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

In this emotional and personal episode, Kayla Keenan, founder of INDY Foundation, shares her intimate story of navigating profound loss and starting over. Kayla recounts the heart-wrenching journey from her late husband's cancer diagnosis to his passing, and how she rebuilt her life thereafter. This episode delves into her battles with grief, the unexpected turns of life, and finding purpose in the aftermath of tragedy. With honesty and vulnerability, Kayla offers hope and inspiration for those facing their own start-over moments, emphasizing that even shattered pieces can create something beautiful.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

01:13 The Impact of Cancer

02:20 Life After Loss

03:21 Rebuilding and Moving Forward

07:06 A New Beginning

12:12 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

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, Jen Stich, a cancer warrior, shares her personal experiences and insights about the often-overlooked aspects of undergoing cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and mastectomy. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, such as hair loss, mobility issues, and the impact on daily life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating similar journeys.

Takeaways

• Losing hair during chemotherapy can be a sudden and painful experience.
• Hair loss occurs in unexpected places, affecting daily life.
• Radiation treatment can lead to limited mobility and skin issues.
• Daily radiation appointments can be a significant commitment.
• Gas cards are essential for patients traveling for treatment.
• Mastectomy drains can be painful and unexpected.
• Clothing choices become limited during treatment.
• Taste sensitivity and appetite changes are common during chemotherapy.
• Support from family is crucial during treatment.
• Resilience is key; patients can overcome significant challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:56 The Reality of Hair Loss

06:01 Navigating Radiation Treatment

09:01 The Mastectomy Experience

12:03 Coping with Chemo Side Effects

13:14 Support Systems and Resources

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 INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, the guest host Courtney Studenski interviews Jen Stich about her experience with being diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer. Jen shares her story of discovering a lump during a shower, undergoing mammograms, and receiving a cancer diagnosis. She provides valuable advice for people newly diagnosed with cancer, emphasizing the importance of preparing for information overload, bringing a support person to appointments, and documenting the journey for both personal reflection and for family members. The episode touches upon Jen's emotional challenges, the symptoms she faced during treatment, and the importance of community support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:07 Jen's Cancer Diagnosis Story

02:13 Initial Reactions and Family Support

03:55 Advice for the Newly Diagnosed

05:00 Personal Experiences and Reflections

07:52 Documenting the Journey

11:29 Final Thoughts and Resources

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 the INDY Foundation Podcast, "Connecting Through Cancer", host Courtney Studenski welcomes guest Jen Stich, a breast cancer survivor, to discuss life after cancer treatment. Jen shares her journey from diagnosis in 2021 through treatment and into remission. The conversation highlights the different perspectives of patients and caretakers, emphasizing the challenges of transitioning to life post-treatment. They discuss the emotional aftermath, including feelings of fear and a changed outlook on life. The importance of therapy, community support, and embracing one's new self are stressed as key aspects of moving forward. The episode offers insights and encouragement for those experiencing similar journeys.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:51 Jen's Cancer Journey

02:13 Life After Treatment

05:27 Changes in Perspective

11:25 Support Systems and Community

16:29 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

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 often unspoken realities of cancer, emphasizing the discomfort it brings to individuals and society. She highlights the emotional isolation faced by both patients and caregivers, the pressure to maintain a brave facade, and the need for honest conversations about the struggles associated with cancer. The episode aims to provide insight and support for those navigating the complexities of cancer, encouraging openness and authenticity in discussions surrounding the disease.

Takeaways

• Cancer is a real issue that affects many people.
• People often avoid discussing the uncomfortable truths of cancer.
• Society prefers clean, inspiring narratives over raw realities.
• Caregivers and patients often feel pressured to be strong and brave.
• The emotional isolation caused by cancer can be profound.
• Grief can begin long before a loved one passes away.
• Surviving cancer doesn't equate to emotional healing.
• Honesty about cancer is crucial for support and understanding.
• It's important to create space for expressing pain and fear.
• Real conversations about cancer can provide comfort and guidance.

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 shares heartfelt advice for caregivers of newly diagnosed cancer patients. Drawing from her own experience as a caretaker, she emphasizes the emotional challenges faced by caregivers, the importance of communication, self-care, and empowering patients to make choices. Kayla encourages caregivers to express love and support while navigating the uncertainties of cancer treatment. She concludes with a message of hope, reminding caregivers that they are not alone in their journey.

Takeaways

• You do not have to be the hero every day.
• Let yourself be human and cry.
• Ask your loved one what they need.
• Just being there is more powerful than any pep talk.
• Use clear and simple communication.
• Encourage open conversations about feelings.
• Find your own outlet for support.
• Get organized but don't get consumed by the diagnosis.
• Love loudly but gently, without pressure.
• You don't need all the answers; just be present.

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 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