Unwavering Faith: Living with Parkinson’s with Katie Fordham | Episode 156

In this episode, Katie Fordham shares her journey as a pastor’s wife navigating ministry challenges and a life-changing Parkinson’s diagnosis. Katie opens up about her upbringing, her call to ministry, and the unexpected trials that shaped her faith and reliance on God’s provision.

She offers wisdom and encouragement for pastors’ wives facing church hurt or chronic illness, and emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, gratitude, and community. Katie’s story is a powerful testimony of God’s unwavering faithfulness in the midst of life’s trials.

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In This Episode

1. Overcoming Church Hurt:
Katie recounts her experience with church conflict that led to her husband resigning, leaving them without income, insurance, or a home. She describes the deep hurt she felt and the journey toward forgiveness, saying, “Until I could forgive, God wasn’t going to be able to put us in ministry anywhere.”

Her advice to pastors’ wives facing similar hurt:

• Seek Help: Turn to your state convention or denominational resources for support.
• Rely on Community: Find a church home that will love you well and help you heal.
• Guard Your Heart: Avoid bitterness, as it can hinder your spiritual growth and ministry.
• Pray Together: Maintain unity with your spouse and seek God’s direction as a team.

2. Living with Parkinson’s Disease:
Katie shares her journey of being diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s at the age of 36, a diagnosis that affects less than 1% of the population in her demographic. She speaks candidly about the physical and emotional toll of the disease and how God has provided every step of the way.

“If I can name it, I can fight it.” Katie reflects on how naming the diagnosis gave her clarity but also a new level of trust in God’s plan.

Advice for Ministering to Those with Parkinson’s or Chronic Illness:

• Respect Boundaries: Understand physical and emotional limits, like avoiding physical touch during tremors.
• Provide Practical Help: Meals, transportation, and simply being present can be powerful.
• Offer Encouragement: Remind them of hope and gratitude, which can lift their spirits.
• Be Patient: Chronic illness can bring fatigue and mood changes; compassion is key.

Her reminder: “When we find gratitude, we find our purpose. Be thankful in all things.”

3. Encouragement for Pastors’ Wives:

• Trust God’s Plan: Even in uncertainty, God is faithful and provides abundantly.
• Seek Restoration: Whether through forgiveness or sabbaticals, prioritize spiritual and emotional health.
• Be an Advocate: Stand up for your family’s needs and fight for rest when it’s necessary.
• Pray Continuously: Cover your spouse and family in prayer as you navigate ministry challenges.

Connect with Katie

Links We Mentioned

• Focus on the Family – Counseling / Pastoral Care
• Parkinson’s Foundation – www.parkinson.org
  • Be sure to get the “Hospital Safety Guide”
• Davis Phinney Foundation – www.davisphinneyfoundation.org
  • Every Victory Counts is an exceptional resource from Davis Phinney
• Michael J Fox Foundation – www.michaeljfox.org