“It was a curveball we didn’t see coming. In 2017, my husband, Russ, of 36 years who was only 54 at the time, was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. 

It was such a devastating blow for our family. 

Up to that point, he had taken care of everything: the bills and all the big decisions, and I looked after the kids. Suddenly, I had to take over. But that wasn’t the worst of it. I grieved for my life partner whose personality was changing daily. 

When we met, Russ was larger than life. He was a great leader. He spoke fluent German and loved to preach and teach. Together, we worked as missionaries in Europe for six years. Now, he speaks in confusing sentences; he can’t drive and can’t even remember Scripture. 

Last Christmas, we came home and found some packages on our doorstep. Inside one of the boxes was a gift from a lady in our Bible study group – a metal cross with a heart affixed. My husband picked up the cross, examined it and then said, “I don’t know what this is!” He couldn’t understand why anyone would give us a cross. His response was shocking to me. This insidious disease was stripping away my husband’s precious memories. 

Despite this daily battle, I am grateful for the foundation we’ve had as Bible students and missionaries. Every day, I find comfort and strength in the Word of God. I know the Lord is in control of everything – including our finances. Recently, I was given the opportunity to start my own business and it’s doing well. 

In the middle of all this, we found the Hillsong Channel and it’s been a Godsend. The music ministers to me in tough times and there have been so many messages — particularly messages from Joyce Meyer and Bobbie Houston that have provided those God anointed “Ah-hah!” moments. 

Russ loves the Channel. Every night, he lies in bed and falls asleep to the sounds of preaching and worship on TV. I’m not sure how much he understands, but he sleeps so peacefully because of it. We have recently become Team Box supporters and are so grateful to have the Channel available in this uncertain season.”