Enduring It Well takes a deeper look at some of life's real challenges and features real people who have endured or are enduring trials well.

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Enduring it Well

The Rains Descended

In this first episode of Enduring It Well, “The Rains Descended,” we are introduced to the show and its host, W. A. Christensen.Rather than dwell on things they could not do, the Christensens have always emphasized the things their children can do. When we come back from this break, Bill will tell us how, despite their challenges, each of their children excelled in areas of interest - as singers, artists, creative writers, and lovers of life. What can we learn from our trials? Bill will tell how the family found strength in the restored gospel -has a particular love for the Savior's great plan of happiness, and finds GREAT comfort in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Join us after the break for more of this inaugural edition of the Mormon Channel’s new program, Enduring It Well with host W. A. Christensen.

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Life's Final Moments

Steve and Earlene Blaser are the parents of eight children.  Brady, their fourth child, was born with muscular dystrophy. He passed away in 2002.  He lived a lifetime of challenges that forged a bond within the family and sustained them in their time of greatest need…Brady’s final moments.  In this episode of Enduring it Well we hear how the gospel of Jesus Christ helped Earlene, Steve, and their children through those slow-motion minutes as Brady finished his earthly journey and began his steps into the eternities.  Host W. A. Christensen talks with the Blasers about their emotions, feelings, heartache, and hope experienced at the death of their loved one.

Fighting Fear with Faith

What is fear? What is its purpose?  
In the early morning hours of June 5, 2002, Ed and Lois Smart of Salt Lake City, Utah, were awakened when their 9-year-old daughter ran in to the bedroom with the news no parent ever wants to hear:  their 14-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, had been abducted from the home. In the minutes, hours, weeks, and months that followed, the Smarts were surrounded by fear. Yet they trusted in a feeling of faith that ultimately prevailed!  In this episode, host W. A. Christensen interviews Ed and Lois about what got them through and how the gospel of Jesus Christ strengthened them during that time in their lives.

Finding Purpose When Purpose Has Changed - Suzi Bullock

In this episode of Enduring It Well, Suzi Bullock discusses the joys and challenges of raising a family. Dave and Suzi Bullock have four children, each with varying degrees of health. Mckenzie is their oldest and healthiest daughter. Jake suffers from Primary Immune Deficiency, Sydney struggles with hereditary issues, and young Bailey had cystic fibrosis and a severe case of meningitis. This eventually lead to her death at the tender age of five. The hardship and heartache of dealing with such difficult situations does not hinder the Bullocks from serving the Lord and trusting in His love. Even through sadness and pain, the parents focus their love on their children through wholesome activities, the gospel, and music… ultimately finding purpose when purpose has changed.

Forgiveness Brings Peace

The wrong choices of one changed the lives of many one snowy winter’s morning. Young husband and father
Jordan Rasmussen, an accountant for a popular canyon restaurant near Salt Lake City, was meeting to discuss
some inconsistencies he had discovered in the bank accounts with the manager. Jordan’s discovery resulted in
the young LDS father being brutally murdered by the manager. Hear how widow DeAnn Rasmussen Kilgore
raised her children without their father and what she did to lessen the impact of bitterness and revenge by learning
the value of forgiveness. Jordan’s sister Diane tells the struggles the family had with her brother’s tragic murder
and how they eventually found peace and were able to forgive. Chad visited his father’s killer in prison before he
left on his mission, forgiving the man. Hear how that meeting resulted in a touching story of restitution. Today’s
story of forgiveness, including Chad’s meeting and the resulting restitution, is an inspiration to anyone needing,
seeking, or giving forgiveness.

Out of the Blue

Learning how one deals with hard situations that come “out of the blue” can be faith-inspiring. In this episode, Catherine Herrod shares her trial of dealing with the death of her spouse. The young family was involved in a tragic semi-truck accident. Kimball, her spouse, did not survive. Left as a 28-year-old widow to raise four children, Catherine opted not to give up. She now moves forward in faith, service, and love in the memory of her husband. Her testimony of Jesus Christ offers a healing influence which helps her look forward to being with her spouse again in the eternities.

One Step at a Time (Dr. Dale Hull)

How can hardship lead to peace, contentment and appreciation for life? Dr. Dale Hull knows.  He experienced a spinal cord injury because of a trampoline accident in 1999, which left him a quadriplegic. After two and a half years of intense therapy, Dr. Hull walked the Olympic Torch during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. He formed the Hull Foundation in November of 2003 to help others with spinal cord injuries. Experiencing a life-changing event has given Dr. Hull a greater awareness of his blessings.  He can see the hand of the Lord in his, and all of our lives.

Triumph over Pain - Carolyn Miller

Pain is an inevitable and integral part of human existence. Although it is hard, it teaches us how to love and appreciate what we have in our lives. In this episode of Enduring It Well, host W. A. Christensen speaks with Carolyn Miller about a debilitating disorder and about never giving up. She attributes her success to the scriptures, the love and support of her husband, Lynn, and the gospel of Jesus Christ, which ultimately taught her to have faith and to be always grateful.

Beauty’s True Depth - Meg Johnson

Meg Johnson was a beautiful young dancer who had her career and whole life ahead of her. She went hiking one day in the beautiful red rocks of Southern Utah. Meg and her friends were jumping from large boulder to large boulder when Meg’s vision was impaired by the evening sun, just as she jumped. She realized in the air that she had jumped off a 30-foot cliff! When she landed, her life changed forever. Her back was broken and she became a paraplegic. Since then she has organized the largest pageant in the United States -- the Miss Wheelchair Utah Pageant, which also includes a young girls competition called “Hot Wheels.” While naturally beautiful, Meg’s true inner beauty is her most attractive attribute. Join us as we look at "Beauty’s True Depth."

I Am Not Afraid - Jenny Wiscomb

In this episode of Enduring It Well, host W. A. Christensen speaks with Jenny Wiscomb on how adversity can change a life in an instant. They discuss how these moments, for better or for worse, ultimately shape our characters and our faith.  Jenny is a faithful Christian who has been married for 23 years and has two children. She has recently been diagnosed with a rare form of malignant cancer called Leiomyosarcoma. Treatment with chemotherapy was successful, but the cancer returned full force and became resistant and completely untreatable. In a heartbreaking moment, she and her family decide to allow the cancer to naturally run its course, which will result in her eventual death.  Although initially devastated by her diagnosis, Jenny continues to love and forgive others and enjoy what time she has left on Earth. She knows she will only be away temporarily from her husband and children. The gospel has shaped her into who she is, and physical death is but a gateway into much greater horizons.

We Travel Not Alone - Harold Wood

Harold Wood is an elderly member of the Church who lives alone in a small apartment. Having served faithfully in the temple for over 15 years, hear how Harold found peace in his life and a sure defense against loneliness “by serving with his friends in the House of the Lord.”

Diversity's Adversities - James Johnson

In this episode of Enduring It Well, host W. A. Christensen speaks with four teenagers and middle school instructor James Johnson on surviving and facilitating better school environments, dealing with prejudice and hate, and traversing through the adversities of adolescence. The students discuss how to avoid temptation and keep their thoughts, words, and actions pure in a world which encourages sin and rebellion. James further supplements the students’ comments by expounding on the merits of a proper learning environment and reducing ridicule in schools. By living the gospel and seeking good friends, we can lift ourselves high and receive strength to live a good life.

Jesus Christ Endured For Us - Dr. Andrew Skinner and Dr. Kevin Merkley

In this special Easter episode of Enduring It Well, host W.A. Christensen speaks with Theologian Dr. Andrew Skinner and Kevin Merkley, M.D. on the spiritual and physical ramifications of the atonement of Jesus Christ. The Savior was sent to Earth to be the ultimate sacrifice for every creature that ever lived or would live. The atonement not only covered the sins of mankind, but the sorrow, misery, and injustices as well. Christ bled from every pore on his body in the garden of Gethsemane and knows better than all what we endure in life. In his final moments, he suffered seven-inch spikes hammered through the nerves in his hands and feet on the cross. In the end, he descended below all things so that he could rise up as our perfect Savior.

That We May See - Macy Lewis

In this episode of “Enduring It Well,” host W.A. Christensen speaks with Macy Lewis about living and moving forward in a world she literally cannot see. Relying on her other senses to help her through the days has taught her humility and patience. She achieved a normal life with wholesome activities including song and dance, and was later crowned homecoming queen at her high school. Despite the odds stacked against her, she has persevered with unwavering faith in God and continues to live life to the fullest.

Remaining Steadfast in Strife - Werner Schmidt and Margot Sadowski

W.A. Christensen interviews Werner Schmidt and Margot Sadowski about remaining steadfast through extreme situations. As a young man, Werner was drafted into Hitler’s Army as Germany was losing World War II. Werner became a prisoner of war and was held in a camp in Great Britain until the war’s end. Margot Moeller Sadowski shares her vivid memories and recalls the devastation of the Allied bombing of Hamburg and the fear it created. She recalls a peace and serenity in her home.

Being The Good Samaritan - Bernson Family

Siblings Greg Bernson, Cappey Jones, and Stephanie Kirk have spent a lifetime organizing service—home makeovers, financial assistance, and other acts of service to those in need. During this episode of Enduring It Well, the Bernson siblings share ideas on how to “go and do likewise” as the Savior taught. We learn the importance of service by example, as they learned from their service-oriented parents. They teach us that giving service means giving of our time, resources, and love.

Liberty's Sacrifice - Amanda Blount

In this episode of Enduring It Well, Amanda Blount shares with host W. A. Christensen her story about losing her husband, Anthony, in Iraq. Amanda was 8 months pregnant with their daughter, Avery, when her husband was killed. Amanda teaches Avery about her father and knows that they will all be together again one day, and she bears strong testimony of the plan of salvation. This episode, “Liberty’s Sacrifice,” illustrates that the price of liberty is high for the loved ones of those lost during service. The servicemen and women, as well as their families, are all heroes.

Addictions Afflictions - Mike Bennett

In this episode of Enduring It Well, host W. A. Christensen interviews Mike Bennett about "Addictions' Afflictions." Mike is currently serving as a facilitator in the LDS Family Services Addiction Recovery Program. He himself has experienced the affliction of being addicted.  He discusses how yielding to the natural man affects our progression on the eternal path back to our Heavenly Father. Mike provides hope to those dealing with addiction.

Left Behind by Suicide - Crockett Family

In this episode of Enduring It Well, David and Jane Crockett, along with their daughter Amy Crockett Staley, discuss ways the gospel of Jesus Christ helps individuals and families who have been left behind by suicide. Their son and brother, Dave, battled clinical depression for most of his life and eventually took his own life in 2005. He was 25 years old. The Crocketts choose to focus on and remember the life that their son led, rather than focus on his death. Together, David and Jane Crockett served as program coordinators in the LDS Family Services' substance abuse program for over five years. The Crocketts are positive, upbeat examples of trusting in God's love for all His children.

Great View From Down Here - Jason Hokanson

Jason Hokanson, who is a paraplegic, tells his story of having his back broken in an auto accident at age 15 while his family was driving to Lake Powell. Now a husband, father, and professional wheelchair basketball player for the NBA Wheelin' Jazz, he has worked as a news producer in television. Jason's optimism touches all who know him.

Parenting the Parent

Kathy Madsen and Rosiland Hoggan speak to host W. A. Christensen about their experiences in caring for the elderly. The responsibility is challenging yet rewarding. Sample discussion topics include praying for guidance on important decisions, visiting the elderly in a rest home, maintaining dignity, dealing with falls and broken bones, overseeing and dispensing medication, and meeting spiritual needs. The guests share tips and tricks that they have learned through the years. They also share sweet testimonies of the privilege of being part of their loved ones' final years.

Be of Good Cheer

Jason Christensen, a 23-year-old returned missionary, suffers from chronic pain due to spine injury and progressive muscular dystrophy. He talks with his father, our host W. A. Christensen, on this episode of Enduring It Well. They discuss what pain really does to a person and how, even when the pain seems unbearable, you can keep your perspective positive.

Nursing the Will to Live

Joy Jacobsen has worked in Child Life at Primary Children's Medical Center (Salt Lake City) for 25 years and is our guest for "Nursing the Will to Live," this episode of Enduring It Well. She speaks with host W. A. Christensen about caring for a loved one and describes what non-trained parents, siblings, children, and friends can do to tend to the needs of someone in need physically.

Bear Their Infirmities

On this episode of Enduring It Well, Host W. A. Christensen speaks with guests Delayne and Brendon Dayton about Delayne's struggle with cancer and how that affects the entire family. They talk about our responsibilities as Church members to "bear one another's burdens, that they may be light" (Mosiah 18:8). Bearing one another's burdens is a key part of being true disciples of Jesus Christ.

Enduring to the Prolonged End

Lillie Woolsey, a 92-year-old widow, speaks with host W. A. Christensen first about her father, who was a miner. Just before she was born, there was a terrible coal mine disaster in Scofield, Utah, resulting in the deaths of over 200 miners. Lillie discusses the mood it created for decades to follow. She tells her story of endurance through this hardship as well as other family deaths and trials. Through it all she is positive, upbeat, and completely trusting in and grateful for the gospel plan.

Lifting One Another

Amy sat on her porch with a group of friends joking around. Accidentally, a gun was fired and the bullet struck Amy in the spine. At the hospital, Amy was told she would be paralyzed from the nose down. One day Matt Hansen was sent to the same hospital to receive some physical therapy for an arm injury he had. After his session, Matt would visit Amy in rehab. Soon a friendship was kindled that eventually resulted in a temple marriage. Today, Matt, a licensed physical therapist, continues to care for his wife, insisting that while he gives Amy much-needed care, she lifts him—and gives him strength.

When It Rains, It Pours

Belva Kent's life was rich, fulfilling, and good. On November 8, 1974, her 17-year-old daughter, Debi, was kidnapped. For 16 years little was known of her whereabouts, until serial killer Ted Bundy confessed to taking her. Ten years after Debi's disappearance, Belva's son Bill was killed in a car accident. In the wake of this second grief, Belva learned that she had a brain tumor and was also diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Her hardships continued but she believed strongly in the love that the Lord had for her.

Surviving the Broken Marriage

What if, despite your best efforts to save it, your marriage fails? In “Surviving the Broken Marriage,” host W. A. Christensen is joined by Alan Stoddard and Allyson and Mark Hanks to explore the process of finding happiness again after a broken marriage.

Derailed But Not Destroyed - Karin Crawford

In the summer of 1973, when guest Karin Crawford was 16 years old, her family was traveling back home from being on vacation. Their van stalled on train tracks just as a train came barreling towards them. Karin's parents and siblings all survived the accident. Karin expresses her gratitude for life and for her knowledge that all we have comes from the Lord.

Breaking Poverty's Grip - Amram Musungu

Host W. A. Christensen speaks with Amram Musungu on "Breaking Poverty's Grip," a discussion on the trials of poverty and financial crisis and Amram's remarkable rise out of mud-hut poverty in Kenya. He was the first branch president of the Salt Lake City Swahili Branch, and he helped in the translation of the Book of Mormon to Swahili. He was also one of the first translators of Swahili for general conference. He is a delightful, humble man with an ambitious future that will inspire all who listen.

Joseph Smith Perils Endured - Susan Easton Black

Susan Easton Black talks about Joseph Smith's life and the perils he endured -- from the leg operation when he was young to the culminating events of his martyrdom. Dr. Black shares important insights and bears her testimony about this special prophet.

Life's Fragile Free Fall

Dan Liljenquist shares his captivating story of the plane crash he survived while on a humanitarian mission to Guatemala three years ago.  Eleven of the fourteen passengers did not survive—including four who worked for Dan. He describes the crash in guarded detail with tearful impressions all along the way. It is a profound discussion on being prepared to die and living well in that preparation. His rescue and recovery tells of kind acts of service by rescue workers and others.

Sight Through An Eternal Lens - Richard Cowen

In this episode of Enduring It Well, "Sight through an Eternal Lens," Dr. Richard Cowen joins host W. A. Christensen to share his story of living life being blind. He bears testimony of using our challenges and weaknesses to overcome and grow. With a testimony of the gospel, he knows that one day he will be whole if he continues to have eternal vision.

Tragedy to Triumph - Vickie Walker

Host W. A. Christensen interviews Vickie Walker, who lost her husband in the tragedy at Trolley Square in Salt Lake City. She relates the story of that day and shares her sacred feelings about the Holy Ghost, who comforts her in her loss. Vickie knows that her family can be together again one day. She recognizes the triumph of our Savior, who makes this possible.

But a Small Moment - Kathryn England

Kathryn England joins host W.A. Christensen to share her story: Kathryn met Arthur and married in the Salt Lake Temple. They had two daughters. One day Arthur had an aneurysm and suddenly died. Kathryn next found that the two girls had a rare connective tissue disorder known as Marfan's Syndrome. Kathryn remarried and had another daughter. Two of her three daughters have passed away from medical conditions. Many are called to face multiple trials with seemingly no end in sight. Learn from Kathryn's hard-won perspective how our trials are for "but a small moment."

Trials Unseen - Susan Cook

Many trials are easily seen, but others are not. Silent afflictions can secretly drain the strength of a family member or friend. Susan Cook tells about her son's challenge of having Tourette's syndrome and fitting in at school. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ is a message of good news for everyone, no matter how visible or invisible their trials. Susan's story teaches that we must help those around us feel included and help them recognize their value as sons and daughters of a loving Heavenly Father.

In a Whirlwind - Creed Jones

May 22, 2011, began as a normal day in Joplin, Missouri, for Creed Jones and his family. They were headed home on a Sunday when they first noticed the ominous sky above. A tornado was on its way! Creed tells the story of that day and what the people of Joplin endured. He talks about finding peace after turmoil.

Fallen in Our Path - Rosana and Don Sorensen

The Sorensen family was enjoying a family picnic in a canyon campground when suddenly, for no apparent reason, a heavy oak fell, killing Grandma Mollie and six-year-old daughter Mollie instantly. Rosana and Don Sorensen talk about the event and finding reassurance that their family will be together again one day.

More Than Blues - Overcoming Depression - Amy Staley

We can all feel blue at times. But sometimes it can be more than that. Amy Staley has suffered from depression. Currently, Amy is the wife of a dentist, a member of the Tabernacle Choir, a busy mother of four, and a full-time student. She shares her thoughts about bringing light into her life and being able to continue on with the duties that life has for her, despite her challenge. Whether a genetic problem or a situational cause, depression does not have to remain part of life. The gospel of Jesus Christ offers hope and healing.

Love One Another - Jon and Kathy Parker

Johnny Parker was born with physical deformities. As he grew up, he was singled out and teased because of his differences. . Johnny passed away. His parents Kathy and John Parker discuss Johnny's touching story and the importance of loving one another.

Defying Reason - Joe and Michelle Jensen

Society is full of ideals. Some can feel pressured by these so-called standards. When people do not fit the "standard" or "norm," they are sometimes judged by others. Joe and Michelle Jensen share their story of not having the "normal" family, but rather the tender and often humorous experience of raising their autistic child Nathan. Their lives have been deeply enriched by being "different."

Holding Tight the Rod - Mallory Warburton Ross

Mallory Warburton Ross was on her way to a meeting when a truck hit her head-on at a combined impact speed of 90 mph. She was given a 3% chance of survival due to the physical injuries she sustained, including 36 broken bones. How has she survived? Physically she is held together by titanium rods put in place during numerous surgeries. She also relies on a spiritual rod of iron, every bit as real as anything medical science has to offer.

After the Cancer - Meg Smith

Losing a loved one can be very hard. We are left to continue forward in faith. The separation can leave us pondering what is most important in life. Meg Smith knows these feelings and knows that life does not stop. She shares her thoughts about moving forward in happiness after her loved one passed away from cancer. She places her trust in her Heavenly Father and knows that she will see her husband again.

Reaching For Another - Erin Henrie

On June 12, 2006, James Henrie and his best friend Eric set out to hike Twin Peaks. The two 17-year-old boys reached the top and then began their descent. Eric suddenly slipped over a precipice and fell over 200 feet. James ran to help his friend but also lost his footing and fell over 300 feet to his death. Eric was eventually rescued. James's mother, Erin, joins host W. A. Christensen to talk about her good son who lost his life while reaching for another.

No Shifting Sand - Torlick Tima

Torlick Tima, the first Marshall Island native to join the Church in this dispensation, has experienced the heartache of rejection from some of his family members and friends because of his membership. Despite the hardship, Torlick is a leader and a great missionary. Torlick joins host W. A. Christensen to share his story of being steadfast and immovable.

Forgetful Not Forgotten

Bettyann Bruin discusses the topic of memory loss, the toll it can take on families, and how she has kept a gospel-centered, positive perspective in the face of Alzheimer's disease. Bettyann is an advocate for quality care for those who suffer from memory loss. She is currently the marketing director for a large assisted-living care company.

His Voice is the Sound - Cristina Miller

When Cristina Miller was 21 years old, she began to notice that her hearing was diminishing. Doctors confirmed the loss and she felt devastated. This new challenge was not part of her plan for her life. Counselors helped her to process her heartbreak, but Cristina shares her testimony that true healing came when she took the challenge to her Heavenly Father, who knows her best. She often hears the whispers to "be not afraid and know that I am God."

A Father's Love - Megan Michel

While rendering service in Kenya, Megan Michel found herself in a unique situation. Father Joe, a Catholic priest who ran the orphanage where she was helping, suddenly passed away in a car accident. The community turned to her for hope during the crisis. She joins host W. A. Christensen to relate how she loved the people and was able to share God's message with them.

Healing Heartbreak

Guests Wendy Barlow and Jerilyn Radman have both experienced heartbreak. They talk with W. A. Christensen to share their story of healing and staying positive while experiencing marital problems. Special guest Dr. Kent Griffiths, an LDS licensed marriage and family therapist, also joins the conversation to add professional insight.

Expectations - Maddy

Maddy, a 17-year-old youth, found herself pregnant and scared. Shocked at her own choices and consequential situation, she had many questions flooding her mind.

Although she felt alone, her situation is not unique. She recites her favorite part of the Young Women theme, talks about working with LDS Family Services, and counsels her peers to choose their friends wisely and to keep their standards high.

Russ and Rosalyn Riddle, a couple who have opened their doors to unwed mothers, also join host W. A. Christensen. They provide a perspective from those who have adopted through LDS Family Services.

Be Prepared - Todd Moody

Stake president and chaplain Todd Moody talks about the Boy Scout National Jamboree tragedy of 2005, when four Scout leaders were electrocuted when the 30-foot tent pole that they were raising struck a high-voltage electricity line overhead. Moody and others ran to the scene to help. Hear how can we find our way through the storms and triumph over tragedy.

Be Not Dismayed - Jake Bullock

In and out of hospitals his entire life, Jake Bullock has had to be very brave. As someone with primary immune deficiency, he easily gets sick with a cold and sore throat several times a month. His sickness can quickly turn into pneumonia. He receives treatment every three weeks to counteract the disorder. Jake, a deacon from central Washington, joins host W. A. Christensen via phone to share his story of endurance, patience, and overcoming hardship.

His Small Moment - Nancy Maxwell Anderson and Cory Maxwell

Elder Neal A. Maxwell is a wonderful example of one who endured trials well. Nancy Maxwell Anderson and Cory Maxwell talk about their father's love, patience, and faith through physical hardship. Not only was he an example for his family, but for the world.

Common Threads of Trial - Enduring It Well Recap

Host W. A. Christensen explores the "Common Threads of Trial" that have surfaced throughout the interviews he has conducted during the podcast series Enduring It Well. Clips from many past episodes are woven together by his thoughts as he narrates.

A Mother's Prayer

As a wife and a mother of five children, Joan Yarrington had always tried to shepherd her children forward in the gospel to help them find true happiness and purpose in their lives. As her son approached the day to submit mission papers, he suddenly and without warning chose to no longer participate in the Church. She was devastated.

What had she done wrong? How could this wonderful little boy decide to make such a decision just at the prime of his life? Her son saw the error of his ways and returned to full fellowship, being married in the temple. Joan feels her time spent regularly (daily) in the temple played a significant role in his recovery. Joan joins host W. A. Christensen to tell their story.

Living a Balanced Life

Throughout his career, Dr. Lane Smith, a renowned doctor of psychology, has worked with troubled teens, distraught adults, and marriages on the brink. Through it all he has kept a level head centered in the teachings of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It was something that was taught to him at a young age, being the grandson of Joseph Fielding Smith, the 10th President of the Church.

Dr. Smith tells of the tragic day when the extended family visited the Grand Canyon. Posing for photos at the canyon's rim, his aged father, John (son of President Smith), in his 90s, stepped back too far and to the horror of the whole family fell to his death in the Grand Canyon. Dr. Smith explains with conviction his trust in a great plan that will reunite them as a family for eternity.

Can Success Be Endured?

Is success something to be endured? President Brigham Young was concerned that at some point the Saints would prosper and in that prosperity be vulnerable to temptations and ruin. On this episode of Enduring It Well, host W. A. Christensen welcomes Harris Simmons, president and CEO of Zions Bank Corporation, to discuss the very real challenges that some face in prosperity including pride, greed, and more.

Compassion upon You - Shauna Ewing: Part 1

Shauna and her husband, Terrell, lived the typical suburban life. Their happiness was challenged when Terrell was diagnosed with Huntington's Disease. Ever so slowly, Terrell's muscles were beginning to atrophy with no regeneration. While Shauna assumed most of the parenting duties, she also performed most of Terrell's personal care. As physically demanding as it was, she inspired all around her with her love and devotion to her ailing husband. By the time Terrell passed away, Shauna had a network of family and friends ready and willing to love and care for her. Shauna joins host W. A. Christensen to describe the demands on caregivers and make suggestions of how to survive the trial of caring for afflicted loved ones.

Compassion upon You - Shauna Ewing: Part 2

In part two of this discussion Shauna continues to describe the demands on caregivers and make suggestions of how to survive the trial of caring for afflicted loved ones.

Rescue Me From Danger - Natalie White

Natalie White, an exemplary young woman, joins host W. A. Christensen to talk about her trial of having a hole in her heart and the new outlook on life that she gained after living through open-heart surgery. Even before finding out about her heart condition, she decided to give her phone over to her mom and cancel her Facebook account for an entire summer. She felt a need to take a break from the pressures that come with social media and texting. The wisdom she gained through her trial uplifts and teaches.

Every Life Matters - Amanda de Lange

After graduating from BYU, Amanda de Lange taught English in China. There she saw a need to help orphans. She began an orphanage program, including "the Starfish orphanage," which focused on the importance of each individual and how, just like the starfish being thrown back into the ocean, "every life matters." She influenced so many people and lived a life of service. She passed away recently, but two of those who knew her best (Amy Christensen, her visiting teacher, and Eve Boger, her physician) share her story with host W. A. Christensen.

A Silent Hero - Cheryl Clark Monk: Part 1

Cheryl Clark Monk tells the story of how she lost her husband to a tragic electrocution accident while he was on duty as a fireman. The teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ helped her through the tough time and continually remind her that families can be eternal.

A Silent Hero - Lia Clark: Part 2

In part two of “A Silent Hero,” host W. A. Christensen interviews Lia Clark, the “miracle child” of Calvin and Cheryl Clark spoken of in part one. After Calvin Clark was electrocuted in the line of duty, Lia’s mother remarried and although the marriage failed, Lia was blessed with twin brothers from that marriage. Eventually her mother married again to a gentle, kind man who loved the three children as his own. Lia explains the trial of never having known her father, but how her mother managed to keep him a part of her life, despite his early, tragic death. We learn of the depth and power of the eternal connection between parent and child as Lia explains her day on September 11, 2001, when she worked as a fitness trainer at World Trade Center 3, the Marriott Hotel between the twin towers. She tells moment by moment what happened as she arrived at work that day to blue skies and as the minutes unfolded how everything around became dark and deadly. Lia describes how she attempted to get on an elevator to go sit in the Plaza of the World Trade Center that morning to make some calls while enjoying the beautiful morning. Stepping onto the elevator, she heard her deceased firefighter father warn her not to get on the elevator, a warning she heeded. Ten minutes later, the first of two planes hit the towers. She talks of papers floating, black smoke, and the sound and sights of mayhem. We go with Lia through the hotel as she leads guests to safety, through the horror she saw as she walked from Ground Zero and the darkness that engulfed her as the two towers collapsed a block from her. Lia attributes her survival to divine intervention facilitated by a father she never knew protecting her through the veil. Battling post-traumatic stress, Lia learned to heal emotionally from the trauma she experienced and to keep an eternal perspective.

Columbine - Whisperings of the Spirit

Scott and Cindy Johnson and Wade and Ann Hancey join host W.A. Christensen to share their story and experiences with the tragic Columbine High School shootings.  Their children attended Columbine and demonstrated heroic efforts during the conflict.  The Spirit played a key role in preparing and guiding these Saints through the difficult time.

Traumatic Brain Injury Endured - Michael Hancey

A sledding activity turned tragic when 16 year old Michael Hancey of Littleton, Colorado lost control of his snow tube and slammed into a rock.  Suffering from severe brain damage, Michael clinged to life for many days in the hospital. Michael joins his parents, Ann and Wade, as they describe the terrifying moments following his accident; the critical decisions they made, and the life of fulfullment Michael now enjoys during recovery.

Surviving the Fire - Kerry Chlarson

In 1986 everything in Kerry Chlarson’s world seemed to be going right. He was a young husband, new father and successful marine. One day his life took a traumatic turn for the worst when he was involved in a fiery crash that burned over 50 percent of his body and left him in a coma. In this episode, Kerry describes when he knew his life would never be the same and the moment he realized he needed to reach out to others.

Life in a Wheelchair - Mark Christiansen

Discover how Mark's faith and trust turned his life of disappointment into one of fulfillment. Mark shares how spiritual traits can be developed and peace can be found during trial, if we are humble and submissive.

At age 16, Mark Christiansen, like other teenagers, was healthy and normal. He enjoyed playing sports, friends and felt his life was heading in the right direction. One day, everything changed when he dove into a sandbar hidden in a mountain lake. The result was a severed spine; he lost his ability to walk, move his arms and even breath. He thought his life was over.

Cancer Selflessly Endured Part 1

A teenager diagnosed with rare cancer still finds ways to help others.

Cancer Selflessly Endured Part 2

A grieving family looks to the Atonement to help them through the death of their teenage son.

Blindness Endured - Marianne Fisher

"Despite facing the challenges associated with blindness, Marianne has flourished in the light of the gospel."

Haiti Earthquake Endured - Jeremy and Hollie Wardle

The earthquake in Haiti in 2010 affected many families, including Jeremy and Hollie Wardle. They were in the process of adopting a Haitian child when the earthquake occurred. Jeremy flew to Haiti to find their new daughter, while helping other orphans along the way.

Divided by Prison Walls

Prison Walls - Guests speak about the suffering associated with raising a child that chooses to live a life of crime.

Accidental Prescription Overdose

The pharmacy accidentally gave Jessie Scott the wrong dosage, putting him into a coma for 72 days. Today he still suffers from side effects, but he remains positive and happy. Jessie's parents, Wayne and Laurie, tell his story.

Lessons Learned in Life - President Thomas S. Monson

This episode is dedicated to "I Will Not Fail Thee, nor Forsake Thee," President Thomas S. Monson's profound Sunday morning address from the October 2013 general conference. The prophet's counsel, along with comments and insights from past guests of Enduring It Well, provides an excellent study of lessons learned in life.

Despair Endured - Scott and Emily Mugleston

Scott and Emily Mugleston discuss their trials with infertility, cancer and depression.

Life and Limbs - Jill Wilkinson

After losing her leg Jill Wilkinson learned to ski again and earned a spot on the US Paralympic Ski Team. This courageous woman opens her heart and talks of the challenges that knocked her down and how she was able to get back up again.

Overcoming Anorexia and Bulimia

Stacie Grover Oyler shares her experience of dealing with anorexia and bulimia. She expresses how her Heavenly Father's love helped her overcome her struggles.