Belkys Brito
“…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly,” John 10:10.
My husband, Ruben, and I had no idea that children could get arthritis just like adults until it happened to our daughter, Liz, at the age of two. Liz was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). She developed pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in some joints. She also came down with inflammation of her left eye (uveitis).
While waiting for treatment, Liz was determined to walk. She would drag her legs to get to where she wanted to go. We could see that she had pain, yet she clung onto her God-given strength and “walked.”
In the midst of confusion, God reminded us of promises such as “Be still and know that I am God,” Psalms 46:10. Our family fasted and prayed to hear God’s voice regarding treatment. God led us to combine natural and conventional medicine.
Ten months later, Forest City Spanish Church held its first Let’s Get Moving Kids event at Crane’s Roost Park in Altamonte Springs. Liz was able to run the 1/8-mile! Praise God! She received her finisher medallion with a smile on her face. God is good! It was worth all the hard work. Liz inspired us to provide an event where children and families can get excited about crossing the finish line, too. Whether it is the 1/8-mile, 3K, or 5K, there is a place for everyone.
On October 2, 2016, Forest City Spanish Church members celebrated the 6th Annual Let’s Get Moving Kids event. The family-friendly event included a health fair, exhibits to promote health, and a place to run/walk a 5K, 3K, or 1/8-mile course. The church was able to show that living a healthy life is part of its members’ values.
The North American Division encouraged other congregations to start events such as these. There are now thousands of families around the world who have joined Let’s Move Day in the last six years. More information is available at LetsGetMovingKids.org.
Florida | December 2016
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