Project Connect
Project Connect is a FREE program designed by Tricia’s Troops Cancer Connection to help local cancer survivors optimize their health, healing and wellbeing. Participants have the opportunity to strengthen body, mind and spirit alongside fellow survivors focused on creating a hopeful way forward! All participants will have access to the following resources, classes and activities:
Healthy Eating
- Access to “Navigating Nutrition,” an online, self-paced mini-course that provides the foundation to make healthier food choices to help fight cancer
- Monthly in-person and hands-on cooking classes
- Monthly “Snack and Chat” opportunities to talk with and learn from an oncology dietitian in a small group format with samples of a healthy snack
Resources & Support
An assortment of monthly wellness classes and activities to connect and learn with other local cancer survivors, including journal writing support groups, mindfulness-based cancer recovery support groups and faith-based mindful movement & meditation.
- A copy of the book, “Anti Cancer Living,” focusing on six key areas of health and wellness
- A copy of the book, “Moving Through Cancer”
Physical Activity
- A weekly mindful movement & meditation yoga class on Mondays from 9 – 10 a.m. along with a monthly evening class
- A weekly group workout at our satellite location in Oconomowoc on Tuesdays from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. focusing on cardio and strength
- A weekly group workout on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. focusing on cardio and strength
- A weekly “Fit Fridays” class from 9:00-9:45 a.m. focusing on cardio, strength and balance
- Monthly Wellness Walk & Talks at various outdoor locations
Who can participate?
- Individuals in active cancer treatment or survivors within
10 years of completion of treatment - Living in counties bordering Waukesha County
- Must be able to pick-up program materials at Tricia’s Troops Cancer Connection
Looking to Participate or Want More Information?
Fill out the form or download the application below
Meet the Team
Alison
Healthy Eating Specialist
Hey there! I’m Alison – a board certified oncology dietitian and cancer thriver. I empower fellow survivors to take back control, reduce their risk of recurrence and thrive.
I truly believe that nutrition is a powerful tool to complement traditional cancer therapies – and research agrees, too! Seeing my clients empowered with the knowledge, tools and resources they need to live happier, healthier lives fuels my incredible passion in the fight again cancer.
Katie
Active Living Specialist
Hi – My name is Katie Nied! I am a nurse, certified personal trainer and yoga instructor who loves to learn and grow and help others in their wellness journey.
My goal everyday is to let God’s light shine and that’s exactly how I settled on my teaching style I like to call “Mindful Movement and Meditation.” We focus on moving the body in a way that promotes flexibility, strength and balance while taking the time to mindfully breathe, grounding us in the present moment.
My passion is leading classes that incorporate scripture meditation, prayer and worship music making it a complete mind, body and spirit experience.
Colette
Active Living Specialist
Hi – My name is Colette Reichert. I live in Helenville with my husband and two kids. I’m a social worker at the UW Cancer Center at ProHealth Care and an ACE-certified trainer and cancer exercise specialist.
I am passionate about helping others in need, from solving problems while going through treatment to finding a workout plan that works for our participants.
I truly believe in treating the entire mind, body and spirit and am grateful to be a part of the Project Connect program at Tricia’s Troops!
Erin
Active Living Specialist
Hi – I’m Erin Kossow and I’m a passionate educator, fitness instructor and encourager at heart. In 2025 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I’m now gratefully cancer-free.
My life’s mission is simple: to spread joy and kindness and bring smiles whenever I can. I feel truly blessed to be part of Tricia’s Troops, and I can’t wait to support you on your fitness journey—bringing joy where I can, offering encouragement when you need it, and helping spread hope every step of the way. My husband and four boys keep life full of sports and adventure. Outside the gym, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors with my family.
Kate
Wellness Coach
Hi – My name is Kate Pernat. I live in Ixonia on our family farm with my husband Mark and our three boys. After going through my own cancer journey, I became passionate about healing the body in a holistic way. I then became a Health & Life Coach graduate and owner of Whole-Hearted Health. Now, cancer free, I am achieving my dreams of helping others live their lives wholeheartedly through nutritional education, personal growth & prep for success coaching, fitness guidance and more.
Dawn
Peer Support
Hi – My name is Dawn Geeleher and I am so honored to be a part of Tricia’s Troops. I came to the organization after my own diagnosis of Stage IV Bile Duct Cancer and was looking for a way to give back once completing my treatments.My original goal was to offer peer support and create a support group. Since becoming more involved, I have been in awe of this amazing organization and all it has to offer. Please reach out if you ever need a listening ear of have a question.