Tag Archives: diagnosis

What Next? October Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness, Certified Professional Coach, Hypnotherapy, New Diagnosis, Transitions, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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?

Breast Cancer Awareness, Certified Professional Coach, New Diagnosis, Transitions, , , , , , ,

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