What happens when breast cancer changes not only your body, but the way you see your relationships, your future, and what matters most? Katherine is joined by librarian, empowerment coach, and breast cancer survivor Kate Houston for an open conversation about sisterhood, receiving support, writing through experience, and making space for a life that feels true after diagnosis.

Together, they speak about Cancer: The Gift, a collaborative memoir created by women with breast cancer, and the healing that can come from sharing the parts of the story that are often held quietly.

Key takeaways:

• Why connection with other women who understand breast cancer can ease isolation and help you feel seen
• How learning to receive support can be one of the most vulnerable parts of a breast cancer diagnosis
• Why writing your story can create space for reflection, release, and a different perspective on what you have lived through
• How breast cancer can change relationships, priorities, boundaries, and the way you choose to live after treatment
• Why you do not have to have every answer straight away, and how to make room for your own sense of knowing when decisions arise

About Kate Houston:
Kate Houston has spent her life in a deep relationship with story. She is a lifelong librarian, a past Library Journal Mover and Shaker, and a former Newbery Award Committee member. She is also an Empowerment and Relationship Coach for women over 40, supporting high-achieving women to reconnect with themselves and create the love and life they truly want.

Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, Kate brings a lived understanding of the uncertainty, grief, change, and possibility that can follow diagnosis. Her experience deepened her commitment to connection, self-worth, and the belief that love and meaningful life remain possible after cancer.

Kate lives in the Pacific Northwest with her partner, Matt, and her dog, Bowie. Alongside her coaching work and continuing library career, she writes, dances, bikes, and helps lead writing spaces for women who want to tell their stories.

Links:
Free Resilient Remission Assessment: breastwise.co.nz/resilient-remission-assessment
Free 30-minute Clarity Call: breastwise.co.nz/clarity-call
Breast Wise Website: breastwise.co.nz
Breast Wise Instagram: @breastwisenz

Learn more about Cancer: The Gift, order the book, and join the writing-circle waitlist: cancerthegift.com

Disclaimer:
This podcast is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare team before making decisions about your care.