In part two of their interview, Troy and Deedra Russell discuss the far-reaching impact of their story. Troy shares how his home teacher’s persistent invitation to play basketball helped him navigate the "unrelenting" grief of losing their son, Austen. This experience of dedicated ministering was later shared by Elder Holland in General Conference, leading to a video viewed by millions.
Deedra recounts her journey through physical suffering following a catastrophic head-on collision. She details her 137-day hospital stay—matching Joseph Smith’s time in Liberty Jail—and complications from a kidney transplant that left her in "darkest despair". Dedra views her previous trials, including clinical depression and the loss of her mother, as "stepping stones" that prepared her to endure these later challenges.
Despite ongoing medical struggles, the Russells testify that Jesus Christ understands their specific mental and physical agony because of His suffering in Gethsemane. They describe their most difficult trials as "sacred holy ground" where they felt God’s presence most profoundly. Their message emphasizes that by keeping covenants, individuals can view their refining experiences with an eternal perspective.

Resources:

One-on-One - YouTube Video

A Saint Through the Atonement of Christ the Lord - Elder Holland talking about Deedra's car accident

Remember Lot's Wife - Elder Holland BYU Speech

Lessons from Liberty Jail - Elder Holland BYU Speech

Heavenly Answers for Earthly Questions - Book about a Near-Death Experience

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