Cathedral High School Volume 105 Issue 2 December 19, 2025
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5225 East 56th Street Indianapolis, Indiana 46226
CONTENTS
MEGAPHONE
MEGAPHONE STAFF
DECEMBER 19TH, 2025 VOLUME 105 ISSUE 2
Editors-in-Chief Camila Jackson
On the Front Cover Photo from Digital Photography Student Karrington Harris '28. The assignment was working with the aperture of the camera and finiding a focus point and filling the frame.
Sports Editor Ben Kauffman
Reporters Yackie Castro Yohali Castro Molly Liter Kendall Moe Corbin Stuckey
On the Back Cover
The view from above, Dr. Rob Bridges was able to capture an amazing photo of Cathedral's campus as he, and others, arrived to the Hill with Santa Claus via a helicopter back on December 8th's Christmas on the Hill.
Olivia Thompson Jennifer Velazquez Royce Ward
Faculty Moderator Mr. Marc Quaranta Principal Mr. Mark Matthews School President Dr. Robert Bridges
Memberships Indiana High School Press Association National Scholastic Press Association
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Protected by God: Fr. Jomy’s Story Living his life serving God, Fr. Jomy has experienced and learned of many miracles, but there is one miracle that changed his outlook on life. BY CAMILA JACKSON At Cathedral, faith is a crucial aspect of each student's life. Each day on the Hill starts and ends with prayer, and as one walks through the halls, passing the Chapel and the Mary area, life at Cathedral is filled with God’s presence. For one, as students walk through the main door of the school in the mornings, they are often greeted by Father Jomy Mathew, a priest from the Congregation of Holy Cross, who has been a Chaplain at Cathedral since 2022. In the year 2000, Jomy was starting his novitiate with the Congregation of Holy Cross. During this time, novices gain a deeper understanding of their vocation, strengthen their relationship with God, build connections with their brothers, and prepare their hearts for a lifelong commitment. Jomy said, “This whole year is meant to listen to God and see if this is truly the life He is calling us to.” Just as Cathedral is centered around faith, Father Jomy's life in the novitiate was also deeply rooted in faith. In December of that year, when he was 20 years old, his novitiate community began preparing for Christmas, one of the most significant times of the year when they celebrate the birth of Jesus, reinforcing the sense of the religious community as a new family. One of the traditions during this season involved gathering wild gooseberries from the surrounding forest and making wine. One afternoon, after their morning prayer and other activities, Fr. Jomy and another novice named Roby, who is now Fr. Roby, walked an hour and a half down the valley in search of the gooseberry trees, hoping to continue this local tradition. Once they had finally found a tree, Jomy decided to climb it to gather the berries. He said, “It was very quiet and peaceful, and I was happy that we had finally found what we needed.”
Fr. Jomy holding up communion during a religion class mass in the Chapel. Fr. Jomy holds adoration followed by morning prayer every morning, as well as two Masses every day and evening prayer after school. His commitment to the faith provides countless opportunities for students and educators to deepen their connection with God, making him a beloved person at Cathedral. (Picture from Cathedral Instagram)
However, the last thing Fr. Jomy expected was for the branch he was standing on to break, which is exactly what happened. As the branch snapped, he fell from the tree and rolled quickly and harshly down the hillside until he was stopped by another tree. When he finally stood up after the fall, he realized both bones in his right arm were broken just below the wrist. Almost two hours away from the novitiate and surrounded by trees, Fr. Jomy and Fr. Roby were alone with no road or path to help them return. Yet, with God's help, Fr. Jomy, despite the pain and the effort required, managed to hold his injured arm with his left hand and slowly climbed back up the two-hour walk to the novitiate. Upon arrival, he was im-
mediately taken to the hospital, where he initially thought it was just a bad accident and that he had been in the wrong place at the wrong time. He believed it was simply that he was the unlucky person who stepped on an unstable branch. However, a few months later, as he prepared to leave the novitiate, he decided to revisit the spot where he had been injured. Fr. Jomy said, “When I stood there and looked down, my heart almost stopped.” Directly below the tree that had broken his fall was a drop of more than 200 feet, filled with rocks. Had that tree not been there, he would have fallen directly off the cliff. If he had rolled even slightly to the side, he wouldn’t be alive today.
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Jomy said, “It was then that I understood what really happened. It was not luck. It was not chance. It was truly God’s hand. I strongly felt that God had protected me and saved my life.” God's protection is present in every moment, even if people fail to recognize it. During Jomy's fall, all he felt was pain and confusion, but it was only after the accident that he understood how close he had come to losing his life. This experience taught him that faith becomes stronger when one is at their weakest. As he climbed back up the valley, miles from the novitiate, clutching his arm, he learned to depend on God when he had no strength of his own. This accident, which may have initially seemed frighten-
ing and unlucky, ultimately became one of the greatest blessings of his life. Jomy said, “It shaped my vocation, strengthened my faith, and taught me that many experiences that appear negative at first can later transform into moments of grace that change us for the better.” Fr. Jomy has blessed the halls of Cathedral with his presence, as he never hesitates to go anywhere to serve someone, from doing Mass, confession, or an anointing, serving them with a generosity only a few can match. As he lives his life of simplicity, away from the material goods the world provides in every corner, he places all of his trust in God’s care and believes that this dependence on God will guide him along the path that leads him back to God.
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Fr. Geoff Mooney, a math educator and priest at Cathedral, said, “All of these forms of outreach flow from his vow of obedience—to go wherever he is sent, across borders of all kinds, to love the people of God.” Fr. Jomy’s caring spirit, as he greets every single person he passes with a big smile and as he prioritizes the celebration of Mass with students and educators, has made an impact on Cathedral that transforms the way many people view the faith life on the Hill. Fr. Geoff said, “Fr. Jomy's approach to ministry seeks to listen first— to listen to people's ordinary experiences, their joys, their struggles, their highs, their lows.”
Fr. Jomy and Fr. Geoff giving out communion during an all-school mass. As students and educators gather for all school masses, Fr. Jomy works diligently to create an environment and a Homily that invites others to the faith. Fr. Jomy has been at Cathedral for 4 years now, and each year he continues to make Mass and the Gospel the centerpiece of his ministry. (Picture from Cathedral Instagram)
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Faith and Family
How a miracle brought together one of Cathedral’s families BY BEN KAUFFMAN Parents are people that seem like they will be here forever. Sometimes they are taken for granted because they will not always be here with us. Losing a parent is never an easy experience and causes pain for their children. Parents are not always easy, relationships can be tumultuous and difficult, but life can always find ways to surprise you. This happened to one of Cathedral’s own in 2017 where a miracle changed everything. Meghan Schmidt is one of Cathedral's beloved staff members. She wears many hats around school, helping run the Peer Ministry program for freshmen, being the Student Records and Academic Coordinator and helping with retreats around school. These jobs involve plenty of schedules and extreme organizational skills, something Mrs. Schmidt has done her whole life. “I’ve always been a perfectionist my whole life from school and sports to my job now, I’ve always tried to perfect things” This led her to great success, especially in basketball where Schmidt was a 4-year player on the Cleveland State basketball team, where she averaged over 12 points a game in 4 years. Schmidt later coached collegiate women's basketball including at University of Indianapolis where, as an assistant, her team reached great success. Through all of this, Schmidt had very different relationships with each of her parents. “My mom and I have always had a tumultuous relationship, because my dad always took care of everything and did everything. He was always my guy, I was a daddy’s girl. My mom was very dependent, she didn’t pump her own gas, or handle any of the finances. My dad just did everything. I struggled with my mom
The Schmidts all children gather together for a group picture with their grandparents. The family all gets to spend time together weekly even after their father and grandfathers near death experience
because of her selfishness and how critical she often was of me. Our relationship was never strong from my childhood into my adult life.” Schmidt’s relationship with her father and clashing personalities and struggles with her mom all changed 8 years ago. “My father in 2017 collapsed and we didn’t know why. So we went to the hospital and it turned out he had a brain aneurysm and was given a 10% chance to live. He was unresponsive and unconscious. I stayed through the night with him in the ICU. It was just him and I and it was dark at like 3 in the morning and all you could see were the machines that were buzzing and beeping trying to save his life.” All Schmidt could do was sit there and pray while holding his hand. “And I said to
him it's ok to go, I just don’t know what I’ll do without you. And I was holding his hand and he squeezed it and the whole room behind him lit up and he took a big deep breath and his eyes opened for the first time. He started to become responsive for the first time and he is alive to this day. When this all kind of happened we were taken into a room and the doctors told us like he’s most likely going to die, nobody really survives this. He’s still with us in 2025 and this happened in 2017. So I believe I experienced the hand of God when I held my dads hand. I believe he was going to heaven and in that moment he chose to stay with us. So I believe in God because I believe I held his hand. I truly believe that I experienced a miracle.”
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The Schmidts are all together for daughter Morgan's high school graduation. The family's grown closer together since their miracle in late 2017.
Schmidt's son, Jameson Schmidt ‘27, was in third grade when this happened. He even at that young age understood the impossible situation that unfolded in his family's lives. “It was a scary moment and we didn’t really know what was going on. From what I remember it wasn’t looking good, but now he’s still with us now. I feel like God helped him be with us today.” While the medical miracle with Schmidt's father is unbelievable there was another miracle in the aftermath of the first. Schmidt and her moms relationship completely changed. “This experience completely changed my relationship with my
mom. I now have eyes of grace for her and I believe this is one of the reasons God had this happen in our lives. Before I even struggled giving a card to my mom on Mother’s Day and now I see how she cares for my dad and now she does everything for him.” Schmidt continued “Like she uses the computer for him since he can’t anymore and he used to be a very high up tech worker. She has totally stepped up and our relationship has been completely redeemed. That is also the miracle that our relationship has grown into a great relationship.”
Jameson Schmidt remembers this as a moment that changed his family's lives “Our family has become so much closer because of what happened. We get to still see our grandparents more and have this new appreciation for this time.” Miracles come in many different forms. Miracles can be scientific or come in everyday relationships. They can be big or small. The Schmidts experienced a medical miracle with a relationship miracle that shows the way God has plans with every action. Miracles are all around Cathedral and in the everyday lives of its students and staff.
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Miracles on The Hill
Howard Fogel, a chemistry teacher and coach, at Cathedral High School, turned a small idea into what some may say is a miracle. BY YACKELIN CASTRO There are plenty of interpretations of what miracles can look like. However in the bible it’s told that miracles are divine signs and wonders that showcased the great power, presence, and authority of God. At Cathedral, Fogel's idea exemplified how something as small as five cents could multiply and leave a lasting effect. One day Fogel was working on a format for a program called Pride for 1, when he began thinking about the tuition cost at Cathedral. Fogel has always been a numbers person so when the thought of tuition cost crossed his mind, the numbers began to break down. He figured out that if each student on a daily basis brought in a nickel, there would be enough money raised to provide a student with year-long coverage of tuition towards the student's education. However, this idea wasn't accomplished so easily, Fogel said, “I just believed that I had the energy to see this through and while it did not go exactly as I planned, many people stepped up to support this effort.” Luckily, friends, students, and even parents took leadership. They each stepped up and helped in any way they could. As Fogel shared the vision for his idea, one of the parents had agreed to match the amount of money that was collected. The idea put together wasn’t the only miracle but also the way the Cathedral community came together and shared a purpose. There have been an extraordinary amount of difficulties Fogel has dealt with as a student, teacher, and a coach. This didn't stop him from succeeding but rather served as a source of encouragement. Fogel said, “I have always tried to be a positive force for the people in my life. I would like to think that I am always trying to grow as a
Ignite the Irish is a student fundraiser that lasts from August 19th September 19th. With this fundraiser more educational and extracurricular activities are available for all students. Picture from Cathedrals website.
person, a teacher, a coach, and as a friend. I hope that I can influence my students to want to achieve more in their lives.”
agement, and when they share good news with a friend are all occasions of spreading small miracles.”
A way Fogel got students together was through small activities to even mission trips. He learned a lot from these trips, whether it was good or bad; this only strengthened his students, athletes and his own ability to become the best version possible. Even through small activities on school campus, bringing students together to give back to the community shows the support within Cathedral.
These interactions everyday seen within the school halls show how faith is reflected. Father Geoff shared, “I experience these every day—the greetings, smiles, affirmations, and small moments of rejoicing are all reasons that keep me coming back to Cathedral with thanksgiving.”
The idea of small miracles is seen everyday by Math educator Father Geoff. He said “When students and educators greet one another by name, when they smile in the halls, when they pass along a compliment, when they write a note of encour-
With the generosity of each student and their donations along the years, kindness and opportunity has widely multiplied as each student contributed to philanthropy which is also now known as the Ignite the Irish. Thankfully, with the success of Fogel's idea, Cathedral asked him to run the student fundraiser.
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Cathedral High School students in 2016 stand on The Hill on 9/11, remembrance day. The Cathedral community and its students have always supported one another, whether it was through service or activities. Picture submitted by Howard Fogel. This annual fundraiser is an event that students look forward to every year. Students are eager to raise their money to support their favorite clubs, sports and, their education while also being allowed the opportunity to dress down and earn a free day of school. This fundraiser is exciting for not only the students but also the staff. Father Geoff said, “I hope that our school fundraiser continues to provide not only tuition assistance to make a Cathedral education accessible to more people, but also funds to enhance the student experience beyond the classroom.”
At Cathedral their mission expands beyond academics, it prepares students to become citizens of the world and of Heaven. Programs offered at Cathedral like J-term and mission trips serve as opportunities for students to serve others, explore the creation of God, and grow in their faith. These opportunities wouldn’t be possible without the fundraiser. Ignite the Irish gives every student the equal opportunity to explore new possibilities. Father Geoff said “we bring hope through the Zeal we have to serve, choosing the option for the poor, and we enlarge our
understanding of family by the way we embrace diversity in the world in which we live.” At Cathedral, miracles are seen everyday. Each act of kindness at Cathedral comes together to form something meaningful. Fogel's belief in becoming the best version of oneself is reflected through the many successes at Cathedral, reminding us that small details and intentions can often be the most meaningful.
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DECEMBER 19, 2025
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A SNAP Miracle of Giving
The Cathedral community comes to each other's support during a time of need. BY YOHALI CASTRO During late October to early November, the United States stopped the SNAP fundings, affecting many of the Cathedral families. Thanks to the execution of Cathedral social workers and the community, these families were able to receive support. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a program funded by the federal government with the US. Department of Agriculture to aid low-income families through monthly monetary assistance. The month of November was both chaotic and stressful for families under the assistance of SNAP. These families were faced with the difficult task of coming up with ways to provide food on the table when the federal government failed to assist them. Thanks to the organization of Cathedral social workers, the support from the Cathedral communities, and the will of God, these affected families were able to be partly alleviated from some stress and anxiety. As subscribers to many national newsletters and agencies such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Aly Weaver ‘12 and Jordan Fox, heard the news of the SNAP funding crisis. It was in the moment of hearing this situation, that the social workers knew the students they were working with may be experiencing a time of struggle. The two took action, sending emails to families of Cathedral. Fox and Weaver decided to keep the email solely focused around the idea that if help was needed, it would be given, without a doubt. Fox said, “No, we’re not going to ask for bank accounts. We’re not going to ask for SNAP and other information… We’re just going to believe that people are in need, I would never say no.” Fox and Weaver’s expectation of the support was not high in the beginning. Local and larger institutions like the Wheeler
For their work organizing donations and money for the Cathedral community during November, Jordan Fox and Aly Weaver '12 were nominated by students and staff to be the Holy Cross Educators of the month, along with the student - Susannah Ferris '26. The Core Value for November was Option for the Poor, which is when the SNAP benefits were reduced.
Mission and Gleaners, were already receiving many thousands of dollars and pallets of food. It was because of this that Fox and Weaver were not completely sure of how much support the community would receive in regards to gathering food and monetary funds. The social workers expected that only a couple of families would be able to be supported. These expectations were much lower than the amount of families that were actually helped out. The amount of families that were successfully assisted was triple what Fox and Weaver expected. Fox and Weaver originally thought that only about 2 or 3 families were going to be supported, but there were 15 to 20 families that were actually given the support to provide food on the table. Fox said, “I didn’t know what we would get, and then within 24 hours, we had enough donations from our community to give
out gift cards for almost a month and a half.” Having mentioned this, families were not only assisted through these gift cards, but were able to buy groceries through the donations of the Cathedral community. Weaver said, “Many families were supported and it felt like a miracle for these families who were able to get groceries, knowing they would not have to be stressed to provide meals that week.” Although the original funds of the SNAP program were $500 a week, the money donated to these families was enough to give them a sense of hope and love. Fox said, “It wasn’t fulfilling the full need, but at least it was something.” The social workers engaged thoughtfully into filling this whole where there was a need to be addressed.
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After receiving such great attention and support from the Cathedral community, families responded to the support given to them. These families reached out to Fox and Weaver, voicing their gratitude and appreciation for the thoughtfulness, generosity, and kindness they had received. Fox said, “I wasn’t expecting thanks and, you know, any accolades for this, that wasn’t my intent. But just to hear back from the moms and dads who did receive gift cards and hearing more about their stories…that’s what was important to me, just to make sure that people are getting by.” This entire incident, from the very beginning until the last moments, is one of the un-observed miracles that happens in the Cathedral community. Both Weaver and Fox believe that this entire situation fits their personal definition of a miracle. Weaver said, “A miracle is a meaningful or purposeful event that carries significance… A small miracle that occurred here at Cathedral would be a small act of kindness that changed many people's lives. On the other hand, Fox said, “ A miracle is something that unexpectedly happens… You have a need in your life and something spontaneously happens to fill that need.” God was present in all of this, from the very beginning up until the end, He had a plan for all the people involved. Fox and Weaver’s initial instinct to take matters into their own hands was by the will of God. Their small, yet impactful contribution played a huge role in assisting those in need. The immediate support received by the Cathedral community is a testimony to the true colors of the community. Fox said, “It was fantastic, and again, it’s just one of those needs that probably would have gone unnoticed with a lot of people, but there was no hesitation from anyone in this building to step up and
Flyer made by Fox and Weaver for the support of families affected by SNAP funding. As followers of Christ, as mentioned in the flyer, Weaver and Fox took action to fill the need of the Cathedral community. help.” Weaver said, “It wasn’t a supernatural event, but people can make an extraordinary difference, showing that compassion
can bridge gaps that systems sometimes fail to fill.”
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DECEMBER 19, 2025
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A Quiet Kind of Miracle
A Cathedral sophomore discovers peace through faith, friendship, and community during a stressful session. BY JENNIFER VELAZQUEZ Most people imagine miracles as something dramatic. In scripture, miracles are moments where the impossible becomes possible. Seas are parted, the sick are healed, and lives are changed instantly. Not all miracles are loud or public. Some arrive quietly, settling into the heart of a person who needed them most. For Addison Bethel, a sophomore at Cathedral High school, a miracle came in the form of peace. Addison is known by her friends as a positive and joyful presence. She is bubbly, kind, and often the person others turn to for advice. She encourages people easily, listens carefully, and brings light into the spaces she enters. Her relationship with God has always been an important part of who she is, grounding her in gratitude and trust. But even people who appear strong and optimistic can feel overwhelmed. At the beginning of the school year, Addison stepped into a new and demanding chapter of her life. As a sophomore, she was adjusting to higher academic expectations while also joining the show choir, an environment that was exciting but unfamiliar. Rehearsals were long and intense, and the pressure to perform well while balancing schoolwork quickly began to build. The pace of the show choir, combined with her desire to do well, left Addison feeling stretched thin. Though she continued to show up with a smile, the stress began to weigh on her. Managing rehearsals, homework, and personal expectations felt exhausting. Addison found herself worrying about keeping up and wondering if she was doing enough. Even as someone who was used to encouraging others, she struggled
to slow down and give herself the same grace. Instead of pulling away, Addison leaned into the support around her. She was surrounded by a strong group of friends who noticed when things felt heavy and reminded her that she was not alone. Educators and show choir leaders created a space where students were encouraged not only to work hard, but to take care of themselves. In moments of uncertainty, Addison found comfort in conversation, prayer, and reflection. “I didn’t suddenly have less to do,” Bethel said. “But I felt calmer about it. I realized I didn't have to carry everything on my own.” That realization became a turning point. Addison began to place her stress in God’s hands, trusting that she was exactly where she needed to be. Her faith reminded her that her worth was not defined by perfection, but by effort, growth, and intention. Instead of allowing stress to control her, she focused on gratitude and presence. Father Geoff, who often speaks with students about faith and balance, believes moments like these reflect modern miracles. “In the bible, miracles were signs of God’s power and goodness,” Father Geoff said. “Today, miracles often appear as peace, clarity, and trust in God. When we stop relying only on ourselves and place our confidence in Him, we open ourselves to incredible blessings.” For Addison, peace did not erase responsibility, but it changed how she ap-
proached it. She became more confident in her ability to manage challenges without panic. Show choir became something she looked forward to rather than feared, and rehearsals felt more joyful as she grew comfortable in the environment. Her stress no longer defined her experience. One of the most meaningful parts of Bethel’s journey was how her peace began to influence others. Known for her kindness and encouragement, she continued offering advice to friends who felt overwhelmed themselves. Her calm and optimism became a quiet reminder that stress does not have to win. “Peace doesn't mean everything is easy,” Bethel said. “It just means you know you’re not alone.” Father Geoff often reminds students that miracles do not always come through dramatic change, but through transformation of the heart. “Our very lives are miracles,” Father Geoff said. “Each day we wake up with breath in our lungs and the ability to choose joy over negativity. Recognizing that is an act of faith.” As the year continues, Bethel remains busy. Show choir rehearsals, schoolwork, and daily responsibilities have not disappeared. But something within her has shifted. Stress no longer feels overwhelming, and a faith that reminds her to trust the process. Sometimes miracles are not about changing circumstances. Sometimes they are about changing perspective. For Addison Bethel ‘28, finding peace in the middle of stress became a small miracle that continues to shape her life.
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DECEMBER 19, 2025
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A Second Chance
How my grandmother’s recovery from kidney failure brought hope, strength, and precious moments back to our family BY CORBIN STUCKEY A miracle is something that cannot always be explained, but happens for the better. Many people think of miracles as huge, life-changing events, but they can also appear in quiet, unexpected ways. Sometimes, a miracle is simply getting more time with someone you love. One miracle I have personally witnessed is my grandmother’s recovery after kidney failure, a moment that brought hope to my family during a time filled with fear and uncertainty. My grandma is a strong and caring woman who has spent her life supporting her family. She is a mother of three and a grandmother of two Cathedral students— one graduate and one current student— with another expected to attend in the future. She is from Jasper, Indiana, where she still lives today. For many years, she lived in a large house in the countryside, surrounded by open land. It was a home full of memories and independence, something she took pride in. After my grandpa passed away, our family began to worry about her living alone in such a large house. Losing him was extremely difficult, and we knew that managing the house by herself would only become harder over time. Around that same period, something unexpected happened. Someone approached her about buying her land to build horse stables for retired horses. It felt like the right opportunity at the right time. She accepted the offer and moved into a much smaller house that was easier for her to manage. For a few years, everything went well. However, over time, my family began noticing signs of dementia. She became more forgetful and confused, which led
us to question whether she was still safe living on her own. After several months of discussion, we made the difficult decision to move her into assisted living. While making this choice was heartbreaking, we believed it was the best option for her safety and health. Moving into assisted living required my grandma to give up many personal belongings. She had to downsize significantly, letting go of furniture, clothes, photo albums, and other items she had collected over decades. Watching her part with so much of her life was emotional for our entire family. Still, we hoped that the move would bring her stability and proper care. Only a few weeks after she moved in, something terrifying happened. My grandma went into kidney failure and was rushed to the hospital. My mom immediately drove to Jasper, and soon after, she FaceTimed us from the hospital. She told us my “grandma looks extremely weak and that her kidneys were failing.” Hearing those words made the situation feel real and overwhelming. Although hospital visits were not new for my grandma, this time felt different. She was older and weaker than before, and many of us feared we were running out of time with her. Most of the family went to visit her, but my sister was away at college and had no idea what was happening. When we finally FaceTimed Avery, she asked, “What happened to Granny?” My mom told Avery that she had “kidney failure and is looking very bad right now.” After some positive updates from the doctors after a few days, we returned home believing she was improving. A few weeks later, we learned she had fallen in the hospital and would need to stay longer. By then, Avery was home for the holidays and heard the news immediately. Despite everything, we continued with
our plans to travel to Jasper for Christmas. A heavy snowstorm doubled the length of the drive, making the trip even more stressful. When we arrived, our entire family was together—except for my grandma, who was still recovering. We celebrated Christmas as best we could, knowing she was not there. Soon after, we learned she had been released from the hospital and moved to a rehabilitation facility. Eight of us decided to visit her there. When we walked into her room, the mood instantly changed. My mom said after “she looked healthier, more alert, and much stronger than she had been”. She was surprised to see us and immediately smiled. We hugged her, talked with her, and gave her Christmas cards and gifts. She even signed cards for the younger kids, something that felt impossible not long before. That visit gave our family a sense of relief we had not felt in months, especially Avery. Seeing her sitting up, talking, and smiling made the fear finally begin to fade. To me, that moment was a miracle. My grandma has always been mentally and emotionally strong, but her physical health has been declining. For a while, it felt like we were preparing to say goodbye. Some may consider this a small miracle, but to my family, it is anything but small. My grandma fought through kidney failure, a serious fall, and multiple health setbacks. Her recovery gave us something priceless: more time. I believe this experience shows that miracles do not always come with loud celebrations or clear explanations. Sometimes, they come quietly, in the form of hope, strength, and a loved one still sitting in the room.
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DECEMBER 19, 2025
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One Last Goodbye
A lifelong couple shared one last moment together in what was a true miracle. BY ROYCE WARD She was the kindest, most heartfelt person you could ever meet. She lived her entire life through God. She was a daughter, mother, wife, and grandma. To me, she was my grandma and a true miracle was experienced before she went to heaven. A miracle by definition is a surprising and improbable event through God. My grandma, more than anyone else, was as family oriented as it gets. No matter how she felt, or what was on her schedule, she never missed a family event, or a sporting event for one of her grandkids. When she was around 70 years old, she was diagnosed with a more than likely incurable lung disease. It is one of those diseases that gets worse and worse slowly over time. It didn’t stop her from living the perfect grandparent life, though. My dad, Roy Ward said, “Mom was amazing, God fearing, family oriented, and full of love for her family.” He also added, “She directed a lot of her love towards her grandkids.” As her lung disease worsened, she always had the best outlook possible and she always had a smile on her face. The last two years of her life, she was put in a nursing home. The nursing home was close to our house so we were able to visit very often. It was sad to see but at the same time, we loved being able to make her smile and be the light of her day. She didn’t love the nursing home because she couldn’t see her family as much, but she was as happy as possible and always had a smile on her face. “I was in Florida feeling guilty because I couldn’t get a flight back until the morning with your sister for soccer. I remember praying and having some peace because I knew exactly where mom would have wanted me,” Roy said. This was the night my grandma passed away. A true miracle happened throughout all of this, though grandpa, Kenny Ward, explained it as her “waiting on him.” He said, “ I got a call about two or three in the morning that I needed to come to the
My grandparents, my two sisters, and I on a golf cart ride in my grandparent's yard. We always loved to ride their golf cart as soon as we got there and is one of my favorite memories of visiting them.
nursing home. I got to the nursing home and she was still conscious, I told her how much I loved her.” They had a relationship that nobody could beat, and he would do anything for her. “ They were one person in two bodies,
watching my dad take care of her and have almost zero life outside of it for three years, made him a superhero, even beyond what I already thought,” said of his father.
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My grandparents having dinner together on vacation. They were always so great, I can remember, at balancing time with each other and time with the rest of their family. They cherished their one-on-one time.
It was the middle of the night, and the nurse was sure she was ready to go to Heaven, but she knew she needed to wait to say goodbye to my grandpa. He was able to get in his car and drive all the way over there and tell her everything she needed, she truly waited for him. Kenny explained, “The thing people who are about to pass away worry about the most is if their loved ones will be okay. I told her we all loved her and we’re all going to be okay.” He knows she heard every single word of it. This is a true miracle that shows how present God truly is. She was ready to join God in Heaven, but not until she said goodbye to her husband. “Right when I
finished telling her what I wanted to, she passed away,” Kenny said. She truly did wait for him. It sums up the relationship they had and it also shows how real God is and how present he was in that moment. Roy said, “when I woke up and dad told me she waited on him and they said they thought she was going to go for hours, I wasn’t surprised. They were inseparable.” Many people have many different stories about a mini miracle or a large miracle they’ve experienced. For me and my family, this one comes to mind immediately. The nurses thought she could pass away at any moment for multiple hours. But she knew that she wasn’t going anywhere
until my grandpa was there so they could share the last moment with each other. “How God allowed her to wait is one of the very few “real” examples I have had as a man of faith that his presence is real. Faith is exactly that. Belief without proof,” Roy said. God works miracles all the time, we just don’t see them all. Big ones that are so important to us like this, we see. But we don’t give him credit for consistently putting miracles in everyone’s lives. My grandma waited to say one last goodbye to my grandpa, they shared the moment, and then she joined God in Heaven. “God helped your grandma, that’s a fact,” my dad, Roy, said. God is present all the time.
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DECEMBER 19, 2025
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