How Does a Parent Survive the Loss of a Child?

Messiah Community Radio Talk Show

What would you do if you were told by the doctors that your newborn child’s life would be very short? What if the doctors told you your son would live at most only a couple of days? Would you give up, resigning yourself to simply trust the doctors’ pessimistic assessment, or would you fight for his life against all odds? When his fourth child was born, author and inspirational speaker, David Ingerson was faced with these troubling questions. The Caleb Years is a refreshing and inspirational account of the author’s journey through the treacherous waters of uncertainty and the deep emotional wounds parents of a chronically ill child must endure. The author’s vivid descriptions of each circumstance and deeply compelling emotion will put you in the middle of his story, more importantly it will help you understand your own life story. You’ll find yourself not only identifying with their pain and struggles, but also rejoicing in their victories. The often absurd but real accounts of incredible situations will have you alternating between tears and laughter. Even in the midst of your pain you’ll be moved to celebrate each of life’s triumphs. Although you may not be able to determine the final outcome, you can decide how you are going to live each day – with hope and thankfulness or with bitterness. David Ingerson and his family chose the way of hope--even when facing the dread of HIV--and while it did not take away their pain it did give them the strength to live with meaning even when God didn’t seem to make sense. David P. Ingerson is an exciting communicator who has spoken to audiences around the world. During his twenty years as a U.S. Air Force officer and pilot he traveled extensively and lived abroad with his family. From the time he was ordained as a teacher and evangelist while serving in Okinawa, Japan, he has trained and led teams on short-term missions to the Philippines and Cambodia declaring the Good News with compelling, inspirational stories. As a corporate pilot he has traveled to nearly every country on five continents and takes with him great respect and appreciation for the myriad of cultures. Having suffered his own share of trials and setbacks as an entrepreneur, he encourages both employees and customers to rise above life’s difficulties and griefs. Given his track record of overcoming challenges, David has credibility when he exhorts others that the path to success is found and walked with intentionality and hard work rather than glamour and ease. He is genuine and passionate as he encourages his listeners to honestly admit their life’s challenges and disappointments. Through his personal inspirational story of triumph through tragedy, he spurs others to rise above life’s frustrations and overcome in spite of intimidating obstacles—even as dreadful as facing congenital heart defects (CHD) and HIV and grieving the death of a child. David and his wife, Kathleen, are the parents of five children and make their home in Shreveport, Louisiana.