(written in 2015)
Dear Vassula,
I live in the western suburbs of Chicago with my wife and two kids. About two years ago, I made an appointment with a doctor to discuss some issues I had been experiencing for several years. Before the appointment, I decided to visit a nearby park to collect my thoughts. It had been over six years since my last doctor’s visit, so I was a little nervous and unsure of what to expect.
As I approached the playground, I noticed a brand-new book placed perfectly in the center on one of the picnic tables. It was odd that a book in such pristine condition could be left behind in a busy park so early in the morning. The title is Heaven Is Real But So Is Hell, which immediately piqued my curiosity. I picked it up and began reading the back cover. The questions it posed were ones I had been contemplating for quite some time. After flipping through a few random pages, I realized it was nearly time for my appointment. I wasn’t sure what to do with the book. Should I take it or not? I was reluctant to take it in case someone came back for it. But while I was contemplating what to do, something within me said, “Take it, it’s for you!” So, I did and headed to the doctor’s office.
During the appointment, I explained my symptoms to the doctor, and he reassured me that it was likely nothing serious but recommended a procedure just to be safe. The procedure was scheduled for approximately three weeks later.
That night, I began reading the book and finished it in just two days. I immediately visited the TLIG.org website and subscribed to the daily emails. I began reading the TLIG messages each morning and started attending church weekly with my wife and kids. The more I learned about TLIG and the messages, the more drawn I felt to God. Although I was raised Catholic, I wasn’t a practicing Catholic nor was I living my life in accordance with God’s will, commandments and the precepts of the Catholic Church. But something began to shift. I noticed subtle changes in my overall attitude and focus. I started praying regularly, reciting the Rosary, and reading the Bible, which led me to a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.
The day of my procedure arrived. I was a little anxious but not overly concerned. After the procedure was over, the doctor asked to speak with me and my wife, who was waiting with our children. I assumed this was standard procedure. Still groggy from the anesthesia, I was aware enough to follow what was happening. The doctor sat beside my bed, and with a somber look, he told us that he had found a tumor and it was cancerous.
At first, I was stunned and never imagined I would receive such a diagnosis, especially at the age of 39. I questioned him: “Could you be wrong?” He replied, “No.” Then I asked, “What are the chances that it’s not cancer?” He answered kindly but firmly, “I’m 99% certain it is.” He explained that we’d receive the pathology report within 24 hours to confirm, and then referred me to a colorectal surgeon he highly recommended. We left the building in shock, and that’s when my journey truly began.
Two years later, I’m thankful to say that I’m cancer-free. Since my diagnosis, I’ve made a full recovery—physically and spiritually! It was the most difficult experience of my life. With God’s help, I endured five months of chemotherapy and radiation, with surgery, numerous medical procedures, and serious complications that took years to somewhat normalize. But through it all, I was never alone.
I thank you, Vassula. If it hadn’t been for your book, I wouldn’t have the relationship with God that I have today! I have come to realize that everything I’ve endured was part of God’s master plan. He used you as His instrument to bring people like me—His prodigal son—back to Him and His Church. I have no doubt that I was meant to find that book on that beautiful morning in the park. I’ll always remember that day.
God saved my life through your obedience and motivation to do His will— to write this book, share His messages, and present TLIG to the world! I cannot express how grateful I am. Your book has changed my life and the lives of those around me. It brought my family and me closer to God during one of the most painful yet transformative times we’ve ever faced. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul!
Although we never had the chance to meet in person, your legacy lives on in the countless souls you touched.
God bless your family and the TLIG ministry!
Yuri Schemidt