In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan reflects on the themes of legacy leadership, emphasizing the importance of significance over success. She shares personal anecdotes about her late husband Kyle and discusses how true leadership is about making a lasting impact on others. The conversation explores the idea of purpose-driven decision-making, investing in people, and the qualities that define a legacy leader. Kayla encourages listeners to think about their own legacies and the impact they want to leave behind.

Takeaways

• Leadership applies to many areas of life, not just jobs.
• Legacy leadership is about how you make people feel.
• Success is about achievements; significance is about impact.
• Most people chase success, but legacy asks if it lasts.
• True leaders want to see others succeed.
• Investing in people creates lasting relationships.
• Integrity is crucial, even when unseen.
• Legacy leaders create more leaders, not followers.
• Purpose-driven decisions align with larger missions.
• Your legacy is shaped in private before it's seen.

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

In this episode of the Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, host Kayla Keenan and her husband Mitch discuss life before and after having kids. They reflect on the spontaneity and freedom they enjoyed pre-kids, the adjustments and challenges of parenthood, and how their relationship and romantic dynamics have evolved. They share amusing parenting anecdotes, emphasize the importance of patience and intentionality, and offer advice to new parents. The episode also touches on the importance of self-care and maintaining a connection amidst the demands of parenting.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:24 Meet the Hosts: A Personal Touch

01:13 Life Before Kids: Spontaneity and Freedom

02:22 Parenting Realities: Changes and Challenges

05:15 Parenting Wins and Fails

08:44 Communication and Teamwork

11:25 Looking Ahead: Future Hopes and Dreams

13:39 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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, the speakers discuss the complexities of navigating life after the loss of a loved one, the challenges of building a new relationship, and the importance of open communication. They share personal stories about grief, guilt, and the support of family and community, as well as the impact of the INDY Foundation. The discussion emphasizes the lessons learned from grief and offers advice for those in similar situations, highlighting the importance of embracing life and love despite past losses.

Takeaways

• Life goes on after loss, and it's important to move forward.
• Open communication is key in relationships, especially after loss.
• Grief can bring feelings of guilt, but it's a natural part of healing.
• Building a new relationship requires understanding and patience.
• Community support can ease the transition into a new life.
• It's okay to feel complicated emotions when moving on.
• Sharing stories about lost loved ones can help in the healing process.
• Embrace new experiences and relationships without fear.
• Life is unpredictable; make the most of every moment.
• Love can exist for more than one person in your life.

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 Sara Kruger delve into the emotional and social complexities of navigating cancer. They discuss the importance of open communication, the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers, and the unexpected social dynamics that arise during cancer treatment. Sara shares her personal journey, highlighting the need for support systems and the significance of embracing life despite the challenges posed by cancer. The conversation emphasizes resilience, mental health, and the importance of community support in the cancer journey.

Takeaways

• INDY Foundation aims to support cancer warriors through their journey.
• Cancer experiences are often more complex than they appear.
• Open communication is crucial for both patients and caregivers.
• Caregivers also need support and should not be overlooked.
• Unexpected social interactions can be challenging during cancer treatment.
• People often want to hear that you're 'good' even when you're not.
• Chemo brain can have lasting effects on cognitive function.
• Embracing life and making memories is essential during treatment.
• It's important to prioritize mental health throughout the cancer journey.
• Finding joy and silver linings can help navigate tough times.

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 speaks with Sara Kruger about her personal cancer journey, beginning with her diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. Sara shares her experiences with family reactions, the importance of genetic testing, and the challenges of navigating treatment, especially after being classified as stage four. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the significance of community support, maintaining a positive outlook, and finding humor in difficult situations. Sara emphasizes the blessings that can arise from adversity and the strength found in connection with others.

Takeaways

• INDY Foundation supports cancer warriors through financial and community support.
• Sara's cancer journey began with a persistent sore that led to a diagnosis.
• Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and unexpected.
• Family reactions to cancer can vary, but support is crucial.
• Genetic testing can reveal important information about cancer risks.
• Navigating treatment can be complicated, especially with insurance challenges.
• Living with stage four cancer requires ongoing monitoring and treatment.
• Maintaining a positive attitude is essential during cancer treatment.
• Community support can provide strength and comfort during difficult times.
• Finding humor and connection can help cope with the challenges of cancer.

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 emotional and personal episode, Kayla Keenan, founder of INDY Foundation, shares her intimate story of navigating profound loss and starting over. Kayla recounts the heart-wrenching journey from her late husband's cancer diagnosis to his passing, and how she rebuilt her life thereafter. This episode delves into her battles with grief, the unexpected turns of life, and finding purpose in the aftermath of tragedy. With honesty and vulnerability, Kayla offers hope and inspiration for those facing their own start-over moments, emphasizing that even shattered pieces can create something beautiful.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

01:13 The Impact of Cancer

02:20 Life After Loss

03:21 Rebuilding and Moving Forward

07:06 A New Beginning

12:12 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

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, Jen Stich, a cancer warrior, shares her personal experiences and insights about the often-overlooked aspects of undergoing cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, and mastectomy. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, such as hair loss, mobility issues, and the impact on daily life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support systems and resources for those navigating similar journeys.

Takeaways

• Losing hair during chemotherapy can be a sudden and painful experience.
• Hair loss occurs in unexpected places, affecting daily life.
• Radiation treatment can lead to limited mobility and skin issues.
• Daily radiation appointments can be a significant commitment.
• Gas cards are essential for patients traveling for treatment.
• Mastectomy drains can be painful and unexpected.
• Clothing choices become limited during treatment.
• Taste sensitivity and appetite changes are common during chemotherapy.
• Support from family is crucial during treatment.
• Resilience is key; patients can overcome significant challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:56 The Reality of Hair Loss

06:01 Navigating Radiation Treatment

09:01 The Mastectomy Experience

12:03 Coping with Chemo Side Effects

13:14 Support Systems and Resources

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