Two weeks in Portugal offered me a transformative experience. Attending a women’s holistic wellness retreat, I reflected, relaxed, and recharged in a way I hadn’t done in years. My goal was to reset—to be more present personally and professionally. Portugal’s beauty, culture, and the retreat’s focus on mindfulness gave me the clarity to slow down, savor life’s moments, and reconnect with my purpose.
But just days after returning, I was confronted with a reality that no retreat could prepare me for: a cancer diagnosis.
A Turning Point in My Journey
Over the summer, I had undergone medical tests that seemed inconclusive. So, when I visited my doctor’s office for a follow-up appointment, I was unprepared for what came next.
“You have cancer,” the surgeon said, handing me a piece of paper with the words Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) written on it.
My immediate thoughts weren’t about treatments—they were about people. What do I do now? How do I show the people I care about how much they mean to me?
The months that followed were some of the most challenging of my life. As I underwent outpatient tests, a major surgery, and the emotional rollercoaster of a cancer diagnosis, I found myself reevaluating not just how I live but why I live.
Emerging with a New Focus
Now, months later, I’m thrilled to say I am cancer-free. This journey has been a gift—not just because I’ve reclaimed my health, but because it gave me the opportunity to reconnect with what matters most.
As the CEO of Capacity Builders, I’ve always been passionate about strengthening nonprofits. But this experience has renewed my focus on supporting missions that align with my deepest values: helping organizations thrive so they can serve their communities and make the world a better place.
With over 30 years of nonprofit experience and credentials as a licensed Standards for Excellence consultant and certified board and governance consultant, I’ve worked with organizations of all sizes to build capacity, foster sustainability, and drive transformative impact. Now, more than ever, I feel called to amplify that work—partnering with nonprofits that tackle the challenges and opportunities I care most about.
Let’s Build Together
Capacity Builders exists to strengthen nonprofits and help them reach their full potential. If you’re part of an organization with a mission that matters deeply to you, I’d love to hear from you. Who knows? We may have the opportunity to create synergy and make an even greater impact together.
The past months have taught me that life is precious and fleeting, but also incredibly full of potential. I want to use every day to strengthen organizations that make a difference in the lives of others. Let’s connect, collaborate, and build stronger communities—one mission at a time.
Sincerely,
Lori Noonan
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