My interest in integrative health began in 2000 when I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 25. In addition to receiving conventional treatment, I also took a holistic approach and explored a variety of natural and complementary therapies (naturopathy, reiki, meditation) where I recognized the importance of nutrition, the mind/body connection, and how positive thoughts and energy can improve our health. I found these principles compelling and believe they were instrumental in my recovery, battling through 6 years of relapses, chemotherapy and eventually a stem-cell transplant.
Now in remission since 2006, I continue to be an active participant within the cancer community. I have been a peer support volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society since 2007 and currently am a member of the Patient Advisory Council and Stem Cell Transplant Committees with Cancer Care Ontario. In 2009, I was a proud recipient of the KW Record ’40 under 40’ award recognizing my volunteer efforts within the Kitchener-Waterloo community.
Through one-on-one coaching sessions, I help clients identify areas of struggle and work together to develop lifestyle and nutrition changes that are most appropriate for them.
• I work with clients to help them understand and navigate the world of health, wellness and integrative medicine in order make informed decisions and choose the health options best for them.
• I actively apply the concept of bio-individuality where each person has unique health and lifestyle needs and no particular “diet” is right for everyone. I work with clients to explore what nutrition and lifestyle changes are best suited for them and which provide the greatest opportunities of long-term success.
• In addition to the foods we eat, everyone requires nourishment from primary foods – the things that give us mental, emotional and spiritual health, such as, relationships, work, physical activity and finding meaning or spirituality. I help clients identify their concerns in these areas and support them with implementing changes.
• Rather than recommend Immediate and drastic lifestyle changes that can be overwhelming, I help clients restore mental, emotional and physical balance through small, gradual changes at a comfortable pace, celebrating accomplishments along the way.
I received my Health Coach certification in 2013 from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN). During my studies I was exposed to over 100 dietary theories as well as training in mental, emotional and energetic wellness. I was able learn from many of the world leaders in health and wellness including, Deepak Chopra, Dr. Bernie Siegel, Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Neil Bernard.
Health coaching has enabled me to build on my passion for supporting cancer survivors through developing a counselling relationship with clients to help them explore their needs and achieve their goals. I believe I possess the unique combination of personal cancer experience, understanding of the complex decisions and health options facing cancer patients and survivors, along with a conviction in the ability to reclaim a measure of control and balance in a cancer-disrupted life.
