Randy Travis’ voice is one of those few that truly sends chills down your spine.
Tragically, he suffered a stroke several years ago. But that did not stop him from delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Amazing Grace” in honor of fellow country music star George Jones.
Performing at the Grand Ole Opry, the legendary artist was enveloped in beautiful blue and purple lighting as he paid tribute to the recently departed George Jones.
Randy was joined by iconic country stars like Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, and Travis Tritt.
His wife, Mary, has often spoken about how difficult Randy’s recovery from his stroke has been and how much solace they have found in the unwavering support of his fans.
Back in July 2013, Randy Travis was rushed to a Dallas hospital due to complications from viral cardiomyopathy. He suffered a stroke, underwent brain surgery, and fell into a coma. The prognosis was grim; doctors estimated his survival chances at merely 1 or 2 percent.
Given the bleak outcome, the medical team saw little point in prolonging life support.
Mary Davis Travis, Randy’s wife, faced a heart-wrenching decision: Should she let her husband rest peacefully or continue the battle? The doctors did not sugarcoat it – they asked her point-blank about her wishes.
Defying the odds and conventional wisdom, Mary made a courageous choice. She decided to ignore the experts and do what she felt in her heart was right.
The specialists might have given Randy just a 1 to 2% chance of surviving, but Mary knew her husband was a fighter. For her, turning off the life support was simply not an option.
“I prayed hard, ‘God, please let me have him back, any way, shape, or form,’” Mary fondly recalls, as reported by USA Today.
Though Randy remained in a coma, connected to numerous machines, Mary never once considered turning them off – even as her husband lay there, reduced to skin and bones.
Then, one day, a miracle occurred. Randy woke up.
“We’re blessed. We’re happy to be where we are. We don’t know what God has in store for us at the end of this recovery. Right now, we’re just thankful to be where we are, and we’re singing a different song,” Mary remarked. “We’re happy to serve a purpose wherever there is a purpose for us to serve. Of course, one day he would love to be back up on that stage. Right now, we’re just enjoying life and are very blessed to be where we are.”
Randy has been using a wheelchair since his stroke but has made remarkable strides. He can walk short distances on his own and has also regained his passion for music.
He learned to walk again and, in 2016, was honored with an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
“Everyone who knows Randy knows he has had a colorful life. He’s had a tough life at times, but also a beautiful life,” Mary says.
If Randy’s most recent performance is any indication, it’s clear he has been diligently working and praying to get back to his former glory, even though he still battles aphasia.
Watch Randy’s emotional performance and share your thoughts about his incredible journey of recovery!
The fact that he delivered this performance after his stroke is nothing short of remarkable. Randy Travis is indeed a man of immense talent. This still gives me chills. You can see and feel the emotion, and I continue to pray for his complete healing.
