Jessica Hanna, a courageous anti-abortion advocate, has passed away. Despite being diagnosed with late-stage cancer three years ago, she chose to bravely face the illness and treatment instead of opting for an abortion, ultimately giving birth to a healthy and happy son.
Her husband, Lamar Hanna, shared in an interview with The Epoch Times that during his late wife’s battle with cancer, they both strove to maintain steadfast faith. “Jessica and I both believe that no matter what happens, God’s will is ultimately perfect,” he said. “From an earthly perspective, many things in this life may seem senseless to us. However, from an eternal perspective, whether active or permissive, God’s will is perfect – we must always trust in His will.”
Mrs. Hanna’s struggle with cancer dates back to 2020 when she was diagnosed shortly after discovering her pregnancy with their fourth child, Thomas. Despite pressure from medical professionals to undergo an abortion due to a 5.1-inch cancerous breast tumor, the dedicated Catholic mother firmly refused.
Each time she visited the doctor, she reminded herself, “I will not allow them to abort me.” In a previous interview with The Epoch Times, she stated, “Without exception, life begins at conception. You cannot solve one trauma by adding a second. Abortion is another trauma – it cannot heal.”
After successful tumor removal in January 2021, the cancer had already spread affecting 43 lymph nodes, indicating likely terminal illness. Mrs. Hanna underwent chemotherapy and delivered a healthy child after four rounds of treatment. Thomas was born on May 30, 2021.
Following a period of remission, the cancer recurred in 2022, this time at a more advanced stage. Despite facing terminal illness and hospitalization, Mrs. Hanna turned to her Instagram page @blessed_by_cancer to convey her trust in God, emphasizing the opportunity to glorify Him through her suffering.
Detailing her perspective, she wrote, “Transitioning to God after death is not the end, but a passage to eternity. Miraculous healing doesn’t mean God values our earthly life over our eternal life; it’s often a gift with a purpose beyond our understanding.” Her profound faith and inspiring outlook touched the hearts of many, offering advice and solace to those facing similar struggles.
The Hannas, both born and raised in Ontario, Canada, shared a love for their pharmacy careers, meeting at Wayne State University in Detroit and marrying in 2011. Dedicated to nurturing a close-knit community and instilling traditional values in their children, they credited their ability to balance multiple responsibilities and a happy family life to God’s grace.
As Mrs. Hanna embarked on her cancer battle, she continued to rely on her faith, viewing it as an opportunity to share eternal hope and God’s grace across social media platforms. Despite the challenges, she remained a beacon of strength and inspiration to countless individuals, consistently sharing her beliefs to offer guidance to those enduring pain and suffering.
Mr. Hanna, a traditional husband, stood by his wife through life’s trials, sharing that watching his ailing wife in pain was “heart-wrenching.” As he navigated the uncertainties ahead, his faith remained a guiding light. “In the foreseeable future, this is my new cross. It is a cross of sorrow, grief, uncertainty, and loneliness, but God calls me to pick up this cross and follow Him. He will provide me with all the grace I need, and I fully accept whatever the future holds.”
Managing his late wife’s Instagram account now, he reflected on her final days, noting her acceptance and lack of fear despite the severity of her condition. Their children, resilient like their mother, found strength in faith, regularly praying for her alongside Jesus’ presence.
Amid their sorrow, the family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from others during this challenging time. Hanna emphasized that while suffering in life is inevitable, how we face these difficulties and pains is key. “Jessica didn’t let her suffering go in vain; she transformed it into sacrifice. Suffering can be a means to disconnect from the secular and earthly comforts as the comforts God provides far surpass all.”