Team Phoenix Unites Cancer Survivors in Empowering Journey Towards Resilience and Triumph

In a world where cancer often divides and isolates, Team Phoenix is proving that unity and resilience can emerge from shared struggles. This unique program, based out of Advocate Aurora Health Care, is dedicated to helping cancer survivors not only cope with their diagnosis but thrive in the aftermath through the power of community and physical activity. The heart of Team Phoenix lies in the stories of its members, like Julie Anderson and Raluca Stuleanu, both of whom faced breast cancer diagnoses that turned their lives upside down. Anderson, a former public works director in Racine County, had been diligent about her health, going for regular mammograms since turning 40. Yet, when she received her cancer diagnosis in 2018, it struck her unexpectedly. The ensuing surgeries and the physical toll of the illness were overwhelming. For Stuleanu, a general dentist and mother of teenage children, the news was equally devastating. Diagnosed at 50, she faced a double mastectomy and the emotional weight of the illness threatened to unravel her family dynamic. For both women, the journey through cancer was fraught with uncertainty and isolation. "I couldn’t even talk to my mom at that point because I knew she would suffer if she saw me going through this," Stuleanu recalled, articulating the struggle many survivors face—finding someone who truly understands the gravity of their situation. Enter Team Phoenix. Program Director Ilka Hoffins emphasizes the program’s focus on collaboration and support. "We bring them together to do a challenging, but attainable goal in 14 weeks, which is training for a triathlon," she explained. This initiative not only fosters physical fitness but encourages camaraderie among women who share similar experiences. The program sees participants ranging from their early twenties to their mid-seventies, showing that cancer can touch anyone, regardless of age or background. Training at the Pettit National Ice Center, members engage in exercises designed to promote movement, resilience, and overall health. Hoffins pointed out that for many participants, this is their first triathlon. Crossing the finish line is not just about athletic achievement; it represents a monumental personal victory against the odds of cancer. The inclusive environment of Team Phoenix goes beyond physical training. Participants are invited to sessions that explore holistic approaches to well-being, such as meditation and aromatherapy, facilitating a deeper understanding of self-care and recovery. The integration of healthy eating into the program, supported by grants from Kohls Healthy Families and the American Cancer Society, ensures that participants have access to resources for a healthier lifestyle. "This is something that's hard to explain, but we are a tribe, a sisterhood," Anderson said, reflecting on the deep connections formed within the group. The bonds created in the face of adversity allow members to share their fears and triumphs in ways that family, while supportive, may not fully grasp. Stuleanu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of finding a community that truly understands the emotional roller coaster of surviving cancer. "They mean everything to me," she said of her fellow participants. As Team Phoenix gears up for its next triathlon, the spirit of resilience and empowerment continues to thrive. For these women, the journey is more than just training; it is about reclaiming their lives, finding purpose, and standing together against the challenges they have faced. In their unity, they embody the essence of hope, proving that through shared experiences, they are indeed stronger together.