In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan shares her personal journey as a widow navigating life after losing her husband to cancer. This is kicking off our "Life After Cancer" mini series. She discusses the emotional complexities of grief, the challenges of identity and role changes, and the importance of healing as a caretaker. Kayla offers heartfelt advice on moving forward, finding meaning, and embracing love after loss, emphasizing that it's okay to hold both grief and joy together. This episode serves as a supportive guide for those experiencing similar struggles, encouraging listeners to find their own paths to healing and happiness.

Takeaways

• Grief does not follow a timeline and can hit unexpectedly.
• It's okay to miss loved ones while still finding joy.
• Your identity may feel shattered after loss, and that's normal.
• Healing is essential for caretakers who have focused on their loved ones.
• Moving forward does not mean forgetting; you can carry memories with you.
• Love after loss is not a betrayal; it's possible to love again.
• You can hold grief and joy together in your heart.
• You deserve to find peace and happiness after loss.
• Protect your peace and let go of those who no longer serve you.
• It's a challenging journey, but you're not alone.

Donate to INDY for Dancing with Our Stars: https://www.communitygiving.org/make-a-donation/?gfid=264

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan discusses the concept of the 'Let Them' mindset popularized by Mel Robbins. This mindset emphasizes the importance of allowing others to act according to their own choices, particularly in the context of cancer journeys. Kayla reflects on her experiences during her partner's cancer battle, highlighting the emotional complexities of support, boundaries, and the necessity of respecting individual coping mechanisms. The conversation encourages listeners to protect their peace and understand that it's okay to step back and let others process their emotions in their own way.

Takeaways

• Let people show you who they are instead of trying to control them.
• Protecting your peace is essential during tough times.
• You cannot control how others react to your situation.
• Letting others help can be a form of support.
• Emotional struggles can be hard to understand for caregivers.
• Sometimes just being present is enough support.
• It's okay to step back and not push for interaction.
• Respecting boundaries is crucial for emotional health.
• Coping mechanisms vary from person to person.
• The 'Let Them' mindset can provide emotional freedom.

Donate to INDY for Dancing with Our Stars: https://www.communitygiving.org/make-a-donation/?gfid=264

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this conversation, Courtney Studenski and Kayla Keenan reflect on the recent gala event, discussing the emotional connections formed, the impact of cancer on life perspectives, and the importance of community support. They celebrate the success of the event, which raised significant funds for cancer warriors, and share personal anecdotes that highlight the transformative experiences of those affected by cancer. The discussion also touches on future goals for the organization and the ongoing need for community engagement.

Takeaways

• The gala is a massive event, akin to planning a wedding every year.
• Cancer changes perspectives on what truly matters in life.
• The recent gala raised $247,000, marking a record year.
• Emotional connections among cancer warriors are vital for community support.
• The podcast aims to reach and connect with strangers affected by cancer.
• The organization is trending in the top 25 for nonprofit podcasts in the U.S.
• Community is at the heart of the organization's mission.
• Personal connections made during the gala are deeply impactful.
• Future events will focus on expanding support for cancer warriors.
• The gala's success is a testament to community involvement and support.

Donate to INDY for Dancing with Our Stars: https://www.communitygiving.org/make-a-donation/?gfid=264

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this conversation, Abbey Graves shares her journey as a participant in 'Dancing with Our Stars' for the Women's Fund of Central Minnesota, highlighting her fundraising efforts for the INDY Foundation. She discusses her dance practice, the importance of community support, and her personal connection to the foundation, which has been a source of hope during her family's cancer journey. The conversation also touches on the emotional impact of podcasting and the stories shared through the INDY Foundation's platform. This conversation delves into the pressing issue of cancer diagnosis rates in Minnesota, the goals of the Indy Foundation in supporting cancer patients, and the challenges faced by nonprofits in providing aid. They also discuss the emotional aspects of their work, the joy of celebrating life, and the global reach of their podcast, which aims to connect and support cancer warriors everywhere.

Takeaways

• Abbey is participating in 'Dancing with Our Stars' for charity.
• The event focuses more on fundraising than dancing.
• She has a personal connection to the INDY Foundation.
• The INDY Foundation provided hope during her family's cancer journey.
• Podcasting has shifted Abbey's perspective on life.
• Editing the INDY podcast brings Abbey joy.
• Community support is crucial for fundraising efforts.
• The top prize for the dance event is significant.
• Minnesota has the highest diagnosis rates for lymphoma and leukemia in the US.
• The INDY Foundation aims to help everyone diagnosed with cancer.
• Connecting with patients can be as simple as sending a card or a backpack.
• Nonprofits face challenges in managing funds and meeting patient needs.
• Community support is crucial for fundraising and sustaining operations.
• Celebrating life is an important aspect of their mission.
• Sharing information about the foundation is a free way to help.

Donate to INDY for Dancing with Our Stars: https://www.communitygiving.org/make-a-donation/?gfid=264

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

This conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of event planning, and the profound impact of community support in the context of cancer awareness. The speakers reflect on their experiences at a recent fundraising event, emphasizing the importance of connection, resilience, and the role of social media in amplifying their message and raising funds for a noble cause.

Takeaways

• Community events require extensive planning and collaboration.
• Connection among individuals facing similar challenges is vital.
• Celebrating life and resilience is a powerful theme in events.
• Social media plays a crucial role in fundraising efforts.
• Personal stories resonate deeply with audiences.
• The energy in a room can be electric during impactful events.
• Nonprofits thrive on community support and engagement.
• Event planning can be overwhelming but rewarding.
• Building friendships through shared experiences is invaluable.

Donate to INDY for Dancing with Our Stars: https://www.communitygiving.org/make-a-donation/?gfid=264

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this episode, Kayla Keenan discusses the profound importance of connection during cancer journeys, emphasizing the roles of caregivers, the necessity of vulnerability, and the healing power of community. Through personal anecdotes and insights, she illustrates how relationships can provide essential support and comfort in the face of uncertainty and fear.

Takeaways

• Connection is vital for those facing cancer.
• Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting cancer warriors.
• Self-care is essential for caregivers to maintain their strength.
• Vulnerability allows for deeper connections and support.
• Strangers can become invaluable sources of support during tough times.
• It's important to choose who to be vulnerable with.
• Community support can ease the burden of cancer journeys.
• Emotional support is as important as practical help.
• Connection can lift spirits and provide hope.
• INDY Foundation aims to foster connections among cancer warriors.

Learn more about the gala: https://indy-foundation.org/events/bowties-arrows-gala/

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this episode of the Indy Foundation Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla Keenan and guest Beth Flick share their personal journeys through cancer, loss, and the importance of community support. Beth recounts her experience with breast cancer and the subsequent diagnosis of her husband, Brad, with stage four prostate cancer. They discuss the challenges of navigating palliative care, the impact of cancer on their children, and the overwhelming support from their community. After Brad's passing, Beth reflects on finding love again and blending families, emphasizing the complexities of grief and the necessity of living fully after loss. The conversation highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of advocacy in healthcare.

Takeaways

• Indy Foundation supports cancer warriors through financial and community support.
• Beth's journey through breast cancer led to her husband's prostate cancer diagnosis.
• Advocating for health is crucial; patients must push for necessary tests.
• Palliative care requires balancing comfort with quality of life.
• Children are deeply affected by parental illness and loss.
• Community support can significantly ease the burden during crises.
• Finding love after loss can be complex but healing.
• Blending families after loss requires understanding and communication.
• Grief is a long process that can affect family dynamics.
• Living fully after loss is essential for healing and moving forward.

Learn more about the gala: https://indy-foundation.org/events/bowties-arrows-gala/

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761

In this heartfelt conversation, Beth Flick shares her journey through cancer diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional toll it takes on her and her family. She discusses the importance of communication, support systems, and living with purpose while navigating the challenges of being a mother and a cancer survivor. The conversation highlights the raw emotions, the impact on family dynamics, and the coping mechanisms that help her through this difficult time.

Beth's blog: https://bethactually.wordpress.com/

Learn more about the gala: https://indy-foundation.org/events/bowties-arrows-gala/

INDY is short for "I'm Not Done Yet," a phrase often said by the late Kyle Strand during his courageous battle with colon cancer. Kyle's four-year journey was both extremely challenging and profoundly beautiful. Though he lost his battle in July 2017, his legacy lives on through his two dying wishes: to establish the INDY Foundation and to inspire others to live every day to its fullest. In August 2017, the INDY Foundation was born, continuing Kyle's mission to support and uplift cancer warriors everywhere. Find more information here: www.indy-foundation.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMN

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/indyfoundation/

Join our INDY Tribe - Inner Circle FB Group. A group for those affected by cancer.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/202854020588761