Stroke of Grace
Knowing God’s Grace in Distress and Triumph
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Author’s life deals with human accomplishments and fulfilling career field derailed by stroke or ‘brain attack’ plus late-life diagnosis with bipolar illness. Daily existence becomes fraught with anger and frustration most often vented upon family members but occasionally overlapping into work and business. It is only because God cares for and has compassion for such an exasperating life that his grace is sufficient to rescue Jerry Heydenberk from himself.
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About the Book
Author Jerry Heydenberk sustained a stroke that threatened his life and ended his career after more than twenty-five years in church ministry. Later diagnosed with bipolar illness, he had to learn how the anger and confusion of his early years led to behavior in his adult years. His daughter relates how her father searched for success in his career and struggled with undiagnosed bipolar disorder. She perceives the illness now, stating that the “monster” is now well caged and can no longer attack her dad or anyone else! The journey of self-discovery and understanding is not over for Heydenberk. It is a struggle to live the way our creator intended for each of us to live every day and in every way. This story seeks to inspire other patients and professionals struggling with bipolar disorder to keep looking to the Lord for answers. Seeking the help of those medical professionals who have trained to properly diagnose and treat mental health disorders is of vital importance and can save a life or a family.
“Jerry Heydenberk’s reflection on his life, with the pain and brokenness and mental and physical illness, is candid and inspiring. Not only has he known pain, he has also known joy and accomplishment as he assumes the mantle of leadership as a student, a teacher, and an ordained minister. In family and church, school and work, in times of health and illness, he has experienced God offering God’s grace and peace.”
— Bishop Ann Brookshire Sherer-Simpson, retired from the Nebraska Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
About the Author
Jerry Heydenberk is a graduate of University of Missouri School of Journalism and has an MA from the Perkins School of Theology, SMU. He was regular contributor to Stars & Stripes while serving in Vietnam. He was recognized by United Methodist Association of Communicators for writing and editorial achievement and has written numerous religious articles.