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