One day in church. 

That was Stephen Musclow’s wish. 

It sounds simple, but its not.

“He goes to the doctor every six weeks and that is the only time he gets out of his bedroom,” said his mother Norma Musclow. 

Her son has muscular dystrophy and four years ago he became ill.  An operation saved his life, but he was left too weak to get out of bed. His parents have no way to transport him.

“The only way he leaves is in an ambulance,” said his father Kent Musclow.

When Stephen told his parents his wish to go to church, perhaps for the last time before he dies, they didn’t know how to make it happen.  They went to their church family. 

A member of their congregation heard about Stephen’s wish and told Swartz Ambulance Service.  The company took action to make it happen on the Sunday after Christmas.

Stephen, blessed with his wish, then blessed his church with an inspiring message. 

Muscular Dystrophy has left him too weak to even speak, but he can tediously type with one finger.  He typed up a sermon.  The young man who lives most of his life as a physical prisoner in a failing body wanted to deliver a message of optimism, faith, and hope in the midst of suffering.

Stephen’s father read his words, “God knew I would love him heart mind and soul. He was so sure he said (to Satan), okay, give him muscular dystrophy. You may have control of his body, but I will always have his soul."

“God knows this hasn't been easy for me, but I know this life is not my last. Knowing that is what gets me through."

Stephen’s family says that Swartz Ambulance Service gave him freedom and purpose by granting this wish.

"He likes so much to inspire other people,” said Norma Musclow of her son. “He thinks that is one thing in this life he can do."

Stephen writes a blog in an effort to inspire others.  You can read it at http://www.stephenmusclow.blogspot.com/