Imelda’s Story of New Faith and Purpose
A yearning in her heart…
Working as a physical therapist at a rehab center in Ciudad de México, Imelda spent her days helping people recover from physical injuries and navigate life with disability. But she longed for a deeper sense of connection and purpose.
When one of her patients handed her a copy of Joni Eareckson Tada’s autobiography, Imelda couldn’t imagine the transformation God had in mind for her life.
While Imelda wasn’t a Christian at the time, Joni’s story of courage and faith in Jesus amid unimaginable challenges made a lasting impression on her heart. As Imelda shares:
“Reading Joni’s book helped bring light and hope to my life and to the people around me, such as my patients. I encourage them by telling them that Joni was in depression and that when she began reading the Bible again, she found great comfort in the book of Isaiah. I also share that I personally like Isaiah 41:10 because God promises to be with me—and with them—during difficult times.”
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Years passed and the seeds planted by Joni’s story flourished, leading Imelda to accept Jesus as her Savior. As a new believer she started attending church where she learned about an upcoming Joni and Friends Wheels for the World™ outreach in Mexico.
Stepping Out to Serve
Answering a deep sense of call God put on her heart, Imelda came to serve as a volunteer with our Wheels for the World program and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of faith in action. Seeing how the hands-on love of Jesus brings hope and dignity to people with disabilities, Imelda made a decision to step deeper into disability ministry.
In 2024, Imelda traveled to El Salvador to receive training in wheelchair fitting and adaptation, equipping her with knowledge and capacity to help even more people with disabilities. Upon returning to Mexico, she enthusiastically shared what she had learned with other therapists.
In addition to serving with Wheels for the World, Imelda has leaned into disability ministry through Joni and Friends International Family Retreat, providing spiritual support, true belonging, and biblical encouragement to families living with disability.
Today Imelda enjoys a deep sense of purpose in Christ as she uses her skills as a therapist—and heart for Jesus!—to make a profound and lasting impact in the lives of the people she serves.
You can make a difference like Imelda!
Whether you are physical therapist, a mechanic, a prayer warrior, or simply a loving and willing listener, God will work through you in powerful ways when you step out in faith to serve.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
1 Peter 4:10
Volunteer with Joni and Friends!
Discover deeper purpose in your life as you bring hands-on help and Gospel hope to people with disabilities, at home and around the world!
