Takeaways

• Cancer doesn't care about the calendar. Holidays don't pause treatment schedules, lab work, or the impossible decisions families are making every single day.
• Two realities can exist at the same time. Someone is watching fireworks. Someone is watching a heart monitor. Neither reality is wrong — but they are worlds apart, and the people inside the hospital deserve to be seen.
• Hope doesn't depend on your location. It isn't confined to a celebration. Hope can sit quietly beside a hospital bed. Hope can be found in the squeeze of a hand.

Summary of the Episode

In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, Kayla Keenan reflects on what it means to celebrate the 4th of July when someone you love is fighting for their life — and what it felt like to stand beside that person, watching fireworks through a hospital window, while the rest of the world celebrated outside.

Roughly ten years ago, Kayla sat on a couch next to a window overlooking the Mississippi River. Outside, families were on the riverbank, kids were running, boats were going by. Her phone was lighting up with photos and Snapchat stories and burgers on the grill. And she was exactly where she wanted to be — beside someone she loved, watching life happen through a pane of glass, while that person fought for theirs.

That day changed her. Not because she wanted to be somewhere else, but because she realized something she has carried ever since: cancer doesn't pause for holidays. It doesn't care if it's Christmas morning, your anniversary, your child's birthday, or the Fourth of July. Treatment continues. Lab work continues. Pain continues. And families continue making impossible decisions while the rest of the world lights up the sky.

In this reflective, deeply personal episode, Kayla explores how cancer redefines the meaning of freedom — not the fireworks-and-barbecue kind, but the kind that looks like clear scans, going home, sitting at your own kitchen table, and one more ordinary day with the people you love. She offers a message for every caregiver, patient, and family member spending this Fourth of July inside a hospital: you are not forgotten, and hope does not depend on your location.

This episode is a gentle invitation to the rest of us, too. To send the text. Make the phone call. Drop off the meal. And remember that sometimes the greatest act of patriotism is simply caring for your neighbor.

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

Takeaways

• Kayla opens up about the flood of emotions she experienced at her daughter's kindergarten graduation, connecting the bittersweet passage of time to the deeper reality of how finite our seasons with loved ones really are.
• The Borrowed Years Rule reframes the "I'll do it later" mindset — a concept Kayla applies with hard-won perspective after becoming a widow at 28.
• Kayla shares how spontaneity, from a last-minute Europe trip after losing her husband to impromptu weeknight pool runs with her kids, has become her answer to living a life with fewer regrets.

In this solo episode of Connecting Through Cancer, Kayla Keenan reflects on the cascade of emotions that followed her daughter's kindergarten graduation. What started as a celebration quickly surfaced something deeper: the awareness that we only get 18 summers with our kids, and one of them was already behind her. Kayla shares how that moment opened the door to a broader conversation about time, loss, and what it actually means to be present.

Kayla introduces the Borrowed Years Rule, a concept she discovered on Instagram that puts words to something she already knew from experience. The idea is simple but sobering: every time we say "I'll travel when I retire" or "I'll do that when the kids are older," we are borrowing time from a future that isn't guaranteed. For Kayla, who lost her husband Kyle to cancer after a four-year battle and became a widow at 28, this is not a theory. It is something she lived. She shares the story of planning a spontaneous 10-day Europe trip within a month of Kyle's passing — a decision she calls one of the most important she ever made.

The episode closes with Kayla connecting these ideas back to everyday life: summer bucket lists, putting the tablets away, texting a friend even when schedules are impossible to align, and making Monday night pool trips happen just because the sun is out. The message is not that you need to travel the world. It is that now is the only time you have.

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 speaks with Sara Kruger about her personal cancer journey, beginning with her diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. Sara shares her experiences with family reactions, the importance of genetic testing, and the challenges of navigating treatment, especially after being classified as stage four. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the significance of community support, maintaining a positive outlook, and finding humor in difficult situations. Sara emphasizes the blessings that can arise from adversity and the strength found in connection with others.

Takeaways

• INDY Foundation supports cancer warriors through financial and community support.
• Sara's cancer journey began with a persistent sore that led to a diagnosis.
• Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and unexpected.
• Family reactions to cancer can vary, but support is crucial.
• Genetic testing can reveal important information about cancer risks.
• Navigating treatment can be complicated, especially with insurance challenges.
• Living with stage four cancer requires ongoing monitoring and treatment.
• Maintaining a positive attitude is essential during cancer treatment.
• Community support can provide strength and comfort during difficult times.
• Finding humor and connection can help cope with the challenges of cancer.

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

Takeaways

• Why life transitions often bring both joy and grief simultaneously
• How hardship can reshape the way we experience milestones
• Why embracing imperfect moments creates lasting memories

Graduation season brings excitement, reflection, and change, but for families navigating cancer, grief, or unexpected hardship, these transitions can feel especially emotional. In this episode, Kayla shares personal reflections on her daughter’s kindergarten graduation, the inspiration behind the INDY Foundation scholarship, and a powerful scholarship essay that highlights resilience through adversity.

This conversation explores how difficult seasons often exist alongside beautiful moments and why learning to embrace both is essential. Whether you're celebrating a preschool graduation, supporting someone through cancer treatment, or simply navigating a challenging season of life, this episode is a reminder that every moment matters.

Key Topics Covered:

• The inspiration behind the INDY Foundation Scholarship
• Why technical education and trade careers matter
• Lessons from a powerful scholarship recipient essay
• Parenting reflections during kindergarten graduation season
• Living through hardship while celebrating important milestones
• Finding joy during difficult seasons of life
• Why imperfect moments often become the most meaningful memories

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 reflects on the themes of legacy leadership, emphasizing the importance of significance over success. She shares personal anecdotes about her late husband Kyle and discusses how true leadership is about making a lasting impact on others. The conversation explores the idea of purpose-driven decision-making, investing in people, and the qualities that define a legacy leader. Kayla encourages listeners to think about their own legacies and the impact they want to leave behind.

Takeaways

• Leadership applies to many areas of life, not just jobs.
• Legacy leadership is about how you make people feel.
• Success is about achievements; significance is about impact.
• Most people chase success, but legacy asks if it lasts.
• True leaders want to see others succeed.
• Investing in people creates lasting relationships.
• Integrity is crucial, even when unseen.
• Legacy leaders create more leaders, not followers.
• Purpose-driven decisions align with larger missions.
• Your legacy is shaped in private before it's seen.

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

Takeaways

• Identifying joyful activities is the first step to creating a happier life
• A “joy inventory” can help uncover passions, hobbies, and experiences that truly fulfill you
• Scheduling joy intentionally increases accountability and consistency
• Revisiting childhood passions can reconnect you with forgotten happiness
• Aligning your time with joyful pursuits improves overall wellbeing

In part three of the Joy First mini series, Kayla Keenan dives into one of the most important questions we can ask ourselves: what actually brings us joy? Many people move through busy routines without taking time to reflect on the activities, relationships, and experiences that genuinely make them happy.

This episode explores how to identify joyful activities by reflecting on creative passions, physical movement, meaningful relationships, and self-care practices. Kayla introduces the concept of a “joy inventory,” a simple but powerful exercise designed to help listeners rediscover what lights them up and begin intentionally prioritizing those moments.

Kayla also shares practical ways to schedule joy into everyday life, hold yourself accountable, and replace draining activities with more fulfilling experiences. Whether it’s revisiting a childhood hobby, planning time with loved ones, or simply making space to rest, this episode is an invitation to stop waiting for joy and start creating it intentionally.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why identifying joy matters
• Questions to help uncover what makes you happy
• Creative joy and self-expression
• Physical activities that boost wellbeing
• Social connection and meaningful relationships
• Relaxation and self-care practices
• Creating a personal joy inventory
• Scheduling joy intentionally
• Accountability and prioritizing happiness
• Preparing to align joy with personal values

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

Takeaways

• Saying no creates space for joy, peace, and fulfillment.
• Boundaries are essential for protecting mental health and preventing burnout.
• Prioritizing yourself is not selfish, it is necessary for long-term wellbeing.

In part two of the Joy First mini-series, Kayla Keenan explores the powerful and often uncomfortable art of saying no. From personal stories about balancing work, family, and obligations to practical strategies for setting boundaries, this episode dives into how saying no can lead to more joy, healthier relationships, and improved mental health.

Kayla shares how societal pressure, guilt, and fear of missing out often keep us from protecting our time and energy. Through honest reflections on motherhood, leadership, and everyday life, she encourages listeners to stop overcommitting and start prioritizing what truly matters.

If you struggle with burnout, people-pleasing, or constantly feeling stretched too thin, this episode offers practical encouragement to reclaim your peace and create more room for happiness.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why saying no feels uncomfortable
• The connection between boundaries and mental health
• How overcommitting impacts stress and burnout
• Personal stories about balancing responsibilities
• Practical ways to say no gracefully
• Overcoming guilt after setting boundaries
• Choosing activities and relationships that bring joy
• Why saying no is an act of self-care

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

Takeaways

• Scheduling fun is essential for improving mental health and overall happiness
• Treat joy like a non-negotiable commitment, just like work or appointments
• You deserve time for yourself, and even small moments of joy can make a big impact

In this episode, Kayla Keenan introduces the concept of “Joy First” and explores why scheduling fun should be a priority, not an afterthought. She shares personal stories, practical strategies, and mindset shifts that help listeners overcome guilt and intentionally create more joy in their lives. From booking vacations to planning simple daily moments, this episode encourages you to take control of your calendar and make happiness a habit.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why joy should be treated like an obligation
• The connection between fun and mental health
• How to schedule vacations and use your PTO effectively
• Overcoming guilt around taking time for yourself
• The evolving definition of fun through different life stages
• Simple, low-cost ways to incorporate joy into daily life

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

Takeaways

• Pet loss grief is real, valid, and often underestimated until you experience it yourself.
• Maxx was a loyal companion through Kyle’s cancer diagnosis, treatment, hospice journey, and the grief that followed.
• Healing after losing a pet does not mean forgetting; it means carrying their love, lessons, and memories forward.

Summary of the Episode

In this emotional episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan opens up about the recent loss of her beloved yellow lab, Maxx, after 13 years together. Kayla reflects on how Maxx became part of her family before her late husband Kyle’s cancer diagnosis and how his bond with Kyle grew into something deeply meaningful.

Maxx was there through surgeries, quiet days at home, hospital visits, and hospice. His steady presence brought comfort to Kyle during his cancer journey and later became a source of companionship for Kayla as she navigated life after loss. Through memories of Maxx’s loyalty, personality, and love, Kayla explores why grieving a pet can feel so overwhelming and why that grief deserves to be honored.

This episode offers comfort for anyone who has lost a dog, cat, or beloved pet. Kayla reminds listeners that pets are not replaceable. They each have their own personality, their own chapter in our lives, and their own way of leaving a mark. For those walking through pet loss, cancer grief, or the heartbreak of saying goodbye, this conversation is a reminder to grieve fully, remember lovingly, and trust that the bond remains.

Key Topics Covered:

• Grieving the loss of a beloved pet
• Why pet loss can feel like losing a family member
• Maxx’s bond with Kayla’s late husband, Kyle
• The role pets play during cancer, caregiving, and hospice
• How animals offer comfort without words
• Navigating grief after making the decision to put a pet down
• Finding peace in the belief that loved ones are reunited
• Why healing does not mean forgetting
• Giving yourself permission to grieve without shame
• Honoring the pets and people who leave lasting footprints on our hearts

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.

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