Strengthening Marriage & Faith Through Tragedy with Nathan & Heather Ogden
Dec 14, 2023
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Nathan and Heather Ogden faced tragedy when Nathan became paralyzed from a skiing accident. They discuss the emotional turmoil, finding hope, the importance of service, and their strong faith. Despite their challenges, they started a foundation that provides wheelchairs to those in need, turning their tragedy into blessings for others. This podcast is an inspiring example of resilience and the power of hope.
Choosing hope and surrounding oneself with positive influences is crucial in navigating life's challenges.
The power of serving and uplifting others can bring meaning and hope, even in the toughest times.
Trusting in divine timing, holding onto hope, and creating a welcoming space for others can lead to unexpected blessings and purpose.
Deep dives
Overcoming Tragedy and Finding Hope
Nate and Heather Ogden share their journey of resilience and hope after Nate's life-changing accident that left him paralyzed. Nate had to adjust his expectations of a 'normal' life and faced the challenge of finding purpose and meaning after his plans were shattered. Heather's unwavering support and the power of their faith in God helped them navigate the difficult times. Through their nonprofit organization, Chair the Hope, they provide wheelchairs to those in need and spread hope to others facing adversity.
Choosing Hope and Serving Others
Nate and Heather Ogden emphasize the importance of choosing hope and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Despite facing immense challenges, they maintain a belief that there is always room for others at their table, both literally and metaphorically. They share stories of their humanitarian trips and the impact they have had on individuals in need. Nate and Heather emphasize the power of serving and uplifting others, as well as the importance of never giving up hope in one's own life.
Finding Meaning in Suffering
Nate and Heather Ogden reflect on their journey and how their experiences have shaped their understanding of suffering. They discuss the importance of finding meaning in the midst of trials, trusting in God's plan, and making room for others in their lives. They share personal stories of individuals they have helped through their nonprofit organization, Chair the Hope, highlighting the impact of compassion and service. Nate encourages listeners to hold onto hope, even in the toughest times, and to never underestimate the power of a positive mindset and a supportive community.
Trusting in Divine Timing
Nate and Heather Ogden share how their experiences have taught them to trust in divine timing. They recount the challenges they faced during their bike ride fundraiser and the subsequent theft of Nate's wheelchair. Despite these setbacks, they recognized the divine interventions that led to unexpected blessings and the creation of their nonprofit organization, Chair the Hope. Nate and Heather emphasize the importance of faith, perseverance, and acting on spiritual guidance, as they have seen firsthand the impact of choosing hope and opening their hearts to others.
Gathering Others and Making Room at the Table
Nate and Heather Ogden talk about the importance of gathering people and making room for others at their table. They believe in surrounding themselves with positive influences and creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and loved. They also discuss their nonprofit organization, Chair the Hope, and the impact it has had on individuals around the world. Nate and Heather emphasize the power of gathering and serving others, and how it brings joy and purpose to their own lives.
Back in 2001, Nathan and Heather Ogden's life was exactly where they wanted it to be. Enjoying success at work, a happy marriage, and a growing family - they couldn't ask for more! But when tragic accidents left Nathan paralyzed from the neck down, suddenly the life they sought and even expected was changed irreversibly. What do you do when life seems to fall apart and there is no easy way to fix every new problem and challenge facing you and your family? If you ask the Ogden's, the answer is to believe.
In the face of their unbelievable tragedy and odds stacked high against them, the Ogden's held onto faith and chose to push hopefully onward into their new lives - even starting a foundation, Chair the Hope, which provides wheelchairs to less fortunate individuals and communities all over the world. Through humor, turning outward and serving others, and their love of each other, their family, and God, the Ogden's life is a true example of the gospel in action.
To learn more, volunteer, or donate to Chair the Hope, head to the links below: chairthehope.org Instagram - @chairthehope
