INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

In this milestone 70th episode, host Kayla Keenan wraps up a powerful six-part series on navigating life through cancer, grief, and transformation. Drawing from her personal experience as a young caregiver and widow, Kayla shares six profound lessons she learned through crisis—insights that reshaped her identity, strengthened her faith, and revealed her purpose.Whether you're currently facing a cancer diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or healing from loss, this episode offers hope, clarity, and real-life tools for emotional resilience and personal growth. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How faith becomes a daily act of surrender and strength during hard timesWhy your identity can and should evolve after traumaThe importance of setting boundaries to protect your energy and well-beingHow practicing gratitude grounds you when life feels unsteadyThe transformative power of compassion and empathy for yourself and othersHow purpose can emerge from pain—and lead to profound impactKayla also reflects on the emotional journey of starting the INDY Foundation and the unexpected healing it brought. If you’ve ever wondered how to find light after loss, this episode is a must-listen.Journal Prompts Shared in the Episode:What signs of progress, no matter how small, have you noticed?What have you learned about resilience, faith, or identity through your season of struggle?What dreams now feel closer than before?Who has supported you—and how can you honor that connection?If today marked a breakthrough, what’s one step forward you could take?Join the INDY Foundation Community:We’re more than a podcast—we’re a movement. Learn how to support cancer warriors, attend our upcoming Bow Ties & Arrows Gala (Feb 12) and Valentine’s Celebration (Mar 28), and stay connected through our website and social platforms.👉 Visit indyfoundation.org 📱 Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates

Episode Summary:In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Kayla Keenan shares the story of losing her spouse to cancer and how that life-altering experience became the foundation for something bigger. Through raw reflection and deep insight, Kayla explores how grief became a catalyst for the creation of the INDY Foundation — a nonprofit supporting families affected by cancer.Listeners will hear how she reframed her suffering as sacred preparation for purpose, and why she believes challenges are not punishments but powerful opportunities to grow. She offers journal prompts designed to help you explore your own journey and uncover what your current challenge might be preparing you for.This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing adversity, searching for meaning, or learning to lead with heart after loss.Topics Covered:Kayla’s personal journey through cancer griefThe founding and mission of the INDY FoundationWhy challenges are often sacred preparationJournal prompts for reflection and healingFinding purpose through pain and communityChapters00:00 Introduction and Series Overview01:03 Personal Reflections on Loss and Growth02:51 The Impact of Cancer and Community Support06:54 Reframing Challenges and Finding Purpose08:09 Journal Prompts for Self-Reflection09:36 Final Thoughts and Upcoming EpisodesINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 New Year's episode, Kayla Keenan reflects on the challenges of returning to routine after the holidays and the importance of finding stillness amidst chaos. She recaps previous podcast episodes on learning from crises and the power of surrender before diving into the current theme of not reacting impulsively. Drawing from personal experiences, including her husband's cancer diagnosis, she illustrates the value of choosing calm over urgency. The episode concludes with thoughtful journal prompts encouraging listeners to explore their reactions and the quest for inner peace.00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings00:42 Recap of Previous Episodes02:18 The Importance of Not Reacting03:07 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons07:14 Choosing Peace Over Urgency08:56 Final Thoughts and Journal Prompts11:19 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 special year-end episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan takes a heartfelt look back at the most powerful moments of 2025. Through emotional reflections and unforgettable stories, we revisit the central theme that has guided us all year: the irreplaceable value of human connection during a cancer journey.From the physical toll of treatment to the emotional weight of a diagnosis, this episode highlights the strength found in relationships—with family, friends, and even strangers. You’ll hear how love and community carried individuals through their darkest days, including a moving tribute to a young widow and her late husband, Kyle.We also share behind-the-scenes insights into the INDY Foundation’s mission and the personal journey that inspired it. Kayla reflects on the power of nonprofit support, community-driven care, and what it truly means to show up for one another.Whether you’ve been with us all year or are just joining the conversation, this episode is a powerful reminder that no one should walk through cancer alone.Tune in and celebrate the moments that moved us, the people who inspired us, and the connections that carried us forward.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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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

The video reflects on Kyle's impactful life, emphasizing his legacy of kindness and leadership. It shares an essay written by Grayson, the son of Kyle's friend and coworker, highlighting Kyle's influence on him. The essay recounts Kyle's welcoming nature, mentorship, and the life-altering advice he provided. Even during his illness, Kyle's mental strength and kindness remained strong, teaching Grayson invaluable lessons about the true meaning of strength and making a lasting impact on his life.00:00 A Birthday to Remember00:21 Kyle's Legacy Lives On00:32 Grayson's Essay on Kyle01:36 Memories of Kyle02:34 Life Lessons from Kyle02:55 Kyle's Battle and Strength03:36 The True Measure of StrengthINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 deeply heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan explores what it truly means to surrender during a cancer journey.Drawing from her personal experience as a caregiver to her fiancé Kyle, who battled stage four colon cancer, Kayla shares the emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges that come with letting go of what we cannot control—money, image, control itself, timelines, and even the illusion of safety.Topics covered in this episode:The emotional toll of losing control after a cancer diagnosisHow community and employer support helped ease financial stressThe struggle of maintaining identity and image during illnessProcessing uncertainty around treatment outcomes and timelinesJournal prompts to help you surrender expectations and find peaceA vulnerable look into caregiving, grief, and post-diagnosis lifeWhether you’re a cancer warrior, caregiver, or someone facing life’s unexpected turns, this episode will help you reflect, breathe deeper, and maybe—just maybe—let go.Journal Prompts from the Episode:What are you gripping tightly right now—control, money, image, or expectations?What would happen if you loosened your grip by just 1%?What’s something you’re trying to force that just isn’t working?I’m afraid to surrender because...But I know that if I released it, I would gain...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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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

The episode addresses the personal struggles that can often overshadow the joy of holidays, particularly for those affected by crises like illness or loss. The speaker introduces a new series reflecting on life's challenging chapters and how such hardships shape and prepare an individual for what comes next. Sharing a deeply personal story about her husband's diagnosis and passing, she discusses the emotional journey and coping mechanisms, emphasizing that crises are opportunities for growth. The episode concludes with journal prompts designed to help listeners process their experiences and emotions.00:00 Introduction: Navigating Personal Crisis00:39 The Hardest Chapters: Personal Reflections01:22 Life-Changing Moments: Kyle's Diagnosis03:11 Finding Meaning in Crisis04:10 Journal Prompts for Healing05:45 Conclusion: Preparing for the FutureINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 Thanksgiving-themed episode of the INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, we reflect on gratitude, connection, and the strength of families facing cancer. The episode highlights the story of a young family from Central Minnesota navigating the challenges of stage three breast cancer, emphasizing the vital support provided by the Indie Foundation. Through emotional narratives and heartfelt messages, the podcast underscores the importance of community, donor contributions, and volunteer efforts, showcasing how these elements bring hope, relief, and moments of joy to families during difficult times.00:00 Welcome to the INDY Foundation Podcast00:28 The Struggles of Families Facing Cancer00:51 A Story of Hope: Central Minnesota Family02:04 INDY Warrior Check Presentation03:19 The Impact of Community Support03:56 Gratitude for Indie Warriors and Supporters05:35 A Call to Action: Supporting Indie Warrior Families06:10 Closing Remarks: Thank You and Happy ThanksgivingINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 Podcast, we delve into the profound impact of loss on our lives. The host reflects on their personal experience of becoming a widow and how loss reshapes our perception of life, highlighting the significance of small moments, the fragility of time, and the importance of being present. The episode offers a compassionate message to those who have experienced loss, encouraging them to honor their grief and the new perspectives it brings, while acknowledging the growth, strength, and clarity that emerge from such life-altering experiences.00:00 Introduction to the INDY Foundation Podcast00:08 The Profound Impact of Loss01:24 Personal Reflections on Grief03:09 Cherishing Memories Through Photos and Videos04:08 Lessons Learned from Loss05:35 Embracing Change and Finding Meaning06:06 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 Kayla and Mitch Keenan 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.TakeawaysLife 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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

This episode of Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, brought to you by the INDY Foundation, highlights the importance of November as a month of giving. The foundation emphasizes the power of generosity and gratitude in supporting cancer warriors and their families. Listeners are encouraged to give in various ways, such as donating, sharing the mission, and volunteering. The episode also introduces the INDY Giving Tree initiative in partnership with White Peonyi Boutique, aimed at fulfilling Christmas wishes for those battling cancer. The foundation's overarching message is that every act of kindness has a significant impact, transforming communities by showing that no warrior fights alone.00:00 Introduction to Connecting Through Cancer00:25 The Spirit of November: Giving and Gratitude01:28 Supporting Cancer Warriors: How Your Donations Help02:15 The Magic of Giving: Transforming Lives02:37 Get Involved: Ways to Support Indie Foundation03:31 The iNDY Giving Tree: Spreading Holiday Cheer05:44 Conclusion: A Month of MeaningINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 special Pink-tober episode, the focus is on breast cancer awareness and the unique approach of the INDY Foundation. The statistics reveal the widespread impact of breast cancer, but the INDY Foundation emphasizes the importance of community connection and action. Highlighting local initiatives, the episode details events like the Think Pink for Indie, where the community gathers to support cancer warriors and provides financial aid. The episode also shares touching personal stories, such as Corey’s journey, showcasing the profound effect of community support. The INDY Foundation's mission is to transform awareness into tangible support, stressing that while pink is a symbol, connection is the true currency for making a meaningful impact.00:00 Introduction to Pink-tober00:26 Breast Cancer Statistics01:30 INDY's Unique Approach02:23 Community Support and Events04:11 Corey's Story07:41 The Impact of Connection09:28 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 special replay episode, we’re revisiting an important and heartfelt conversation that originally aired on Leveling Up with Lindsay. Lindsay sits down with Kayla Keenan, the founder of the INDY Foundation, to share a story that continues to inspire and uplift the INDY community today.Kayla opens up about her journey after losing her husband, Kyle, to stage four colon cancer—and how that tragedy led to the creation of the INDY Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer warriors and their families throughout Minnesota. She discusses the power of finding purpose in pain, the role of community in healing, and the impact INDY has made by offering both emotional and financial support.Throughout the conversation, Lindsay and Kayla explore themes of resilience, faith, and connection. They remind listeners that even in the face of heartbreak, it’s possible to create something beautiful that helps others. This replay serves as a timeless reminder that when you follow your heart and align with your purpose, you can spark change that ripples far beyond yourself.Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Background 01:20 – Kayla’s Journey and the Birth of INDY Foundation 04:06 – INDY’s Impact and Growth 05:43 – Personal Stories and Meaningful Connections 06:54 – Planning Events and Collaborations 15:29 – Leadership, Legacy, and Giving Back 20:00 – Creativity and Voice Messages 20:46 – The Role of Journaling in Healing 22:07 – Finding Like-Minded Friends 24:31 – The Power of Connection 29:41 – Living with Purpose and Resilience 34:21 – Cherishing the Little Moments 37:18 – Final Reflections and InspirationINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 week's episode of 'Connecting Through Cancer,' Courtney Studenski welcomes back her husband Caleb, a beloved guest whose previous episode remains the podcast's most-listened-to. They discuss the unique challenges faced by young adults dealing with cancer, focusing on Caleb's experience with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Diagnosed at 25 and while serving in the military, Caleb underwent treatment while managing family responsibilities. They explore themes of feeling out of place in treatment centers, the mental and physical toll of chemotherapy, and the emotional complexities of 'the forgotten crowd' aged 18-40. The conversation highlights the importance of self-advocacy, the long road to normalcy post-remission, and the need for continued support from loved ones even after treatment ends. Caleb shares insights on moving past the experience and integrating lessons learned into a new life perspective.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:31 Caleb's Cancer Journey Recap01:13 Life After Remission03:02 Treatment Experiences in Different Centers05:26 The Forgotten Crowd: Young Adults with Cancer08:26 Advice for Young Cancer Patients10:01 The Mental and Physical Struggles13:00 The Long Road to Normalcy21:02 Conclusion and SupportINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 the final episode of this mini-series, the host discusses the concept of leaving a legacy of love. They emphasize that legacy isn't just about what we leave behind, but how we live today. With practical tips such as being present, sharing your story, creating memories, practicing generosity, and speaking love out loud, the episode encourages listeners to make everyday moments count. The host shares touching anecdotes and illustrates the impact of love through simple acts. The episode concludes with a challenge to the audience: What small act of love can you give today that might become part of your legacy? The series aims to provide encouragement through themes of joy, community, courage, and love.00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episodes00:22 Today's Topic: Leaving a Legacy of Love00:43 Understanding Legacy: Living in the Present01:22 Simple Ways to Leave a Legacy03:09 Real-Life Examples of Legacy04:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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, the host explores the concept of courage when facing the unknown, particularly in the context of a cancer diagnosis or any major life challenge. Key strategies discussed include taking deep breaths, anchoring in the present, journaling or praying, leaning on a support network, and celebrating small acts of bravery. The episode emphasizes that courage is not the absence of fear but the choice to keep moving forward despite it. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on small ways they can practice courage in their own lives.00:00 Introduction and Series Recap00:16 Facing the Unknown00:38 Understanding Courage01:18 Tools to Strengthen Courage03:35 The Power of Community04:27 Celebrating Small Acts of Bravery05:49 Conclusion and ReflectionINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 by INDY Foundation, host Kayla Keenan builds on the previous discussion about finding joy in the journey by focusing on the significance of community and connection. Kayla shares her personal experiences, illustrating why community support is vital for those affected by cancer. She offers practical tips for fostering connections and creating support networks, emphasizing that even small gestures can have a profound impact. Kayla underscores that joy multiplies in the presence of community, and she encourages listeners to reach out and build connections, reminding them that the INDY Foundation is there to support them.00:00 Introduction and Recap00:19 The Importance of Community and Connection01:07 Personal Reflections on Community04:00 Practical Ways to Build Connection06:20 Stories of Connection08:16 Event Highlights and Final Thoughts09:49 The Power of a Smile and Final MessageINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 discusses the importance of finding joy amidst life's challenges, particularly during a cancer journey. She emphasizes that joy is not reserved for perfect moments but can be found in small, everyday experiences. The conversation explores practical ways to cultivate joy, such as practicing gratitude, leaning into supportive connections, celebrating small wins, creating rituals, and allowing oneself to play. The episode concludes with a reminder that joy can be discovered in unexpected places and that it is about being present rather than seeking perfection.TakeawaysJoy is a choice we make, not a destination.Small moments can bring the most joy.Gratitude shifts our perspective on life.Surround yourself with uplifting people.Celebrate every small win in life.Creating rituals can ground us in joy.Playing and being silly is essential for joy.Joy can be found in unexpected places.Presence is more important than perfection.You are never alone in your journey.Chapters00:00 Finding Joy in the Journey02:29 Redefining Joy: Small Moments Matter04:57 Practical Ways to Cultivate Joy07:35 Joy in Unexpected PlacesINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 reflects on the first year of the INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer Podcast, sharing stories of cancer warriors, caregivers, and the community that has formed around them. The conversation emphasizes the importance of support, understanding what to say to those diagnosed with cancer, and the roles caregivers play. The episode also discusses the mission of the INDY Foundation, the impact of their annual gala, and the reflections on life and legacy, culminating in a poignant question about what one's obituary would say.TakeawaysINDY Foundation supports cancer warriors through financial and community support.The podcast shares inspiring stories and valuable resources for navigating cancer.It's important to know what to say to someone diagnosed with cancer.Caregivers play a crucial role in the cancer journey, often feeling overwhelmed.The Indy Foundation's mission is rooted in community and connection.Fundraising events like the gala are vital for sustaining support for cancer warriors.Cancer changes perspectives on life and what truly matters.Legacy is shaped by the choices we make every day.Obituaries reflect not just death, but the life lived and the impact made.The INDY Foundation aims to help more people battling cancer through expanded programs.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Indy Foundation and Its Mission01:30 Reflecting on a Year of Stories and Connections02:53 Supporting Cancer Warriors: What to Say and Do05:01 The Role of Caregivers in Cancer Treatment08:14 Establishing the Indy Foundation: Mission and Vision10:11 Building Community and Connection Through Shared Experiences12:57 The Impact of the Annual Gala19:35 Legacy and Life Reflections: What Will Your Obituary Say?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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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 final episode of the Back to School miniseries, Kayla Keenan delves into the emotional challenges parents and children face, particularly when dealing with significant life changes like starting kindergarten or battling cancer. The episode emphasizes the importance of helping children articulate their feelings, providing strategies for creating safe spaces for kids to express emotions. It covers recognizing emotional shifts in children, using play and art for expression, and answering tough questions honestly but gently. Through shared stories and practical tips, the host highlights the crucial role of parents in fostering resilience and emotional well-being in their children.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Back-to-School Mini Series00:40 Big Feelings and Small Voices01:19 Recognizing and Addressing Big Feelings03:46 Tools for Helping Kids Share Emotions06:14 Answering Hard Questions07:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement08:28 Conclusion and Indie Foundation InformationINDY 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.orgFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/ImNotDoneYetMNInstagram - 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