The Video

12/27/2012

"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true inspiration."
Pascal

The video below was created by Ashley, my oldest, and Sarah, her friend. When I saw the film,  it brought me to uncontrollable tears.

Why?

It shows the life I am living. The fantasy that was in my mind was dissolved when I saw reality.

The next feeling I got was a sense of freedom - I am free although I suffer with ALS. I know this condition is only for a short time.

A good quote to remember: "Anything is tolerable that is temporary." - Plato

I truly wish you watch this video with a different frame of mind.
        > Ignore the disturbing images.
        > Disregard the ugliness which is ALS.
        > Look past the continuous struggle.

Instead look at this video through His eyes.
        > Notice how Laura is always at my side. She is a faithful wife.
        > Listen as my children show they are being prepared. They will be warriors!
        > Watch the spirit which is undefeated.

Most importantly, feel the faith that is the only REAL thing we have!

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." - Hebrews 11:1

FINALLY: Please leave a comment.
Something as simple as, "Thanks for the reality check."

When you leave a comment, it really lifts my spirit to know my life has touched yours.
In the end, I hope to have mattered.

The Youtube link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jXeO9ppd-c

84 Comments

Kristi

12/27/2012 11:18:02 am

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.

Carolyn

12/27/2012 11:32:26 am

This is a beautiful testimony of your faith Akhil. You have an amazing family and I feel privileged to know you. Thank you for sharing a window into your life.... God has blessed you and Laura with so much strength.

Ken Ware

12/27/2012 11:48:34 am

You are an inspiration, Akhil. Thank you for encouraging me! Ashley...this is beautiful!

Grace Tamayo

12/27/2012 11:50:07 am

This is just Beautiful! I did notice that Laura was always by your side. That too was a blessing to me. Akhil Jhaveri you are such an inspiration.

Valarie Albert

12/27/2012 11:51:24 am

Your daughter is very special Akhil! Thinking of you and your family!

Diane

12/27/2012 11:58:28 am

I followed a link here. Thank you so much for sharing this with the world. What an inspiration, and not only Akhil, but the whole family. This was a real reminder of faith, hope, endurance, love, patience, compassion...all wrapped up into one video. Much love to your family, and know that you will be in my prayers.

Michelle

12/27/2012 12:24:03 pm

The video was so well done. Thank you for letting us see where you are at on your journey, and thank you for inspiring us. Such a great reminder that we are spirits in these bodies for just a little while. May God bless you and your family with peace, and use those around you as his arms holding you tight.

Paul

12/27/2012 12:27:37 pm

Thank you Ahkil, Laura, Ashley, Corinne, and Jordan! You are truly showing me what it means to be "Strong and Courageous"! May you be continually blessed by God.

Phil Clark

12/27/2012 12:50:41 pm

Thanks, AJ, for having the courage to share this video with us. Yes, it is hard to hear how your voice has changed, and to see how you struggle to get around. But it is also such an inspiration to hear your positive outlook and unwavering faith.
When we worked together in the early 90s, you taught me a lot about programming. Now you are teaching me something much more valuable - to accept what life brings, and to always see God's presence - even in situations where he can seem absent. I agree that this life is but a phase we go through on the way to a greater existence.
I am thankful too for your daughter doing such a good job with this video. I am thankful for Laura staying by your side and sharing in your struggle. May God continue to bless you and lighten your load as you give such an inspiring witness to us who complain over much lesser challenges.
Thank you, my friend!

Jennifer Hall

12/27/2012 01:04:50 pm

Thank you for sharing. Ashley did a beautuful job. Blessings to your family.

Sharon

12/27/2012 01:06:00 pm

Thank you, Akhil for allowing us a glimpse of how you are doing. You are an encouragement to us all.

Kent

12/27/2012 01:06:49 pm

Thank you Akhil, for sharing that. It was very uplifting. Your smile is wonderful. Thanks also to your family for sharing that glimpse of your life. Thanks to God for using you to bless others.

Mike Dobbs

12/27/2012 01:18:22 pm

Man! This video is fantastic. I love the great teaching being demonstrated by you and your family. The womb analogy is right on. Akhil I am a better person by knowing you. Thank you.

Mikki

12/27/2012 01:22:13 pm

Amazing! You, your family, your inner strength. My mom died of ALS and would never allow me to share in her journey. She was very proud and did not want anyone to see her less than strong and beautiful. You have given of yourself freely and shown what real strength is, and beauty really are.

Mike

12/27/2012 01:23:20 pm

Akhil, what a beautiful video! Patricia and I were moved by it. I think Ashley has not only honored you, but she has done with the video what we've seen you seeking to do with your life- she has glorified Christ through it. Believe me when I say that no one will be noticing "the ugliness that is ALS" as much as they will be seeing CHRIST IN YOU. That is what came through in a most beautiful way as we watched it.

Diane Plant

12/27/2012 01:35:32 pm

Your daughters, wife and profound words will stay with me forever. God bless you all!

Kristi

12/27/2012 02:33:00 pm

Just heard this for the first time. Made me think of you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDHHAwqDpzU

Linda McNeley

12/27/2012 05:53:23 pm

Thank you Akhil and your family! We are so blessed! Every one of your posts have made a difference! You are helping many see things thru your eyes! God is so good!!

Jeter

12/27/2012 07:13:28 pm

brother, thank you for this, because i'm doing far less than i should be with what He has given me! how dare i complain about my pain! thank you brother!!!! i love you for your perspective, your spirit, and for knowing you then and seeing this now.........prayers for your healing!

Susie link

12/27/2012 08:33:09 pm

I am a friend of Sandy's and want you to know that God is using you. This world will never get it...they can't but your story and your struggle touches other. Stay strong!!!!

Deb

12/27/2012 09:12:23 pm

Reminded of 2 Cor. 4:16-17, which resonated with us as we saw physical strength decline for our Brian, and now resonates again: "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." We ALL are outwardly wasting away in this life, but we have HOPE in Christ, for today and tomorrow. Blessings to you and your family as you endure hardship--you are a testimony for the strength Christ has promised to us in trial. Beautiful wife, beautiful daughters, beautiful Akhil--indeed.

Dixie

12/27/2012 11:27:56 pm

Yes, I immediately got my Bible and turned to 2Cor. 4 as well. The reminder of our physical presence and the spirit that is housed in it by you is powerful.
I like what you said about God's economy. I told my class the other day that if something appears to be a paradox, then it is probably truth. God reveals Himself in the paradox and that is where we can find the true Him.

Thank you for sharing this, Akhil and Laura. It does not disturb. It reveals something that is truth about all of us. Some day, if we live long enough, we will all reach a point where we need help again. We are blessed when we are loved.

lee deason

12/27/2012 09:22:38 pm

Thank you for allowing us into your life....what an encouragement this has been to me and so many others. (and thank you Sandy for posting this for us)

Andrea Sutter

12/27/2012 11:04:28 pm

Just thank you.

Meredith Spivy

12/27/2012 11:48:25 pm

You have allowed your faith to bring you higher than your pain. Your children are beautiful examples of the life you have lived. Prayers for you all. Thanks for sharing.

Terri Mathews

12/28/2012 12:53:01 am

Thanks so much for sharing.

Terri Mathews

12/28/2012 12:50:57 am

Astonishing, Amazing and Absolutely Beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing. Love and many blessings.

Bonnie Miller

12/28/2012 01:21:13 am

Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty, we will be free at last.

Sheryl Blumenthal

12/28/2012 01:37:11 am

Dear Akhil,
I am a friend of your sister-in-law, Linda, and she has spoken of you so often during the last several years. Many years ago she sent me a video of a speech you made that was filled with hope and inspiration. Once again the video your daughter made was so inspiring and touched my heart. Thank you so much for sharing your personal thoughts and for being the incredible person of "heart" that you are.

Kevin Woods

12/28/2012 02:09:51 am

Thanks, Ashley and Akhil. We DO live in a broken world, don't we? Your story is not one of courage as much as it is of faith. What a blessing to hear and see your trust and transparency. You remain in our prayers.

Dawn Heitman Harris

12/28/2012 02:32:26 am

Akhil, what an inspiration. I don't know that I can put into words the way you have touched my heart and soul and yes even my mind. I still see that wonderful smile, warm heart and laugh from High School. I am gald and also sorry that it took this to get back in touch with you. God is working through you and your family to be a blessing to others. We can do all things through Christ. Much love to you and your family my dear freind.

mary anne winegeart

12/28/2012 04:03:47 am

It was thought provoking, spectacula, beautiful, Godly, unbelieveable. I'm speechless!!!!!So, it's so difficult to give my thoughts. There's no doubt God is strongly present in your home. You are so full of the Holy Spirit because without it you could never do what you are doing with that attitude. And, without the Holy Spirit your wife and children could not have the attitude they have. How beautiful to watch your loving wife care for you. And, your children I think must be the most unbelieveable part of the whole story. The fact that they were able to make this video and with such spiritual maturity. It's unbelieveable to see that at their age. I have such mixed feelings. How wonderful that God would choose you to do such an important task as to change so many lives by exposing the devil for what he is. Satan is so stupid to think he could destroy you and your family's lives by sending ALS to you. Instead, he has shown how almighty and powerful the Lord really is. Yes! It truly backfired on satan :-) I would love God to use me like he's using you but I'm too coward to ask him to do that. Akhil, just know that you have touched my life and that God has honored you for the direction you chose to go after your attack from satan. What a marvelous gift you have given your family. You are exactly what the Bible teaches about being the head of the house. You may not be able to take a hammer and repair things around the house but you are doing a greater job of taking the hammer and using it where the Lord wants you to (on satan's head) :-) Million thanks for sharing your story. It will never be forgotton and a constant reminder of how we need to be warriors for Christ.

Kim Wilhelm

12/28/2012 04:14:31 am

So beautiful... It's hard to type the right words through tears. Not tears of sadness, but tears that come from feeling such an over whelming truth being shared. You have always been an inspiration to others and even in the hardest time in your life you still witness to others. God's beauty is shown through you and through your family.

Dixie Bever

12/28/2012 05:14:27 am

Thank you for sharing Akhil and for being an encouragement as you find God's peace, love and blessings in the sufferings of this life. Continued prayers for you, Laura, Ashley, Corrine & Jordan. (Ashley, the video was beautiful indeed, thank you!)

Jill Cooke

12/28/2012 05:38:42 am

My friend Akhil,

Recently, my 14 year old son Jack awoke from a nightmare which filled him with dread, worrying about what happens when we die. I did my best to reassure him that death is only the beginning. He looked at me with a longing to believe, but I felt his doubt. I have raised all of my children to believe in God but I have fallen short the past few years when it comes to leading by example. I have gotten so busy with matters of this earth, that I, myself, lost sight of what is important. Then, I met you. I met you through God's mysterious ways in the form of a mineral oil spill from a man basket and an insurance claim for payment for spill remediation. How off the wall is that!! You came without knowing it, to rescue me, and now you will serve to comfort my son as well as I will share your video with him so that he may see the peace, faith, strength and hope of God's love and his plan for us through your story. There are no words to express my gratitude. Maybe there are in Heaven.

Mark Mary

12/28/2012 06:17:02 am

Akhil

Thanks you for sharing your faith and looking at the eternal life versus the temporary life. You and your beautiful family have strengthened my hope and spirit. I've enjoyed working with you over the years and look forward to what the future brings for all of us. Thank you for making the light brighter for all of us to see.

God Bless

Mark Mary

Quinn ;)

12/28/2012 08:09:27 am

This is very touching and truly moving as this is a testament to your faith and human spirit, it furthermore illustrates your will to live, teach and inspire others through your condition and challenge. YOU truly are the "WARRIOR" that you refer to. We can all learn something from this... My so-called "problems" and life challenges are incredibly dim in comparison which put a lot of things into perspective for me. Akhil, with this, it will always inspire me to strive to be a stronger person! If I could only be blessed with an ounce of your kind of spirit, strength, optimism, faith and wisdom...

God bless you Akhil! You are a true Life Warrior and a great Defender of Faith and Willpower!

YOU are my new HERO!!!

John

12/28/2012 10:31:49 am

Akhil,

Thank you for sharing your life with me. Thank you for being open, personal and vulnerable and giving myself and others the chance to know you a little better. Thank you for your friendship, your encouragement and for using your struggle as a means to exalt Jesus Christ. Indeed, to Him belongs the glory! For from Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things!

Erica Vossler

12/28/2012 02:00:35 pm

This video was perfectly named "Beautiful". There are no other words to describe the strength and perspective that are shown here by your entire family. From the moment I met you I saw how God was working through you to connect with me and everyone around you. It's almost intimidating to be around someone whose priorities seem so perfectly aligned with Christ's. Everything I worried about over Christmas was of this world and I knew it was stupid. Your video drives that point home even harder. Thank you for showing strength as you endure this awful illness. Keep your eye on the prize and I will see you soon! Erica

Deanna

12/28/2012 03:22:41 pm

Beautiful...absolutely beautiful. A beautiful life lived victoriously, a beautiful family that chooses to honor, love, and support. The living legacy you are creating for your family and for others is inspiring.

I was reminded of a song I learned in college by Wayne Watson, entitled, "Home Free". We are all healed at the "ultimate healing". Akhil, I know you know my Jesus. And I also know how much he loves you. I don't understand why some of us suffer on earth and some of us don't. What I do know is that God has entrusted you with something huge, and you have been found faithful. When you look into the eyes of your savior and hear those much coveted words, "well done, good and faithful servant" I just know there will be a smile on your face.

Inspiring and convicting. Praying for this beautiful family.

Dan

12/28/2012 10:09:25 pm

Akhil,

I just wanted you to know that I follow your updates and I think back frequently and fondly on our discussions and debates on Friday mornings. It was good to challenge and be challenged biblically. Lots has changed since then, but the memories are the same.

Dan

Becky J.

12/29/2012 01:16:36 am

In the short time we were neighbors with you in Dallas, you were always thought-provoking and this is no exception! This is an inspirational video, and truly puts things in perspective. Thank you for sharing your struggles and for sharing your unwavering faith in our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Ashley Tognoni

12/29/2012 02:15:46 am

Akhil,

This is such a wonderful gift from your daughter to you, but an amazing gift that you have shared with us. Your family is so incredibly strong and you obviously thank God every day that they are with you. It has been a true pleasure to work with you and thank you for being so public with your journey. You are a hero, you have been so many places and will continue to be. A couple of my very favorite quotes are "Oh The Places You Will Go" by Dr. Seuss and "Don' t Quit" which in my eyes are a true reflection of you.

God be with you and your family!
Ashley

Varghese achen link

12/29/2012 03:59:23 am

Dear Akhil, laura and children: You guys did a fantastic job in witnessing What Christ has done in your life so that others may well inspire all around you and know you.
For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay! "
Habakkuk 2:3 (NIV)ed and understood God's way.

Robin

12/29/2012 05:42:15 am

Akhil,
One of my favorite quotes reads as this...
"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain". You and your family have truly mastered this. You are such an inspiration. What a wonderful legacy you have taught your family and friends. Prayers always.

Brenda

12/29/2012 07:31:54 am

This makes much of what I spend my time doing seem trivial. I want to remember more of the time that our souls are eternal, and bring my focus to what will uplift my own soul and those of others closer to Him. He is our destination, truly.

Monica

12/30/2012 04:19:38 pm

Ahkil,

The video Ashley created is truly beautiful and your story is inspirational. Her song stands outs most importantly, even though it is in the back ground. For the inspiration of your journey is that God is making you new! Like Christ, who suffered that we might have life in Him. It is hard to describe how much all of you exude the Glory of God's transforming Spirit. You ALL inspire me!

Thank you for your courage and commitment to share with all of us.

God's grace and blessings to all of you.
Your friend's Monica and Will

Karla R. link

12/30/2012 10:29:55 pm

Hello, Akhil,

Thank you for sharing this with me. I feel priveleged that you sent it to me. I have been reflecting on this video and your website for days and still can't come up with everything that it means. I'll need to look at it again and do more reflecting and praying. Stay tuned for another comment from me. You and your family are in my prayers.

Karla (from POWER)

Jan James (POWER)

12/31/2012 03:44:18 am

Akhil,
Thanks to you and your family for sharing your faith and eternal perspective. You continue to be such an inspiration to me with your faith, courage, meekness, and love. My heart will always smile when I think of you! God Bless, Jan

Suzette

12/31/2012 04:29:35 am

Akhil,

I am a good friend of your sister-in-law, Linda, and I just took some quiet time to watch your video. Akhil you are so inspiring, so full of faith and so blessed to have such a beautiful, loving and supportive family, along with a wondeful network of friends surrounding you... However, the real gift is YOU! We are all so incredibly blessed to have the essence of your presence in our lives. I will never have the pleasure to meet you, but I feel so close to you and your lovely family, and I am so thankful that Linda has shared your journey with me.

Words cannot express my gratitude for you sharing your life path and unshakable faith with the world. In the Book of Joshua, the Lord promises, “I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” I feel the spirit of an angel dwells within you, and you are here to enlighten and teach to whoever will listen, the true meaning of faith in our lives. Your strength, courage and personal testimony of your love for Christ are so powerfully enduring… Thank you!

Sue Finn

12/31/2012 05:29:06 am

Akhil, keep up the fight! You are a messenger of God in that you keep us focused not on the temporal but rather on the eternal. In this world we will suffer and you are right, God hates disease, but He has a place for us that is forever where this disease does not have a name. To your family, hang in there, it is painful to watch someone you love suffer but this man is doing it with grace.

Madeleine

12/31/2012 08:19:23 am

WOW. We should be inspired like this daily as the struggle is always there to take our eyes off of the eternal. Thank you for sharing your struggle...it inspires to respond in more faith in the struggle I am presently in...

Tom Fox

1/1/2013 03:02:31 am

My dear brother, In Christ....You have shown me much in this video.I thank God for your wonderful family....trust in the Lord Jesus with your heart......tom fox

Jennifer Churchwell

1/1/2013 09:36:07 am

Akhil, I am so sad that you are struggling with this disease. We cannot control what life throws at us, but we can control how we respond. You have chosen to respond in faith and a positive attitude, with an eternal perspective. Most of us take for granted our days. We don't think about God until we need Him. But, life can be so much better and rewarding if we let God in our lives - daily. There's a peace that comes from having a relationship with the Lord - a peace that doesn't come from anything in this world. May the Lord continue to use your life, as well as your wife and children's, to bring glory to Him. I am praying for you and your family! Continue to keep your eyes on the Lord and point others to Christ - that is your legacy.

Di Adra Rose

1/2/2013 11:39:28 am

Laura & Akhil-

Thank you for sharing this. Watching my aunt live with MS, my uncle with and Parkinson's, and also my Grandfather's battle with Parkinson's/Alzheimer's has been incredibly rough. I ache for them, but mostly for my mom. She stands to lose 3 of the 5 closest people to her this year and she is not a believer. It tears me to pieces because she does not have the blanket of Christ's peace the way your amazing family does. Getting to know you, Laura, and Jordan in the last year has been such a gift. Thank you for sharing this. You are all so very inspiring in the courage and grace you display. Our family continues to pray for yours.

Aaron Jones

1/2/2013 01:09:49 pm

I am embarrassed that is has taken days to work up the courage to watch this video. Now, having watched, I am ashamed to think that my pathetic effort could be even imagined courage. I sat for a while after just lost in the memories of our youth. You should be very proud of Ashley for putting this together.

Beautiful and personal and amazing and it hurts.

A friendship that has spanned nearly four decades it is clear to me that you are very much the stronger man than I.

Forever Your Friend

Dawn Heitman Harris

1/8/2013 11:26:04 pm

Aaron, as I was looking at pictures and also watching the video I too remembered the past. I am so glad that you have remained friends with Akhil and you are still the kind person you were then.

Akhil you are a very blessed man. We are all blessed in the fact that we know you and that you have touched our lives whether now or in the past. Thank you

ema

1/2/2013 03:05:19 pm

Thank you for sharing God's beauty. I have been blessed. There is a song called "He's Able". Perhaps you already sing it. If not, I'd like to share it with you.
He's able, He's able, I know He's able, I know my Lord is able to carry me through. He heals the broken hearted, and sets the captives free. He makes the lame to walk again, and causes the blind to see.
He's able, He's able, I know He's able, I know my Lord is able to carry me through!

and also a prayer:
Father God, just for today, help me walk the narrow way. Help me stand when I should fall, give me the strength to hear your call. May my steps be worship, may my thoughts be praise, may my words bring honor to your name.

Teresa Frosini - CBS News Dallas, Texas

1/2/2013 09:10:25 pm

This video is absolutely beautiful! I had the honor of meeting your youngest daughter a few years ago while telling her story of the Sunshine Girls on CBS news. What an incredible impact you and your wife have had on your family and all of those you have served. Now to see the video that your oldest daughter made is yet another confirmation of the servant's heart you have instilled. My favorite quote from you that I will cherish and share with others is, "to be first you must be last, to recieve you must serve, and to live you must die". Thank you for your wisdom, for your love and for sharing your story and your family with us all. You are a true inspiration. May God continue to bless you and your family as you bless others.

Teresa

Pam Hough

1/2/2013 09:49:27 pm

Dearest Friends, Truly... I just have no words. Yet my heart is bursting with praise for what you are allowing God to do in the midst of such trials. God's story in you Akil is a suffering that has brought you to the end of yourself. When I first met you in 1997, wondered at your passion, zeal for life and your willingness to live beyond yourself. I watched as you supported Laura and her pursuing a new career. You were the most wonderfully encouraging husband I had ever known. Personally... You and Laura inspired me to dream again. I just want to say this for now to any who may watch this beautiful video who do not know you personally. This family is REAL. Their Faith is real, their hope is real and they love the Lord our God with All their hearts, souls and minds. My heart breaks that your physical healing has not come. But I am rejoicing that you know God the way most will never know him. Thank you for being you, Jhaveri's. Ashley... You are princess I remember... A true child of the King! :)

Heather Clark

1/3/2013 12:26:15 am

THANK YOU for sharing your "Beautiful" story! This is quite a journey your family is on. I do see and understand the beauty in it! I was faced with a devastating cancer diagnosis in 2011. I quickly came to know that I WOULD be healed. God would heal me here on earth, or in Heaven, but I WOULD be healed!! He decided to heal me here on earth...so here I am. Your honesty, love for the Lord, love for your family, and theirs for you is truly "Beautiful"! You are BLESSED!! (some may not understand my saying that, but I know you will).

My family will be praying for you and yours, for continued peace, strength, rest, memory making moments, laughter, and joy.

Thank you for blessing us by sharing your journey!

April

1/3/2013 12:41:06 am

The title says is all....BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Steve Stern

1/3/2013 03:45:53 am

My Brother, such a wonderful gift of perspective on life. You are truly alive and well receiving an eternal inheritance from our Father through Jesus the Son. I am fighting the same battle, ALS showed up on my door in February 2011. Spiritually it has been an amazing two years of growing and drawing so near to Jesus. I believe these experiences on earth force us to dig deep and fight the good fight of faith. I loved watching your family with you. I think they were made for this, what a blessing.

Praying and believing for God's very best for you,

Steve

Susan Larson

1/3/2013 05:21:02 am

Akhill, Dear Brother, in Christ,Your witness is so impacting and bright for the glory of Christ in your heart and in your household. I am going through a trial now and my sister sent me this link to encourage me to lift my eyes to Christ and keep them fixed on Him alone and not my circumstances. Going through ALS has got to be a incredibly scary journey, but you already testify that Satan can't keep your light under a bushel, No! You are letting it shine so bright and the spiritual truth you live in and power of the Holy Spirit are evidence of Christ magnified in your soul. I am so touched. God bless you and your family in this season of life lived victoriously until you are granted your heavenly body. I long to see you some day there!! God is faithful. I will hold you and yours in my prayers. He is Jehovah Roi. The God who sees. He is seeing your witness and all the world is, too. Thanks to your daughters for making this and thanks to your wife for sharing her ministry of loving devotion to her husband. Blessings to you all.

In His Love & Care,
Susan

Karie

1/3/2013 12:49:46 pm

Thank you so much for sharing your journey and wisdom. You gave incredible perspective. Truly beautiful.

Praying for all of you.

Linda Allen

1/3/2013 02:22:39 pm

Wow.....thank you Ashley & Sarah for making this video. Hi and much love to you Akhil & Laura. We were with you at Lafayette Church of Christ in St. Louis. This is such a moving video and the word "Beautiful" does describe it. You use Hebrews 11:11 and we used Romans 8:28 when we lost Mike in a car accident in 1987......."And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
As changes in our life present themselves we are given new opportunities to witness to those around us. And you certainly are using your life and it's changes to witness to so many people. You are such an inspiration to us all. I pray I can be as positive to everyone as I age and changes arise in my life. We never know from day to day what God has in store for us, but we are promised eternity with him. How much better could it be?
Thank you for sharing your life and your beautiful family with us and your Love for God. May God Bless You all........Linda Allen

Sarah Nelson

1/3/2013 02:55:19 pm

Thank you for opening my eyes to what's truly important! We will pray for you & your family. God bless you.

chering

1/3/2013 04:42:44 pm

Thank you.

Christy

1/4/2013 12:31:13 am

Simply beautiful! I had never heard the baby analogy. So very true. May God bless you and your wonderful family. You are a rich man to have them by your side. Continual prayers for you. I have been blessed by your daughter's video and your godly ways and love for the Lord in your time of such incredible illness. Thank you for sharing your story.

Tom Storbakken

1/5/2013 01:08:33 pm

Akhil
You have always been an inspiration to me, I have always felt close to you from the first time you came to visit us in Seattle. The many times you sent time with us at the place we were in our life. I remember, our last trip to Seattle with Bob. We laughed, had our fish and fries and me taking a short cut home that ended us getting lost. You and Bob laughing: knowing that is Tom. You will always be a part of my life; that is positive.
Love Tom

Wendy Gould

1/7/2013 01:08:35 am

What a beautiful and touching video! Such an amazing family and it's so apparent how God is the center of your lives while your going through this journey in your lives right now. I remember when we interviewed Akhil in the Boise office and I met with him to go over our HR information and it was so nice to meet with him and enjoy his amazing personality! God Bless all of you and I am humbled by your strength, courage, faith, and love for God!!

Margaret Deaton

1/7/2013 02:17:40 pm

Thank you for making and posting this beautiful video. I've already shared it with a couple of friends. You are blessing many people, Akhil, as you have been blessed.

Kanchan Parikh

1/7/2013 06:40:02 pm

Mama, you're so strong, and the family is even stronger. I hope to learn to be a fighter like you guys.. Thanks for this, love to all of you.

Carl Kalbfleisch link

1/8/2013 12:10:10 am

Akhil - that video is glorifying to God! I am thankful that you choose to share it. ALS is certainly a tough battle. But, I like what you said in the video, this life is just a breathe in the span of all eternity. Keep living for the Lord. Your life has blessed me in many ways, especially though the small group at your house that we were able to be a part of. God Bless, Carl

Fuzzy

1/8/2013 12:44:34 am

Hey Akhil,
What a lovely family and a video of a window into your your lives....
I hope the song becomes a lovely hit, and she furthers her career in music and song writing...
great video Ashley and Sarah.
I didn't see anything disturbing. I saw an amazing being "Living" as best one can..
And I saw one heck of a woman behind you.
Hugs
Fuzzy... are you on Facebook? I'm Fazal Shah

Kate Schmid

1/8/2013 01:33:19 am

Thanks to you and your family for sharing your stories. The video, and those in it, are beautiful.

Danielle L link

1/8/2013 08:07:10 am

I watched it. It was extremely beautiful and really touched me. I never thought in a million years something like this could happen to someone as spiritual, kind and giving as you. God must feel you are a strong warrior for Him and knew you'd do great things with this tough struggle. My friend has just been diagnosed with cancer and I have already passed this on to him. He was very touched and moved Bc he feels the same way about his condition from day to day. Please don't lose your faith Akhil, the only reason I had found it after my struggles as a teen was Bc of the kindness, trust and care you and your family had extended to me. When everyone thought I was a lost cause your family was there picking me up.
You are stronger than you may think and God hasn't forgotten you, he doesn't hate you, He is working through you, I hate to see you in pain and everyday being a struggle but you are such a beautiful person there's something at work here. I love you Akhil, I know it's been years but I do. Please don't give up on God Bc he hasn't given up on you. I hope I'm able to stay in touch with you this time. I love you and will keep you in my prayers Bc your always on my mind.

Danielle L

Julie M link

1/8/2013 08:08:37 am

My dear friend,
I think back over the years to when we first met. You were such a pesty little thing. But I loved two things about you. One was your intelligence. The other was your ability to never tire of asking questions, in other words, your determination to understand whatever plagued your curiosity.
As I watched this video, I had tears in my eyes. Not tears of sadness, but of a sister so extremely proud of her brother. I want to hug and kiss you and say that you have it right. You understand the questions of the ages. While, I have not had the struggles you have had, I too have had struggles that were far from beautiful or easy. Once upon a time, I asked, "Why me?" As I grew in the Lord, the question became "Why not me?"
Akhil, you are a warrior. I am proud of you. Although we have not journeyed on this earth much together, we will see each other again. And oh, the stories we will tell one another. The angels will be in awe of what our God had done!
Love,
Julie

Richard J. Foster link

1/8/2013 08:10:05 am

Thank you for your testimony, Akhil. I already saw the video, was very touched by your message. Our home group (Atkinson) prayed for you on Sunday. My special prayers are with you and your family often. This prayer our preacher at Lafayette posted on Facebook is very fitting. May God's blessings to you be multiplied!

Prayer for the sick
The life of the body has seasons - seasons of health and strength, but also of illness, weakness and pain. And often we face a life of prolonged difficulty that is not simply a passing season. For this morning's prayer, we offer heartfelt cry for those of us who are facing such times of suffering:

I hold before you, O Lord, all who are ravaged by incurable diseases (or chronic pain or illness). What can I say? I stammer... I stutter. I am not worthy to speak on their behalf.

Still, as best I can ask, dear God. Please let these who suffer so deeply know that they are not alone. Help them sense your nearness, your care, your compassion. May they somehow experience the suffering heart of Jesus.

Amen.

- Richard J. Foster

Susan Smith

1/9/2013 11:24:16 am

You will not remember me but when I think of you I can't help but smile. I was just getting back into attending church after many,many years away and you did the "welcome and greeting at the HCC service. You were always so upbeat, clever and fun (One time you went into a real thick Indian accent- it was funny) . Anyway, your words helped me enjoy church again. Thanks for posting the video and sharing your words. Once again, I see an upbeat and clever individual providing insights into life just like you did in the "Welcome/greeting" time at the church service. May God provide you and your family all the comfort and peace you need. God is good and you are a faithful servant.

Michael McNeley

1/19/2013 03:31:32 am

Akhil, we have never met but I feel like I have known you my whole life. My daughter Patty, who you know as Patricia, has kept us informed of your brave fight and tremdous faith in God. What a valiant fight you are waging armed with God's promises, conquering life here on earth and a beaytiful life to come. You are truly and inspiration to us all and when I faulter in faith or am feeling lost, I always think of you and your stuggles and how brave and faithful you are in the face of it all. I cannot thank you enough for your faith in Patty and being God"s trustful messenger for answering her prayers to move back to the northwest. Thank you for being a tremendous influence in her life and letting her into yours. You have touched her deeply and she cares for you as I have never seen her care for anyone, except for Mike and her mother. God bless you for touching so many hearts and souls!

Tim Akins

2/5/2013 09:16:39 am

Amazing video done by an amazing family! The father and leader of this household has much to be proud of. Proverbs wife devoted to her children's father; talented Christian children honoring parents and family, and above all you! Amidst all the medical nightmare still encouraging, teaching and training all who listen

Tim Akins

2/5/2013 09:21:57 am

I know as you are using these trials as edification for the rest of us, you are busy planning what you will do next to further His kingdom. Your zeal and enthusiasm for life will not be squelched by satan and his ALS. Keep up the good fight and we will keep praying for you and yours on this uphill battle. Love you buddy

Melissa Swann

5/20/2014 06:45:47 pm

You are a TRUE inspiration and light for the Kingdom. Thank you for your courage, transparency, love, humility and willingness to use your story to challenge and bless others ALL around the world!! (Austria, in our case)

Blessings of grace and peace to you and your family. Rev. 21:4 "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

Akhil and Laura Jhaveri

Applying the skills they've learned in over 20 years of marriage, this couple faces the challenges of ALS together. MND or motor neuron disease is deadly with no known cure. The Jhaveri family has to endure this battle and show the world God's love!

About Akhil

His journey is described in the "ALS and Akhil " tab

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