Finding Strength Through Loss: James Moffitt’s Journey With Faith, Grief, and Father’s Refuge

Finding Strength Through Loss: James Moffitt’s Journey With Faith, Grief, and Father’s Refuge

Author: Dr. Brad Miller February 6, 2026 Duration: 55:16

On this episode of Cancer and Comedy, Dr. Brad Miller talks with James Moffitt, founder of Father’s Refuge, about grief, faith, and finding hope after the loss of a child. James shares the stories of his daughter Jessica, who died from childhood cancer at age 10, and his son Jeremy, who passed away years later from serious health complications. His experiences show how grief is not a moment in time, but a lifelong journey that reshapes identity and belief.

James explains how Father’s Refuge was created after realizing that fathers often lack support once a child’s treatment ends. He and Brad discuss how men are taught to hide emotion, which can lead to isolation and broken relationships. James opens up about wrestling with God in moments of anger and despair, and how the idea of refuge became a place for dads to be honest and not alone.

The conversation highlights Jessica’s remarkable courage as she chose peace and family over further treatment. James also reflects on his strained relationship with Jeremy and the pain of unresolved distance. Woven throughout the episode are messages of hope, humor, and encouragement, reminding listeners that even after profound loss, healing and purpose are still possible.

“Cancer and Comedy” with Dr. Brad Miller is dedicated to helping people navigate cancer and profound loss with hope, faith, and honest conversation. Learn more about James and access resources for grieving fathers at fathersrefuge.com or contact him at fathersrefuge@proton.me. To connect with the wider community and continue your own journey of healing with hope and humor, visit cancerandcomedy.com/follow.

Website: https://www.fathersrefuge.com/

Email: fathersrefuge@proton.me


There's a particular kind of alchemy that happens when serious things meet sincere laughter, and that's the space where you'll find Cancer and Comedy: Helping Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor. Hosted by Dr. Brad Miller, this podcast emerged from a deeply personal place. Fresh into retirement after 43 years as a pastor, Brad received a prostate cancer diagnosis during the Christmas season of 2022. His instinctive reaction-to laugh as a way to keep from crying-sparked a mission. Each episode is built on the belief that those touched by cancer are not done living, and that facing the grim with a grin is a powerful form of resilience. You'll hear conversations that blend candid stories from the cancer journey with a genuine, often surprising, sense of humor. It’s not about dismissing the difficulty, but about discovering pockets of light and levity within it. Brad brings his unique perspective as both a longtime spiritual guide and a current patient, creating dialogues that are as educational about mental and physical wellness as they are uplifting. This isn't a lecture; it's a companionable audio experience for anyone seeking to fortify their spirit with hope and an honest, sometimes healing, laugh. Tune in for a podcast that redefines strength, proving that coping can be a creative, and even comedic, act of self-improvement.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Cancer and Comedy: Helping Cancer Impacted People to Cope with Hope and Humor
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