GEORGE NEWS - Jozanne Moss, who was diagnosed five years ago with motor neurone disease (MND), co-authored a book with Michael Wenham, a British Anglican priest who has primary lateral sclerosis, to tell their incredible and touching stories of living with these degenerative diseases.
The two authors were introduced via the internet in 2009.

A sparkling Jozanne launched her much anticipated book, I choose everything both at home and at the Baptist Church last week with her family - husband Dave and children Luke (12), Nicole (10) and almost 150 people.
Luke and Nicole proudly assisted in selling and ‘signing’ while Dave explained the title of the book, so seemly suitable because Jozanne lives life to the fullest. Always when someone asks her what she likes about Dave, her answer would be, ‘I choose everything’.
Luke, a keen classical guitarist and Nicole, an upcoming pianist surprised their mom with their beautiful music. Friend and pastor, Neill Tucker said to Luke and Nicole: "Look around you - this is your new family in Christ."

A second book launch was held at their home with Jozanne and a concourse of friends, family and those who are supporting her through her illness.
A friend, Marieta Barnard sang a beautiful poem for Jozanne while Leigh-Anne van Niekerk, another friend, ‘voiced’ a letter written by Jozanne (see below).
Yet another friend, Jeanette Little ended the proceedings with prayer.

Jozanne’s message:
"Dear Friends,
Thank you all for being here today. This is a very special day for me, and to be able to share this day with you, my friends, makes it even more special.

About five years ago when I was diagnosed with MND, we, as a family were in great shock to learn of this terminal illness. With the shock came the fear of what might lie ahead for us.
But, within days of the news, God brought a peace over me that transcends all understanding. This peace was not because God provided me with any answers to the many questions I had or even because I was some sort of spiritual giant. No, God gave me peace because in his Word He says: ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to his purpose.’ (Rom 8:28 NIV)
Even though nothing made sense and everything seemed bad, I knew that God had a plan with this terrible situation. I didn't know what it was or how He would use me, but I knew it would be good and I knew it
would be for his glory.

Today his promise has been answered with this book. I pray that the book will be a blessing to many many people and that the Glory of God will shine through it.

I would like to thank my co-author, Michael Wenham, for his vision and hard work in putting this book together. I would like to thank Dave, Luke and Nicole, because without them there would be no story to tell.

This book is not about me or my illness, but about God's faithfulness and love to us as a family.

God has blessed us by providing for our every need. I would never be able to mention everyone who has supported us in the last few years. So, thank you to each and everyone of you. To the one whom I would not have been able to do what I have done, I do a special thanks to you, for being my arms and my legs.
I love you all.
God Bless, Jozanne"

Aricle and photos: Itha Kieser


Luke doing his thing on the guitar.


Jozanne and her good friend Leigh-anne van Niekerk.