabilities through her Joni and Friends ministry. Paralyzed since 17 after a diving accident, Tada dedicated the rest of her life to God and has, in the process, inspired countless people around the world.
The cancer news came as a shock to many of her supporters.
Since the announcement on Wednesday about Tada's new challenge, numerous comments went up on the ministry's Facebook page, letting her know that she is in their prayers.
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JMC Ministries Response
Written By Miranda Caverley
I have been followed Joni and her ministry since I was a little girl. Her story is just amazing, and she has been a role model for thousands of people around the world. Showing them that just because you have a disability doesn't mean God can't use you. You can make a difference in the world no matter your limitations is to me the message that Joni sends out.
We pray that through this surgery and any other procedures she has to have done, that God will heal her from this Cancer. God Bless Joni and her ministry as they continue to share the love of Christ.
