Joanne Horst
March 8 marked an unforgettable morning for those who had the privilege of hearing Tim and LaDonna Gatlin Johnson share their remarkable stories at the “Life-Changing Miracles” event hosted by Women Sharing Hope. This local couple captivated the audience with their resilience, faith, and unwavering determination.
Tim’s journey has been marked by numerous health challenges. From battling testicular cancer in 1983 to overcoming prostate cancer in 2009 and pancreatic cancer in 2020, he’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering support of his wife LaDonna, whom he credits as his steadfast caregiver.
Despite facing multiple health setbacks, Tim’s spirit remains unbroken, and his talents as a pianist and singer shine brightly. With a humor-filled perspective, he quips about heading to heaven “a little bit at a time,” showcasing his enduring faith and indomitable spirit.
LaDonna Gatlin, an exceptional speaker in her own right, shares a life filled with divine appointments. Raised in a musical family, the Gatlin Brothers, she, and her siblings honed their singing skills in church, starting at a young age. They won their first talent show at the Ector County Coliseum, while the second-place winners were a rock and roll group whose lead singer was Roy Orbison—all long before the Gatlin Brothers and Roy Orbison were famous.
Tim and LaDonna’s love story unfolded in Nashville in the mid-‘70s where they met while pursuing their musical passions. Despite initially performing with the Larry Gatlin Family and Friends, they eventually followed a different path, joining forces with Dallas Holm and the David Wilkerson Ministry to serve the Lord and raise their family.
However, their journey wasn’t without its trials. LaDonna’s battle with a major depressive disorder, anhedonia, tested their faith and resilience. Despite outward appearances, mental health struggles can be just as debilitating as physical ailments, and LaDonna’s courageous journey toward healing serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding.
In the face of adversity, Tim and LaDonna’s message resonates deeply: Each of us has a unique song to sing, regardless of the season of life we find ourselves in. Their story serves as a beacon of hope, urging others to persevere through life’s challenges and find strength in the support of loved ones and faith in a higher power.
As we navigate our own struggles, let us heed their words: Don’t let your circumstances define you. Instead, set them aside and focus on the resilience and courage within, knowing that others are facing their own battles. With compassion and understanding, we can find the strength to overcome even the darkest of days.
In conclusion, Tim and LaDonna Gatlin Johnson are not your typical motivational speakers. They are beacons of hope, resilience, and unwavering faith, inspiring us all to embrace life’s challenges with courage, grace, and love of God.