Join Now
Sign In
Tambre
(Complementary Care Expert
(Verified)
)
| Communities: Breast Cancer | Answers: 26 |
| Member Since: May. 2011 |
Ask Tambre a question:
0
Cc:
Twitter
Facebook
Professional Statement
I help cancer survivors and caregivers find the energy to move from surviving to thriving.
Professional Info
State Licenses: Nationally Certified Professional Coach (CPC)
Languages: English
Gender: Female
Professional memberships: International Coach Federation
Areas of expertise: Certified Professional Coach, Master of Communication Arts, Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner, Reflexologist, Massage Therapist,Reiki Master
Hospital or other affiliation: Premiere Oncology Foundation, Cancer Treatment Centers of America Care Partner Provider,Thrive/Survive Los Angeles,
Webpage:
www.wellbeyondordinary.com
Facebook
www.facebook.com/wellbeyondordinary
Twitter
www.twitter.com/wbordinary
Personal Bio (My story)
I write to remember and I dance to forget. Athletics and the creative arts have played a major role in healing from the loss of my husband to cancer.
Tambre Activities
First and foremost, it is important to communicate this challenge to your doctor. Also, you may want to connect peer to peer with a survivor who has shared a similar experience and share ideas on the challenge and solutions they may have found helpful. American Cancer Society (cancer.org), Imerman Angels (imermanangels.com) and other non-profits offer matching services.
When coaching my cancer survivor clients around low energy or fatigue, they often first track their energy levels for a week or two using a simple scaling process. The more information available about the low energy the better and it can help you communicate the picture to your doctor. If it is determined there is no medical cause for the low energy, there are three other areas I work with them that can significantly increase available energy levels.
One major area we work with in coaching is paying attention to the thoughts and actions that reduce your energy and the ones that increase it. When people are under stress, including stress from negative thoughts, it can impact the body. Working to reduce stress and training the client to have awareness around their thinking can make a big difference.
I worked with one survivor who was experiencing about a 2/10 of available energy daily to live her life and after three hours of coaching, she reported being at a 7/10. She created this shift primarily by learning to consciously choose her actions, interactions and the thoughts that better supported her goals of re-engaging fully in life.
When coaching my cancer survivor clients around low energy or fatigue, they often first track their energy levels for a week or two using a simple scaling process. The more information available about the low energy the better and it can help you communicate the picture to your doctor. If it is determined there is no medical cause for the low energy, there are three other areas I work with them that can significantly increase available energy levels.
One major area we work with in coaching is paying attention to the thoughts and actions that reduce your energy and the ones that increase it. When people are under stress, including stress from negative thoughts, it can impact the body. Working to reduce stress and training the client to have awareness around their thinking can make a big difference.
I worked with one survivor who was experiencing about a 2/10 of available energy daily to live her life and after three hours of coaching, she reported being at a 7/10. She created this shift primarily by learning to consciously choose her actions, interactions and the thoughts that better supported her goals of re-engaging fully in life.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified))
2
Answers |
10 months ago
When possible, prior to treatment ending, patients should inquire as to what process their treatment center has for putting together a survivorship plan. Centers certified by the Commission on Cancer (www.facs.org/cancer/coc/cocar.html) are required to provide a plan to patients for transitioning post-treatment.
Some of these plans are, in my opinion, limited in that they sometimes only list future schedule of screenings/checkups or if they include wellness/lifestyle behavior changes it comes in the form of information but without strategies for implementation.
Cancer impacts almost every area of life. As a cancer survivorship coach, I help people take a clear inventory of what has changed and, where needed, generate a plan to manage that change. It is important for survivors to do understand that their priorities and even their core values can undergo shifts as a result of the experience. This can be confusing or overwhelming. Getting support to work through these issues as part of moving out of treatment and into the next phase of healing is very important. Practicing self-care, self-compassion and getting support to be empowered, make choices in alignment with new priorities and reduce stress of the change/transition are some ways survivors can begin to navigate what's next post-treatment.
Some of these plans are, in my opinion, limited in that they sometimes only list future schedule of screenings/checkups or if they include wellness/lifestyle behavior changes it comes in the form of information but without strategies for implementation.
Cancer impacts almost every area of life. As a cancer survivorship coach, I help people take a clear inventory of what has changed and, where needed, generate a plan to manage that change. It is important for survivors to do understand that their priorities and even their core values can undergo shifts as a result of the experience. This can be confusing or overwhelming. Getting support to work through these issues as part of moving out of treatment and into the next phase of healing is very important. Practicing self-care, self-compassion and getting support to be empowered, make choices in alignment with new priorities and reduce stress of the change/transition are some ways survivors can begin to navigate what's next post-treatment.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified))
2
Answers |
1 year ago
One of the most common challenges my clients face after diagnosis is feeling overwhelmed. This is often amplified by a sense of the clock ticking with regard to choosing a treatment center and/or treatment options. Becoming educated quickly can feel like trying to jump onto a speeding train. Often the solution my clients create for themselves is to put together a support team to share in things that need addressing immediately. Doing so also gives your community a chance to be in action during a time when they are often filled with great concern for the patient and want to make a difference.
While there is a limit to what we can or even want to learn via the internet, some research is often essential...even if it is just a list of questions to ask your doctor. Being prepared with just that alone can reduce stress and help acquire important information. Though coaching is not about advising, I do see that when patients build a web of support and allow others to contribute, it can not only help with their journey but also the journey of their loved ones since cancer is not a one person illness due to the ripple effect impact its diagnosis has on a community.
While there is a limit to what we can or even want to learn via the internet, some research is often essential...even if it is just a list of questions to ask your doctor. Being prepared with just that alone can reduce stress and help acquire important information. Though coaching is not about advising, I do see that when patients build a web of support and allow others to contribute, it can not only help with their journey but also the journey of their loved ones since cancer is not a one person illness due to the ripple effect impact its diagnosis has on a community.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified))
3
Answers |
1 year ago
I love the opportunities jensinger posted about...giving yourself permission to ask for help, modeling to your children that it takes a village and the support net is there and that allowing others to participate in the healing journey gives them a chance to make a difference. I often help my cancer survivorship clients work through natural feelings of guilt by identifying the qualities/meaning of the time spent with their children versus the actual activity.
So if, for awhile, treatment makes it impossible to attend their sports, do physical activities like riding bikes, etc. look to what do those experiences represent to you...fun, connection, a way to let them know you care and they are a priority? Once you identify the feeling you want to generate, get creative and see what activities you CAN do together that give you a similar feeling.
Also, being age-appropriate honest with them on days when you are challenged. One client helped her children by creating a scaling game where they could ask how much energy on a one to ten scale she had that day to _______ (walk, watch a movie, have friends over, help with school, etc.) This helped them adjust their expectations to be in alignment with what she could do and she also found often when she put her focus on whatever they were asking to do, the idea of participating with them gave her energy and she could show up more and do more with them without being drained. It also reduced feelings of guilt on days where she needed to rest as everyone had awareness that it was her energy level, not an unwillingness to join them, that had her sidelined for that moment.
So if, for awhile, treatment makes it impossible to attend their sports, do physical activities like riding bikes, etc. look to what do those experiences represent to you...fun, connection, a way to let them know you care and they are a priority? Once you identify the feeling you want to generate, get creative and see what activities you CAN do together that give you a similar feeling.
Also, being age-appropriate honest with them on days when you are challenged. One client helped her children by creating a scaling game where they could ask how much energy on a one to ten scale she had that day to _______ (walk, watch a movie, have friends over, help with school, etc.) This helped them adjust their expectations to be in alignment with what she could do and she also found often when she put her focus on whatever they were asking to do, the idea of participating with them gave her energy and she could show up more and do more with them without being drained. It also reduced feelings of guilt on days where she needed to rest as everyone had awareness that it was her energy level, not an unwillingness to join them, that had her sidelined for that moment.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified))
2
Answers |
1 year ago
Tambre
I am outraged at an article posted on CNN.com about recent recommendations that women go three years between pap smears due to risks involved...http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/14/health/brawley-cervical-cancer-screenings/index.html?hpt=hp_t3 Yet, according to the article more than 4,000 women who died of cervical cancer last year had not had pap smears or had gone ten years or more between screenings. Experts? Would love your feedback on this. I, personally, will continue my annual exams...in this fast changing world of politics and medical care this is still my choice, right? Right?!
1 year ago
|
Tambre
An incredible story of recovery and discovery in my blog interview today with survivor, Dr. Corinna Murray.http://coachingbytambre.com/cancer-survivorship/beauty-beyond/
1 year ago
|
2 Replies
Tambre
I've gathered a dozen experts from a wide range of modalities to create the i-Thrive! in Survivorship Telesummit for survivors & caregivers. Register free at www.tiny.cc/ithrivetelesummit and get short, 20 minute interviews emailed to you starting Nov. 28th. Tips on journaling, breathwork, relationships/dating, intimacy, skin care and more you can start using immediately to gain more energy and thrive.
1 year ago
|
What a clear and comprehensive summary. I love it. This is a very unique and important aspect of coaching in the cancer community and so valuable especially during that moment where everything changes. And there are different times and different ways coaching can be utilized so I'd like to expand the conversation by sharing where I do my work with my clients...and would love to hear about other niches/aspects from more coaches as well to give people a menu, if you will, of what's possible.
Personally, my work as a coach to cancer survivors focuses more on the emotional life post treatment creating a bridge into the "new normal" - which we know is anything but normal. Most clients coming to me didn't have the benefit of working with someone like Elyn during diagnosis/treatment and beyond as she supports them into survivorship.
During treatment patients have a medical plan that is put in place. It is human nature to do and feel better when we have a plan, though being flexible, experimenting and allowing it to evolve as we proceed is highly beneficial. Post treatment it is often the case that the what now remains a big and sometimes scary question. When coaching is focused in this segment of the cancer continuum it is where I help my clients move from surviving to thriving, facing fears, questions, concerns and making choices that align with what can sometimes be a big shift in core values and priorities in all aspects of living.
The goals are something generated by the client as coaching is a client-centered model and I personally use assessment tools such as my i-Thrive! Whole Life Assessment tool and my i-Thrive! Factor Assessment to help the client see where they are just surviving and what's keeping them stuck there...often fear, overwhelm and low physical energy. Using core value work, we then come up with a plan, break it into steps, set up accountability and get into action. When a client hits a roadblock, we look at what got in the way...all along educating about how they can have choice in how they respond to challenges in their life in a way that empowers them.
It is awesome and profound work and it is wonderful that people can use coaching at different times in different ways to be supported in their healing journey. Love the work Elyn and other coaches are bringing to this community. It is so inspiring!
Personally, my work as a coach to cancer survivors focuses more on the emotional life post treatment creating a bridge into the "new normal" - which we know is anything but normal. Most clients coming to me didn't have the benefit of working with someone like Elyn during diagnosis/treatment and beyond as she supports them into survivorship.
During treatment patients have a medical plan that is put in place. It is human nature to do and feel better when we have a plan, though being flexible, experimenting and allowing it to evolve as we proceed is highly beneficial. Post treatment it is often the case that the what now remains a big and sometimes scary question. When coaching is focused in this segment of the cancer continuum it is where I help my clients move from surviving to thriving, facing fears, questions, concerns and making choices that align with what can sometimes be a big shift in core values and priorities in all aspects of living.
The goals are something generated by the client as coaching is a client-centered model and I personally use assessment tools such as my i-Thrive! Whole Life Assessment tool and my i-Thrive! Factor Assessment to help the client see where they are just surviving and what's keeping them stuck there...often fear, overwhelm and low physical energy. Using core value work, we then come up with a plan, break it into steps, set up accountability and get into action. When a client hits a roadblock, we look at what got in the way...all along educating about how they can have choice in how they respond to challenges in their life in a way that empowers them.
It is awesome and profound work and it is wonderful that people can use coaching at different times in different ways to be supported in their healing journey. Love the work Elyn and other coaches are bringing to this community. It is so inspiring!
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) in topic(s) Cancer Coach, Coach, Coaching
2
Answers |
1 year ago
Tambre
Need some tips and tools for overcoming overwhelm, being able to make decisions more clearly and re-assess priorities as you or your loved one navigates the "new normal"? I have a free i-Thrive! Starter Kit you can download for free on my website at www.coachingbytambre.com with short videos that coach you on tools and techniques to help you including my easy to use 3 Step O-O process.
1 year ago
|
My getaway to let it all go at the end of the day is dancing. I cannot think about anything while on the dance floor. During the day, I use quick centering exercises - as simple as taking 30 seconds to connect with my breathe, or a minute to close my eyes and do a mini visualization.
Great list of tips building here!
Great list of tips building here!
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) in topic(s) Recovery, Depression, Rejuvenation, Anxiety
9
Answers |
1 year ago
Tambre
Who is on your board of directors...the team you build to support you as a caregiver or survivor? There is an empowering way to create this without feeling like you're giving up control. For more info check out "The Power of One+" athttp://wp.me/pDajr-v8
1 year ago
|
You don't have to choose to do it alone! Because of my late husband's work in film and his desire to keep making movies while going through treatment, he chose to only share about his illness on a need to know basis. This meant keeping a lot of secrets. The miscalculation I made that led to be the verge of complete burnout was making that mean I had to do everything myself.
The reality is there were many people outside the business I could have delegated some areas where we needed help to and received support from. I wasn't aware of the extensive services by organizations such as the American Cancer Society. Identify specific needs and ask for help...it becomes an opportunity for others to give and make a difference.
The reality is there were many people outside the business I could have delegated some areas where we needed help to and received support from. I wasn't aware of the extensive services by organizations such as the American Cancer Society. Identify specific needs and ask for help...it becomes an opportunity for others to give and make a difference.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) in topic(s) Caregiver Support, Support, Caregivers, Emotional Support, Tips
4
Answers |
1 year ago
What a great example of choosing to see the opportunity in life changing moments. Mine was losing my mother when I was a teen to prescription drug abuse. I learned early on life is precious, underscored by losing my husband to cancer. It was harder to decide to build a life I could love without him but I finally stepped up to the challenge. So wonderful you are writing again.
Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) replied to answer by jackiefox12 (Survivor (2 - 5 years))
4
Answers |
1 year ago
I love this...eyes did NOT glaze over and I, too, used the Artist's Way to get into journaling which helped and led to me taking ownership of my writing skills again. "A Fresh Chapter" says so much...as we truly are the authors of our lives...great work!
Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) replied to answer by afreshchapter (Survivor (1 year))
4
Answers |
1 year ago
What I hear from my clients and followers is that too often survivorship programs and events focus on highlighting and discussing the issues and fail to have a what's next in place ~ on the ground programs, resources and tools to address the issues. Most clients who come to coaching as a resource do so because they are overwhelmed, experiencing stress with managing a long list of changes and without support to generate a plan. They are already clear on their issues ~ they are looking for possible solutions or ways to work with, through or around the issues (as in a work around, not avoidance). Once they identify their goals and design the steps, survivorship becomes more manageable.
Because of the wide range of side effects and life changes generated, I feel survivors need access to a wide range of modalities so they can experiment and find what works for them ~ acupuncture, visualization tools, yoga, support groups, workshops, art therapy, journaling, reflexology, Reiki. Not everything is a fit for everyone - so survivorship programs that can offer a menu of integrative approaches to help with physical, emotional and spiritual (for those who want this) healing are the kind of programs I'm advocating for.
Because of the wide range of side effects and life changes generated, I feel survivors need access to a wide range of modalities so they can experiment and find what works for them ~ acupuncture, visualization tools, yoga, support groups, workshops, art therapy, journaling, reflexology, Reiki. Not everything is a fit for everyone - so survivorship programs that can offer a menu of integrative approaches to help with physical, emotional and spiritual (for those who want this) healing are the kind of programs I'm advocating for.
New answer by Tambre (Complementary Care Expert (Verified)) in topic(s) Survivorship, Post Treatment, Support, Survivorship Program, Emotional Support
6
Answers |
1 year ago
For the longest time after losing my husband to cancer, I had no dreams. I had no life purpose. All the goals and visions we'd had for remodeling our home, starting a family and continuing our work together in film were gone. I felt powerless and, frankly, on some days quite sorry for myself.
Then one day, it hit me...hard. I had been time that Gary had not. I had to ask myself the hard question ~ "would he have stayed stuck in grief or done something valuable and meaningful with an extra day, month or year?" No. He would not. I then asked myself what was the one thing that meant something to me. It was making a positive difference for others. I decided to share my experience and everything I learned as Gary's caregiver along with the insights I witnessed him gain and decided to become a certified professional coach. That is how I discovered my dream of helping others...and I feel very blessed to see it unfolding now in a way that helps so many others.
Then one day, it hit me...hard. I had been time that Gary had not. I had to ask myself the hard question ~ "would he have stayed stuck in grief or done something valuable and meaningful with an extra day, month or year?" No. He would not. I then asked myself what was the one thing that meant something to me. It was making a positive difference for others. I decided to share my experience and everything I learned as Gary's caregiver along with the insights I witnessed him gain and decided to become a certified professional coach. That is how I discovered my dream of helping others...and I feel very blessed to see it unfolding now in a way that helps so many others.
4
Answers |
1 year ago
Tambre's Profile
Newsletters
Sign up for email updates of the latest news, best answers, and featured experts.
Benefits
Custom health, wellness, & medical offers including clinical trials, market research opportunities, & new programs.
Share TalkAboutHealth
To share TalkAboutHealth with friends, type their email addresses here (separated by commas):
From:
Add a personal note here:
Please join TalkAboutHealth and you will be able to ask questions.
Your question to Tambre:
2) Background Info (optional): What context or background information is relevant to this request?
Notes:
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
Newsletters
10 to Thrive: a comprehensive, easy-to-read guide to life after cancer for young adults is a unique combination of useful information, tips, tools & resources in areas of a YA survivor’s life, such as career, finance and dating. Contributors include experts, leaders and organizations in the cancer community.