Written by: Natalie Gunther
Article source: JOY! Magazine
On the early morning of Woman’s Day, 9 August 2014, tragedy struck. I was 29 years old when the driver of the car I was in lost control and rolled off the highway. I was thrown 13 metres away from the vehicle and rushed to hospital with a broken neck. I was admitted to ICU where the specialist surgeon sat my family down with devastating news. He explained that he had to operate, but that there was only a 40% chance of survival and, if I did survive, a 50% chance of paralysis. It was a new method of surgery that he had never performed in South Africa before, and the third time ever performed worldwide.
Peace in the face of death
I don’t remember the accident, only waking up in ICU. When the doctor gave us the news, the thought of being paralysed never crossed my mind – it was only about potential death. While waiting in the theatre before the operation, I closed my eyes and prayed: “Jesus, if this is the end for me, it’s okay.” I had complete peace. By God’s grace, I woke up. I survived. I wasn’t paralysed. And everything in my life changed.
A new beginning
The doctor was in awe and said my calmness had contributed to the success of the surgery. After recovery in ICU, I was moved to the general ward. Before the accident, I worked in sales and digital marketing, but I had always wanted to learn graphic and website design and start my own business. Like many people, I made excuses about time and money. While lying in hospital, I realised a sales career that kept me on the road wouldn’t be possible for a while – and I sensed the Lord was giving me an opportunity to start fresh.
God confirms His plan
Once discharged, I began the slow and painful journey of learning and building my business, one small milestone at a time. There was a time where I felt a bit depressed and, one evening, I decided to turn on TBN. The pastors gave a word for a 29-year-old woman who had been in a car accident, was in pain, and felt down. The message was to use her creativity for God. I knew instantly it was for me. I also found a Facebook support group for broken neck survivors, which was such a blessing. Through it I saw how much power there is in sharing our journeys with others to encourage and help them. Today I help manage the group with a woman in the USA.
A miracle of healing
It was around that time when a friend encouraged me to join them at church. I had gone to church my whole life, but since the accident I had not been back. Once I physically could go, I went. While the pastor was praying a general prayer, I asked the Lord to heal my back pain. Suddenly I felt warmth in my back, and the pain disappeared. God had touched me.
Blessings through brokenness
My business grew from strength to strength, and so did my healing. Although I still live with spasms daily, I am grateful for my second chance at life. I have achieved more since the accident than before. On both personal and business levels, I have received awards and nominations. My hope is that my story not only inspires others, but points them to Jesus, who carried me every step of the way. Not long after the accident, God had given me a vision to share miracle testimonies that would glorify Him.
Soul Station – giving God the glory
In July 2025 I relocated to Somerset West to pursue what I believe is my true calling. The challenges I faced have moulded me into who I am today. It is a miracle that I am alive, and I give all the glory to God. My relationship with Jesus is stronger now than ever before, and I know that no success, money, or worldly thing can ever compare to the fulfilment found in Him. There is no greater feeling than His peace, and whenever I face decisions, I choose to follow that peace.
Today, I run a new platform called Soul Station, where I capture and share testimonies and real-life miracles. My heart is to help others see that God still works wonders and that He alone deserves the glory.
This article is featured in the October issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 25/10/2025
Feature image: Natalie Gunther
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