Nancy Kollhoff is a woman of many talents and a story that spans careers, challenges, and personal triumphs. From her early days as a music educator to her years as a Methodist pastor, and later, a wine guide and dragon boat paddler, Nancy has embraced life’s changes with bravery, creativity, and connection. In this post, we explore Nancy’s inspiring journey, her unique hobbies, and how she’s created a life filled with meaning, resilience, and joy.

A Multifaceted Career

Nancy’s professional path has been as varied as it is inspiring. Starting with a degree in music education, she quickly realized that her passion lay in working with adult learners rather than in the classroom. This led to a successful stint as a database software trainer before she felt the call to ministry, serving as a Methodist pastor for over two decades.

"I never planned to be a pastor, but the call came when I was working in children’s education at my church. It was a surprise—but one that shaped my life in incredible ways," Nancy shared.

Finding New Passions in Retirement

When Nancy retired from ministry in 2019, she explored part-time opportunities to keep herself engaged. A chance Google search introduced her to Traveling Vineyard, where she became a wine guide. For Nancy, it was more than just a job—it was a way to step outside her introverted comfort zone, meet new people, and discover a love for wine.

"It got me out of the house and into social circles. I learned so much about wine and myself in the process," Nancy reflected.

The Healing Power of Community

Nancy’s life took an unexpected turn in late 2019 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The experience was life-changing, but it also led her to discover new communities of support and empowerment. Through Gilda’s Club in Kansas City, she found a breast cancer support group that became an integral part of her healing journey.

"You don’t know what you don’t know. The women I met through Gilda’s Club were a lifeline for me during one of the hardest times in my life," she said.

Dragon Boats: Strength in Unity

One of the most surprising and rewarding outcomes of Nancy’s journey was her introduction to dragon boat racing. Through her breast cancer support group, she learned about KC Pink Warriors, a team of women cancer survivors who paddle dragon boats for strength, camaraderie, and healing. The sport not only supports physical recovery but also fosters deep connections among its members.

"The team is the most welcoming, supportive, and affirming group of women I’ve ever been part of. It’s hard to curse the cancer when it brought me to this incredible community," Nancy said.

Dragon boating has taken Nancy to places like Vancouver and even New Zealand, where she joined an international team of paddlers. The sport has become a cornerstone of her life, offering physical challenges, emotional connection, and global friendships.

Music, Math, and Creativity

Throughout her life, Nancy’s love for music has been a constant. She’s been a handbell ringer and director for decades, finding solace and focus in the art. For Nancy, music is both a creative and mathematical endeavor, blending emotional expression with technical precision.

"When I’m ringing handbells, my mind can’t focus on anything else. It’s the perfect escape from life’s worries," she explained.

She’s also a dedicated knitter, often incorporating spreadsheets into her projects to ensure precision. For Nancy, knitting, like music, combines structure and creativity in a deeply satisfying way.

Looking Ahead: A Life of Possibilities

As Nancy continues to paddle, knit, and ring handbells, she’s also exploring new opportunities. Whether it’s volunteering as a patient advocate or working at a local winery, she’s embracing the flexibility of this phase of her life with open arms.

"I’m just taking it one day at a time, focusing on what brings me joy and connection," she shared.

Closing Thoughts: Nancy Kollhoff’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. From navigating career changes to thriving after a cancer diagnosis, Nancy’s life reminds us of the beauty of embracing new opportunities, finding strength in unexpected places, and staying connected to what truly matters.

Here’s to a life filled with creativity, community, and courage. Cheers to Nancy and the inspiring example she sets for us all!

Gilda's Club
International Breast Cancer Paddlers, and
GWN Dragon Boating

Book Recommendations:
Remarkably Bright Creatures
Lessons in Chemistry