I am so happy for the opportunity to tell my story. I  truly feel I have had a miracle.

In 1974 I was told that I would be blind very shortly. I was suffering hemorrhages very badly in both eyes. This was caused by the fact that I was a long-term diabetic. I became a diabetic in December of 1948. To that point I had very few problems with my eyes. As the bleeding increased, it became necessary for me to give up my job. After seeing two or three local doctors, it was suggested that I go to Mayo Clinic. I thought this trip would be the answer, but unfortunately the doctors there simply frowned and said they could do nothing. Of course it was a long trip back home to Carey, but deep in my heart I knew God didn't want me to be blind. A family friend suggested trying Cleveland Clinic for treatment. I did go there in early 1975 and was more or less given the same diagnosis. One of the doctors at Cleveland Clinic felt very strongly that I should begin training to better handle my blindness. I refused telling him that I believed very strongly that God would help me.

I made regular six-month's visits to Cleveland Clinic for the next five years. The bleeding more or less resided, but there was scar tissue forming behind the retina. In May of 1980 the doctors suggested trying surgery on my left eye to try to save some of the vision. By this time my right eye was diagnosed as a "dead eye" meaning there was not sight there at all. The surgeon didn't really give me much hope of saving my left eye, but without the operation this eye too, would become a "dead eye". So on June 11, 1980 I underwent surgery. Two days following surgery the doctors were amazed that I could actually see. I told them I was not at all surprised because I had faith.

I have been raised Catholic and had always believed in a power bigger than any-one or anything. I had constantly made novenas to my patron saint, Saint Anne. Beginning in 1974 I started novenas and prayed to Our Lady of Consolation. Whenever
I had to see one of my doctors; I asked Our Lady and St. Anne to accompany me. I know for a fact that they were always there. I feel their presence as well as God's all the time.

I am so grateful for my healing and my health. How can I be so lucky? Now almost two years since surgery I was just again given a very optimistic diagnosis.

Since 1974 I have come to realize how ungrateful most of us are. We all take so much for granted. Until you almost lose something, you possibly do not realize what life would be like without it. Why can't every one of us get up in the morning and thank God for our health, wealth, and loved ones.
I expected a miracle and I truly believed I received one.

The part of the novena that says, "ask of God through His Mother and you will receive, is a fact. I have not quoted that verbatim, but given my interpretation. It all means the same.

Sorry, Brother, for my story being so long, but I could talk on this subject forever. Peace!

Mrs. J.S., OH