In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast from INDY Foundation, Kayla reflects on the approaching nine-year heaven anniversary of Kyle’s passing, honoring their final days together and describing how grief can feel heavy and suffocating. Speaking to listeners who feel their story has ended, the host shares what they would tell their past self: grief was never meant to be carried forever, and surviving is not synonymous with healing. They discuss learning to “let go” not by forgetting or relinquishing love, but by releasing the weight that keeps someone stuck, noting that healing can deepen appreciation for what was shared. The host recalls hospice-room conversations filled with tears and laughter about dreams, love, and a future without Kyle, and encourages hope, faith, and community dialogue about finding joy again.

00:00 Welcome Back

00:05 Kyle’s Anniversary

00:43 When Loss Hits

01:19 A Message to Past Me

01:54 Surviving vs Healing

02:21 Learning to Let Go

02:54 Hospice Room Memories

03:41 Hope After Grief

04:18 Make Space for Hope

04:48 Join the Conversation

05:01 Share and Support

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