Stacie Linnell and her husband Dave live in Hastings, where she is a retired elementary teacher who enjoys spending time with their 11 grandchildren, substitute teaching, and supporting other women through their breast cancer journey.

At age 56, Stacie was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer and is now a seven-year survivor. She is passionate about helping women navigate their breast cancer experience and advocates for flat closure as a healthy, empowering option after mastectomy.

Stacie hopes to offer support, education, and encouragement to those facing similar challenges.

Steph Kennelly is an educator, cancer survivor, and passionate advocate for cancer patients and cancer research. In 2020, at age 37, she was diagnosed with Stage II invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), a moment that forever changed the trajectory of her life and work.

In 2023, Steph stepped away from her teaching career to serve as Program Manager for the Center for Genome Engineering at the University of Minnesota, where she advances efforts to fund innovative cancer research.

Beyond her professional role, she partners with INDY Foundation to design restorative experiences for cancer patients and families through the GVL Thrive program, helping others find moments of hope and renewal during treatment and beyond.

Links to all the things talked about in today's episode!

Mn oncology thrive video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Wg2wgGR60c

Samantha is a powerhouse in the world of entertainment and health advocacy! A 4-time Emmy Award nominee, she’s best known for lighting up our screens for 8 unforgettable seasons as the host of Dancing with the Stars—and she also won the Emmy for her years on Entertainment Tonight!

Drew Holm is a physician assistant/associate that graduated from Bethel University in 2017. He has worked his entire career so far in the medical hematology/oncology specialty.

Maryann Malec is a Senior Development Manager for the American Cancer Society and oversees all things in the "Pink Space" for breast cancer fundraising; Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Men Wear Pink Campaign here in Minnesota.

Victoria Seamon is the founder of Survivors Bliss, a healing‑centered organization inspired by her personal journey through Stage 3 breast cancer.

Hear from Jenn who is a bestie of Amy and what it's truly like to be a caregiver/friend watching a friend going through a breast cancer journey. There are so many changes that happen through a cancer diagnosis and a friend who can be there for you, is a friend forever.

Carrie lives in River Falls WI with her husband of 30 years in May and their yellow lab, Gordy. They have 3 amazing boys, (well not boys they are grown men), ages 28, 24 and 22 In her spare time she enjoy golfing, fishing, and just discovered snow shoeing this winter and loves it. And she enjoys spending time at their little cabin in the woods in northern WI. She has been an oncology nurse for 34 years (that makes her feel old), 21 years as a chemo / infusion nurse and the past 13 years as a nurse navigator.