"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31).

Don Hales sat in a wheelchair at the Indiana Camp Meeting, greeting those who came by with one of the widest smiles and friendliest handshakes possible. He sat, because an unfortunate ultralight accident on August 23, 1994, left him a paraplegic; subsequent infections required amputation of his legs. It is a miracle Don is alive, but a more incredible story is how Don lives despite adversity.

A senior at Andrews University at the time of the accident, Don put his education on hold to rebuild his life, but eventually Don resumed classes and graduated in 1998. He sought meaning and purpose for his life. Though a fully rated pilot and aircraft mechanic, Don found many roadblocks as he pursued his dreams for an aviation career. Eventually, Don was hired as an administrative intern at the St. Joseph County Airport Authority. While there, he reviewed policies for compliance with the Disabilities Act, among many other valuable contributions.

Don still flies planes using hand controls. He is one of approximately 700 disabled pilots around the world, many of whom are members of International Wheelchair Aviators. Don also speaks at schools and churches about his experience and about disability awareness.

Recently, Don joined his mother, Barbara Hales, in a ministry. Each week, they offer a church service for residents of a retirement home. Don finds this experience rewarding: "This ministry has afforded me an opportunity to improve my computer skills as we produce a weekly church bulletin and give the sermon via PowerPoint."

Don and Barbara meet weekly for an hour, "with an average attendance of 15-18 residents," according to Barbara. Those who attend are predominantly members of another faith. The worship service the Hales offer includes Bible reading, hymn singing, prayer time, special music and a sermon. Don and Barbara also offer a communion service each month. They are presenting Bible truths to the residents as they uplift Jesus. Don and Barbara are planting seeds for the Holy Spirit to water. Lives are being changed.

Though Don has experienced many miracles since the accident, he has also battled deep depression and contemplated suicide. He acknowledges that many things have been taken from him, but knows God is leading in his life. Don said the Lord has given him "peace in the midst of many storms."

Don encourages others to realize, "you're not just living for yourself. Many other people have a valued stake in your life and well-being. Keep God first in your life. In times of difficulty, remember to claim the promises of this faith that you hold or claim so dearly. My current situation is not the end of my story. It doesn't matter that I don't understand the immediate, as long as I understand God can give me the grace and strength to make it through each day. And I believe that Jesus is coming soon to 'make all things new,' including me."

Diane Thurber is the assistant communication director of the Lake Union Conference.

To learn more about Don Hale's ministry and how to assist, readers may contact Don at chairpilot@embarqmail.com, or call 574-654-7320.