Cookie Joe has spent her life teaching dance, shaping not just technique but character, faith, and compassion in her students. When cancer struck, she embraced it as a purposeful challenge, inspiring her community through fundraisers, open conversations, and shared strength. Her story is a celebration of resilience, community, and faith over fear.

If this conversation matters to you, share the episode with your family and friends and consider making a donation at therose.org so more women receive breast cancer screening and care.

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Key Questions Answered

1. How did Cookie begin dancing so early in life?
2. Why is dance such an important part of Cookie's identity?
3. What unique fundraiser is Cookie's dance school doing for breast cancer awareness?
4. Why are butterflies used as an emblem in her school’s breast cancer awareness activities?
5. What types of dance and performing arts does Cookie's school teach, and who attends?
6. How does Cookie make dance accessible to children with disabilities or limited opportunities?
7. In what ways does dance challenge and engage the brain, and how might it affect cognitive health?
8. How does dance serve as spiritual practice and meditation for Cookie?
9. What was Cookie's experience with breast cancer, particularly during COVID?
10. How did breast cancer impact Cookie's relationships and outlook?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 From Doctor Dreams to Music

03:15 "From Volunteer to Choir Teacher"

09:17 Finding Humor During Adversity

11:44 "Trust Me, We'll Be Fine"

15:59 Community Fair with Local Support

18:50 Community Support Through Collaboration

23:17 "Building Trust Through Connection"

26:40 "Empowering Women Through The Rose"

28:30 "Embracing Unique Personal Stories"

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