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

Cancer Prevention Month is observed in February in the United States, but really this topic should be top of mind year round. This month aims to raise awareness about cancer prevention strategies and encourage individuals to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of developing cancer.

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast, Kayla Keenan, founder of the Indy Foundation, discusses the significance of National Cancer Prevention Month. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in health, encouraging listeners to be proactive about their health and seek medical advice when something feels off. The conversation highlights alarming cancer statistics and the necessity of preventative health measures, urging individuals to prioritize their health and well-being.

Takeaways

• February is National Cancer Prevention Month.
• Over 40% of cancer cases are preventable.
• Self-advocacy is crucial in health care.
• Don't ignore symptoms; seek medical advice.
• Early detection can save lives.
• Health is wealth; prioritize your health.
• It's okay to seek a second opinion.
• Preventative health measures are essential.
• Be proactive about your health.
• Indy Foundation supports 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 Connecting Through Cancer podcast, Kayla Keenan, founder of the INDY Foundation, discusses the critical difference between empathy and sympathy, especially in the context of cancer diagnoses. She shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of empathy in both personal and professional settings, particularly for employers dealing with employees facing significant life challenges. The conversation highlights how empathy can profoundly impact the emotional journey of cancer warriors and their families.

Takeaways

• Empathy is understanding and sharing feelings, while sympathy is feeling sorry for someone.
• Cancer diagnoses can turn lives upside down, making everyday responsibilities overwhelming.
• FMLA provides limited time off, which is often insufficient for cancer treatment.
• Employers should strive to be empathetic and flexible during employees' tough times.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of empathy in the workplace.
• Empathy can significantly ease the emotional burden of cancer for patients and families.
• Support from employers can alleviate financial stress during treatment.
• Empathy is crucial for both patients and their support systems.
• Everyone has good and bad days; empathy helps navigate these fluctuations.
• The INDY Foundation aims to provide community support and resources for 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

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, Kayla and Cari reflect on their experiences navigating the challenges of cancer, friendship, and the emotional toll of supporting a loved one through illness. They share personal stories about Kyle's journey, the importance of being present, and the creation of the INDY Foundation to support families affected by cancer. The discussion emphasizes the significance of community, intuition, and the legacy left behind by those who have passed.

Takeaways

• Navigating health challenges can strengthen friendships.
• Support can come in many forms, including just being present.
• Work can serve as a distraction during difficult times.
• End-of-life decisions are incredibly challenging and emotional.
• Creating a legacy can provide purpose after loss.
• Signs from loved ones can offer comfort and connection.
• Building a community around shared experiences is vital.
• Intuition plays a key role in knowing how to support others.
• It's important to honor the nudges to reach out to others.
• The journey of grief is unique and personal for everyone.

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 and guest Cari May share their intertwined journeys through cancer, exploring the importance of holistic health, emotional well-being, and the need for self-advocacy. They discuss the significance of researching alternative treatments, the emotional toll of caregiving, and the necessity of community support. The conversation emphasizes that health is wealth and encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and seek out resources that resonate with them.

Takeaways

• The journey of cancer can create unexpected connections between people.
• Holistic health approaches can provide emotional and physical support during cancer treatment.
• Researching alternative treatments is crucial for informed decision-making.
• Emotional well-being is essential for both patients and caregivers.
• Self-care practices, such as exercise and energy healing, can help manage stress.
• Community support plays a vital role in navigating cancer journeys.
• Health is wealth; prioritizing health can lead to a better quality of life.
• Being your own advocate is important in the healthcare system.
• There are many resources available for those seeking alternative health options.
• Curiosity and an open mind can lead to discovering new health practices.

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