INDY Foundation: Connecting through Cancer

Takeaways Cancer is the great equalizer. It strips away titles, careers, and status, and leaves only presence. The people patients and caregivers remember aren't the most credentialed ones in the room. They're the ones who simply showed up. Influence doesn't require authority. Every person, regardless of title, has the power to make someone feel seen. In this solo episode of Connecting Through Can...

Takeaways Cancer doesn't care about the calendar. Holidays don't pause treatment schedules, lab work, or the impossible decisions families are making every single day. Two realities can exist at the same time. Someone is watching fireworks. Someone is watching a heart monitor. Neither reality is wrong — but they are worlds apart, and the people inside the hospital deserve to be seen. Hope doesn't...

Takeaways Kayla opens up about the flood of emotions she experienced at her daughter's kindergarten graduation, connecting the bittersweet passage of time to the deeper reality of how finite our seasons with loved ones really are. The Borrowed Years Rule reframes the "I'll do it later" mindset — a concept Kayla applies with hard-won perspective after becoming a widow at 28. Kayla shares how sponta...

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...

Takeaways Why life transitions often bring both joy and grief simultaneously How hardship can reshape the way we experience milestones Why embracing imperfect moments creates lasting memories Graduation season brings excitement, reflection, and change, but for families navigating cancer, grief, or unexpected hardship, these transitions can feel especially emotional. In this episode, Kayla shares p...

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...

Takeaways Identifying joyful activities is the first step to creating a happier life A “joy inventory” can help uncover passions, hobbies, and experiences that truly fulfill you Scheduling joy intentionally increases accountability and consistency Revisiting childhood passions can reconnect you with forgotten happiness Aligning your time with joyful pursuits improves overall wellbeing In part thre...

Takeaways Saying no creates space for joy, peace, and fulfillment. Boundaries are essential for protecting mental health and preventing burnout. Prioritizing yourself is not selfish, it is necessary for long-term wellbeing. In part two of the Joy First mini-series, Kayla Keenan explores the powerful and often uncomfortable art of saying no. From personal stories about balancing work, family, and o...

Takeaways Scheduling fun is essential for improving mental health and overall happiness Treat joy like a non-negotiable commitment, just like work or appointments You deserve time for yourself, and even small moments of joy can make a big impact In this episode, Kayla Keenan introduces the concept of “Joy First” and explores why scheduling fun should be a priority, not an afterthought. She shares...

Takeaways Pet loss grief is real, valid, and often underestimated until you experience it yourself. Maxx was a loyal companion through Kyle’s cancer diagnosis, treatment, hospice journey, and the grief that followed. Healing after losing a pet does not mean forgetting; it means carrying their love, lessons, and memories forward. Summary of the Episode In this emotional episode of INDY Foundation C...

In this episode of Connecting Through Cancer, host Kayla Keenan discusses the concept of the 'Let Them' mindset popularized by Mel Robbins. This mindset emphasizes the importance of allowing others to act according to their own choices, particularly in the context of cancer journeys. Kayla reflects on her experiences during her partner's cancer battle, highlighting the emotional complexities of su...

Takeaways The INDY Foundation raised close to $250,000 through the support of its community. This fundraising milestone was made possible by sponsors, volunteers, and collective generosity. The episode highlights gratitude, community connection, and the importance of showing up for those affected by cancer. Summary of the episode In this heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Can...

Takeaways Episode one shares the heart and origin behind INDY Foundation. This replay is the perfect starting point for new listeners discovering INDY after the recent gala. The episode highlights the power of cancer support, community connection, and hope. In this replay of the very first episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer , host Kayla Keenan brings listeners back to the beginn...

Takeaways INDY Foundation is deeply rooted in connection, community, and compassion. Support during cancer includes both emotional care and practical help. The Bowties and Arrows Gala reflects the heart of INDY’s mission: no one fights alone. In this special episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer , the team shares short but meaningful audio moments captured at the Bowties and Arrows...

Takeaways The Bowties & Arrows Gala is more than a fundraiser — it is a meaningful way to support cancer warriors through hope, compassion, and community. Small acts of service matter, and every volunteer hour or act of generosity can create lasting impact. This season of renewal is an opportunity to reflect on how you want to show up, give back, and encourage others. In part 3 of this INDY Fo...

Takeaways The Bowties & Arrows Gala is designed to help cancer warriors feel seen, loved, and supported. Small acts of intentional care can create confidence, dignity, and joy during difficult seasons. Community support through sponsors, attendees, and volunteers plays a transformational role in the cancer journey. In part 2 of this mini series, Kayla Keenan shares how INDY Foundation creates...

Takeaways INDY Foundation was created from loss, love, and the belief that no one should fight cancer alone. The Bowties and Arrows Gala is about more than fundraising — it’s about honoring cancer warriors and raising people up. Renewal, healing, and hope happen through community, compassion, and showing up for others. In Part 1 of this three-part mini series, Kayla Keenan shares the heart behind...

Takeaways Babes, Wine & Galentines is a women-focused fundraiser built on real connection, empowerment, and community support for cancer warriors. INDY Foundation (“I’m Not Done Yet”) provides direct financial support to local warriors, helping with real-life needs like gas to treatment, bills, and breathing room. The most powerful moments often happen behind the scenes: warriors bonding, hold...

Takeaways Community leadership means showing up—even when it’s outside your comfort zone. Men of INDY turns a fun runway moment into real dollars for cancer warrior support. Hearing warriors’ stories can shift your perspective and deepen your purpose. Babes, Wine & Galantines creates both an unforgettable night out and direct impact for families. One community event can raise significant funds...

Takeaways Birthdays are a celebration of existence—and a reminder that continuing is worth honoring. Use your birthday as a “pause button” to reflect on what you survived, learned, and want next. Turn celebration into purpose by choosing one act of giving that lifts someone else up. In this short, heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation: Connecting Through Cancer , host Kayla Keenan reframes birthday...

Takeaways Galentine’s is designed to celebrate cancer warriors with confidence, community, and intentional support. Volunteers make the mission possible—from the smallest details to the biggest moments on stage. The INDY Impact is rooted in connection: reminding families facing cancer that they are not alone. Courtney Studenski, Executive Director of the INDY Foundation, sits down with her cousin...

Takeaways Confidence after cancer is a daily practice, not a destination Choosing yourself is essential for healing and survival Old habits returning doesn’t mean failure — awareness creates growth In this episode, Kayla Keenan explores what confidence really looks like after cancer and trauma. Rather than being fearless, confidence is about self-trust, awareness, and choosing yourself again and a...

In this heartfelt episode of INDY Foundation Connecting Through Cancer , host Kayla Keenan kicks off a powerful new mini-series: Coming Home to Yourself . Kayla shares her deeply personal story of becoming a widow in her late 20s and how that season of profound grief unexpectedly became the foundation for quiet, unshakable confidence. This episode dives into: How grief, trauma, and cancer can lead...

In this heartfelt episode of Connecting Through Cancer , host Kayla Keenan shares the powerful mission and inspiration behind INDY Foundation’s signature Valentine’s event: Babes, Wine & Galentines . This annual celebration, now in its fourth year, is dedicated to honoring Minnesota’s cancer warriors —women who are navigating or have survived cancer. More than just a fun night out, this event...

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 c...