by Pamela Garrison

When my husband began working at Northland Church some 3 years ago, he became friends with many of the young adults who worship there. He came home one evening, and mentioned that he had met a young woman that reminded him of me when we first began dating 7 years ago. He said her name was Mandy, and he insisted that I meet her. I did meet her, and how honored I felt, being put in the same category as this beautiful, outgoing child of God.

When I learned of Mandy's accident, I felt as if a piece of me had been in that accident too. It took a long time for my husband to be able to visit Mandy, as when he looked at her, he still made the connection to me. I then insisted that he come with me when she had come home, and what a difference she has made in our lives. I am grateful that I have gained such a friend in Mandy. She can make me smile when no one else can. It's a privilege to be able to call Mandy and her family part of my family.