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