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'God will walk with us through our circumstances'

Published: March 24, 2023

'God will walk with us through our circumstances'

Every day, Bethany Wilkinson has a choice to make. She can wallow in self-pity over the hand she’s been dealt. Or she can trust that God has a special plan to use her, despite the physical disabilities she’s lived with since birth.

 Bethany was born with spina bifida, a birth defect in which her spinal cord failed to close properly. That condition has resulted in partial paralysis of her legs and necessitated 14 surgeries, but she refuses to use it as an excuse. 

Furthermore, it hasn’t diminished the Greenville University sophomore’s love for life and her steely resolve to make a difference in the world.

“I want my life to be a witness that God will walk with us through our circumstances,” she said. “I don’t want to be a victim. Instead, I want to be an example of Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’”

Career Calling

Because of the challenges she’s faced, Bethany decided to major in social work in college. “I want to help people who have experienced life struggles because I feel that I have more compassion for them as a result of the things I’ve gone through,” she said. “That could be as a counselor or an advocate for people with disabilities, specifically, those with spina bifida.”

After graduating from high school in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, she took a few years to work and decide on a career path. One of her jobs was leading activities for residents in a retirement home, and that convinced her that social work was a good match for her. 

“Working with the residents there was very fulfilling,” she said. “I enjoyed listening to them and advocating for them. I’m checking out the possibilities in medical social work because of all the medical procedures I’ve been through, but I haven’t settled on a specific role yet.”

Growing at GU

Following her time working at the retirement home, Bethany decided it was time to take on the challenge of college life. She wanted to learn more about social work and push herself to become more independent. Her aunt and uncle, who live in St. Charles, Missouri, suggested that she check out Greenville University.

“My aunt said it was a small campus, and she thought it was fairly flat,” Bethany said. “When I arrived on campus, I found that it was small, but it wasn’t exactly flat! I was a little apprehensive because of that, but I was very impressed with how friendly the faculty and staff were, so I decided to try it and see how it would go.”

Now, well into her fourth semester at GU, she considers her college experience a positive chapter in her life.

“At first, the logistics of living on my own and getting around campus were a little overwhelming, but people here have been so encouraging and helpful,” she said. “I’ve learned a lot about myself, and I’ve made many friends. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been a confidence booster. 

“I’ve also gotten stronger physically by walking around the campus. There are more hills here than I thought, but I’ve found shortcuts and back ways to avoid some of the steep ones.”

She’s also complimentary of the school’s willingness to support her and make accommodations in her residence hall room. For instance, additional grab bars were installed in her room and bathroom to help her get around safely.

Nicki Schoonover, assistant professor of social work, said Bethany’s experience with spina bifida has made her a more compassionate person.

“She really has a heart for the elderly and those who have been through medical procedures,” Schoonover said. “That compassion will help her as she moves into her career.”

Panel Discussion

Last semester, Bethany participated in a panel discussion involving students and professors that focused on how the University can better support people with disabilities. During that event, she shared that some people find it difficult to discuss her physical challenges with her.

“Often, they don’t know what to say,” she said. “Even though I’m only 4-feet-7-inches tall and walk differently, I just want to be treated like everyone else. I want them to get past my physical issues and get to know me as a person.”

As the panel discussion concluded, Student Body President Paige Bennett described Bethany as “a light and a blessing to our campus." She added: "Despite her challenges, she brings joy into the lives of those around her.”

Spiritual Journey

Though Bethany was raised in a Christian home and accepted Christ when she was 5 years old, she acknowledged that she struggled with doubts and bitterness as a child because of her disabilities.

“My parents handled the situation well,” she said. “Like me, they had to lean on God at times. But I believe that God allows things like spina bifida to happen so his power and grace can be displayed through those situations. I know it’s made me stronger and more compassionate toward others.”

She said that a verse from Jeremiah 29:11 has been meaningful to her during the tough times: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

Bethany concluded: “Because of that promise, I believe God will give me special opportunities to share my faith. I want to tell people that God loves them and has a wonderful plan for their life. God has me here for a reason, and I’m learning to trust Him as I branch out and try new things.”

 

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