On May 10, 1993 Julie Papievis’ life was changed forever because someone ran a red light. In the horrendous car accident, she suffered a severe brain stem injury and medically died, rating a 3 on the Glascow Coma Scale, the lowest number possible. According to medical experts, 96% of the people with such a severe injury either die or remain permanently comatose. The few who survive typically face a non-functional life.
Paralyzed and unconscious, she was transferred to the locked brain injury wing of a rehabilitation facility, where she awakened with vivid memories of her near death experience. You can read all about Julie’s miracle in her book, Go Back and Be Happy. But today you can listen in as Julie shares what she learned from this life-changing trial. Be sure to leave a message and you’ll be in the drawing for a free book!
Julie, after the accident, you died, went to heaven, and met your deceased grandmothers, which you describe as “pure grace and love.” Tell us about that experience.
I was in an open area. It was all round, curved, no corners, no beginning or end, and no floor or ceiling. It was light, with the brightest light coming from a long narrow aisle to my left. I was drawn to go there, but I felt an unexplained presence. I turned, and there were my deceased grandmothers! I was suddenly before them and they looked to be the elderly women I knew, but they were healthy and happy. I was so happy to see them, although I knew I was dead. They lovingly told me to “Go back, and be happy.” The next memory I have was waking up from my month-long coma in the rehabilitation hospital. I can thankfully recall this memory anytime. Living with disabilities from a brain stem injury is still sometimes a bit stressful, but I know that our Lord knows exactly what is happening and He has a plan for my life.
During your recovery, you developed a close relationship with a Franciscan nun, Sister Val. As your spiritual advisor, she encouraged you with these words: “Humility opens one’s eyes and heart to being blessed.” Your devastating injuries were caused by a teenage driver. How did offering forgiveness free you?
Forgiveness freed me to truly move ahead with my life, according to God’s plan. I needed to forgive the driver in order to put an end to the horror of that night. Only then could I begin to turn around and look forward. I believe I’m still here so my story can give others hope in difficult times, those times we’re looking for “a light at the end of the tunnel.” Because of what I’ve been through, I know our Lord loves us, is with us, and is aware of our hardships, even in the midst of difficult times.
After your accident, you had to relearn how to eat, speak, walk, and write. Ten years later you ran your first 5K race and completed a triathlon, while wearing a T-shirt that says “Attitude is everything.” What part did attitude and gratitude play in your recovery?
Attitude isn’t everything we need in life, but we need the right attitude to get started. It also puts us on the path to believing we can conquer what lies ahead–as frightening and as unknown as it may be.
Unknown and difficult circumstances often require a “compass” to help us navigate the tough times. That’s where gratitude and faith come in. I believe gratitude begins with faith. If we truly believe that our Lord has a divine plan for our lives–and He does–then how could we NOT be grateful enough to ask Him to show it to us? Then we simply ask Him for the grace to follow the path He has put before us…as best we can, with His guidance.
You quote the saying, “God has a reward through the suffering experience and in the aftermath of tribulation.” What are some of the rewards you’ve experienced by going through your significant trial?
The Lord has blessed my life so abundantly! Not in material ways, but He does provide exactly what I need as He opens the doors for me to share His story of hope. I completed my book Go Back and Be Happy (Lion Hudson), which tells the story of my severe brain stem injury, death experience, and miraculous recovery. And now I’m blessed to mentor and give hope to brain injury survivors. I also have a speaking ministry to groups, primarily to students from middle schools to universities, including many drivers’ education programs. I also speak to various church organizations and businesses.
And last year I met Lani Netter, a lovely Christian woman who is a Hollywood producer. She is working with me to bring my story of hope to people all over the world through film. It’s not an easy process, but yes, God has blessed me abundantly! So stay tuned!
Wow, what a powerful ministry you have! So, what’s the best way for event planners and churches to reach you?
They can contact me through my web site at
Thank you for joining us today, Julie. And readers, don’t forget to leave a comment and you could win a free copy of Julie’s book! Be sure to check back next week to see who wins!
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The Winner of the DVD, More Than Diamonds, is…
Jo Rae Johnson! Just contact me and we’ll arrange your delivery!
And if you’d like your own copy of More Than Diamonds, be sure to visit the website at
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Don’t Miss Out on the NCompass Writing Retreat and theChristian Communicators Conference
Time is running out! Whether you need a writing retreat or a speakers conference, we have just what you need! The NCompass Writing Retreat is September 29-October 2 and the Christian Communicators Conference is October 26-30. Feel free to contact me with any questions.
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Parting Words from The Word…
Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk 3:17-18
I pray God’s blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda
