In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan discusses the emotional challenges faced by cancer warriors and their families during the holiday season. She shares personal experiences and offers practical advice on how to support loved ones battling cancer, emphasizing the importance of understanding their feelings, providing emotional and practical support, and being flexible with holiday plans. The conversation highlights the need for compassion and the significance of small gestures in making the holiday season more manageable for those affected by cancer.

Takeaways

• The holidays can bring mixed emotions for cancer warriors.
• Emotional support is crucial during the holiday season.
• Offering practical help can make a significant difference.
• Simplified holiday gatherings can be more accommodating.
• Flexibility with plans is essential for cancer patients.
• Respecting boundaries is important for emotional well-being.
• Encouraging self-care is vital for both patients and caregivers.
• Celebrating small victories can uplift spirits.
• Involving cancer warriors in decisions gives them a sense of control.
• Managing expectations can alleviate pressure during the holidays.

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

INDY Foundation is excited to share a partnership with Grand View Lodge (GVL) of Nisswa, MN benefitting Minnesota's cancer warriors. The GVL Thrive program was born from an idea after cancer survivor and Thriver Stephanie Kennelly found healing and comfort in her stay at Grand View Lodge in Nisswa, MN. We are thrilled and honored to be partnering with Grand View Lodge to create a program that will allow cancer warriors and their families to rest, relax, and rejuvenate at the lodge.

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla speaks with Steph Kennelly about her personal cancer journey, the emotional challenges she faced, and the importance of community support. Steph shares her diagnosis experience, how she communicated with her family, and the coping strategies that helped her through treatment. They discuss the creation of the Grandview Lodge initiative, which provides respite for cancer patients and their families, and offer advice for others facing similar challenges. The conversation emphasizes the significance of connection, acceptance, and thriving despite adversity.

Takeaways

• Listen to your body and trust your instincts.
• It's okay to feel relief upon receiving a diagnosis.
• Communicating with family requires a thoughtful approach.
• Coping strategies vary for each individual.
• Accepting help can be a spiritual practice.
• There is no clear finish line in cancer treatment.
• Finding community support is crucial during treatment.
• Creating initiatives can help others in similar situations.
• Everyone's cancer journey is unique and personal.
• It's important to hold space for both hope and hardship.

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

Check out Jen's INDY Warrior video: https://indy-foundation.org/2022-warrior-jen-stich/

Jen is a HER2+ breast cancer warrior who is living with the most positive outlook on her journey! Jen says that her family and friends have been pillars throughout this journey for her and while this isn’t the road anyone wishes for, she knows that God has a plan and she will continue to keep her eyes on him all along the way.

In this episode of the INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer podcast, host Kayla Keenan speaks with Jen Stich, a breast cancer survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Jen discusses the emotional challenges of her diagnosis, the importance of support systems, and the role of community in navigating cancer treatment. She emphasizes self-advocacy, the need for mental health awareness post-treatment, and the significance of cherishing family moments. Jen also highlights the resources available through the INDY Foundation and encourages others to connect and share their experiences.

Takeaways

• Indy Foundation supports cancer warriors through financial and community resources.
• Jen was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 at age 41.
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in coping with cancer.
• Self-advocacy is essential for early detection and treatment.
• The initial reaction to a cancer diagnosis can be surreal and shocking.
• Support systems, including family and community, are vital during treatment.
• Navigating multiple health challenges can be overwhelming for families.
• Emotional struggles often arise after treatment ends.
• Finding healthy outlets, like exercise, can aid mental health.
• Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide comfort and understanding.

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