Chris Witty Earned A Silver

CHRIS WITTY EARNED A SILVER and a bronze medal in speed skating at the 1998 Winter Olympics. She hoped to complete her medal collection with a gold at the 2002 Games. But a bout with mononucleosis a month prior to competition threatened to keep her away from the victory stand entirely.

Because of this contagious disease, which strikes people who are run-down, training became almost impossible. On some days, mono left Witty so weak she was unable to get out of bed. Even when skating was possible, Witty’s practice sessions amounted to little more than warm-ups.

The illness contributed to a 14th-place finish in the 500 meters. After performing poorly in the 500, the Wisconsin native almost decided not to compete in the 1,000-meter event.

But on race day, Witty stepped onto the ice with Catriona Le May Doan, the two-time Olympic 500-meter gold medalist from Canada. Although not considered a medal contender in the 1,000, the Canadian always opened strong.

Witty felt fatigued before her race but settled down and followed closely behind Le May Doan until the final turn. Despite having achy legs, she passed the Canadian in the home stretch. To her shock, Witty clocked a 1:13.83—a new world’s record.

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POINT Athletes expect to face injuries during their careers. They often fight through pain to train and compete. But unexpected illness can knock an athlete off her feet at inopportune times. For Chris Witty, mononucleosis brought weakness and pain. The flu-like symptoms could be cured only with rest. While she rested, she trained as best she could and ended up winning the gold.

Every day people get sick. The psalmist knew that. He asked God for the healing that only the heavenly Father can bring.

GOAL! Help yourself to stay healthy this winter by washing your hands often, drinking lots of fluid, and getting plenty of rest. Ask God to heal those who are sick and to help them patiently rest.