Cancer Survivor to Triathlete: Cassandra Burke’s Journey | Fireside Chat
In the latest episode of the Run Tri Bike Fireside Chat, Jason Bahamundi sits down with Cassandra Burke, an incredible endurance athlete, coach, and breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed with four aggressive tumors in 2010 at just 38, Cassandra’s journey from cancer patient to cancer survivor and ultimately triathlete is nothing short of inspiring. She not only survived the physical and emotional battle of breast cancer but used her experience to fuel her passion for endurance sports and create a positive impact on the lives of others.
From Diagnosis to Victory: Cassandra’s Personal Story
Cassandra’s story begins with an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis in 2010. The tumors, aggressive and fast-growing, presented her with one of the biggest challenges of her life. But instead of succumbing to fear, Cassandra chose to fight. Her strength and determination carried her through the grueling treatments, and soon she found hope in the world of endurance sports—specifically triathlon.
Setting her sights on finishing a triathlon, Cassandra used this goal as a way to celebrate her victory over cancer. In doing so, she discovered not only the joy of endurance sports but also a new purpose in life.
Founding Catalyst Performance Lab: Empowering Cancer Survivors
As Cassandra’s love for triathlons grew, so did her desire to help others. She founded Catalyst Performance Lab, a coaching program specifically designed to empower fellow cancer survivors through fitness, nutrition, and mental strength. Cassandra’s work with survivors emphasizes the importance of setting new goals after cancer, proving that life beyond diagnosis can be filled with accomplishments, joy, and personal growth.
Through Catalyst Performance Lab, Cassandra shares her own experiences and lessons learned, helping others regain strength and confidence, one race at a time.
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The Joy of the Journey: Embracing Fun and Community
One of the standout qualities that Cassandra exudes is her ability to find humor and joy despite the challenges she’s faced. In her Fireside Chat with Jason Bahamundi, she talks candidly about race-day mishaps, laughing over DNFs (Did Not Finish) and sharing stories about her favorite recovery meals. Her lighthearted approach to endurance sports shows that while competition is serious, it’s also about enjoying the journey and celebrating every milestone—big or small.
Cassandra emphasizes the importance of community, drawing on the support of friends, family, and fellow athletes. This camaraderie has been vital in her recovery and ongoing endurance journey from cancer survivor to triathlete and beyond.
Looking Forward: Cassandra’s Vision for 2025
As if Cassandra’s story wasn’t already inspiring enough, she is now looking ahead to her next big project: the Cancer to Finish Line program, launching in 2025. This initiative will help guide cancer survivors in achieving their fitness goals through endurance sports, providing them with the tools, support, and motivation they need to cross the finish line—literally and figuratively.
Cassandra’s dedication to giving back to the cancer community continues to grow, and her future plans promise to inspire and uplift many more survivors to come.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience and Humor
Cassandra Burke’s story is a powerful reminder that no obstacle is too great when met with perseverance, community support, and a healthy dose of humor. Her journey from cancer survivor to triathlete, coach, and dietitian is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the healing power of endurance sports.
Be sure to listen to this incredible Fireside Chat with Cassandra Burke on Run Tri Bike for a heartwarming, humorous, and deeply motivating conversation that will inspire you to chase your own dreams—no matter the obstacles in your path.
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