Contributed By: RobertsArleneHintze1 · 4 June 2014 ·

While living on 8th East, just South of 21st South and attending 4th grade at Forest Dale School, Jennie became very ill, losing consciousness suddenly and for several weeks remained in that state.  A private nurse was brought in for awhile but because of expense and because her mother never left her anyway, the nurse was dismissed. One day her mother answered a knock at the door to find a man she did not know. He said, “I understand you have a sick child. Would you like me to administer to her?”

Her mother informed him that they were quarantined, as they thought she had Spinal Meningitis.

He said that he was not afraid and proceeded to come in.  Her mother said he preceded his blessing with a description of her personality and disposition and in the blessing said that she had been put on this earth for a purpose and would live to fulfill that purpose. Her mother never saw the man again.  Later that day, the doctor came and said she would probably not last the night, so he went to get the nurse so they would not be alone.  After the doctor left, her father said, “That man promised that she should live. We have done all we know how to do. Kneel with me.”  Then he talked to the Lord, asking for directions.  As they arose my Aunt Celestia asked if her mother had a special medicine called Paragoric.  Her mother replied that she was afraid of it but her Aunt Lettie had seen just what and how much to give, so the medicine was obtained and given in drops from a eyedropper and worked down into her throat manually.  By the time the doctor had returned, she was conscious. It took time but she began to mend from that time on. That experience was always a source of strength to her.

Visit FamilySearch to learn more about Jennie Arthema Tolman. Visit the Thomas Tolman Family Organization to find out how you can get more involved in family history.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This