Pamela Platt was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. But she decided to live every day with intention, to spend time with the people who matter to her–her family, her husband, and her community.

Margaret Spengler is the pastor of a United Methodist church in Pennsylvania who was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma on her leg and in her lung. She put her faith in God and follows her immune therapy treatment regimen and is doing well. Her congregation has been very supportive along with her family. Rebecca Wadel is a friend who knows other people with cancer and is a member of the congregation. Margaret asked her to join the interview and describe what it’s like to have a pastor in cancer treatment.

Michele was an active young woman, working as an attorney and engaged to be married when she was diagnosed with leukemia. She’s pictured above with Lisa, whose bone marrow donation save Michele’s life.

Jordan Lawhead was a teenager when he was first diagnosed with melanoma. Exercise helped him feel better, but he also says you need to acknowledge the love of the people around you.

Ronald Williams battled alcoholism before being diagnosed with lymphoma. Through his struggles, he has found strength in a higher power and satisfaction in volunteering his time helping other patients as they go through therapy. “I guarantee you,” he says of the Lord, “he’ll come through, he’ll pull you through this mess.”

Paul has come to appreciate everything he has like never before. Since being diagnosed with advanced skin cancer, he has taken his relationships with his wife and children to new levels. He has felt the warmth of family and friends as they have brought meals, helped with kids and pets, sent letters and emails or simply prayed for him. In a particularly touching gesture, Paul’s students raised over $1000 and made a donation in his name.

Joseph Sargente retired and soon after was diagnosed with skin cancer. He spent his whole life upset that life seemed unfair. Surviving cancer though, he realized how few people survived to retirement, let alone had more time left to live.

Janina Sturdivant is 36 and has been diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. She participates in research studies and has an unusual treatment plan. She has learned to appreciate life and spending time with her children. She addresses middle school students about cancer and children with cancer. She advises always ask questions, take an active part in treatment, and join a support group.

After Gerry Krobisch was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, he and his wife moved from New York to Baltimore, just a few blocks from his daughter and two of his grandsons, ages 3 and 5.