Raw Survival

“In an era of reality stories, it is rare to find the truth, clarity of experiences, and memories as shared by Jan Rozga in her new book, Raw Survival. While I was only a small part of this story of a mother’s joy turned to heartache, I can testify that all of what is recorded in this riveting book is true, and the emotions are real. If you have your own teenagers, hug them every day and tell them you love them, because life can change in an instant.”

—Anthony J. Scalzo, MD, Director, Division of Toxicology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine



“Incredibly well-written and vulnerable. I felt the hope and love of God as I read Raw Survival. Each passage of Scripture shared connects powerfully to surviving grief, regardless of the type of loss experienced by the reader. Very, very important guidance throughout the book. This needs to be shared!”

—Susie Sher, Iowa Governor’s Office of Drug Control Policy



“Jan speaks directly from her broken heart into the grieving hearts of those devastated by the sudden, tragic death of someone they love. Masterfully written, this book not only pulls the reader in closely as Jan shares her own compelling and devastating story, but it challenges the reader to consider their own grief journey, bringing hope and healing through thought-provoking questions, poignant Scripture passages, and comforting prayers that the reader can personalize as their own when there just are no

words.”

—Sasha J. Mudlaff, Vice President, Hamilton’s Funeral Home, Des Moines, Iowa



“When we wander through grief valleys of despair, we doubt anybody understands. Oh, sweet soul, my friend Jan does. Her book Raw Survival is a heartbreaking, hope-gushing story about the healing love of Jesus. She doesn’t sugarcoat the hard; instead, she shares with brave transparency, beautiful authenticity, and a kindred vibe. By inviting us into her own raw survival, Jan helps us discover healing and hope in ours. What a gift.”

—Tina Savant Gibson, contributing author to Let Your Light Shine: Being a Light in a Dark World



“This book is really well done and it’s going to bless, comfort, and impact so many people at their point of need. I love the balance of spiritual elements and the raw, honest trust in our God. It is boldly transparent and clearly presents the Gospel.”

—Karen Langstraat, Regional Director, Stonecroft



“I definitely recommend this book to others. It takes a poignant look at the grieving process and gives readers important strategies needed to navigate it: counseling, journaling, prayer, connecting with others who are grieving, self-care, etc. Raw Survival is a tool that will positively impact the mental health of readers.”

—Tina Chaplin, School Counselor



“I’m beyond amazed. As I read Raw Survival, I tried to put my own grief aside, but it was simply impossible. Time and time again, I felt God saying, ‘Come to me, trust me,’ and I found courage and hope that I will be able to look back after a few years and see progress in my own battle with grief. The realism and raw emotion pour off the pages.”

—Vicky Ohnemus, grieving parent



“God is going to use this book to minister to so many who need the hope and truth of Jesus Christ in their moments of deepest pain and loss.”

—Mike Shields, District Superintendent, Evangelical Free Church of America



“This book is real, it’s truth, and it offers hope! There is a tremendous ministry between its covers, making it a great gift to share with someone who has lost a loved one! The reader sees how God can (and will) meet us where we’re at and continue to bring healing. Great guidance for dealing with the thoughts and emotions of grief.”

—Sandy Bloem, grieving grandparent



“I am dealing with the emotional loss of a close family relationship. Although I would never compare my struggle with the loss of a child, I find great hope in the words and scriptures in Raw Survival and appreciate Jan’s transparency in sharing personal struggles, like needing a nightcap before bed to keep her mind from wandering. It is relatable and makes me feel less alone.”

—Jake Lettington, friend of David Rozga



“Jan brings to life an unfathomable loss and how God steps in and ‘carries’ us through our biggest struggles. Raw Survival shows how he gives us our daily bread by speaking through his word and the special people he has put in our lives. Jesus is the only hope and peace in these times!”

—Adam Timmerman, Director, Northwest Iowa Fellowship of Christian Athletes



“A wonderfully inspiring book that is a real page-turner! The information is presented in a straightforward manner that is easy to read, well organized, and Jesus centered. ‘The Truth Companion’ is a tremendous asset to help readers distinguish the lies that come to them and turn them around with the power of God’s truth. Powerful!”

—Marge Thompson, author of I Love You Anyhow



“Exceptional content that is worthy of publishing. Specific guidance for walking through grief, encouragement for readers to lean on God’s Word as a foundation for healing, and the ‘First Aid for Your Grieving Heart’ sections, with prayers and journal prompts, make this book extremely practical for anyone suffering from loss.”

—Linton Lundeen, Pastor of Care & Counseling, Valley Church



“With profound vulnerability Jan ushers the reader through the depths of her loss and the truths she found along the way. Raw Survival is a beacon of hope and healing for the grieving and non-grieving alike.”

—Zach Sikora, Licensed Clinical Psychologist



“I believe the deepest teaching is drawn from the well of one’s lived experience—particularly painful experience. Jan has survived the greatest pain any parent can imagine. Raw Survival is her gift to us. It contains the lived lessons that will sustain each of us through our own dark night of the soul. More than a book, it’s a lifeline and it’s an honor to commend it to you.”

—Ryan Huguley, author of 8 Hours, or Less: Writing Faithful Sermons Faster



“Jan Rozga’s stirring book is a gift of heart-rending transparency and ultimate hope for anyone who has suffered deep loss—and for those who seek to support them. The chapters are not theory. Each one is intensely honest and real. The depth and breadth of her empathy and wisdom are truly life-giving. Highly recommended!”

—Quintin Stieff, Lead Pastor, Valley Church, Des Moines, Iowa