Get to know our local health and wellness professionals in the Twin Cities. We asked local holistic health coach Katherine Knoploh to share a little about her business and what she loves about practicing in the Twin Cities.
Tell us about your business. What do you do?
I am an inspirational speaker and a holistic health coach specializing in supporting those affected by cancer. I do this through speaking engagements, individual coaching and health liaison services.
I speak to groups about facing the fear of cancer recurrence, and ways in which cancer patient’s can be supported. During my three and six month individual coaching programs the patient receives emotional support, education and resources relevant to their situation.
For example, strategies to manage treatment side effects like nausea and fatigue, and how to incorporate stress management techniques.
Coaching sessions can be in person or virtually. As a health liaison I assist the patient in advocating for their health by creating questions prior to appointments, attending as an active listener/note taker at appointments, and following up with a written summary in easy to understand language.
Since 2000 I have worked in collaboration with doctors, nurses and speech/occupational therapists in the areas of pediatric and adult. I can help you make the most of your limited time with providers. This service is available in person in the Twin Cities and virtually as available.
What drew you to this work?
In 2015 I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and during my healing I became friends with someone who was stage 4 when we met. That friendship showed me that I could make a difference to others experiencing cancer.
I supported her emotionally, helped with questions to ask her doctor and provided practical solutions for managing side effects.
At the same time, I studied with The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and embraced the holistic approach to health – taking into consideration that all areas of our lives impact our well being, including our work, relationships, nutrition, physical health and spirituality. Particularly during times of crisis, these areas become out of balance.
Making small changes and controlling what we can during a time of uncertainty may bring more calm to the situation, and my passion is to make the cancer experience less stressful for those impacted by the disease.
What do you love about your job?
I love helping people move from being stuck to finding a solution, be it emotional or practical. When you are in crisis sometimes emotions block you from seeing a practical solution.
One woman was in tears because her cancer affected her eye sight and she could no longer see the cards her son made her. I made arrangements to get her a lighted magnifying glass.
Another scenario may involve helping patients know what to say when confronted by strangers about their diagnosis. YES, it happens! (Bald heads draw attention.) I’m grateful to be able to be helpful to others.
What results can people see when they work with you? What’s possible?
When people work with me, or listen to one of my talks, they know that I can relate to what they are going through, and they feel relief that they are being truly seen and heard.
Individual clients can talk to me with complete vulnerability – no brave face that they may use with family and friends, knowing that I am their advocate. I am the confidant outside of the family dynamics and we have a sort of shorthand language known only to cancer patients. They also know that if I don’t have an answer to something, I will work to find one.
I incorporate stress management techniques into my client sessions and talk about laughter. Not only is it possible to have cancer and laugh, it’s healthy! After working with me, my clients are empowered to use tools they’ve learned to manage stress, fear and physical side effects.
What do you wish more people understood about what you do?
I wish people understood the value of being heard and seen by someone who has walked a similar path. Also, I can partner with people no matter where they are at in their cancer experience. Whether they are newly diagnosed, in treatment or post treatment, I join them in moving forward together. It has been my honor to be present with people in every stage, including the last months of life.
What’s fascinating you right now?
Cancer doesn’t stop for a pandemic, and in fact, the cancer experience parallels what many have experienced with COVID-19. There is fear, thoughts of mortality, concerns about the immune system, and isolation.
Some of us are touched by COVID/cancer through knowing someone affected, and some of us are punched by it personally. Going through cancer treatment during the pandemic is scarier and more challenging and my heart aches for those in active treatment. I have a YouTube channel in the works! Stay tuned!!
What does self care look like to you right now?
My favorite self care rituals are to wake before everyone else in the house and enjoy a cup of coffee while I journal, and then meditate. Bonus if I get exercise in before anyone wants my attention! Self care for me also involves purposefully doing things I want to do, and just recently I went on a zip line course. It was a tad scary and very exhilarating!
What do you love about living and working in the Twin Cities?
The Twin Cities take on a whole different meaning for me because I gave birth to twins, in the city of Minneapolis. 😉 After their premature birth, and later my cancer diagnosis, I have been thankful time and again that we have access to such great medical care in the Twin Cities. I love the convenience of the metro area, but love that I can drive a short distance and become immersed in the beauty of nature.
Favorite local restaurants?
Grabba Green The Howe Nachos Mexican Grill
Other favorite local businesses in the Twin Cities?
The Well Connected community, of course. Also my photographer.
What’s your favorite social media platform, and where can people connect with you on social media?