In 2019, Edna Grogan was in the hospital. She was very sick, weak and weary from the treatment for her cancer. Doctors told Edna and her family there wasn’t much left to do and began to discuss the possibility of hospice care.
“I wasn’t scared. I knew if anything happened, I’d be in Heaven,” said Edna. “God gives you that strength--it’s a peace like no other when you believe! Long ago and now, I attend Bible class, where I learned that Christ died for our sins. He did that for me personally!”
For her, faith came long ago when she was baptized and confirmed at Trinity. She grew up in the church, watching family members serve as ushers during services and attend Bible studies. Edna, too, participated in various Trinity organizations and studies, serving others as part of the congregation. She wanted to bring that to the next generation, so she raised her son and two daughters at Trinity.
“I can see their faith in their lives today,” said Edna.
Throughout the years, her faith deepened and grew. When she faced the struggle of cancer and the effects of treatment, she turned to the Lord.
“I asked the Lord everyday for strength to get through everything I had going on,” Edna said.
In an effort to save her life, the doctors changed Edna's treatment plan and she started to get well.
“I started eating again. I couldn’t eat for a very long time. Then, I started feeling better and getting stronger,” Edna said. Not only did her health turn around, but she found a new calling in the Early Childhood Center, working for ECC Director Jessica Platte and Assistant Director Katie Bielmann,making sure the children have their snacks and food each day.
“My friend Faith Briggs said to me, ‘I think Jesus saved this job for you,’” said Edna. “I am so thankful and feel so much more connected. When I was sick, I would sit there every day, not even able to get up or get exercise. Now I walk so much as part of the job. I love to see the children and the teachers in the classrooms are wonderful.”
She said portioning out snacks and meals allows her to work in the kitchen with Cynthia Chilcutt and Lisa Curley (Trinity’s food service team), who inspire her daily with their kindnessand compassional.She added that delivering the food to each daycare and preschool classroom has brought her so much happiness.
“I’m a very positive person. I always look for the positive side of things, but I never knew how much joy the Lord had in store for me after my illness. I’m glad to be able to serve Jesus, the ECC families, children and staff every day.”