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story

From 'Touch and Go' to Thankful

Ronald*, came very close to losing his life after contracting severe pneumonia. When he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), his condition was so critical that doctors said it was “touch and go.” He was placed on life support in a medically induced coma for three weeks, and there were moments when it seemed he might not survive. 

Remarkably, Ronald came out of the coma and Reverend Stephen Lindsay, a member of the hospital chaplaincy team, visited him in the ICU. Unable to speak, Ronald used a whiteboard to communicate. Despite his frailty, his message was clear and powerful—he asked for prayer. Stephen was deeply moved by Ronald’s faith in such a critical moment and was honoured to offer him spiritual support and prayer during this uncertain time. 

As the weeks passed, Ronald’s condition began to improve, and he was transferred from the ICU to a general ward. His recovery was nothing short of remarkable. As his physical strength returned, so did his spirit. Stephen continued to visit him, and Ronald frequently expressed immense gratitude—not only for his restored health, but for the second chance at life he had been given. 

“Every day matters now. Each breath, each moment is a gift.

Throughout his recovery, Ronald expressed profound thanks to the chaplains, the hospital staff, and his whānau (family) for their unwavering support. His faith, which had always been strong, now had a deeper, richer quality. Stephen recalls how humbling it was to walk alongside Ronald on his journey, giving him space to express his feelings and watching his transformation unfold.

“It was a true joy to see Ronald’s progress and to be part of his recovery.”

Chaplain Stephen Lindsay

Ronald’s story culminated in him attending the weekly hospital chapel service twice. Witnessing him worship and give thanks for his healing was a deeply moving experience for Stephen. “It’s wonderful to see someone with such a deep faith have an even greater appreciation for life and for God,” he reflected. 

Ronald’s recovery is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith and compassionate care. His story reminds us of the profound impact that spiritual support can have on a person’s healing journey—both physically and spiritually. 

* Name changed to protect identity

Testimonials

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“As a Staff Nurse working on a very busy medical ward, I found the services of a hospital chaplain to be absolutely essential to provide support, companionship and spiritual help at times of great vulnerability for patients and their families.”

Sue B

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