Category Archives: New Diagnosis

Transitions, Good and Bad

The one constant in life is continual change. Some we can plan for, some we can not. Some anticipated transitions are exciting such as a new promotion or upcoming nuptials; some are as a result of a dark period in our life, or unpleasant events.

During these periods it can be difficult to sort our thoughts into useful workable ideas. Even fabulous transitions are stressful to us. We get stuck in a less than useful thought pattern. It can often be helpful to have someone to talk to during these periods. Not necessarily to receive advice (although seeking outside advice can be a good idea at times), but to help you find your own solutions. Solutions that work for you where you are today. An executable plan.

Consider a Professional Coach. We are trained in assisting self-discovery, and are solution and goal oriented. There is nothing like a game plan and a flashlight to find your way out of the dark weeds into a hopeful tomorrow!

Kim Croft, The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, MS, MBA, CPC, CCHt

Transitional Coaching

Perspective: How Long is Forever?

Perspective: Forever and unlimited are much more ambiguous terms than we realize. To some they may be a light shining in the dark, providing hope to those who are used to Never.

But don’t become too comfortable with the thought that Forever means until the end of time, or even until the end of your time. Because they are just concepts, meant to be comparative; an idea in that moment of time. Ideas change with time as do circumstances.

Forever and Unlimited often, no- usually mean things will be this way until they are not; quite often a fleeting moment. Enjoy that moment while you have it, and treasure the lessons and gifts that moment provides.

Kim Croft, the Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, MS, MBA, CPC, CCHt

What Next? October Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer awareness month in the United States. The push is on education and awareness…and breast cancer screening. The screenings (aka mammogram) are important. In fact, my radiologist said I was the “poster child for annual mammograms” because if he had not seen the previous year’s mammogram and just saw the most recent report he would not have really noticed anything. A biopsy brought the most conclusive results.

To go one step further, that mammogram, sonogram, and biopsy showed possible encroachment in a small area of the left breast (lower quarter). The post surgery pathology report showed it was actually more extensive and aggressive than originally thought.

I am so grateful – and more grateful that I am able to reach out to others on this journey.

My problem with Breast Cancer Awareness month is this – get screened, yes…but what do you do when you receive the unexpected report? How does that patient cope with all the new information, questions, options, and decisions while experiencing stress and emotional shock? In fact, everyone in their personal circle will be in emotional distress.

Is there anyone who has been there who can help? Not with the medical side, not even just the emotional side…what about the human side? the human ecology side?

There is now.

Kim Croft, the Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, CCHt
Orlando, FL 352-449-9485

Feeling Overwhelmed by Your Diagnosis?

I spoke to a client today who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and feeling a little overwhelmed by all of it. She didn’t know anyone who had breast cancer now or in the past, and she didn’t feel like her friends wanted to talk about it.

Friends and family often have no idea what to say, what not to say, or what a cancer patient is going through unless they have been there themselves. I found it helpful to bring up the elephant in the room first, speak only briefly about it, answer questions, and then moved on to another topic. If you need help with something – anything – ask them to help you. Be specific. Most people want to help but, again, have no idea what to say or where to begin.

She really appreciated being able to talk with someone who has been there…and survived. I was glad I was there to listen.

Kim Croft, the Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, CCHt