EP #29 - Turning Wheelchairs into Witness, One Restored Life at a Time

About this episode

Joni Eareckson Tada shares her journey from a diving accident to founding a ministry that helps families living with disabilities.

In this episode of The Plain Values Podcast … Joni Eareckson Tada was 17 when a diving accident in 1967 left her quadriplegic. What followed was not defeat. She learned to paint holding a brush in her mouth, shared her testimony with millions alongside Billy Graham, and turned letters of despair into a ministry born at her kitchen table. That ministry (Joni and Friends ) now reaches families living with disability through family retreats, respite events, church training, and Wheels for the World . Wheels for the World collects used manual wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches. You spot them at thrift stores or yard sales for $10–20. Prison partners restore them to like-new. Teams ship them overseas, fit each person individually, and pair the gift with a Bible in their language and the gospel message. Many come to Christ simply because someone sent help they never expected. Wally Ziolo’s own path from aviation to caregiving, then full-time ministry, shows how God redirects lives for purpose. Volunteers return year after year; some shift careers. Families find hope, baptism, and belonging. Upcoming Ohio retreats offer respite: June 15–19 in West Portsmouth, July 13–17 in…

People in this episode

Host: Plain Values

Guest: Joni Eareckson Tada

Topics covered

• disability
• faith
• ministry
• hope
• restoration
• community

Keywords

• disability
• ministry
• Joni Eareckson Tada
• Wheels for the World
• faith
• restoration
• hope
• community

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Joni and Friends, Wheels for the World

Places: Ohio, West Portsmouth, Berlin, Argentina, El Salvador

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