April 17, 2025
Children’s Ministries International, Inc. (info@cmikids.com)
Steve Karges, Founder and President of Children’s Ministries International, Inc., suffered a stroke sometime during the night of April 7.
After waking the next morning on April 8, Karges’ left hand was not working, and his left arm went numb. His wife, Janette, took Karges to the Emergency Room in Loveland, Colorado, where he was immediately admitted to McKee Hospital.
After testing Karges in the ER with a CT Scan and MRI, it was determined that this was his second stroke; a previous one was detected from his past, but the timing of it was unknown. When questioned later by the doctor, Karges was unaware of having had a first stroke.
Karges stayed in McKee Hospital in Northern Colorado for nine days. His injuries included weakness in his left hand, fingers, and arm. He could not lift anything with his arm, clinch his fist, or grip anything. He could also not straighten his fingers, which remained curled for several days.
Karges said he was thankful to the Lord because he knew his injuries were minor and could have been much worse. There were no signs of mental or speech impairment or permanent disability. Karges did experience some balance issues in the hospital. Still, the doctors expected him to fully recover after being released from the hospital and returning home on April 17, where he is being cared for by Janette, and the couple’s adult daughter, Stephanie Heidbreder.
Well wishes and cards may be mailed to Steve Karges, Post Office Box 273222, Fort Collins, CO 80527, or by e-mail to Steve@cmikids.com. Personal visits and phone calls are being discouraged at this time. Karges said he and Janette would address their Ministry Partners by letter soon, as they look forward to celebrating Children’s Ministries International’s 45th anniversary on May 16. Karges also said he wanted to thank each friend for their prayers and support.
