Finding Christ in the Climb: A Journey of Hope and Healing

Justin Koelbl is an award-winning cyclist, and the love of riding ran deep in his family. He and his brother together earned six U.S. national titles, and Justin dreamed of one day racing in the Tour de France. After joining a training group to achieve his goal, he experienced an unexplained health condition that made him question his outlook on life and impacted his faith.

In this episode, Justin shares how his health condition brought him closer to God. To invite Justin to speak about his spiritual journey and the meaning of redemptive suffering, email [email protected].

A derailed dream

In 2008, Justin joined a prestigious training group in France specifically designed to prepare athletes for the Tour de France. However, he soon began experiencing unexplained pain and weakness in his legs. As his condition worsened, he underwent numerous surgeries with little success.

Once an elite athlete, Justin found himself struggling to climb stairs and relying on leg braces. As he wrestled with the challenges of his declining health, his father began experiencing severe health issues, including swelling and shortness of breath. Not long after, his brother too became ill. The weight of suffering touched the entire family.

A witness of faith

Amid this deep trial, Justin admits he became angry and questioned God, “Why is our family suffering so much?” But he also witnessed something profound — his father’s example of faith. In the midst of physical decline, his father united his suffering with Christ on the cross. He bore his trials with joy and love, and his witness gave strength to the entire family.

Justin and his brother were raised by loving parents who emphasized compassion, generosity, and the importance of supporting one another. These values would become the lifeline the family leaned on during their most difficult times.

In his search for understanding, Justin turned to the saints. He found particular solace in the writings and lives of St. Faustina and Padre Pio — both of whom endured immense suffering and yet radiated deep peace and love for God. Their spiritual wisdom helped guide Justin through the darkness and toward a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ.

Today, Justin is writing a book that chronicles his journey of suffering, faith, and hope. Once it is published, we look forward to sharing more about this inspiring work. His story is one of finding strength in God amid life’s challenges and difficulties.