For Kim Ousley, connection and community have been essential parts of navigating an extraordinary cancer journey.

A five-time synovial sarcoma survivor, amputee, writer, speaker, and author, Kim was first introduced to the Cancer Support Community Indiana in 2017 after receiving her fifth cancer diagnosis.

“I was made aware of CSC back in 2017 when it was the fifth time I was diagnosed with cancer,” Kim shared. “There was a volunteer in the little room in the Erskine Building and there was information on their services.”

At a time when treatment and uncertainty can often feel isolating, Kim found comfort in the opportunities CSC provided to connect with others who understood the realities of living with cancer.

One of her first experiences with CSC was participating in yoga classes held upstairs next to the infusion lab. “I enjoyed taking the yoga class,” she said. “It gave me a chance to focus on healing and being present.”

Over the years, Kim has continued to stay connected through CSC’s virtual programming, including Zoom coffee and coloring groups and, more recently, writing-focused meetings.

“I love listening to the other folks on the Zoom groups,” she said. “I loved chatting about crochet, writing, and just life.”

For Kim, those conversations represent something much deeper than simply attending a program. They create a sense of belonging and understanding that can be difficult to find elsewhere. “Connection and community is key to everyone’s healing journey,” she shared. “No one should suffer alone.”

Kim also remembers practical support CSC provided during treatment, including gas cards that helped ease some of the burdens for patients traveling to radiation and chemotherapy appointments.

Today, Kim continues to use her voice and experiences to encourage others, both through her writing and by participating in supportive spaces where people can share openly about the challenges and triumphs of life after a cancer diagnosis.

“It is a beautiful way to be among your peers,” Kim said, “as you all can uplift and support each other.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is not only physical — it also happens through compassion, shared experiences, and the courage to keep showing up for one another.