In today’s episode, I’m joined by author and speaker Marissa Henley to talk about what it looks like to truly thrive after cancer and how we can love others well through that journey.
Marissa was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive cancer in her 30s, and she shares how God met her in that season and how it transformed her view of faith, suffering, and community. We also discuss what inspired her to write After Cancer: Thriving with Hope and Loving Your Friend Through Cancer, and the lessons she’s learned about walking alongside those who are hurting.
If you’ve ever wondered how to support a friend facing illness—or you’re in a hard season yourself—this conversation offers both compassion and practical guidance.
Grab your coffee or tea, and let’s get started.
How Marissa came to faith and began writing
What her cancer journey taught her about God’s character
Encouragement for survivors learning to live beyond treatment
Practical ways to love a friend walking through cancer
How the body of Christ can better support one another in suffering
What to avoid saying when you want to help
Marissa Henley is a writer, speaker, and the author of After Cancer: Thriving with Hope and Loving Your Friend Through Cancer. She holds a graduate certificate in systematic theology from Reformed Theological Seminary and serves the body of Christ through her local church and ministry efforts. Marissa lives in Northwest Arkansas with her husband, where she loves annoying her teenage daughter with Gen Z slang and trying to lure her two sons home from college with offers of food and laundry.
After Cancer: Thriving with Hope by Marissa Henley
Loving Your Friend Through Cancer by Marissa Henley