Facing a cancer diagnosis or supporting a loved one through one can feel overwhelming and isolating. But even in the midst of such challenges, stories of hope, resilience, and community shine through, offering comfort and strength to those in need. This blog is dedicated to exploring that light, sharing resources, and connecting you with organizations that can make a difference during and after cancer.
At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, we are proud to serve as South Carolina’s leading provider of expert breast reconstruction care. With a commitment to compassionate, personalized service, we help women regain confidence and restore their sense of self after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Our team of specialists is here to guide you through every step of your reconstruction journey, ensuring access to the most advanced surgical techniques and support.
Now, let's take a closer look at how organizations like The Lonon Foundation and The After Cancer are fostering hope, support, and community for families affected by cancer.
Cheryl’s Story & The After Cancer
Cheryl Lecroy’s life shifted dramatically in 2011 when she received her breast cancer diagnosis. Like so many, Cheryl faced the daunting landscape of chemotherapy, surgeries, and managing the day-to-day realities of treatment.
But Cheryl found an outlet in creativity. Surrounded by a supportive network of friends at her local arts center, she began crafting jewelry during long chemotherapy sessions. Her hands were busy, her mind engaged, and each piece she made became a symbol of her strength and progress.
This creative process helped Cheryl move from feeling like a passive patient to an active participant in her own healing. Over time, art became much more than a way to pass the hours. It turned into a pathway back to herself, a way to cope with “chemo brain,” and a spark that would help others.
Today, Cheryl is a wellness coach with The After Cancer, a supportive, virtual space designed for anyone living life after cancer. She now shares her wisdom and warmth with other survivors, leading them through creative and mindfulness activities that foster connection, resilience, and joy.
What is The After Cancer?
The After Cancer is a virtual support platform meeting survivors exactly where they are. The team understands that life after cancer can sometimes feel lonely or uncertain—even after treatment ends. Designed by clinicians and survivors, The After Cancer offers:
- Evidence-based guidance on recovery, nutrition, and managing side effects
- Live group classes like yoga, meditation, and expert Q&A sessions
- Art & mindfulness workshops, journaling, and wellness coaching
- A moderated, welcoming community where survivors share, connect, and heal together
This platform is open to those who have been recently diagnosed, are in active treatment, are done with treatment, or are taking care of a loved one. For many, just knowing they’re not alone can make a world of difference.
For more information about all of their available resources, visit The After Cancer's website or schedule a free introductory call with Cheryl.
Jennifer’s Story & The Lonon Foundation
For Jennifer Page, an oncology nurse practitioner and mother of two, a breast cancer diagnosis in 2016 turned her world upside down. At just 41 years old, she was suddenly navigating treatment not only as a patient but as a parent to two young boys—ages 2 and 4 at the time.
Drawing on her two decades of professional experience, Jennifer knew what to expect medically. But emotionally, she faced an entirely new challenge: preserving a sense of normalcy for her children while enduring chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Community support became essential, and one organization made a profound impact.
The Lonon Foundation’s UPLIFT program offered Jennifer’s sons a space to play, explore, and connect with other children whose families were also affected by cancer. Monthly events like aquarium visits and park outings gave them something to look forward to, while trained volunteers and child life specialists provided age-appropriate emotional support.
“I quickly learned the value of one’s village and how supportive this was for my boys, as I was determined to keep life as normal as possible,” Jennifer shared.
Today, she serves as a board member for The Lonon Foundation, hoping to give back to the organization that helped her family during such a pivotal time. Her story is a reminder that healing happens not only in hospital rooms but in everyday moments of connection, compassion, and care.
What is The Lonon Foundation?
The Lonon Foundation exists to support children who have a parent or caregiver facing cancer. Their free UPLIFT program helps children:
- Build resilience and coping skills through fun, monthly events
- Connect with peers going through similar experiences
- Receive age-appropriate emotional support
- Feel less alone, even when times are tough
Parents express deep gratitude for UPLIFT’s impact. Many say it’s the one place their children can truly be understood without having to explain themselves. Monthly activities, welcome boxes, and ongoing resources allow families to create new, happy memories—even as they face difficult days.
If you are navigating cancer with young children, learn more about The Lonon Foundation’s UPLIFT program or contact them at uplift@thelononfoundation.org for more information.
Take The Next Step Today
Healing from breast cancer is complex and different for everyone. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, we encourage you to reach out for support. Whether you're seeking a support system for yourself or your family, know that there are dedicated resources and caring people ready to help.
At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, our goal is to provide compassionate and comprehensive care to all women seeking breast reconstruction after mastectomy. If you’re ready to move forward with reconstruction or simply want to understand your options, schedule a consultation with us. We understand the emotional and physical toll that breast cancer can take, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
