Item Description

Many cancer survivors, including myself, can relate to the story of the Phoenix. The Phoenix is a mythical bird that represents a new beginning. No matter how bad or 'hot' things get, a Phoenix is reborn from the ashes to get back on its feet and rise stronger, wiser and more beautiful than before.  

Undergoing the physical and emotional trauma of cancer diagnosis, treatment, recovery... and then navigating a completely different reality of your life post-cancer, is overwhelming and uncertain. Sometimes you aren't sure what's on the other side (or if you'll even make it there). 

What makes the idea of the Phoenix so powerful and universal is its ability to translate to everyday life. Anyone can channel their 'inner Phoenix' when battling hardships, like; divorce, physical and mental illness, death, financial hardships, addiction, career woes, family trauma, etc. After getting burned by the fire, a Phoenix RISES from it.

"Often its the deepest pain which empowers you to grow into your highest self." - Karen Salmansohn

In 2017, I became a part of Aurora Health Care's Team Phoenix. Team Phoenix empowers breast cancer survivors to move beyond the title of 'cancer survivor', and redefine themselves as athletes by training for & competing in a triathlon. I was fortunate enough to become a part of this amazing sisterhood an it was an integral component in regaining my sense of self post-cancer. 

This 'Phoenix Rising' chair is dedicated to:

• All my Team Phoenix sisters; past, present and future.
• Anyone who has been given a cancer diagnosis or chronic illness.

Item Special Note

About The Artist

"I was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer in 2016 at age 38. I have no family history of breast cancer and my insurance didn't cover a mammogram until age 40, so I was shocked when a routine physical led me down the path that would result in my diagnosis. I've learned that its incredibly important to be your own health advocate and educate yourself about all the options. This is why I support the WBCC, they help educate fellow Wisconsinites and fight for legislation that will support Wisconsin families that have been affected by this disease. My participation in The Rare Chair Affair event has led to connections with other women with whom I can share, confide, laugh, cry, yell and just be me with... all while creating. For me, this is also a family affair. My two children, Roan (11) & Piper (8), have participated in the experience by helping with the chair, being welcomed and meeting other women/moms/families in similar circumstances and also witnessing our support for for an organization that helps."

Kate is a mom of two and personal trainer and general manager at Wild Workouts & Wellness located in Bay View. She is forever grateful for the support shown to her from her Wild family and so many others within her community. Kate tries to "pay it forward" through her work as an artist for the WBCC Rare Chair Affair and Rare Chair Share programs as well as supporting the Team Phoenix program through Aurora Health Care Foundation.