For me, it was November of 1996, and spiritual awakening was the furthest thing from my mind. After watching my best friend and both my parents suffer and die, I wanted to walk away from all that and focus on life - my life - finally.

Instead, I was diagnosed with the same illness my mother had (familial amyloidosis) and told I only had a few years left of eyesight and mobility. On the way home from that appointment, I was in shock and completely terrified.

After years of watching my mother suffer in agony to the point of suicide attempts, being diagnosed with the same illness was my BIGGEST fear come true. I used to turn off all the lights in my apartment and try to navigate my way around. Each time, I'd stumble into something and think "I could NEVER be a blind person." Over time, I felt sorry for mom and often thought maybe it would have been better if she had succeeded in her attempts - seemed especially cruel for her to suffer like that year after year. I thought I was in the clear because I thought her problems were due to diabetes, not amyloidosis.

I spent two years searching the world for treatment, but there isn't any for my type. The only docs who are interested in me are those who want to dissect and study my body - the only people who care are those who want me dead.

My world had been turned upside down, and I was completely cornered. I had no choice but to turn to God and open my heart completely to God's will.

I'd say terminal illness is a sure-fire way to reach spiritual enlightenment, but I don't recommend it. It may have its perks, but there are definite downsides.