Pastor Brian Hoehler has spent much of his life running toward people who need help. Now, facing a Stage 3 cancer diagnosis, he is discovering just how many people are willing to run toward him.
Hoehler, pastor of New Hope Community Church in Green Township, Ohio, was recently diagnosed after doctors found a malignant tumor in his neck, according to WCPO 9.
The diagnosis arrived with little warning.
Hoehler’s wife, Jalal, told WCPO that her husband appeared healthy before the cancer was discovered. The news stunned the family, and even weeks into the ordeal, Hoehler was still trying to comprehend how quickly life had changed.
“We’re three weeks into this, and I still don’t know if it makes sense,” he told the outlet.
Yet in the middle of an unwanted and uncertain chapter, something powerful is happening around the Hoehler family.
People are showing up.
Long before becoming the one in need, Hoehler built a life around serving others. He previously worked as a Cincinnati police officer before becoming a pastor. He and his wife also established a food pantry, and Hoehler recently completed a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling.
That history of service is now being answered with an extraordinary wave of generosity.
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WCPO reported that a gathering originally meant to celebrate Hoehler’s academic accomplishment took on new meaning following his diagnosis. Friends, relatives and community members came together around the pastor and his family.
Supporters cleared out the family’s Amazon wish list, while fundraising efforts had surpassed $16,000 at the time of WCPO’s report.
“It’s been amazing, just the support that’s been poured out in every direction,” Hoehler said.
Soon, however, the battle enters another phase.
Hoehler is expected to begin chemotherapy and radiation during the third week of September. WCPO reported that the aggressive treatment could eventually leave him needing a feeding tube.
This is where the body of Christ can step in.
Behind every diagnosis is a person. Behind this one is a pastor, husband and father who has spent years ministering to people when life became difficult.
Now he needs prayer.
Pray for healing over Hoehler’s body and strength through every treatment. Pray for supernatural peace over his family and wisdom for his medical team.
Cancer may have interrupted the Hoehler family’s plans, but no diagnosis is beyond the Great Physician’s reach.
Abby Trivett is a writer and editor for Charisma Media and has a passion for sharing the gospel through the written word. She holds two degrees from Regent University, a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Journalism. She is the author of the newly released book, The Power of Suddenly: Discover How God Can Change Everything in a Moment. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
