S2 Ep 28 - Coping w/Cancer of Loved Ones by Desiree Canto

On this episode of Survive and Thrive 8791, I welcome Desiree Canto to Buck and Honey’s remote studios. Desiree, a woman whose life story is a powerful reminder of resilience, friendship, and the strength that can come from adversity.Desiree has experienced both the highs and lows that life can bring. After her parents divorced when she was young, she moved several times before graduating from Verona High School in Wisconsin. Determined to build a strong future, she began college at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned her degree in just four years.Following college, Desiree met Kris Canto, and the two eventually married and started a family. But what should have been one of the happiest chapters of her life quickly turned into a season of heartbreak. Around the time their first child was born, Desiree’s mother was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Diffuse B-Cell cancer. Soon after, Desiree faced another devastating loss when her father passed away unexpectedly.Through grief and uncertainty, Desiree found ways to keep moving forward—leaning into motherhood, exercise, and her work as sources of strength and stability.In 2024, Desiree’s journey took another turn when a close friend, Jessica Salmonowicz, was diagnosed with leukemia for the second time. Desiree, along with a strong circle of friends and community members, rallied around Jessica in a powerful show of love and support.Today, Desiree is helping lead Team Unstoppable, a fundraising campaign for Blood Cancer United, raising awareness and funds for blood cancer research. This is an inspiring episode about perseverance, community, and showing up when it matters most. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!