Cancer Survivors Train for Triathlons in Milwaukee Program

Kayla Kutz is about to do something that once seemed impossible: complete a triathlon just months after finishing cancer treatment.

She's one of several women training with Team Phoenix, a 14-week program run by Aurora Health Care in Milwaukee that helps cancer survivors rebuild their strength and confidence. The goal is simple but powerful: finish a sprint triathlon featuring a half-mile swim, 12.4-mile bike ride, and 3.1-mile run or walk.

"I wanted to reclaim my life and get my health back to where it was before cancer as much as possible," Kutz said. For her, the swim is the biggest challenge, but she's not backing down.

The program pairs survivors with coaches, health experts, and mentors who guide them through every workout and obstacle. Kutz's mentor, Andrea Reynolds, completed Team Phoenix last year after her own breast cancer diagnosis. Now, as an oncology occupational therapist, she's paying it forward.

"You think, oh there's no way I could do a triathlon," Reynolds said. "Well, you went through cancer treatment, which is really hard too. You can be a triathlete."

Why This Inspires

Team Phoenix proves that healing isn't just about medical treatment. It's about showing survivors they're stronger than they ever imagined.

The program welcomes women of all body types and fitness levels. No one is expected to be an athlete on day one. The point is progress, not perfection.

Reynolds emphasizes that diversity is what makes the group special. Women who never considered themselves athletic are discovering they can push their bodies further than fear told them they could.

The team will compete together at the Tri-ing for A Cure Triathlon on July 26 at Ottawa Lake State Park. But crossing the finish line is about more than medals or times.

"Truly, we can do hard things," Kutz said. "We can reclaim our lives."

For these women, every training session is a victory lap over cancer.