When the Tumor Changed Everything
In 2006, Laura Story, a worship leader from Spartanburg, South Carolina, had her world turned upside down. She had recently married her high school sweetheart, Martin Elvington, and was living her dream as a worship leader at Perimeter Church in Atlanta, Georgia. However, their blissful start was interrupted when Martin was diagnosed with a brain tumor pressing on his pituitary gland. The news came while Laura was attending a music conference, and it left her questioning why God hadn't simply healed Martin. After surgery to remove the tumor, Martin faced severe complications, including meningitis and significant brain damage, which left him with lasting impairments. As Laura became Martin's caregiver, she wrestled with her faith. Leading worship felt like an insurmountable task, and she struggled with anger at God for not healing Martin completely.
Finding God in Medical Trials
In the midst of this turmoil, an unexpected opportunity arose. INO Records reached out, asking Laura to write a praise and worship album. Initially, she was hesitant, but an executive's words challenged her: 'What if God is asking you to write worship songs in the midst of your trials?' This led to the creation of 'Blessings,' a song that redefined her understanding of God's gifts. Instead of viewing blessings as the absence of hardships, Laura learned to see them in the midst of her struggles. Her song, released in 2011, captured this profound insight and became a number one hit on the Hot Christian Songs chart. It won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Song and multiple Dove Awards.
Living the New Normal
Through this journey, Laura discovered a deeper sense of God's presence in her life. She realized that the detours were not just temporary setbacks but the path itself. Laura and Martin embraced their new normal, finding strength and purpose in their roles. Laura continues to share her message through music, living in Atlanta with Martin and their three children. Their story is a testament to God's faithfulness, showing that even in the darkest times, His love and strength shine through.
