2025 Wrap Up & Reflection
As 2025 comes to a close, I’m reflecting on a year rooted in learning, exploration, challenge, and intentional living.
This year began with signing on as a contributing author to a breast cancer anthology—an experience that reminded me how powerful it can be to share our stories in service of others. Soon after, the Liv & Let resource library that I’ve been building for years officially launched, along with downloadable PDFs designed to make education and tools for wellness more accessible.
Liv & Let began as a place where I shared my breast cancer story. Today, it has grown into a supportive information hub for those impacted by cancer, those navigating genetic predisposition, and those who want to better understand their family health history, reduce risk, and make informed choices about their well-being. At its core, Liv & Let exists to help people feel more empowered, informed, and supported—no matter where they are on their health journey.
As I’ve continued my own healing and wellness journey, I’ve learned that education, exposure, and lived experience matter. I’ve always loved discovering programs, services, and practices that support the body and mind. What once took me years to uncover, I now feel called to share—so others don’t have to navigate it alone or in the dark.
This year, that learning came through experience:
Stepping outside my comfort zone at Canyon Ranch—through physical challenges designed to build confidence—reinforced how closely mental, emotional, and physical health are connected.
Climbing in Utah with a group of women, including fellow cancer survivors and caregivers, reminded me of the importance of community, shared understanding, and being truly seen.
Travel deepened my appreciation for foundations—how cities, systems, and communities are built to last. It became a metaphor for health and well-being: when we build with intention and strong support, we’re better equipped to withstand stress, uncertainty, and change.
Personally, this year was also about emotional awareness and self-advocacy: recognizing triggers, unlearning the habit of saying “I’m fine” when I wasn’t, setting boundaries, and honoring what my body and emotions were communicating.
As I look ahead to 2026, I’m grateful for the tools, education, and reflection that help turn insight into action. A recent planning workshop reminded me that growth isn’t just about doing more—it’s about closing chapters with intention and creating space for what’s next.
While I haven’t chosen a single word for the new year just yet, I find myself drawn to courage, renewal, gentleness, and harmony—values that continue to guide both my personal journey and the mission behind Liv & Let.
As we close out the year, I’m also grateful to continue sending care crates via Giv Shoppe. It’s been especially meaningful to partner with communities through pop-up shops—particularly during the holidays—to support the cancer and mental health community. Whether someone is navigating treatment, recovery, or simply needs to feel seen and supported, it remains an honor to offer comfort, care, and connection through these efforts.
Thank you for being part of this community—for learning, questioning, and prioritizing your well-being alongside me. I look forward to continuing to share resources, education, and support in the year ahead.
With gratitude,
Lauren