Greg and Kari Ebel: A Story of Resilient Faith
Feature Story • Faith-Based Publication • Human-Interest Storytelling • Family & Community
A feature story profiling a family whose faith was tested through medical challenges, cancer diagnoses, the loss of a child and profound personal grief. Through personal interviews and narrative storytelling, the piece explored resilience, hope and the role faith plays during life's most difficult seasons. Published in a parish magazine serving members of the local Catholic community.
Client
Our Catholic Family Magazine
Type of Work
Feature Story • Faith-Based Storytelling • Human-Interest Profile
My Role
Interviewing • Reporting • Writing
Excerpt
After Eli’s passing, Kari told him he had an important job to do: watch over his family, especially his dad, who was still fighting cancer. The family draws strength from knowing Eli is looking after them.
“Our family had gained our own little saint and a beacon to Heaven,” the couple said.
A week after Eli’s funeral, Greg underwent surgery to remove cancerous tumors. In August 2023, he faced another scare when new spots appeared on his lungs. His oncologist suspected the cancer had spread. However, on the day of his scheduled surgery, Greg saw a rainbow and felt Eli’s presence. Moments later, his doctor called with unexpected news: the spots were not cancer. Instead, they were a treatable fungal infection.
“I believe in miracles,” Kari said. “That day, I know Eli was holding up his end of the deal to help cure his dad.”
Photos by Michele Knuth Photography
Project Highlights
This story was designed to share an authentic testimony of faith while honoring the family's experiences with illness, grief and healing. Through compassionate interviewing and narrative storytelling, the piece aimed to offer encouragement, foster connection within the parish community and highlight how faith can provide strength during life's most challenging moments.
Faith-Centered Storytelling
Resilience & Hope
Family & Community Connection
