Matt Moran was, in some ways, like any other husband, father, son and friend. He was a guy from the Midwest, living his life and providing for his family, when he was diagnosed with cancer. But what made Matt remarkable and such a blessing to those in his life was his joyous spirit and his dedication to gratitude.

He was initially diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2015, and had surgery at that time. Doctors told him he was cancer-free, but then in late 2018 the cancer returned. He began searching online for inspiration from others’ cancer journeys as he faced this difficult news. In hearing their stories, Matt thought, “I want to be like that. And I can’t wait until I’m on the other side of this diagnosis. I have to start right now.” And that inspired him to start a blog and podcast called, “With Gratitude, Matt” in 2020.

He documented his cancer journey and interviewed dozens of people who faced illness, loss, grief, and other seemingly insurmountable hurdles. Their stories highlighted the power of gratitude and faith.

Over the course of three years and despite not getting the health news he would have wanted, Matt grew in gratitude. As he said on his podcast, cancer brought him a lot of things beside the pain: “I have a deeper understanding behind the Jesuit motto, ‘Men and women for others.’ I have a closer and more personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. I’m much more intentional today about how I pray and why I pray.” This ability of Matt’s – to find things to be grateful for even in the midst of cancer – is what inspired us to pick up his torch and share the hope of gratitude with the world.

Matt ultimately went home to the Lord in August 2023, but his mission and encouragement live on in his podcasts and in the work of the With Gratitude Matt Foundation.

We encourage you to listen back to these podcasts as they are timeless and will continue to encourage you on your journey. May you be blessed and inspired by Matt’s strength and legacy.

As Matt would always say, “Godspeed, my friends!”