“I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” —Psalm 91:2
As Christians and students of history, we know that God uses trials and hardships to do His will and to draw us closer to himself (James 1:12). The Purchase family, a Classical Conversations family in Durham, North Carolina, certainly experienced trials and tribulations this year, but, as He promised he would, the Lord also blessed them immensely!
At the beginning of 2024, nine-year-old Walker Purchase, a third-year Foundations students and an excelling Essentials student, was diagnosed with the rare and life-threatening disease called severe aplastic anemia. This meant that Walker’s body was unable to produce enough blood cells to sustain him, leaving him highly vulnerable to infections and other complications. Without an immediate bone marrow transplant, the doctors estimated that he only had three months to live.
But praise the Lord because Walker was provided with a match! Amazingly, the match was no other than his little brother, Truett. Chelsey Purchase related the family’s experience of finding a match saying, “After his biopsy, over a dozen blood and platelet transfusions, chemotherapy, and other invasive procedures, the Lord blessed Walker with a match. His younger seven-year-old brother Truett (also a CC student in Foundations) was a 100% match by the grace of God!”
Truett did not hesitate to undergo a two-hour bone marrow harvest procedure and a six-week recovery process in order to save his big brother’s life.
“Truett was incredible… we are so grateful to God for his selflessness” shared Chelsey.
After the boys’ surgeries, both began the journey down the road to recovery! Today, Walker has a brand-new immune system and is making strides toward a full recovery. Truett, as well, is recovering quickly and is thrilled to see his brother healing. Also, Marshall, the third Purchase son, has stuck by his brothers through it all and is keeping them in high spirits.
Faith in Action
Even through this intense and terrifying time, Walker did not allow his faith in the Lord to be shaken. His struggle became a testimony of God’s provision, grace, and comfort — not just to his family but for everyone around him.
During his time at Duke Hospital, Walker witnessed to the many doctors and nurses who took care of him. He even boldly proclaimed the gospel to the Duke men’s basketball team, who visited him while he was in the hospital. The players were so touched by Walker’s resilience and faith that they invited him to attend one of their games. While in attendance, Walker proudly held a sign with his favorite Bible verse (Psalm 91:2) for everyone to see!
Community
While the Purchase family gives all glory to God for carrying them through this difficult time, they also credit Classical Conversations and their local community of friends for meeting their practical, daily needs.
In regard to Classical Conversations, the Purchase family rejoiced saying, “Due to Classical Conversations, we were able to homeschool at the hospital and the Ronald McDonald house.”
The boys, throughout their recovery, did more than just “get by” academically, they thrived! All three brothers advanced at least one academic year according to their most recent state test scores. What an accomplishment!
As Chesley reflects on this, she said, “The Lord knew our boys needed CC in order to not fall behind this past year and it gave us the opportunity to continue growing across many levels.”
Not only was the curriculum a blessing to Walker and his family, but their strong local community was as well!
“Our beautiful CC families served us during such a challenging season. They made sure we had everything we needed,” shared the family.
Their CC director, along with the boys tutors, ensured that the family had all the academic materials and emotional support they needed.
“They helped us continue to know the Lord and to make Him known in all areas, even while we were going through this hard time.”
With hearts full of gratitude and praise, the Purchase family looks towards the future. As Walker continues to recover, the family is excited to rejoin their Classical Conversations community in the fall.
“We are beyond thankful to our Lord, Jesus Christ, and Classical Conversations for helping to carry us through such trauma and make us better because of it.”
Share Your Own Story!
The Purchase family’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from faith, family, and community. If you or your family have a story of how Classical Conversations has impacted your life, we would love to hear it!
