Stories of Hope

RUTHIE bOLTON

2-time Olympic Gold Medalist

"To whom much has been given, much is required." - Luke 12:48

Ruthie Bolton is the sixteenth child in a family of twenty, born and raised in humble beginnings in McLain, Mississippi. Guided by her parents, Reverend Linwood Bolton, Sr. and Leola Bolton, Ruthie learned the importance of a positive mental attitude in achieving her dreams, regardless of circumstances. Growing up in a large family, she discovered her own identity, marking the beginning of her remarkable journey to becoming a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and a trailblazer in women's national basketball. Explore more of Ruthie's extraordinary story and uncover "The Truth Behind The Gold".

LUCILLE SHANNON

Cancer Survivor

In 1997, after almost two decades of marriage, raising two sons, and enjoying a flourishing career, Lucille believed her life was on track as planned. However, it was also the year she received the diagnosis of stage 2/3 breast cancer. Wrestling to comprehend the profound and life-altering challenges she faced only deepened her connection with God. Lucille describes how her faith journey became richer and more meaningful than ever before.

Learn more about Lucille's remarkable 18-year journey, free from cancer, as she continues to live with purpose and zeal.

SHELBRETTA BALL

Dream again-advocate for athletes who can no longer compete

Shelbretta Ball, a young woman from a small town with aspirations as vast as becoming the first female LeBron James, made waves at Jackson Academy by becoming the initial African American student-athlete to secure a SEC athletic scholarship to the University of South Carolina. There, she would train under the guidance of three-time Olympian, Dawn Staley. With her future seemingly bright, Shelbretta eagerly began her journey, attending summer classes and joining her new team with enthusiasm. However, one morning on her way to class, she felt an unusual flutter in her chest. Despite trying to dismiss it, the sensation persisted. Seeking guidance, she consulted her trainer, who promptly referred her to a physician. The news she received was devastating and would alter her life forever. Discover how Shelbretta's resilience and renewed courage to pursue her dreams offered her a fresh perspective on God's purpose amidst her own journey.

KAWANNA PERINE

Lupus Survivor

Kawanna Perine is a dynamic business professional with numerous facets to her character. She juggles the roles of a dedicated mother, dependable daughter, caring sister, committed mentor, detail-oriented entrepreneur, and resilient survivor.

In 2006, at the age of 29, Kawanna received a life-altering diagnosis of Lupus after enduring years of uncertainty, muscle and joint pain, and debilitating fatigue. Despite facing immense challenges, including low self-esteem, depression, a grueling five-month course of chemotherapy, and the upset of a painful divorce, Kawanna refused to let the illness and setbacks define her. Instead, she chose to confront them head-on.

Discover Kawanna's unwavering passion for raising awareness, supporting fellow survivors, and fundraising to find a cure for this autoimmune disease, which affects over 1.6 million people in the United States alone.

SABRINA BROWN

Cancer Survivor

In March of 2011, Sabrina Brown received the devastating news that nobody wants to hear: she had cancer. Painstakingly, she shared the news with her family, and in the following three weeks, she and her husband consulted with at least eight doctors as they grappled with the difficult decision of opting for a double mastectomy. Subsequently, Sabrina underwent numerous rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and endured 14 surgeries over the next five years.

Discover how Sabrina drew strength from her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and found courage through the unwavering support of her husband and family to confront cancer head-on. Her determination to raise awareness and promote early detection among women is a testament to her resilience and resolve.

JAMES ODOM BOLTON

God's favor and early release from prison

Jamie Odom Bolton, the son of a preacher, excelled as a student, earning scholarships and embodying traits of politeness, respectfulness, and godliness. However, following the loss of his grandmother, grief consumed him, leading him down a path of hopelessness, street life, and eventually a 10-year prison sentence. Despite the substandard healthcare within prison walls, Jamie contracted and survived Nephrotic Syndrome, a life-threatening illness. Discover how Jamie's life was spared by divine intervention and how a series of unexpected events halved his prison term, granting him a newfound sense of purpose and hope. Throughout his journey, Jamie clung to the words of his mother: "God has the final say!"

MICHAEL MINOR

He wasn't next in line for a kidney, but he was next in line for a miracle

Michael Minor's health journey mirrors that of many men who often overlook warning signs. In 1996, blurred vision served as a wake-up call, prompting Michael to seek medical attention. His diagnosis of Type I Diabetes, later compounded by Type II, marked the beginning of a series of health challenges. These complications included end-stage renal failure, necessitating placement on a kidney transplant waiting list.

As a man of faith, Michael identifies his most profound realization during this journey as God's sovereign correction, which slowed him down and captured his attention in unprecedented ways. Anchoring himself in his faith and the promises of God's word, Michael found himself not next in line on the transplant recipient list, but next on God's list to receive a miracle.

Through a poignant and selfless act of a grieving mother who had lost her son, Michael became the recipient of a life-saving kidney transplant. This bittersweet transition serves as a testament to the power of miracles and the boundless generosity of the human spirit.

ADRIAN MURRY

Mother of organ donor left to carry out her 25 year old son's wishes

In August 2015, Adrian Murry attended Friends and Family Day at her church, where a special seed offering was collected for the Pastor of Worship, Michael Minor, who was in urgent need of a kidney transplant. Although Adrian didn't personally know Michael, hearing his story deeply moved her, prompting her to want to contribute. Sadly, she found herself without anything to give at the offering. Nonetheless, she held onto the offering envelope, determined to do something to help soon.

Unbeknownst to Adrian, less than a month later, her offering would turn out to be the answer to Michael's prayers. This unexpected turn of events, coupled with the selfless love of a mother who had tragically lost her son, ushered Adrian Murry into a new chapter of purpose and significance in her life.