By this time, though, John’s health had begun to puzzle us. In 1948 he had a bout of tuberculosis and after that often suffered from a general lack of stamina. He experienced flu-like symptoms and would be laid up for days​—he could not do anything or see anyone. A doctor whom we consulted shortly before we were called to the branch diagnosed John’s problem as depression.

Coping With John’s Illness

By the 1970’s, it became clear that John’s health was not improving. Bit by bit, he had to relinquish some of his cherished privileges of service, including presiding at our branch family’s weekly Watchtower Study and morning Bible discussions. His work assignment was changed from the Service Department to the Mail Room and then to working in the garden.

John’s fighting spirit made it hard for him to make changes. When I persistently tried to get him to slow down, he teasingly called me his ball and chain​—usually accompanied by an appreciative hug. We eventually felt it advisable to leave the Portuguese field and serve with the congregation that met in the Kingdom Hall at the branch.

As John’s health deteriorated, it was touching to observe his intimate relationship with Jehovah. When John would wake in the middle of the night in a state of deep depression, we talked together until he felt calm enough to pray for Jehovah’s help. Eventually, he managed to cope alone with those bad moments by forcing himself to repeat slowly Philippians 4:6, 7: “Do not be anxious over anything . . .” Then he would become calm enough to begin praying. Often I was awake and would quietly watch his lips move as he lingered in earnest supplication to Jehovah.