About

Hi, we’re Shay’s Warriors-life after cancer.

Our Mission.

because living life after cancer is tough…

To inspire, inform, empower and help heal cancer survivors and their families through health, fitness and the mind-body connection.

Our Vision: That no cancer survivor should lack ongoing support from a community that understands and helps each other in the healing process.

Our Purpose: Shay's Warriors Life After Cancer is a community for men and women to share their experiences and support each other in overcoming the trauma and PTSD from cancer, whether after treatment or during ongoing diagnosis, with those who truly understand.

Our story.

Simply put, Shay’s Warriors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that was formed in the Coachella Valley to help the cancer survivorship community.

But like any other non-profit, there’s a story. Shay was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2016. She fought for her life until the day she was told that her cancer was gone. Too-da-loo, cancer!

But those lucky enough to experience those words know that cancer never truly leaves you. Physically, yes. Emotionally, never. Your body acts differently now. There’s often guilt, fear, loneliness and an overwhelming sense of what in the actual hell did I just go through? Is it fair to have confusion with a clean bill of health? Of course, it is.

This will come as a shocker to no one: women struggle to ask for help. Shay’s a woman, she gets that. And after her own (very quiet, of course) struggling search for local resources, Shay had a passion to do more. So with that, Shay’s Warriors was brought to life in hopes of providing a healthy, inspiring, and safe space for all cancer survivors to thrive and connect.

Our Team.

Shay’s Warriors runs on female power generated by women who have been affected by cancer in one way or another and a few awesome men. Please say hello to our board of directors, ambassadors and advocates.

  • A woman with dark brown hair wearing a pink t-shirt speaking on a cellphone, smiling, with her left hand on her hip.

    SHAY MORAGA

    WARRIOR FOUNDER-VISIONARY

    Career field: ERYT-500, Trauma Informed, Breast Cancer Health Coach, Entrepreneur & TNBC Cancer Survivor - Indio

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: To connect. During my treatment, I knew that if I were given a second chance at life, I would spend the rest of my days helping others affected by cancer and life after. I want to help change the cancer mindset: death to life. By building community, connection and authentic conversation around what life after cancer is so that fellow warriors know they are never alone on this never-ending journey.

  • A cheerful woman with long blonde hair, wearing a blue t-shirt that says 'shays warriors life after cancer,' holds a U.S. passport up to her face, smiling widely.

    REBECCA CURTRIGHT

    WARRIOR TREASURE KEEPER

    Career field: First Foundation, V.P. Financial Analyst - Palm Springs

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: To prepare for service and learn the nobility of serving..." Being a part of Shays Warriors and the good it does for our community, I get to live this creed...helping those I know and those I haven't even met yet. There's nothing more rewarding than working with an organization that brings smiles and support to those who need it.

  • A woman wearing a yellow shirt with white text, celebrating with confetti falling around her, with her mouth open in excitement and raised hands.

    GAIL TRONCOSO

    WARRIOR SECRETARY

    Career Field: Retired Educator and Administrator & Cancer Survivor - Bermuda Dunes

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? As a person living with cancer, I know how important it is to have a community. I was blessed to participate in the 2022 retreat and I know the impact it has on survivors. I feel it is my job to share Shay’s mission with everyone, and I can contribute by fundraising and sharing my story.

  • A woman with glasses and multicolored hair holds a plant pot shaped like a face with a succulent plant inside, wearing a green T-shirt that says 'Shay's Warriors life after cancer'.

    DR. SONJA FUNG

    WARRIOR OF EDUCATION

    Career field: Live Well Clinic, Owner & Naturopathic Doctor - La Quinta

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I have a strong family history of cancer and I’ve experience firsthand the difficulties of cancer care. Shay’s Warriors fits in with what I strongly believe in, which is education, eradicating misinformation and supporting our Coachella Valley community.

  • Maddy Botello of Wally's Desert Turtle and Board Member of Shay's Warriors Life After Cancer

    MADDY BOTELLO

    WARRIOR OF CONNECTIONS

    Career Field: Restaurateur of
    Wally’s Desert Turtle - Rancho Mirage

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I'm part of this organization because I lost my mom to cancer, and I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of a positive and healing journey. I believe in the strength of human connection and our collective purpose to support each other in living life to its fullest. My goal is to provide people with the opportunity to discover new perspectives, build community, and foster connections, adding vibrant colors to life's canvas even in the face of adversity.

  • A woman smiling, wearing a blue T-shirt with white text, holding a green skincare spray bottle in one hand and a brown dropper bottle in the other, against a plain white background.

    MARISA RIVERA

    WARRIOR OF BEAUTY

    Career Field:  SkinLab by Cosmetic Surgery Institute, Business Managing Partner & Licensed Medical Esthetician- Palm Desert

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I treasure moments in my life that I can give back and make a difference. Being a part of Shays Warriors allows me to give from my heart while also educating and being there for those who need it the most. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful organization ~ we are stronger together!

  • A woman with long blonde hair wearing a pink t-shirt that says 'shady warrior' and a silver mirrored disco ball hat, posing with a playful facial expression.

    CHRISTINA MILLER

    WARRIOR OF CRAFT AND SURPRISE

    Career field: Cosmetology - Palm Desert

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I’ve been personally inspired by Shay to help create a community to support cancer survivors across the valley, state and country! This organization will help not only survivors, but those who surround them daily as well.

  • A man with gray hair and blue eyes balancing a large hardcover book on his head, standing against a plain white background.

    SHAUN MURPHY

    WARRIOR OF RESEARCH

    Career Field: SBEMP Attorney at Law & Cancer Survivor - Indian Wells

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? As someone who survived the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma, I want to help people adjust to and make the most of their life post diagnosis and treatment so they can maximize their enjoyment and not let their cancer define their lives.

  • Woman in orange Walgreen's t-shirt holding a long gray strap or ribbon, with an excited facial expression.

    ANGELA PRESCOTT

    WARRIOR OF VOLUNTEERS

    Career field: Prescott Sports Therapy, Physical Therapist & Cancer Survivor - Palm Desert

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: As a cancer survivor, I want to give back to my community by helping survivors. It’s my goal to provide assistance, support and interactions for those completing cancer treatments on a local scale and in the future on a county, state and national level.

  • A man with blonde hair and blue eyes holding a golf club, wearing a green T-shirt with black printed text, a silver wristwatch, and a wedding ring, against a plain white background.

    JASON PARR, CPA, JD

    WARRIOR GRANT WRITER

    Career Field: Senior Manager | Leader Real Estate Outsourcing Practice -San Diego

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: To recognize that certain things in life are more important. To offer my skills and help in areas that work towards Shay's Warriors life after cancer successfully reaching its mission and goals. goes here

Honorary Board Members

  • AILEEN ALVARES

    In Our Hearts Forever
    October 28, 1974-October 11, 2024

    Career field: Lawyer & Cancer Survivor.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I am honored to be part of this wonderful organization.  I am a survivor.  Oftentimes, survivorship means that one’s relationship with family, friends, loved ones, and colleagues is not the same.  Oftentimes, one can no longer live as they did before and are impacted in very unexpected ways.  Sometimes, survivorship means having to fight this beast again.  This is only understood by other survivors.  Shay’s Warriors help us all help each other live life after cancer.

  • Black and white portrait of a woman with long, wavy hair, looking upward with a thoughtful expression, wearing a patterned scarf and a jacket with studded details.

    LINDSEY WRIGHT

    CHIEF CREATIVE

    Career field: Illustration & Design.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: Because I believe that women helping women is everything. And I want to contribute bright and colorful art that brings a smile, even if for one small moment, to someone who is on a difficult journey.

ADVISORY COUNCIL

  • Dr. Gail Parker, a Shay's Warriors Life After Cancer Board Advocate and Advisor Member

    GAIL PARKER PhD. CIAYT.

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: Retired psychologist, author, yoga therapist, educator.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: Psychological and emotional health and well-being are my priority personally and professionally. The cancer journey is stressful, traumatic and life changing. Survivors need as much support after treatment as they do when they are in treatment. I've experienced my own cancer journey and longed for the kind of support that Shay's is offering. I've lost friends, family, and clients to cancer. Being part of this non-profit is my way of giving back. 

  • Close-up of a smiling woman wearing a green shirt with white text supporting Shays Warriors for life after cancer.

    AMY HETHERINGTON, D.N.P

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career field: Nurse Educator, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Alchemist.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I seek opportunities to educate, empower, embrace, encourage, and elevate others. A nurse by trade, I am perpetually humbled by my front row seat to the human condition, and the many moments of powerful healing and strength that I’ve witnessed with this organization. As a Latina, I am eager to help build and strengthen even more support for my fellow Latinos. 

  • ALISON MAYER SACHS, MSW, CSW, LSW, OSW-C

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: Certified Oncology Social Worker and Educator with Eisenhower Health

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: Cancer changes your life, Shay’s Warriors is about embracing life and finding new meaning after surviving cancer and I am happy to be a part of that along with them.

  • Close-up of an elderly man smiling, wearing a blue t-shirt with partially visible text, and blue glasses, against a plain white background.

    VICTOR LAMKAY

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: Retired Educator & Administrator, Grant Researcher.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I have been motivated by Shay's dedication and enthusiasm for this cause. I value so much the mission and the goals of Shay's Warriors, and I am inspired to contribute in all ways that I am able.

  • A woman with short auburn hair and blue eyes, wearing a black top, smiling softly, standing in front of a floral-patterned curtain.

    ROSEMARY FLAHERTY

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: RN/BSN IAC Registered Nurse Patient Coordinator (retired).

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: I was honored to have served on the board of Shay’s Warriors from 2017-2019. Survivorship requires understanding, community, emotional and physical support to promote holistic wellness. There are many important topics that can truly influence wellness and health after cancer.  My hope is that everyone walks away from the presentations with at least one idea that will become a helpful practice or exploration in their lives.

  • A smiling woman with long wavy brown hair wearing a white button-up shirt against a plain white background.

    JAELYN MORAGA

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: Sircle Media & Public Relations

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? I’m a part of Shay’s Warriors because I’ve seen firsthand, through my mom’s experience, how important support and community are after cancer. It means so much to be part of something that reminds women and men that there is life beyond their diagnosis. I love being involved in our programs and our Annual “I Am Hope Survivors Reset Retreat”. I especially like getting to know each woman on a personal level. It’s incredibly meaningful to watch their growth from before to after the retreat, watching them let go, open up, and find a community of people who truly understand and support them.

  • A woman with short, wavy black hair, bright red lipstick, and a strapless red dress, smiling at the camera in an indoor setting.

    PAULINA LARSON

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: Palm Springs Life Magazine

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization? Advocate

  • La Quinta Councilman Steve Sanchez, A Shay's Warriors Advisory Board Member and Men's Health Advocate for the Yo Bro I am Brave Too

    STEVE SANCHEZ

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: La Quinta City Councilman

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: As someone who watched my own mother battle cancer, and like so many who know a friend or loved one fighting, surviving, or lost too soon, I believe no one should face that journey alone. I am honored to join Shay’s Warriors to help ensure men have a strong community to lean on—one that inspires confidence, connection, and healing long after the treatments end. Because warriors don’t battle alone, and together, we rise stronger than cancer.

  • A smiling middle-aged man with gray hair and blue eyes, wearing a white collared shirt and a light gray zip-up sweater, posing against a gray textured background.

    PAUL MAHONEY

    WARRIOR ADVISORY COUNCIL

    Career Field: CEO of PMA Advertising & Public Relations Inc.

    Why are you a part of this nonprofit organization: As a two time cancer survivor, I feel it is important to help others who are going through what I went through, and let them know, that there is live after cancer. My hope is that I can help men, who have difficulty sharing or talking about cancer, that they are not alone in the fight and that is ok to share.

    I hope by sharing my story, that it might make a difference in someone else’s journey and shows there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

ADVOCATES & AMBASSADORS

  • Woman practicing Pilates on a reformer machine in a living room with colorful cushions, a large pony skin ottoman, and a potted plant.

    AUTUMN BREWER

    ADVOCATE
    MOVE2HEAL - Instructor

  • Woman with braids smiling standing with arms crossed in a gym, surrounded by exercise equipment.

    COACH CASS

    ADVOCATE
    MOVE2HEAL - Instructor

  • A woman with long blonde hair wearing a white dress, smiling, and holding a camera up to her face outdoors among rocks and trees.

    DEJIA KREUTZBERG

    ADVOCATE
    Deja's View Photography

  • Smiling woman with short black hair wearing a floral dress, necklace, earrings, and a name tag that says Elizabeth, in front of colorful background with a large pink flower and the words 'Shays Warris'

    ELIZABETH AYALA

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2023 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • Close-up of a woman with curly brown hair, wearing a green top and a name tag that reads 'Emily', smiling in front of colorful, fun background with large floral and geometric designs.

    EMILY SCHMOOKLER - ERYT

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER 2023 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • A smiling woman wearing black glasses and a white eyelet blouse, standing in front of colorful background with large flower and question mark illustrations and text.

    FRAN ESPINOSA

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2023 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • A middle-aged man with dark, slicked-back hair, wearing large black glasses, a navy suit jacket, a patterned button-up shirt, and a pocket square, smiling at the camera against a plain gray background.

    GABRIEL RIVERA

    ADVOCATE
    YO BRO I AM BRAVE TOO!

  • Black background with white text that reads 'Shay's Warriors' and a tag line 'life after cancer'.

    KATIE MONK

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER

  • KATHY RAPPAPORT

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER

  • A woman with light skin and blonde hair smiling in front of colorful, abstract art background. She is wearing a black top with a floral cover-up and has a name tag that says 'KATE'.

    KATE HUFFMAN

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2023 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • Close-up of a young woman with long wavy brown hair, wearing a floral scarf tied at the neck, smiling softly, indoors with a blurred background.

    MALIA BOTELLO

    ADVOCATE

  • Black background with white text that reads 'shays warriors' and smaller text underneath that says 'life after cancer.'

    NATE MANDERFELD

    ADVOCATE
    YO BRO I AM BRAVE TOO!

  • Close-up of a smiling woman with curly brown hair, light-colored eyes, wearing a black top, a gold necklace with a letter R pendant, and gold earrings.

    RACHEL BARONE

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2025 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • Black background with white text that reads 'shays warriors' and smaller text underneath that says 'life after cancer.'

    SAGE KADEVARI

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2025 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

  • A woman playing crystal singing bowls outdoors on a sunny day with trees and buildings in the background.

    SALLY SALAS

    ADVOCATE
    MOVE2HEAL - Instructor

  • A young woman with smiling face, long blonde braided hair, wearing earrings, a necklace, and a sleeveless top, standing outdoors with blurred green trees and sunlight in the background.

    SHAMORA WRIGHT

    ADVOCATE Move2Heal and Black Wellness Club

  • A woman with short dark hair standing outdoors in a park with trees and green grass, smiling, wearing a black short-sleeved dress with gold buttons and earrings.

    TESHA VANN

    AMBASSADOR & THRIVER
    2024 I AM HOPE GRADUATE

Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer, consists of 100% volunteer powerhouse oooomazzzing humans that have huge hearts volunteering their time and talents for our mission. We are so blessed to have this privilege, and thank them and their families for this honor.