Facing a shattering diagnosis, Lydia Dody didn’t just survive; she found purpose. Struck by the devastating news of breast cancer, Dody’s life spiraled into chaos. But amidst the darkness, an idea took root—a mission to support other women facing the same battle. What started as an overwhelming struggle turned into a lifeline for countless women, one that Dody didn’t yet know how to bring to life but felt compelled to pursue. Today, as the founder of Hope Lives!, she reflects on her journey through the lowest points of her life and how those moments transformed into a silver lining for others.
Before her diagnosis, Dody was a successful businesswoman in Fort Collins, running retail shops and a magazine. She excelled in everything she pursued. But in November 2000, during what she thought was a routine exam, her world was shattered. Concerned about a lump and a noticeable change in one breast, she voiced her worries to her doctor. Reassured by a negative mammogram, her doctor recommended waiting a year for the next exam. Trusting her instincts, Dody pushed for a biopsy—just to be safe. That decision led to the news that would change her life forever: breast cancer.
Within days, Dody was preparing for a bilateral mastectomy, her surgery scheduled only a week after her diagnosis. Life-saving surgery was just the beginning. Chemotherapy followed, starting the day after Christmas. It was an aggressive treatment, full of harsh side effects that landed her in the hospital multiple times. Throughout it all, she faced the reality of fighting for her life while raising two young daughters.
In the face of this overwhelming adversity, something incredible happened. “The universe brought people into my life I wouldn’t have normally connected with,” Dody recalls. “It was as if it had been planned. All of a sudden, I had this army of support. It kept me going. It nourished me while Western medicine attacked the cancer, but also drained so much life out of me.” This network of friends, family, and even strangers became her lifeline.
Then, in the depths of her treatment, a revelation came. Dody realized she wasn’t fighting this battle just for herself. She felt a calling to help other women going through the same experience. She had to share what she had learned, from the resources she’d discovered to the emotional and physical support she had received. That very day, without any experience in the nonprofit world, she picked up the phone and started making calls. The idea for Hope Lives! was born.
Despite the toll chemotherapy took on her body, Dody pressed on. In the comfort of her bathrobe, she began organizing weekly meetings, bringing together the community to build momentum for her cause. By November 2001, Hope Lives! hosted its first fundraising events: a gala, a symposium, and a run, all aimed at raising money for women battling breast cancer. And in January 2002, Hope Lives! officially began providing services to women in need.
Hope Lives! offers more than just emotional support; it provides practical help during the toughest time in a woman’s life. Local businesses have rallied around the organization, offering services ranging from Reiki and house cleaning to mental health support. Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer can select the services that best meet their individual needs, giving them some relief in a time of great uncertainty.
“Hope Lives! is a sisterhood,” Dody says. “When you’ve had breast cancer, you understand the impact of the diagnosis in a way others can’t. That bond is powerful.” The organization creates a space where women can connect, share, and support one another, fostering a community that provides love and understanding.
Tailoring its support to each woman’s unique journey, Hope Lives! recognizes the challenges women face during treatment. “If we can improve their lives, even just a little, while they’re here with us, that’s so satisfying. It touches my heart and brings me to tears,” Dody shares, reflecting on the far-reaching impact her organization has had.
Dody’s resilience and determination to turn her own battle into a force for good is inspiring. With a dedicated team, board members, and volunteers by her side, Hope Lives! has never turned away a single woman due to a lack of resources since its inception in 2002. And Dody isn’t done yet. She has plans to expand the organization beyond Northern Colorado, with hopes of reaching women across the state and eventually nationwide.
Looking ahead, the mission of Hope Lives! remains more crucial than ever, and financial support is key to continuing its vital work. On February 1, 2025, the organization will host its annual fundraising gala, a night filled with stories of triumph from survivors and a celebration of hope. It’s an evening dedicated to ensuring Hope Lives! can continue to provide essential services to women in Northern Colorado and beyond.
Reflecting on her journey, Dody says, “I found breast cancer to be a gift, wrapped in a nasty package. The gift was the realization that life is short and precious. It helped me prioritize, deepened my faith, and reminded me of the importance of kindness, generosity, and love.” Through Hope Lives! She extends these values not only to those around her but to a growing community of women whose lives she’s touched.
To purchase Gala tickets or to set up a monthly recurring donation to Hope Lives! visit their website www.hopelives.org.
“If we can improve their lives, even just a little, while they’re here with us, that’s so satisfying. It touches my heart and brings me to tears.” - Lydia Dody
“I found breast cancer to be a gift, wrapped in a nasty package. The gift was the realization that life is short and precious. It helped me prioritize, deepened my faith, and reminded me of the importance of kindness, generosity, and love.” - Lydia Dody