“When you say the words ‘breast cancer survivor,’ it can’t get any more personal for me because that is my mother,” announces Shelly Rood, inspirational speaker, co-founder of Mission: Ambition LLC and a decorated military intelligence officer who served our country for 16 years. 

“Sometimes we are so concerned with getting through it, with surviving it, that we don’t take the time for genuine connection and reflection,” she says during The Breast of Everything podcast hosted by Linsey Gold, DO, FACS, FACOS, Comprehensive Breast Care surgeon. 

Through her work with Mission: Ambition LLC, Shelly inspires the world to be filled with thrivers, not just survivors. She hopes her message is heard loudly and clearly, especially during this time of year as we approach the holidays, a very difficult time for those living with cancer.

In this podcast, she shares some advice on how cancer survivors can relax a little and still make the holidays “the most wonderful time of the year.” It is important that women learn to delegate and set boundaries when it comes to holiday activities, she urges. Don’t isolate yourself; connect with others and take the time to relax and enjoy the season.

During The Breast of Everything podcast, Shelly examines this internal battle cancer survivors have with themselves. She views it as a military mission. What is your mission? Is it to enjoy the holidays? The answer should be a resounding “yes.”

“You will make it through this mission,” she says with conviction. “And what is waiting on the other side for you?” Listen to The Breast of Everything podcast featuring Veteran Shelly Rood, here.