While the news rocked her, Kelle took the advice of her doctor and decided to maintain some normalcy, continuing with plans to visit Hawaii while arranging expert care. Her and her husband’s research led her to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, where she would receive a life-saving Whipple procedure, also known as pancreaticoduodenectomy.

As a health coach, Kelle had always been proactive about her wellness, but this didn’t shield her from the emotional turmoil of a cancer diagnosis. She was forced to step outside her independent nature and lean into the support of family and friends. Her role as a coach helped her learn how to take her own advice and ask for help when needed, something she hadn’t been used to doing.

Kelle also developed creative coping mechanisms to manage the challenges of bile duct cancer treatment, from meditating during chemotherapy to practicing yoga and journaling. Even as she navigated the side effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, including fatigue and neuropathy, she remained committed to staying mentally and emotionally grounded.

Her attitude of self-advocacy extended beyond the medical side. Kelle was transparent about her diagnosis with her kids, explaining the changes ahead without overwhelming them. She also found strength in sharing her experience on her podcast, Ambitious-ish, where she empowers high-achieving women who may also be experiencing burnout. Kelle credits the pressures of constant hustle in her life for contributing to her cancer diagnosis. Since then, she’s worked on slowing down, listening to her body, and cultivating rest.

Kelle’s perspective on survivorship is all about embracing the rollercoaster without succumbing to fear or dread. With guidance from mentors, self-reflection, and a strong support system, Kelle has learned to redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life despite her diagnosis. By sharing her story, she provides hope, not only to those dealing with bile duct cancer but also to anyone who feels lost or overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Her experience is a reminder that, even in the face of uncertainty, there’s always a way forward if you listen to your inner truth.

Watch Kelle’s full interview to find out more about her story and discover:

• How Kelle turned her bile duct cancer diagnosis into an opportunity for self-discovery and growth
• How she navigated the emotional and physical challenges of bile duct cancer and what she learned along the way
• Kelle’s advice on self-advocacy and building a supportive team of doctors when facing bile duct cancer
• How she uses meditation, coaching, and self-care to thrive through her treatment for bile duct cancer