Blessed to Be Back: One Month Post-Op at Chilhowee Hills Baptist Church

Blessed to Be Back: One Month Post-Op at Chilhowee Hills Baptist

It is less than one month since I walked into the trauma bay. In that time, I have faced the "Messy Middle," navigated the "Anomaly" of my own recovery, and fought the battle of my own diagnosis.

But on Sunday, September 27th, I didn't fight. I just played.

I had the incredible honor of stepping back onto the stage at Chilhowee Hills Baptist Church in Knoxville to perform with the Praise Team.

The image above captures a moment that brings tears to my eyes. That is me, holding the violin, seated on that stage. The lyrics on the screen below read: "You looked upon my helpless state and led me to the cross."

It is the most fitting lyric for my entire journey.

The Challenge Getting back to playing the violin while sitting in a wheelchair, managing the pain in my residual limb, and navigating the physical reality of being one month post-amputation is no small feat. There were days I thought I wouldn't make it. There were moments where the sciatica made the music feel impossible.

The Church Family 

But I am so incredibly blessed to have a church family that didn't just say "get well soon." They went out of their way.

They didn't ask, "Can you?" They said, "You will."

From the volunteers who helped get me from the car to the stage, to the Praise Team who welcomed me back with open arms, the support was tangible. This being only a little over one month from surgery, regardless of the pain or challenges, my presence was a testament to their faith in me.

Open Arms 

I have remembered that my Church family is there for me. Open Arms.

It is a blessing I will never take for granted. They proved that the "Mobile Command Unit" isn't just for tours—it's for the family of God. They cleared the path, they removed the barriers, and they let me worship again.

The Music 

As I played, the pain didn't disappear. But the music drowned it out. The joy of playing with my brothers and sisters in Christ washed over the physical struggle. It was a reminder that my body is just a vessel. The music, the spirit, the purpose—that is what matters.

I am back on the stage. I am back in the Praise Team. And I am more grateful than words can say for a church that loves like Jesus.

Blessed.

Video: 

WATCH A SEGMENT OF ME PLAYING!

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Reflection When you are in your "Messy Middle," who are the people that show up for you? Who are the ones who don't ask for your permission to help?

Biblical References for Additional Reading

• Galatians 6:2 ("Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.")
• Psalm 34:18 ("The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.")
• Hebrews 10:25 ("...encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.")
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 ("My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.")

Share your story of how your church family supported you. I’d love to read it in the comments.