As the year comes to a close, many of us naturally reflect on what we didn’t accomplish, rather than what we did — and what supported us along the way.
One of my accomplishments this year was moving through a surgery I hadn’t wanted, navigating the recovery, and facing emotions it stirred from my cancer diagnosis and treatment ten years ago. After years of consultations and pushing it down my priority list, I finally decided to move forward. The recovery wasn’t easy, and at times it brought me back to memories of that earlier chapter. Yet once again, I was reminded of something I know to be true: the human body has an incredible capacity to heal.
Healing didn’t happen all at once. It was built through consistency — physical therapy, slow mornings, short walks, nourishing food, and breathing through frustration. I returned to my usual movement sooner than expected, and while I ultimately chose a less extensive surgery, I’m grateful for the improvements and the outcome.
What felt different this time was trust. I knew I could get through it — not because it was easy, but because I had lived through far more demanding seasons. Over time, I’ve learned the importance of pairing compassion with discipline, and of noticing small signs of progress, gratitude, and joy along the way.
This year also marked my 10-year cancer-versary. And if you’re in the midst of diagnosis, treatment, or life-altering change right now, I want you to know this: where I am today did not happen overnight. It was shaped slowly, through daily choices — nourishing my body, moving consistently, noticing joy in small moments, and living with intention and purpose. Healing isn’t linear, but it is possible.
This experience reflects the heart of why I do this work. My path into coaching grew from my own healing and curiosity about lifestyle medicine and nutrition. This year, I completed my training through Mayo Clinic and became certified by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching — studying while recovering, in between packing lunches and driving my daughter to lessons. I’m deeply passionate about supporting women through cancer survivorship and other health transitions — not just helping them put themselves back together, but helping them feel stronger, reconnect with purpose, and live with intention.
Reflecting on the Year
As we wrap up the year, it can be helpful to pause and notice what we’ve carried, what we’ve learned, and what we’ve let go of — whether intentionally or by circumstance. Reflection doesn’t have to be a heavy exercise; it can simply be noticing the small ways you’ve moved through challenges, celebrated small wins, and built practices that sustain you.
Ask yourself:
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What supported me this year?
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What am I ready to release?
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What do I want more of in the year ahead?
Maybe it’s letting go of obligations that drain you, setting clearer boundaries with work or relationships, or protecting your energy more intentionally. Maybe it’s continuing simple practices that helped — nourishing food, daily movement, pausing to breathe when stressed, softening your inner voice, or staying connected to friends and community. Often, these small, consistent choices make the biggest difference for our physical and emotional wellbeing, especially during recovery or life transitions.
Lessons to Carry Forward
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that progress is rarely dramatic. It is the daily choices we make — the ones that feel small at the time — that compound to create lasting change. Consistency, paired with self-compassion, is powerful. Gratitude and noticing moments of joy matter, even when life feels full or uncertain.
As you move into a new year, consider which practices, habits, or intentions you want to carry forward. Which of your choices and actions have helped you feel stronger, more grounded, or more alive? Which no longer serve you? Holding onto what supports you and letting go of what doesn’t is a gift you can give yourself.
Navigating the Holidays
The holidays can be a time of warmth and connection, but they can also be challenging — especially if you are grieving a loss, navigating illness, or feeling the weight of big life transitions. There’s no right way to move through this season. Some people find comfort in traditions and togetherness, while others need quiet, space, or fewer expectations. You are allowed to do what feels supportive — to say yes, to say no, to simplify, or to step back when needed. Meeting yourself with compassion and flexibility isn’t indulgent; it’s necessary care.
Looking Ahead
As 2026 approaches, my hope for you is that you carry forward the lessons, practices, and habits that truly support you. Small, consistent choices matter more than resolutions ever could. They build steadiness, resilience, and momentum for the year ahead.
If you’ve been through cancer, a major health challenge, or another life transition, I also hope you’ll lean on support, structure, and community. Next year, I’ll continue offering individual coaching and more opportunities for group sessions designed for cancer survivors — spaces to provide connection, guidance, and practical tools to help you thrive in body, mind, and spirit.
Thank you for being part of this community — for reflecting, growing, and showing up in your own human way. Wishing you steadiness, clarity, and hope as the new year begins.
