her condition. After much persistence, Mr. Bugajski obtained the services of a medical professional from the University of Michigan who discovered a large tumor in the patient’s abdomen and prescribed emergency surgery. The operation went smoothly and Mrs. Bugajski was saved, much to her husband’s relief. Nevertheless, the attending physician advised the mother not to have any more children; but she wished to have twelve in honor of the Apostles, so she put her trust in Divine Providence. The following year she gave birth to her daughter Linda. In 1965, the family suffered another blow: while playing, their four-yearold son Michael got caught in the electric cord of a hot-steam humidifier which toppled over and severely burned his back, splattering his older sister’s legs in the process. His convalescence was long and painful. Day and night, the parents kept watch to keep the child from scratching the 26 Vol. LIX, No. 1 Magnificat the U.S. Government, a position that demanded absolute discretion, which he never failed to meet. Often called upon to travel around the country with the Army, he received a handsome salary. Far from squandering it on himself, however, he spent his remuneration entirely on the well-being of his family. With not a care for himself or his comfort, while on the road he slept in his car and never dined in fancy restaurants. A bright future lay ahead. God, however, who had higher designs on this affluent household, soon visited it with the cross of illness, beginning with the father of the family. He contracted Crohn's disease1 and would be afflicted with it for the rest of his life, with acute attacks requiring hospitalization on several occasions. After her third child, it was the mother’s turn to fall seriously ill. Initial treatment by an incompetent doctor only worsened 1. IVEN by Mr. Bugajski to his fiancée, this beautiful statue with its heavenly gaze would always have a place of honor in their home. Each newborn child was consecrated to the Virgin Mary at Her feet. The beloved statue followed the family to the Magnificat Monastery, where it is still venerated in the Sisters’ community room. 1. Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that inflames the lining of the digestive (gastrointestinal) tract and disrupts the ability to digest food, absorb nutrients and eliminate waste in a healthy way. (Crohn’s and Colitis Canada) G On May 30, 1958, Harry and Mary Anna were united before God; their happy marriage lasted 56 years. Golden Wedding Anniversary (2008)
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