Faith Through Cancer | Cancer Stories and Biblical Encouragement through all Cancer Stages

Healing Hope: Lauren W's Story with Terminal Breast Cancer Age 26

When Lauren was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer at just 26, her whole world shifted overnight. In this episode, she shares what it has looked like to walk through years of treatments, setbacks, unanswered questions—and the surprising ways God has met her with peace, provision, and even moments of joy.
Lauren talks honestly about those early days of fear and anger, the long stretch of failed treatments, and the miracle of finally finding a clinical trial that’s working and shrinking her tumors. She also shares the practices that have kept her grounded—lament, worship, community, and choosing gratitude even when life looks nothing like she expected.
Her story is tender, hopeful, and deeply practical for anyone facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or trying to find God in the middle of something painful.
Lauren’s Blog: Healing Hope
Lauren's Instagram
Book Mentioned: Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop
Favorite Scriptures:
2 Corinthians 12:9–10 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Isaiah 55:9 – “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.”
Philippians 4:6–7 – “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Favorite Worship Songs:
“Yet Not I but Through Christ in Me” – CityAlight
“More Than Able” – Elevation Worship / Maverick City
Terminal Joy Resources
Terminal Joy Website
The Devotional Quilts Project
Learn about the seven quilts inspired by the “7 Truths to Hold On To”
Nominate a woman with cancer to receive a quilt
Support the project or purchase raffle entries
👉 https://www.terminaljoy.org/quilt-project

Clinging to Hope When Life Gets Dark: Keely's Story with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma

In this powerful episode of Faith Through Cancer, I sit down with Keely Burton, a wife, mom, athlete, and follower of Jesus who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer (invasive ductal carcinoma just before her 40th birthday. Keely shares how God prompted her—out of nowhere—to check her breast, leading to the discovery of a lump that doctors initially thought was “just a cyst.” What followed was a journey marked by divine direction, supernatural peace, and medical miracles that even her doctors couldn’t explain.
Keely opens up about experiencing profound loss before cancer, hitting a moment of full surrender to God, and discovering joy and purpose she never had before. She also shares how her tumor shrank without treatment, how God carried her through surgery and chemo, and how He turned a terrifying diagnosis into the beginning of a brand new life of calling and impact.
Resources & Links Mentioned
Keely’s Book – Clinging to Hope When Life Gets Dark (pre-order available now)
Follow Keely’s Journey / Contact Her: Instagram
Scriptures Mentioned:
Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything…”
Mark 10:27 – “All things are possible with God.”
 
Also Mentioned:
Faith Through Cancer Devotional Quilts Project – seven quilts, seven truths of healing
Free Bible reading & journaling plan at Terminal Joy
How You Can Support This Ministry:⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📢 Share this episode to encourage someone walking a similar journey🙏 Visit terminaljoy.com for more stories, resources, and ways to get involved
✨ If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend who needs hope today.

Pick Me: Marty's Story with Stage 4 Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer, Triple Positive

In this episode of Faith Through Cancer, I sit down with my new friend, Marty Carrell, whose story overflows with hope, faith, and the daily miraculous. Marty opens up about her cancer journey, the perspective shift that comes from asking, “What is my assignment today?” and the countless ways she’s seen God’s hand in her story. Her testimony will encourage you to surrender, to look for God’s purposes in the middle of struggle, and to live each day with courage and joy. You’ll walk away challenged to say, “Pick me, Lord”—and to watch for His everyday miracles
Links
Find me (Valerie Dube / Terminal Joy): terminaljoy.com
Connect with Marty Carrell: Marty's Instagram
Learn more about the Devotional Quilts Project: terminaljoy.com/quilts

He is Both Sovereign and Good: Durenda's Story with Stage 4 Colon Cancer

What do you do when life takes a turn you never expected? In this episode of Faith Through Cancer, I sit down with Durenda Wilson—a longtime homeschool mom, author, podcaster, wife, and grandmother—who was recently diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer. Durenda shares so beautifully about how her faith has carried her through the shock, the questions, and the ongoing treatments, and how she has learned to see God’s hand even in the suffering. Her honesty is refreshing as she talks about everything from keeping normal family rhythms to choosing gratitude in the small things, from battling discouraging words from doctors to clinging to the truth that only God holds the final word over our lives. This is a conversation about identity, trust, and peace in the unknown, and Durenda’s words will encourage anyone who has ever walked through suffering—or walked alongside someone who has.
Resources & Links
Find more encouragement at Terminal Joy
Donate to the Devotional Quilts Fundraiser Here
Find Durenda online: DorendaWilson.com
Durenda's instagram
Books by Dorenda: Available on Amazon
Recommended episode: Dorenda’s podcast, Episode 585 Living in the Unknown
✨ If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend who needs hope today.

Faith Fuelled Healing: Danielle's Story with Stage 4 Metastatic HER2+ Breast Cancer

This week on Faith Through Cancer, I’m talking with Danielle McKean, who opens up about her cancer journey and the unexpected ways God worked in her life. From a delayed diagnosis to a terminal prognosis, Danielle shares how faith and nutrition became powerful tools in her healing.
Her story is a beautiful blend of practical wisdom and spiritual truth—how surrendering to God brought peace, how prayer and Scripture gave her strength, and how taking care of her body was part of trusting Him. Danielle’s perspective will encourage you whether you’re facing a diagnosis, caring for someone you love, or just needing a reminder that God is present in every detail.
Connect with Danielle:📷 Instagram: @cancer_conqueror_danielle🌐 Website: Cancer Conquerer
Resources Mentioned:🏥 Envita Medical Center – Arizona
Mentioned in the Episode:
Learn more and find encouragement at terminaljoy.com
The Devotional Quilts Project – seven quilts, seven truths, one mission to encourage women with cancer
Free Bible reading & journaling plan available for download

Fighting Cancer with Faith: 7 Truths to Hold On To In Your Cancer Journey

In this solo episode of Faith Through Cancer, I’m sharing seven biblical truths that became lifelines for my mother-in-law, Bev, during her journey with terminal cancer. These truths—woven throughout her journals—are rooted in Scripture, anchored in God’s promises, and full of practical ways to draw near to Him no matter what you’re walking through.
Purpose
📖 Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord...📖 Psalm 32:8 – “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life...”
Peace
📖 John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you…”📖 Isaiah 58:11 – “The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry…”
Faithfulness
📖 Lamentations 3:22–23 – “The faithful love of the Lord never ends… Great is His faithfulness.”📖 Deuteronomy 7:9 – “The Lord your God is indeed God… the faithful God who keeps His covenant…”
Strength
📖 2 Chronicles 20:15 – “Do not be afraid… For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”📖 2 Chronicles 20:17 – “You will not have to fight this battle… Watch the Lord’s victory.”📖 Ephesians 6:10 – “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”
Comfort
📖 Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted…”📖 1 Peter 5:7 – “Give all your worries and cares to God…”
Thankfulness
📖 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances…”📖 Psalm 100:4–5 – “Enter His gates with thanksgiving… His love endures forever.”
Hope (Eternity)
📖 John 10:28 – “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish…”📖 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 – “Outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed…”📖 Psalm 23:6 – “Surely your goodness… I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
 
Mentioned in the Episode:
The Devotional Quilts Project – A creative fundraiser to bring Bev’s legacy to life through seven handmade quilts (one for each truth). Follow along at @terminal.joy and terminaljoy.com.
🎵 "Surrounded (Fight My Battles)" – Michael W. Smith🎵 "Firm Foundation (He Won’t)" – by Maverick City Music / Cody Carnes / Chandler Moore (not specified, but common version)🎵 "I Speak Jesus" – Charity Gayle
Support the Podcast:⭐ Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform📢 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement🧵 Learn more about the devotional fundraiser at @terminal.joy

Choosing Joy and Surrender: Charlyn's Story with Stage 4 Breast Cancer (Her2+, Estr+)

In today’s episode of Faith Through Cancer, I’m joined by the amazing Charlyn Davids from South Africa, who shares her raw, beautiful, and deeply honest journey after being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer (Her2+, Estr+)). Charlyn talks about how years of personal loss and heartache actually prepared her for this moment—and how, instead of fighting cancer, she’s learning to fully surrender to God’s love and care.
With a mix of honesty, laughter, and deep spiritual insight, Charlyn reminds us that we don’t have to have it all together to be held by God. Whether you’re walking through cancer, grief, or just a really hard season, this conversation will leave you feeling less alone and more seen by a God who truly knows what we need.
Bible Verses Shared:📖 Psalm 112:6–8 – “The righteous will never be shaken; they will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.”📖 Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”📖 Isaiah 51:12 – “I, even I, am He who comforts you.”📖 Romans 8:26 – “The Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”
Charlyn’s Encouragement to Women With a Stage 4 Diagnosis:
“Run to Him. That’s all I can say. Don’t run away—there’s nothing for you there.”
“Be honest with how you feel. Grieve, rage, cry, worship—He can handle it all.”
“Don’t delay. Advocate for yourself if something feels off in your body.”
Resources & Links:
Charlyn’s worship music Spotify Link
Follow Charlyn on Instagram 
More encouragement at Terminal Joy 
Support the Podcast:⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📢 Share this episode with someone in need of hope🙏 Donate to support our ministry Get a Journal
 

Honouring Bev: A Legacy of Faith through Terminal Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Friends, this is a special episode of Faith Through Cancer. Today I sit down with Maureen, my mother-in-law Bev’s best friend of over 40 years, to honor Bev’s life, legacy, and faith—two years after her passing. Together, we reflect on Bev’s incredible personality, her strength through a terminal cancer diagnosis, and the spiritual transformation she experienced along the way.
Bev’s story is one of resilience, joy, deep faith, and intentional gratitude. Through journals, Scripture, music, worship, and community, Bev chose to walk through cancer with purpose—not fear. You’ll hear how her relationship with Jesus deepened in her final years, how she embraced joy despite pain, and how her light continues to shine through her story and legacy.
Bible Verses Shared in the Episode:📖 Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”📖 Isaiah 43:16 – “Thus says the Lord who makes a way in the sea and a path in the mighty waters.”📖 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 – “Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.”📖 Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is alive and active…”📖 Psalm 23 – “He restores my soul.”📖 Philippians 4 – “Think about whatever is good, lovely, and true.”
A Word for Caregivers and Friends:Sometimes the greatest gift you can give is simply being there. Respect the boundaries of your loved one, follow their lead, and keep showing up with love, Scripture, and presence.
Resources & Next Steps:
Read more from Bev’s journals in God Is Still Writing My Story 
Follow us on Instagram @terminal.joy
Ways to Support the Podcast:⭐ Leave a review on Apple or Spotify📢 Share this episode to encourage someone facing grief or cancer🙏 Support our ministry at Terminal Joy

Fighting Cancer with Faith: Exchanging 5 Cancer Lies for God's Truth

In today’s episode, we’re walking through five common lies that often creep in during the cancer journey—and replacing each one with God’s unshakable truth from Scripture. Whether you’re in the middle of treatment, walking through scan anxiety, or simply feeling weary, this episode is here to help you take up the Sword of the Spirit—God’s Word—and push back against the thoughts that leave you feeling ashamed, afraid, or alone.
🗒️ What We Cover in This Episode:
Lie #1: “God is punishing me.”→ Truth: There is no condemnation in Christ.→ Scriptures: Romans 8:1, Psalm 103:10→ Encouragement from Billy Graham
Lie #2: “If I had more faith, I would be healed.”→ Truth: God’s grace is enough, even in weakness.→ Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 12:9, 2 Corinthians 4:16→ Quote from John Piper
Lie #3: “I shouldn’t feel afraid if I trust God.”→ Truth: Faith and fear can coexist when we run to God.→ Scriptures: Psalm 56:3, Isaiah 41:10→ Encouragement from Corrie ten Boom
Lie #4: “I have to be strong for everyone else.”→ Truth: Your strength comes from the Lord, not yourself.→ Scriptures: Matthew 11:28, Nehemiah 8:10→ Wisdom from C.S. Lewis
Lie #5: “My story is over.”→ Truth: God is still writing your story.→ Scriptures: Philippians 1:6, Isaiah 46:4→ Encouragement from Elisabeth Elliot
📲 Connect + Share
Was this episode meaningful for you?💌 Share it with a friend walking through cancer💬 Leave a review to help others find hope📷 Tag me on Instagram @terminal.joy and let us know what truth you’re holding onto today
Would you like a free printable with the 5 truths and verses from this episode? Get My Printable
 

Let God Love You Through This: Valerie's Story as a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Faith Through Cancer, cancer survivor Valerie Quinata shares her journey through a triple negative breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and healing. Valerie opens up about how faith, prayer, Scripture, and community helped her conquer fear, advocate for herself during treatment, and stay connected to God's promises every step of the way.
She discusses the commandment "Do Not Fear", lifestyle changes after cancer, and the emotional and spiritual healing that often go hand-in-hand with physical recovery. Valerie also shares practical insights on advocating for yourself in the medical system, building a supportive environment, and staying grounded in God’s Word daily. Plus, she talks about her book, Heal the Sick, written to encourage others walking through cancer with faith and courage.
Key Quotes from Valerie:💬 “Cancer did not survive me—by the grace of God, I am a conqueror.”💬 “Fear is an open door. God commands us not to fear, and we must obey.”💬 “Your true defense against cancer is love—God’s love, family love, community love.”💬 “Healing happens on this side or the next, but healing will happen.”
Bible Verses Mentioned:📖 Joel 2:21–27 – God’s promise of restoration: “Do not be afraid. Be glad and rejoice. Surely the Lord has done great things.”📖 Deuteronomy 32:39 – "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and compassion on whom I will have compassion."
How to Connect with Valerie:
Purchase her book Heal the Sick
Email Valerie Q at vmquinata@gmail.com
Ways to Support the Podcast:⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!📢 Share this episode with someone walking through cancer.🙏 Support Faith Through Cancer by purchasing this beautiful journal