Testimony of Healing May 1, 2000 Issue

Macular degeneration healed though prayer

Eleanor M. Allen

Recently I was healed of a serious condition that I was warned could lead to blindness if not promptly treated. Ten years earlier, I had experienced frightening symptoms in my left eye. Because of my fear and the concern of my husband, I consulted an ophthalmologist. The condition was diagnosed as a torn retina and was repaired by surgery. About a year later, I experienced the same condition involving my right eye, with the same depressing result.

These experiences were shattering to me, and during the intervening years I diligently prayed to know that eyes are, as stated in Science and Health, "Spiritual discernment,—not material but mental" (p. 586). Inspired by Mrs. Eddy's statement that "the corner-stone of all spiritual building is purity" (ibid., p. 241), I tirelessly examined my attitudes and motives to eliminate whatever wasn't from God.

Last summer I realized that my glasses were no longer serving any purpose, so I decided to have my prescription updated. After the eye examination, the doctor informed me that I had serious macular degeneration, which he said would lead to blindness if not properly treated. He referred me to a retinal specialist for further diagnosis and treatment. When I told him I did not wish to pursue the matter further, he begged me to do so, and I could see that he was genuinely concerned. I explained to him that I was a Christian Scientist and would seek healing through prayer, whereupon he had me sign a statement saying I had been informed of the condition and was aware that it could lead to blindness. My husband was very concerned and pleaded with me to make the appointment to see the specialist, so I did.

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