Cancer can be overwhelming for patients and their loved ones. You may have difficulty understanding and processing the new medical jargon. You may be uncertain what questions to ask your healthcare provider or whether to seek a second opinion. As a result, many people often turn to “Dr. Google” for information which can cause added anxiety and uncertainty. Further, you may receive unwelcome advice from friends and family about what to do or how to manage your stress. Cancer forces people to navigate the murky gray area of life, the part often filled with uncertainty and confusion. One of the most common statements I hear from individuals that I work with is that “people without cancer, just don’t understand what I am going through because they haven’t experienced it themselves”

As a four-time cancer survivor, internationally recognized expert in cancer survivorship and resilience, an author of over 100 scientific publications on the topic, I have provided support, guidance, and evidence based strategies to thousands of cancer patients and families to help them adjust to — and live with — a diagnosis of cancer.

What is a cancer coach?

A cancer coach is trained to support, inspire, and empower patients and their loved ones as they cope with the physical, emotional and social challenges of cancer. A cancer coach can provide a personalized roadmap for the journey ahead, from diagnosis and treatment to finding your "new normal" after treatment ends.

Each cancer journey is unique with different challenges. Together, we will create a plan specific to your personal goals and needs.  For some, it may be accomplished in one session. For others, multiple sessions may make more sense.  My ultimate goal is to empower individuals and loved ones to live with cancer on their own terns.

Just like roots, people are resilient – roots find their way as do people. For some people the path is linear, for others, it’s anything but.

My approach

Based in positive psychology, I utilize a strength-based approach with my clients, recognizing individuals and families have many strengths to work with. Sometimes people just need a little help to find their inner strength, which is often hidden just beneath the surface. Working within this framework, I provide evidence based strategies to equip individuals with the tools needed to overcome their unique challenges, manage stress, and bring out their innate resilience.

Let’s get started.