It could be considered a miracle.

A preacher named Hans Schmidt, 26, who was shot in the head last November while preaching in Phoenix, Arizona, is on a remarkable road to recovery, defying doctors’ expectations. After being shot near Victory Chapel First Phoenix, Schmidt initially didn’t realize he had been wounded but felt something was wrong and ended his street preaching earlier than usual. When he arrived at the church, he couldn’t speak, leading his wife and brother-in-law to rush him to the hospital. It was there that doctors discovered a bullet in his head, with his condition quickly worsening.

Doctors were not optimistic about Schmidt’s chances of survival, and law enforcement hinted at a grim outcome. He was placed in a medically induced coma and didn’t wake up for a month. Upon regaining consciousness, he was able to speak for the first time since the shooting, much to the surprise of his family and medical staff. Despite the severity of his injury, Schmidt made significant strides, even though lead fragments remain in his brain because removal is too dangerous.

Schmidt’s recovery has been challenging, requiring daily speech and occupational therapy as he works to regain his normal abilities, including walking. Although the shooter is still unidentified, Schmidt has chosen to forgive the person responsible, saying that holding onto anger wouldn’t change anything. His ability to forgive reflects his deep faith, which has guided him through this traumatic experience.

His wife, Zulya, also leaned heavily on her faith during this time, praying for her husband’s recovery. She expressed immense gratitude for his survival, believing that miracles like his do happen. Now, as Schmidt continues his recovery, he looks forward to returning to his ministry, with doctors optimistic that he can eventually lead a mostly normal life.

The case remains unsolved, but Schmidt’s focus is on healing and resuming his work. Despite the ongoing challenges, both he and his wife view each day as a blessing and are thankful for the progress he has made.

Categorized in: