A man’s wife fell ill and the doctors abandoned hope. Desperate, he went to the Chofetz Chaim in Radin who promised to pray on condition that the man not reveal that he had asked the Chofetz Chaim for help. The woman had a miraculous recovery.
Years later, someone else fell ill with the disease. Seeing their distress, the man broke his promise and revealed that when he faced this issue, he’d gone to Radin. Shortly thereafter, his wife’s illness returned. Immediately, he ran back to the Chofetz Chaim.
“I am sorry but I cannot help you,” said the sage. “But last time you davened and my wife was healed!” responded the distraught man. “When you came to me last time,” said the Chofetz Chaim, “I was a younger man. I fasted FORTY days for your wife to be healed. I am sorry, but I don’t have the strength anymore.”
