It’s hard to believe we are here. After 10 years of appointments, scans, surgeries, and uncertainty, we are standing at the edge of a new chapter. One we didn’t think would actually happen to us, but one we are walking into with faith and purpose.

Emma is preparing for a double mastectomy.

The journey here has not been easy. Early on, Emma faced a round of cancerous phyllodes tumors, which led to years of monitoring and follow up surgeries. Thankfully, her most recent tumors and scans have been benign. But the physical toll, the emotional weight, and the risk of cancer return brought us to this difficult decision.

We created Living Valor as more than a small business. It is our way to serve, to encourage, and to share the light that has carried us through the darkest moments. We pour each candle by hand, engrave every product ourselves, and pray that each one reminds someone that courage does not mean having it all together. It means taking the next step even when things feel uncertain.

We are reminded of Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

That promise is what we are holding onto right now.

Our next appointment at Johns Hopkins is a week from today. We will be meeting with Emma’s plastics team as we prepare for surgery. Each visit brings new emotions—hope, anxiety, and a lot of questions. But it also reminds us how far we have already come, and that we are never walking alone.

To those who have already been praying, encouraging, giving, and cheering us on—thank you. Your love and support have lifted our family more than words can say. From every text to every candle purchase to every share of our story, you have been part of the reason we are still standing strong.

If you are reading this, thank you. Whether you have been walking with us for years or just recently found us, we are honored you are here. We plan to make a blog post every Tuesday to share where we are, what is ahead, and how we are holding onto faith. If you feel led, we would be grateful if you shared our story with others.

We believe God is not finished with our story.

As Romans 12:12 reminds us:
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

That’s our posture moving forward—hopeful, patient, and prayerful.

With love and deep gratitude,
Chad and Emma
Living Valor