Stand: Emotionally and Practically Surviving When a Child Gets a Life-Threatening Diagnosis

To hear him tell it, author and pastor Jay Mitlo is a pretty average, down-to-earth guy. This average guy, though, happens to have the most extraordinary story. His message is one of help and encouragement to those who need it most. As a husband, father, coach, youth ministry leader, and pastor, Jay can tell a story from a few more perspectives than most.

His family and community, collectively Team Mitlo - One, were cemented together when his son Trey was diagnosed with cancer. The worst journey a family can experience turned into Jay's mission and ministry to help other families who get that same startling news that a child has a terminal diagnosis.

Jay has written his thoughts and memories as a kind of manual; it's a guide for those who have started down this same path. He explores how to Stand firm as a family when pressed down by the stress and struggle of navigating an unexpected diagnosis. His candid discussion of the real-life aspects of living with a child with cancer provides a glimpse into the strain of the medical, financial, and even social aspects that can be placed on a family. What's more, he offers frank, practical, and timely advice to those who find themselves in a position to help.

Reading this book is walking alongside a family in a fight for the life of their child. You'll meet the helpers and the invaders. You'll appreciate the innumerable daily decisions that Jay and his wife, Rachel, had to make for their family. You'll also be rejoicing in small victories and grieving with them in the losses.

Trey finished his battle and went to be with Jesus when he "graduated" to heaven, but his legacy certainly lives on. His family continues to share their story and their support with others who need it. This book is a testimony to God's goodness even when the outcome is not the one hoped for; it is all about God's provision in the face of crisis. Jay wrote this book to share Trey's story with those who need help to Stand firm in the face of their trials.