Ep 19 - No Fear of the Future: Finding Faith Through Cancer, Caregiving, and Loss with Ane Howard
September 09, 202600:43:09

Ep 19 - No Fear of the Future: Finding Faith Through Cancer, Caregiving, and Loss with Ane Howard

In this episode of Authentically Rachel, Rachel speaks with Anne Howard, a longtime educator, missionary, two-time cancer survivor, caregiver, and leader of a thriving cancer support ministry.
Anne shares how her faith sustained her through stage 4 colon cancer, breast cancer, her husband’s Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s diagnoses, and the unexpected loss of her daughter. Through every painful season, she has held tightly to the truth that God knows, God cares, and He remains with us in the fire.
Rachel and Anne also discuss the healing power of serving others, the importance of Christian community, and how churches can support individuals and families facing cancer, caregiving, and grief. Ane’s story reminds us that suffering does not have to leave us isolated or bitter—it can become an opportunity to encourage others and shine the light of Christ.
In this episode:
• Surviving stage 4 colon cancer and breast cancer
• Finding strength through Scripture and Christian mentors
• Caring for a husband with serious neurological conditions
• Walking through the unexpected loss of a daughter
• What to say—and what not to say—to someone who is grieving
• Why serving others can be an important part of healing
• Building meaningful support within the church
• Sharing the gospel through compassion and community
• Choosing faith over fear of the future
Scriptures mentioned:
• Proverbs 31:25
• 2 Corinthians 1:3–4
• Proverbs 3:5–6
• 1 Peter 5:7
• Luke 5:31–32
• Daniel 3
To learn more about Ane’s cancer support ministry, visit the Woodmen Valley Chapel website and look under Congregational Care and Support Groups.
If this conversation encouraged you, please share it with someone who needs hope and subscribe to Authentically Rachel for more honest conversations about faith, resilience, and the power of personal testimony.