Meet Amanda Walton
December 2, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am originally from Knoxville, Tennessee (my blood bleeds orange) but I live and work in Williamsburg, Kentucky. I am an admissions counselor at University of the Cumberlands and I love working with prospective students as they consider higher education.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I love sports in general and played volleyball and softball in college. Currently my favorite sport to play is tennis and I do also love ultimate Frisbee on Sunday afternoons.
3. What books are you reading right now? I travel a lot for my job and I have 3 books, not including my Bible in my travel bag. I would love to say I actually have time to read all these books, but that’s not the case. The books I would love to have time to read right now are: 1) "The Outcast" by Jolina Petershiem. Random sidenote: Jolina is a college friend of mine and traveled to Greece with ISF in December 2004 - you should definitely check it out. 2) "Follow Me" by David Platt…I’m almost finished with this one and it’s a great read. 3) "Pressure Points" by Chip Henderson, which is a Bible Study on the book of James.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? From the past, I would like to meet Paul, so I could ask him how he remained so faithful while in prison for preaching the very gospel he renounced as Saul. Present, I would love to meet Jase from Duck Dynasty…just because.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I’ve lived a blessed life and it’s hard to pick a specific trial or hardship. I believe that the Lord uses some of our toughest moments to show us just how great our JOY can be in Him…especially when we have nothing left to give. I guess one of my greatest challenges is living a life of singleness and living it well in a culture that says: “you’re not 'normal' if you don’t have a spouse, 2 talented children, a dog, and a white-picket fence.” The Lord has taught me to find my rest in Him, and to pursue Him first. Don’t get me wrong, I do have a strong desire for marriage and family and I long for that someday. But as long as I can serve the Lord better as a single woman than I can as a married one, then so be it. HE is all I need and I am content in Him!
6. Do you have a “life verse” or saying? My favorite Dubism (Dub is my nickname) saying is: “God created each person with different talents, gifts, and abilities that are unique to them. Those gifts lead to passions worth pursuing. It’s our responsibility to find what we are passionate about and pursue it with excellence for the glory of God.” My life verses are Micah 6:8 and Matthew 6:33
7. How did you get connected with ISF? In the fall of 2003 God began to stir my heart for missions and I had no idea where to start. I grew up in a Christian home and even attended a Christian University, but I had never been on a mission trip overseas. So, I evaluated my God given gifts and decided sports missions sounded like a good fit. I googled sports missions and in July of 2004 I found myself on a plane headed for Greece. From that day forward, I fell in love with missions and ISF.
8. Where have you served with ISF? Over the years I’ve served in Greece and Kenya on multiple occasions. I fell in love with Kenya and actually moved to Tumaini Miles of Smiles Centre for 10 months in 2010/2011.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience with ISF? Praying with a young lady in Greece to accept Christ at a basketball court in the middle of Athens. Her name was Marie and she prayed in Greek as we prayed in English. Her prayer was “Greek” to me, but I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she accepted a new found faith in the Lord that day. It was the first time I was able to experience firsthand how the Spirit of the Lord works across cultures and languages. There have been many great ISF Memories to follow, but this opened my eyes to the effectiveness of cross-cultural servanthood.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am originally from Knoxville, Tennessee (my blood bleeds orange) but I live and work in Williamsburg, Kentucky. I am an admissions counselor at University of the Cumberlands and I love working with prospective students as they consider higher education.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I love sports in general and played volleyball and softball in college. Currently my favorite sport to play is tennis and I do also love ultimate Frisbee on Sunday afternoons.
3. What books are you reading right now? I travel a lot for my job and I have 3 books, not including my Bible in my travel bag. I would love to say I actually have time to read all these books, but that’s not the case. The books I would love to have time to read right now are: 1) "The Outcast" by Jolina Petershiem. Random sidenote: Jolina is a college friend of mine and traveled to Greece with ISF in December 2004 - you should definitely check it out. 2) "Follow Me" by David Platt…I’m almost finished with this one and it’s a great read. 3) "Pressure Points" by Chip Henderson, which is a Bible Study on the book of James.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? From the past, I would like to meet Paul, so I could ask him how he remained so faithful while in prison for preaching the very gospel he renounced as Saul. Present, I would love to meet Jase from Duck Dynasty…just because.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I’ve lived a blessed life and it’s hard to pick a specific trial or hardship. I believe that the Lord uses some of our toughest moments to show us just how great our JOY can be in Him…especially when we have nothing left to give. I guess one of my greatest challenges is living a life of singleness and living it well in a culture that says: “you’re not 'normal' if you don’t have a spouse, 2 talented children, a dog, and a white-picket fence.” The Lord has taught me to find my rest in Him, and to pursue Him first. Don’t get me wrong, I do have a strong desire for marriage and family and I long for that someday. But as long as I can serve the Lord better as a single woman than I can as a married one, then so be it. HE is all I need and I am content in Him!
6. Do you have a “life verse” or saying? My favorite Dubism (Dub is my nickname) saying is: “God created each person with different talents, gifts, and abilities that are unique to them. Those gifts lead to passions worth pursuing. It’s our responsibility to find what we are passionate about and pursue it with excellence for the glory of God.” My life verses are Micah 6:8 and Matthew 6:33
7. How did you get connected with ISF? In the fall of 2003 God began to stir my heart for missions and I had no idea where to start. I grew up in a Christian home and even attended a Christian University, but I had never been on a mission trip overseas. So, I evaluated my God given gifts and decided sports missions sounded like a good fit. I googled sports missions and in July of 2004 I found myself on a plane headed for Greece. From that day forward, I fell in love with missions and ISF.
8. Where have you served with ISF? Over the years I’ve served in Greece and Kenya on multiple occasions. I fell in love with Kenya and actually moved to Tumaini Miles of Smiles Centre for 10 months in 2010/2011.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience with ISF? Praying with a young lady in Greece to accept Christ at a basketball court in the middle of Athens. Her name was Marie and she prayed in Greek as we prayed in English. Her prayer was “Greek” to me, but I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she accepted a new found faith in the Lord that day. It was the first time I was able to experience firsthand how the Spirit of the Lord works across cultures and languages. There have been many great ISF Memories to follow, but this opened my eyes to the effectiveness of cross-cultural servanthood.
Meet Christine Anderson
November 25, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am from California originally, and live in sunny Phoenix now. I am a contract physical therapist with my own company and hire myself out to a variety of locations to do PRN coverage in the orthopedic physical therapy setting.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Weight-training, yoga, trail running, hiking, biking, rafting, and pretty much anything else that gets me outside ;)
3. What books are you reading right now? "The Beginning of Wisdom" by Leon Kass, a fantastic commentary on Genesis that has changed how I read the Bible; "Zero Day" by David Baldacci; "Inferno" by Dan Brown; and "A Hobbit Journey" by Matthew Dickerson, a great biblical exploration of the Lord of the Rings philosophy
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? King David, Moses, & J.R.R. Tolkien. David to see what a man after God's own heart would be like, Moses to find out what it was like to talk with God face to face, Tolkien because I greatly admire his talent and creativity and I'm a total nerd and would probably talk his ear off with questions!
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. Being single all of my adult life when I wanted to be otherwise. It doesn't sound like a big deal to most people, but for me it has been the most agonizing, incredible, life-changing, frustrating, mind-altering, amazing, heart journey of trust God has ever taken me on. I don't know how the story ends yet because the Lord is still bringing me through that particular trial! ;)
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Isaiah 54:10, "'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,' says the LORD, who has compassion on you." And "What we do in life, echoes....in eternity" -Maximus in "Gladiator".
7. How did you get connected with ISF? I used to work with the mobilization director at a PT clinic and saw how ISF handled an emergency on a mission trip she went on. I was impressed with their attention to detail and obviously with their vision. I decided I wanted to go on a mission trip with ISF because I'd always promised myself when I finished school I'd indulge my passion for travel. Why not combine it with helping others?
8. Where have you served with ISF? Greece, Thailand, Uganda, Senegal, Portugal, and Turkey.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? How do you choose???? There are so many!! But at the end of every trip comes that moment when you start eyeing the dimensions of your duffle bag to see how many of those adorable kids you can fit in there to bring back with you! Seeing God at work is always an incredible and humbling experience. It is even more humbling to realize He used YOU to do it....
Meet Spencer Balthaser
November 4, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born and raised in Georgia. I work at Delta TechOps as an aviation mechanic, currently going to school for my mechanics license. In our free time, Shannon (featured Sept. 23) and I enjoy riding the motorcycle and taking in the fresh air and scenery God has made. We are also involved with the high school youth group at our church teaching Sunday school to the 9th graders.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Topping the list would be beach volleyball; however, opportunities to play are rare here in Atlanta. A second, more practical favorite would be baseball (or softball).
3. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. God shows His presence in day-to-day life, but one of the biggest trials He has brought me through was a few years ago when my parents got a divorce. It was definitely not expected, but as soon as I found out it was happening, I felt God's comfort and strength throughout the entire situation. I could not help but see how He had prepared me for such an event. He showed me what to focus on and remember, allowing me to avoid becoming angry or distant from family. One major factor God used to help me through that time was bringing Shannon into my life, as we started dating very close to the time that my parents first separated. I could not have asked for a better person by my side to go with me through that situation.
4. How did you get connected with ISF? My connection with ISF started with Shannon. She went to Africa with the group and as we dated, I saw how important ISF was to her and the way it impacted her life. I helped with one of the training camps, but have not really done anything with ISF yet... Kilimanjaro will be my first trip. It still does not take much to see that this is a great organization with its focus right where it should be, and I am looking forward to being a part of its journey.
5. Where have you served with ISF? I have not currently served except for helping with a training camp, so Mt. Kilimanjaro will be an exciting first opportunity to serve with ISF.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born and raised in Georgia. I work at Delta TechOps as an aviation mechanic, currently going to school for my mechanics license. In our free time, Shannon (featured Sept. 23) and I enjoy riding the motorcycle and taking in the fresh air and scenery God has made. We are also involved with the high school youth group at our church teaching Sunday school to the 9th graders.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Topping the list would be beach volleyball; however, opportunities to play are rare here in Atlanta. A second, more practical favorite would be baseball (or softball).
3. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. God shows His presence in day-to-day life, but one of the biggest trials He has brought me through was a few years ago when my parents got a divorce. It was definitely not expected, but as soon as I found out it was happening, I felt God's comfort and strength throughout the entire situation. I could not help but see how He had prepared me for such an event. He showed me what to focus on and remember, allowing me to avoid becoming angry or distant from family. One major factor God used to help me through that time was bringing Shannon into my life, as we started dating very close to the time that my parents first separated. I could not have asked for a better person by my side to go with me through that situation.
4. How did you get connected with ISF? My connection with ISF started with Shannon. She went to Africa with the group and as we dated, I saw how important ISF was to her and the way it impacted her life. I helped with one of the training camps, but have not really done anything with ISF yet... Kilimanjaro will be my first trip. It still does not take much to see that this is a great organization with its focus right where it should be, and I am looking forward to being a part of its journey.
5. Where have you served with ISF? I have not currently served except for helping with a training camp, so Mt. Kilimanjaro will be an exciting first opportunity to serve with ISF.
Meet Cindy Bennett
October 28, 2013
1. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Baseball or Softball.
2. What books are you reading right now? Right now, I am not reading any particular book outside of the bible.
3. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Jesus, because HE is the only one we are ever to Glorify here on this earth.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I have had many trials and hardships in my life and cannot pinpoint one as being the biggest. I can say that walking through the major ones were opportunities for me to humble myself and get face down before the Lord. All of the hardships have drawn me closer to the Lord because HE is the only one that can repair, rejuvenate, restore and revive.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Mark 11:24 "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe you have received it, and it will be yours." (God sees our hearts and knows when we are asking with a pure heart.)
6. How did you get connected with ISF? ISF has been affiliated with Wildwood for many years through Cheryl. A couple of years ago I asked Cheryl if I could get with her to talk about my love for missions. We met for lunch and God continues to lead, guide and direct me in HIS path for me through ISF and missions.
7. Where have you served with ISF? I have been a part of two training camps that ISF has each summer for the teams going out. I am now serving as an administrative assistant in the office and I look forward to being a servant to help raise funding for ISF through Climb 20.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? My greatest memory with ISF has been seeing the excitement of those at triaining camp that are getting ready to go out and serve. I love seeing the hearts of those He has chosen to go out to do His work.
1. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Baseball or Softball.
2. What books are you reading right now? Right now, I am not reading any particular book outside of the bible.
3. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Jesus, because HE is the only one we are ever to Glorify here on this earth.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I have had many trials and hardships in my life and cannot pinpoint one as being the biggest. I can say that walking through the major ones were opportunities for me to humble myself and get face down before the Lord. All of the hardships have drawn me closer to the Lord because HE is the only one that can repair, rejuvenate, restore and revive.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Mark 11:24 "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe you have received it, and it will be yours." (God sees our hearts and knows when we are asking with a pure heart.)
6. How did you get connected with ISF? ISF has been affiliated with Wildwood for many years through Cheryl. A couple of years ago I asked Cheryl if I could get with her to talk about my love for missions. We met for lunch and God continues to lead, guide and direct me in HIS path for me through ISF and missions.
7. Where have you served with ISF? I have been a part of two training camps that ISF has each summer for the teams going out. I am now serving as an administrative assistant in the office and I look forward to being a servant to help raise funding for ISF through Climb 20.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? My greatest memory with ISF has been seeing the excitement of those at triaining camp that are getting ready to go out and serve. I love seeing the hearts of those He has chosen to go out to do His work.
Meet Kathy Smith
October 21, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I'm from Gray, GA, but moved to Knoxville, TN about 20 years ago. Currently I teach third grade at a public school in Knoxville.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I love just about any sport, basketball, softball, golf, tennis, you name it.
3. What books are you reading right now? I just got finished with Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, the story of Louis Zamperini. It tells of his running career, his participation in World War II as an airman, his survival on a raft after his aircraft crashed, then his survival as a POW. An amazing journey of a man with an ending that is truly amazing.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I had the opportunity as a youth to hear Joni Eareckson Tada at a conference. Since then I've read most of her writings from autobiography to devotionals. Being a quadriplegic and able to accomplish so much with an amazing faith is just inspiring.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I think that one of the biggest things that I've had to struggle with was a change in occupation several years ago. I wasn't sure what God had in store for me, and a big change in life is always hard. Going through that, I just tried to remember other times in my life when I knew/felt God's presence and reassurance that He would take care of me.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Psalm 139 is one of my favorite passages. It reminds me that I am a creation of God, and he knows every little detail about me.
7. How did you get connected with ISF? Cheryl and I went to Southwestern Seminary together and actually played softball together. I got reconnected with her because of my friendship with Jessica. Jessica and I worked together for several years with Infinity Sports.
8. Where have you served with ISF? I've been the projector coordinator for two basketball camp trips to Bovec, Slovenia.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? There have been many memories and friendships because of these trips. The relationships that have been formed with Boris (the Tolmin basketball coordinator) and his family, as well as some of the basketball players that have been at camp, are laying the foundation and trust for the opportunity to share Christ. This past plane trip to Slovenia led to a conversation about Christ with my seat buddy. He had lots of questions about how to know you have a relationship with Christ. I pray that I was able to share from my experience about Christ and lead him to other places that he can find answers to his questions.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I'm from Gray, GA, but moved to Knoxville, TN about 20 years ago. Currently I teach third grade at a public school in Knoxville.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I love just about any sport, basketball, softball, golf, tennis, you name it.
3. What books are you reading right now? I just got finished with Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand, the story of Louis Zamperini. It tells of his running career, his participation in World War II as an airman, his survival on a raft after his aircraft crashed, then his survival as a POW. An amazing journey of a man with an ending that is truly amazing.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I had the opportunity as a youth to hear Joni Eareckson Tada at a conference. Since then I've read most of her writings from autobiography to devotionals. Being a quadriplegic and able to accomplish so much with an amazing faith is just inspiring.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. I think that one of the biggest things that I've had to struggle with was a change in occupation several years ago. I wasn't sure what God had in store for me, and a big change in life is always hard. Going through that, I just tried to remember other times in my life when I knew/felt God's presence and reassurance that He would take care of me.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Psalm 139 is one of my favorite passages. It reminds me that I am a creation of God, and he knows every little detail about me.
7. How did you get connected with ISF? Cheryl and I went to Southwestern Seminary together and actually played softball together. I got reconnected with her because of my friendship with Jessica. Jessica and I worked together for several years with Infinity Sports.
8. Where have you served with ISF? I've been the projector coordinator for two basketball camp trips to Bovec, Slovenia.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? There have been many memories and friendships because of these trips. The relationships that have been formed with Boris (the Tolmin basketball coordinator) and his family, as well as some of the basketball players that have been at camp, are laying the foundation and trust for the opportunity to share Christ. This past plane trip to Slovenia led to a conversation about Christ with my seat buddy. He had lots of questions about how to know you have a relationship with Christ. I pray that I was able to share from my experience about Christ and lead him to other places that he can find answers to his questions.
Meet Andi Swan
October 14, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am from Woodstock, GA and work as a Major Gift Officer for the American Red Cross. (I raise money to support the Red Cross's mission.)
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I am not a competitive athlete, but I love anything outdoors: hiking, running, biking, swimming and rock climbing. It's not a sport, but currently, I am ADDICTED to SCUBA diving.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am from Woodstock, GA and work as a Major Gift Officer for the American Red Cross. (I raise money to support the Red Cross's mission.)
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I am not a competitive athlete, but I love anything outdoors: hiking, running, biking, swimming and rock climbing. It's not a sport, but currently, I am ADDICTED to SCUBA diving.
3. What books are you reading right now? The Bible.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Beth Moore. At every milestone and trial in my life, I was completing a Bible study that she has written. I would love to meet her and let her know how much the Lord has used her to walk me through some of the darkest valleys and deepest leaps of faith.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. My mother was diagnosed with Type B cell Lymphoma when I was a sophomore in college. She fought that cancer for 2 1/2 years, and then went home to be with the Lord in April 2003. It is a very difficult thing to understand and process. A girl needs her mother, wants her Mom to see the BIG decisions in life and be proud of the life that she's chosen. I was broken hearted at her struggle and her pain, but through much study and prayer, the Lord showed me that my Mom was ultimately His child, and He knew what was best for her. He also assured me that because she remained faithful and patient throughout her entire struggle, great was her reward in the kingdom of heaven.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." And 1 Peter 2:9-10 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."
7. How did you get connected with ISF? I attended Wildwood Baptist Church for most of my life. I heard Cheryl share her story one Sunday morning and had to introduce myself (Cheryl and my Mom had the same type of cancer). I got to know Cheryl and went on my first trip with ISF in October 2009.
8. Where have you served with ISF? I was an ISF staff member from August 2010 to August 2011, and have served on teams to Kenya and Senegal.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Our first day of clinic in Kenya. We had set up in a school building with a dirt floor and holes in the walls for windows (pictured right). A mom brought her 8 or 9 year-old daughter in for us to examine an area of her leg that was swollen. At first, I just thought she had a bad cut and started to clean her wound, but something in the wound kept snagging the cloth I was using to disinfect the cut. I called one of our nurses, Kara, over to get a second look. She applied pressure and the wound started to drain...a LOT! There was a very hard knot in the center of the cut and Kara said we probably needed to open the wound more to get a better look. The main physician, Dr. Mark, had a free moment, so he came over and examined the girl's leg. He asked for a surgical kit, numbed her leg a little and made an incision right over the knot. He applied a little pressure and out shot something! It was a huge thorn that was lodged in the girl's leg! She didn't even know it was there! Dr. Mark said if we had let her go and hadn't noticed the thorn, the girl would've lost her leg, maybe even her life. Life made.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Beth Moore. At every milestone and trial in my life, I was completing a Bible study that she has written. I would love to meet her and let her know how much the Lord has used her to walk me through some of the darkest valleys and deepest leaps of faith.
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. My mother was diagnosed with Type B cell Lymphoma when I was a sophomore in college. She fought that cancer for 2 1/2 years, and then went home to be with the Lord in April 2003. It is a very difficult thing to understand and process. A girl needs her mother, wants her Mom to see the BIG decisions in life and be proud of the life that she's chosen. I was broken hearted at her struggle and her pain, but through much study and prayer, the Lord showed me that my Mom was ultimately His child, and He knew what was best for her. He also assured me that because she remained faithful and patient throughout her entire struggle, great was her reward in the kingdom of heaven.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." And 1 Peter 2:9-10 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."
7. How did you get connected with ISF? I attended Wildwood Baptist Church for most of my life. I heard Cheryl share her story one Sunday morning and had to introduce myself (Cheryl and my Mom had the same type of cancer). I got to know Cheryl and went on my first trip with ISF in October 2009.
8. Where have you served with ISF? I was an ISF staff member from August 2010 to August 2011, and have served on teams to Kenya and Senegal.
9. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Our first day of clinic in Kenya. We had set up in a school building with a dirt floor and holes in the walls for windows (pictured right). A mom brought her 8 or 9 year-old daughter in for us to examine an area of her leg that was swollen. At first, I just thought she had a bad cut and started to clean her wound, but something in the wound kept snagging the cloth I was using to disinfect the cut. I called one of our nurses, Kara, over to get a second look. She applied pressure and the wound started to drain...a LOT! There was a very hard knot in the center of the cut and Kara said we probably needed to open the wound more to get a better look. The main physician, Dr. Mark, had a free moment, so he came over and examined the girl's leg. He asked for a surgical kit, numbed her leg a little and made an incision right over the knot. He applied a little pressure and out shot something! It was a huge thorn that was lodged in the girl's leg! She didn't even know it was there! Dr. Mark said if we had let her go and hadn't noticed the thorn, the girl would've lost her leg, maybe even her life. Life made.
Meet Ken Kilgore
October 7, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Ft. Lauderdale and raised in Tampa Fl. Today, I am a Chiropractor, blessed with the opportunity to share with people daily about the greatest creation ever! (The human body)
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? In the past I played baseball and softball. Currently, I enjoy mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing.
3. What books are you reading right now? It is football season for our son, so there isn't much time to read at the moment, but the last book I read was "Destined to Reign" by Joseph Prince. And, of course, the Bible.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. When our daughter was born prematurely. The Doctor came out one night when I thought I was by myself and said, "Mr. Kilgore, you don't need to be concerned with your daughter (who needs a blood transfusion in the morning), you need to worry about your wife. We aren't sure she will make it through the night." I lifted my head to God and asked Him to take away the challenges for my daughter and wife, and to remove any phobic thoughts I had about blood transfusions. He responded with a scriptural YES and AMEN. Today I walk with my wife of 17+ years and together we empower our daughter and two sons with the victorious power and truth of God's word.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? I reference a few regularly, especially with kids, like Phillipians 4:13 or Romans 8:37. However, I believe it's more about how we view ourselves based on the truth of God's word that is the key. That is why the statement "We fight FROM victory, not FOR victory" is a great foundation to build on.
6. How did you get connected with ISF? My wife Cari has been friends with Cheryl for years. I also provide Chiropractic care for several of the ISF staff.
7. Where have you served with ISF? This will be my first trip with ISF, we will see where things go from there.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Ft. Lauderdale and raised in Tampa Fl. Today, I am a Chiropractor, blessed with the opportunity to share with people daily about the greatest creation ever! (The human body)
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? In the past I played baseball and softball. Currently, I enjoy mountain biking, kayaking and canoeing.
3. What books are you reading right now? It is football season for our son, so there isn't much time to read at the moment, but the last book I read was "Destined to Reign" by Joseph Prince. And, of course, the Bible.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. When our daughter was born prematurely. The Doctor came out one night when I thought I was by myself and said, "Mr. Kilgore, you don't need to be concerned with your daughter (who needs a blood transfusion in the morning), you need to worry about your wife. We aren't sure she will make it through the night." I lifted my head to God and asked Him to take away the challenges for my daughter and wife, and to remove any phobic thoughts I had about blood transfusions. He responded with a scriptural YES and AMEN. Today I walk with my wife of 17+ years and together we empower our daughter and two sons with the victorious power and truth of God's word.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? I reference a few regularly, especially with kids, like Phillipians 4:13 or Romans 8:37. However, I believe it's more about how we view ourselves based on the truth of God's word that is the key. That is why the statement "We fight FROM victory, not FOR victory" is a great foundation to build on.
6. How did you get connected with ISF? My wife Cari has been friends with Cheryl for years. I also provide Chiropractic care for several of the ISF staff.
7. Where have you served with ISF? This will be my first trip with ISF, we will see where things go from there.
Meet Shannon Balthaser
September 23, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I grew up in East Point, GA, just south of Atlanta and now I live in Stockbridge, GA, which is about 30 minutes south of the Atlanta airport – I’m a country girl at heart, I had to get out of the city! I am a Physical Education teacher at Woodward Academy, College Park, GA.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Softball – I play on a recreation adult co-ed team. I love watching baseball and football though, I would play if I could!
3. What books are you reading right now? No current books, but I'm getting ready to start "Multiply" by Francis Chan and "When Worlds Collide" by Mike and Daniel Blackaby. I recently finished "Not A Fan" by Kyle Idleman.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. In college I faced a very difficult situation, and had become disconnected from God throughout that time. I guess you could call it a rebellious part of my life. I finally came to a breaking point where God made me realize that I could not do everything on my own and that I needed Him more than anything else in this world. I had become so consumed with the things of this world that I could not see anything else. I finally fell on my knees in my dorm room and cried out to Him for forgiveness and reconciliation. It was then that my life was refocused on my walk with Him, to strive to know Him more and believe that He will provide. I thought I had everything figured out, what I wanted to do with my life, where I was going to work, live, etc. But it was not until after this experience that I felt true freedom and God was able to work and move in my life like never before. I was removed from the equation and He was in charge of the whole thing. I cannot thank Him enough for the blessings He has given me. It is truly amazing what He can and will do if you just allow Him to work, and get yourself and your selfish desires out of the way.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Matthew 6:33-34 – It reminds me constantly that without Christ I am nothing, and that I must first seek Him and Him alone. I am always worrying about what is going to happen next, and these verses help remind me that it’s not worth it to worry, nor is it necessary. God has it all under control and who am I to worry about what God has already taken care of and has His hands all over?
6. How did you get connected with ISF? I filled out an informational card about missions at the Passion Conference in Atlanta in 2010. I was then put in touch with ISF through them because I was interested in sports missions. Then Jessica called me to talk about different opportunities over the summer and the rest was history.
7. Where have you served with ISF? I went on a summer mission trip to Kenya in 2011 to the Tumaini Miles of Smiles Orphanage. We did a week long VBS and Sports Camp for the school and orphanage. I have also volunteered and helped with several Training Camps, which help prepare the teams of volunteers for their trips overseas.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Helping with a training camp this past summer and the previous summer as well. This summer I was fortunate enough to lead the spiritual formation time on Red Top Mountain one morning. I am typically the person behind the scenes and work best when helping organize and set up/take down things. However, this experience stretched me and took me out of my comfort zone.
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I grew up in East Point, GA, just south of Atlanta and now I live in Stockbridge, GA, which is about 30 minutes south of the Atlanta airport – I’m a country girl at heart, I had to get out of the city! I am a Physical Education teacher at Woodward Academy, College Park, GA.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Softball – I play on a recreation adult co-ed team. I love watching baseball and football though, I would play if I could!
3. What books are you reading right now? No current books, but I'm getting ready to start "Multiply" by Francis Chan and "When Worlds Collide" by Mike and Daniel Blackaby. I recently finished "Not A Fan" by Kyle Idleman.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. In college I faced a very difficult situation, and had become disconnected from God throughout that time. I guess you could call it a rebellious part of my life. I finally came to a breaking point where God made me realize that I could not do everything on my own and that I needed Him more than anything else in this world. I had become so consumed with the things of this world that I could not see anything else. I finally fell on my knees in my dorm room and cried out to Him for forgiveness and reconciliation. It was then that my life was refocused on my walk with Him, to strive to know Him more and believe that He will provide. I thought I had everything figured out, what I wanted to do with my life, where I was going to work, live, etc. But it was not until after this experience that I felt true freedom and God was able to work and move in my life like never before. I was removed from the equation and He was in charge of the whole thing. I cannot thank Him enough for the blessings He has given me. It is truly amazing what He can and will do if you just allow Him to work, and get yourself and your selfish desires out of the way.
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Matthew 6:33-34 – It reminds me constantly that without Christ I am nothing, and that I must first seek Him and Him alone. I am always worrying about what is going to happen next, and these verses help remind me that it’s not worth it to worry, nor is it necessary. God has it all under control and who am I to worry about what God has already taken care of and has His hands all over?
6. How did you get connected with ISF? I filled out an informational card about missions at the Passion Conference in Atlanta in 2010. I was then put in touch with ISF through them because I was interested in sports missions. Then Jessica called me to talk about different opportunities over the summer and the rest was history.
7. Where have you served with ISF? I went on a summer mission trip to Kenya in 2011 to the Tumaini Miles of Smiles Orphanage. We did a week long VBS and Sports Camp for the school and orphanage. I have also volunteered and helped with several Training Camps, which help prepare the teams of volunteers for their trips overseas.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Helping with a training camp this past summer and the previous summer as well. This summer I was fortunate enough to lead the spiritual formation time on Red Top Mountain one morning. I am typically the person behind the scenes and work best when helping organize and set up/take down things. However, this experience stretched me and took me out of my comfort zone.
Meet Bryan Swan
September 9, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Miami, FL; grew up in Cobb County, GA. I moved away for about two years while serving in the military from 2004 to 2006, then lived overseas for a little over five years doing private military and security contracting work. I now live in Cherokee County, GA with my wife and work as a Firefighter/A-EMT.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, water/snow skiing, jet skiing, and motorcycle racing.
3. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I'm a huge gear head so I'd love to hang out with car designer Chip Foose. I've actually met him once already, but that was just at a car show to get his autograph. I'd like to sit down and talk with him and turn some wrenches with him.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. It's kind of a long story...so here's the short: After numerous near death experiences in Iraq and the Middle East I realized that God put me on this Earth for a reason. I needed to stop living for me and start living for Him!!
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle"
6. How did you get connected with ISF? My then girlfriend, now wife, used to work for ISF...now I am Cheryl's "protective Ninja little brother." (Cheryl's words)
7. Where have you served with ISF? I went on a medical mission trip to Dakar, Senegal.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Serving as an Emergency Medical Technician on a medical mission trip in Dakar, Senegal. It had been two years since I last started an IV, my first patient was a 10 year old boy with a serious case of cerebral malaria. Dr. Mark told me to start a line and gave me the drugs to push. Knowing he needed fluids and medication as soon as possible to get his fever down, I said a little prayer that I would get a successful IV on the first attempt. Well, God answered my prayer because the boy went from vomiting and not being able to stand on his own or even speak, to six hours later, walking out of our clinic under his own free will!!
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Miami, FL; grew up in Cobb County, GA. I moved away for about two years while serving in the military from 2004 to 2006, then lived overseas for a little over five years doing private military and security contracting work. I now live in Cherokee County, GA with my wife and work as a Firefighter/A-EMT.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, water/snow skiing, jet skiing, and motorcycle racing.
3. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I'm a huge gear head so I'd love to hang out with car designer Chip Foose. I've actually met him once already, but that was just at a car show to get his autograph. I'd like to sit down and talk with him and turn some wrenches with him.
4. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. It's kind of a long story...so here's the short: After numerous near death experiences in Iraq and the Middle East I realized that God put me on this Earth for a reason. I needed to stop living for me and start living for Him!!
5. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle"
6. How did you get connected with ISF? My then girlfriend, now wife, used to work for ISF...now I am Cheryl's "protective Ninja little brother." (Cheryl's words)
7. Where have you served with ISF? I went on a medical mission trip to Dakar, Senegal.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Serving as an Emergency Medical Technician on a medical mission trip in Dakar, Senegal. It had been two years since I last started an IV, my first patient was a 10 year old boy with a serious case of cerebral malaria. Dr. Mark told me to start a line and gave me the drugs to push. Knowing he needed fluids and medication as soon as possible to get his fever down, I said a little prayer that I would get a successful IV on the first attempt. Well, God answered my prayer because the boy went from vomiting and not being able to stand on his own or even speak, to six hours later, walking out of our clinic under his own free will!!
Meet Brian Shedd
September 2, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Hollywood, FL but raised in Woodstock, Ga. I worked marketing for the largest Coconut Water company in the US, but it recently got bought out so I'm now in between jobs.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I really like playing volleyball and baseball. My favorite would have to be paintball though!
3. What books are you reading right now? Right now I'm reading Tilting the Balance by Harry Turtledove. Turtledove writes a lot about alternate history and I love history.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I would want to meet Nikolai Tesla, talk to him about how different things might be, had he won the "War of the Currents."
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. A number of years ago I was involved in the wrong group of friends and heading down a very dangerous road (which, I believe, would have led to suicide). I joined Men's Fraternity at Wildwood Baptist Church (Acworth, GA) because I knew I had to surround myself with Godly men instead of my old friends. With help from the group, I was able to develop a Plan and leave those bad influences behind for good.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? 1 Corinthians 10:31 "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God." I have this verse plastered everywhere. it reminds me to be a man of God, making sure that wherever I go, whatever I do, it's to further His Kingdom.
7. How did you get connected with ISF? I grew up going to Wildwood, so I heard a lot about ISF and what they did. I've also had a few friends who have interned with ISF.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? All I have so far are of training treks, but I know I'm going to create plenty of memories in the near future!
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I was born in Hollywood, FL but raised in Woodstock, Ga. I worked marketing for the largest Coconut Water company in the US, but it recently got bought out so I'm now in between jobs.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I really like playing volleyball and baseball. My favorite would have to be paintball though!
3. What books are you reading right now? Right now I'm reading Tilting the Balance by Harry Turtledove. Turtledove writes a lot about alternate history and I love history.
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? I would want to meet Nikolai Tesla, talk to him about how different things might be, had he won the "War of the Currents."
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. A number of years ago I was involved in the wrong group of friends and heading down a very dangerous road (which, I believe, would have led to suicide). I joined Men's Fraternity at Wildwood Baptist Church (Acworth, GA) because I knew I had to surround myself with Godly men instead of my old friends. With help from the group, I was able to develop a Plan and leave those bad influences behind for good.
6. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? 1 Corinthians 10:31 "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God." I have this verse plastered everywhere. it reminds me to be a man of God, making sure that wherever I go, whatever I do, it's to further His Kingdom.
7. How did you get connected with ISF? I grew up going to Wildwood, so I heard a lot about ISF and what they did. I've also had a few friends who have interned with ISF.
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? All I have so far are of training treks, but I know I'm going to create plenty of memories in the near future!
Meet Valina Ramsey
August 26, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am from Sevierville, TN & I currently am an Emergency Medical Technician(EMT) with Puckett EMS in Austell, GA!
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Top 4 would be soccer, softball, basketball, & flag football!
3. What books are you reading right now? Intro to Microbiology
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Hello....no question...DOLLY PARTON! :) She is from my hometown of Sevierville, TN. I have watched her give back to our community in so many different ways. The most inspirational thing I have had the privilege of sharing with my little brother & sister was Dolly's Imagination Station. This came to fruition because Parton's own father & mother could not read. Dolly believed that everyone should be able to read & use their imagination. So, every child that is born in Sevier County, TN receives an age appropriate book every month until they start kindergarden. Umm, how cool is that? :)
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. Biggest would have to be the unhealthy relationship I was in for almost 5yrs. Between being abusive, controlling & everything in between, I was unable to live the life God wanted me too. God used this situation to bring me to a place of brokenness, where I could finally listen to Him with obedience & surrender - a place I so often avoided. After exclaiming that my life was fully His, He began to heal my heart back to what He wanted: one that beat for missions. Specifically, somewhere in Africa. Long story short, windows/doors/toliets/roofs/cans, anything that can open, God opened. This path lead me to ISF and my first trip to Kenya in 2007.
6. How did you get connected with ISF? Searching the web, I found a banner with their name on it while looking at the IMB website. I signed up to receive their email notifications.
7. Where have you served with ISF? Kenya twice in 2007, Uganda in 2008, Senegal in 2010, Belize in 2011 as part of a Vision Trip, and Alaska in 20121
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Meeting my little boy that I have now sponsored for 6 years in Kenya, TYSON WANJA! We were playing soccer with the kids at Tumaini & I was playing goalie. This little boy, that stood barely above my waist, came dribbling towards me. I was going to pretend to take the ball from him, but little to my surprise, he straight up did some fancy foot work around me & scored a goal. I turn around to hear a deep voice say, "Teacha...I scored on you!" and he begins to giggle! :)
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I am from Sevierville, TN & I currently am an Emergency Medical Technician(EMT) with Puckett EMS in Austell, GA!
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? Top 4 would be soccer, softball, basketball, & flag football!
3. What books are you reading right now? Intro to Microbiology
4. If you could meet anyone, past or present, who would you want to meet and why? Hello....no question...DOLLY PARTON! :) She is from my hometown of Sevierville, TN. I have watched her give back to our community in so many different ways. The most inspirational thing I have had the privilege of sharing with my little brother & sister was Dolly's Imagination Station. This came to fruition because Parton's own father & mother could not read. Dolly believed that everyone should be able to read & use their imagination. So, every child that is born in Sevier County, TN receives an age appropriate book every month until they start kindergarden. Umm, how cool is that? :)
5. Tell us about the biggest trial/hardship you have faced and how the Lord brought you through. Biggest would have to be the unhealthy relationship I was in for almost 5yrs. Between being abusive, controlling & everything in between, I was unable to live the life God wanted me too. God used this situation to bring me to a place of brokenness, where I could finally listen to Him with obedience & surrender - a place I so often avoided. After exclaiming that my life was fully His, He began to heal my heart back to what He wanted: one that beat for missions. Specifically, somewhere in Africa. Long story short, windows/doors/toliets/roofs/cans, anything that can open, God opened. This path lead me to ISF and my first trip to Kenya in 2007.
6. How did you get connected with ISF? Searching the web, I found a banner with their name on it while looking at the IMB website. I signed up to receive their email notifications.
7. Where have you served with ISF? Kenya twice in 2007, Uganda in 2008, Senegal in 2010, Belize in 2011 as part of a Vision Trip, and Alaska in 20121
8. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? Meeting my little boy that I have now sponsored for 6 years in Kenya, TYSON WANJA! We were playing soccer with the kids at Tumaini & I was playing goalie. This little boy, that stood barely above my waist, came dribbling towards me. I was going to pretend to take the ball from him, but little to my surprise, he straight up did some fancy foot work around me & scored a goal. I turn around to hear a deep voice say, "Teacha...I scored on you!" and he begins to giggle! :)
meet jessica lenderman
August 19, 2013
1. Where are you from and what do you do? I'm originally from southern California, but currently live in Acworth, GA and serve as the Director of Mobilization for ISF.
2. What are your favorite sports to participate in? I'm usually up for anything active, but basketball and softball are my favorites.
3. What books are you reading right now? "The Explicit Gospel" by Matt Chandler, "The Innocent" by David Baldacci, and a stack of books for seminary classes.
4. Do you have a "life verse" or saying? If you could see my office, you would quickly realize that there's not just one! Currently, Matthew 24:14 is a favorite because it reminds me that we need to continue to take the Gospel to the nations.
5. How did you get connected with ISF? Actually, I found ISF through a google search and approached them about joining the full-time staff in 2010.
6. Where have you served with ISF? Slovenia (2x), Portugal (2x), Haiti
7. What is your greatest memory during your experience(s) with ISF? I love getting to work with ISF every day - I really do have the best job ever! One of my favorite memories is from the Haiti project. On Tuesday andThursday the local older kids (10-16 years old) were invited to the mission building for a meal, tutoring time, game time and a devotion. I had the opportunity on Tuesday to teach these 30 kids the games “Gorilla, Man, Gun” and “4 Corners.” There’s always a little adaptation necessary when overseas, but the kids loved the games. Then on Thursday we tried the “Human Knot” activity, and then let them play “Gorilla, Man, Gun” again. It was awesome to see the smiles on the kids faces as they just enjoyed being kids and having some fun. As we were getting ready to finish the game time on Thursday, and with only two more rounds till we had a winner for “Gorilla, Man Gun,” one of the missionaries stopped the game and the interpreter started giving directions. All the missionary told me was that we were going to let everyone play one more time, and then we would go inside for the devotion. I remember thinking that the interpreter was taking a really long time to give the simple directions of re-starting the game, but since I had no idea what he was saying, I just waited till he was done. Finally the kids were all set, so I started the countdown. As soon as I said, “Go!” instead of turning to their partner, all the kids rushed me in a big mob hug! Definitely one of my favorite memories with ISF!