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.

Takeaways

• INDY 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Indy Foundation and Its Mission

01:30 Reflecting on a Year of Stories and Connections

02:53 Supporting Cancer Warriors: What to Say and Do

05:01 The Role of Caregivers in Cancer Treatment

08:14 Establishing the Indy Foundation: Mission and Vision

10:11 Building Community and Connection Through Shared Experiences

12:57 The Impact of the Annual Gala

19:35 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.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