‘Team Elaine’: How Health Coaching Helped One UWG Staff Member Navigate Cancer Share this page
When Elaine Heath-Ward was diagnosed with cancer, she found herself facing not only a daunting medical battle but also the challenge of maintaining her overall well-being. That’s when she turned to the University of West Georgia’s health and wellness coaching program – expecting guidance but finding something even more profound: a steadfast supporter in Delilah Landrum, a College of Education (COE) graduate student.
Long after the program officially ended, Heath-Ward and Landrum’s partnership continues to illustrate the powerful impact of compassionate coaching, not just on a patient’s journey but on a future health professional’s growth.
A routine colonoscopy scheduled months ahead of time in recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month last March proved invaluable for Heath-Ward, academic advisor in UWG’s University College.
“I was feeling optimistic,” Heath-Ward recalled. “However, after the procedure, my doctor said a mass was found – most likely cancer. I was speechless, yet calm. Then I blurted out, ‘It is well with my soul.’”
Within days, Heath-Ward rallied a care team of medical professionals to aid in her fight.
She also had the support of her new health and wellness coach, Landrum.
“I told myself to be truthful and authentic while gaining knowledge of self-care,” Heath-Ward said. “My experience far exceeded my expectations. I was paired with a knowledgeable and caring individual who listened to me. She was there for me – not just a grade.”
Landrum, then enrolled in COE’s Master of Science in Integrative Health and Wellness program, was in her element when UWG’s Center for Integrative Wellness implemented the coaching service in Spring 2024. Using a client-centered holistic approach to guide participants, graduate student coach trainees help individuals create sustainable behavior changes, while encouraging them to enhance their motivation and access resources to achieve a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
“As I was searching for a university to continue my postgraduate studies, I was excited by UWG's coursework that combined integrative and preventative health with lifestyle medicine and coaching. Also, greatly impressed with its commitment to health and wellness,” Landrum said, a nod to the university being recently named Campus of the Year by the Institute for Well-being and boasting one of only five higher education institutions the nation that employs a chief wellness officer. “With Elaine, I wanted to ensure she was comfortable in sharing what was most important to her – her needs, values and goals.”
The duo had only been working together a short time when Heath-Ward got the unexpected news.
“When I delivered the news to Delilah that I was diagnosed with colon cancer, she was very supportive,” Heath-Ward shared. “I told her I was happy I said ‘yes’ to this health mentoring program. Neither of us expected this, but it’s life.”
And although the pair had already started implementing goals, Landrum was inspired by Heath-Ward's ability to keep her self-care at the forefront, no matter what she was going through.
“Seeing her continue to work on wellness goals through the diagnosis and chemotherapy all while continuing to advocate for herself and be an active participant in her care was inspiring,” Landrum shared.
Heath-Ward added that because Landrum held her accountable in completing her weekly goals without judgement, she learned how to hold herself accountable.
“Delilah was my accountability partner in staying on track,” she explained. “I got a new attitude with motivation. Our sessions made me appreciative of the advice, guidance and encouragement to the betterment of my overall self – mind, body and soul. I enjoyed discovering me!”
Through working with Heath-Ward, Landrum also learned valuable lessons that shaped her perspective on coaching.
“The power of mindset can’t be understated in terms of its effect on our entire body – physically and emotionally,” she said. “The connection we have with the mind and body is very evident with Elaine because she never let the diagnosis bring her into a negative state – she simply continued with confidence.”
When it came time for Landrum to graduate, Heath-Ward prepared to continue her journey using the tools Landrum provided for her. But Landrum had another idea.
“As her condition evolved, Elaine was taking on a whole new experience that came with changes that required her to adjust her entire life,” Landrum said. “I realized I wanted to continue coaching her, even after the program officially ended.”
Heath-Ward was grateful for the transition time.
“I was overwhelmed with joyous tears that Delilah offered to continue,” Heath-Ward expressed. “She was a constant person throughout my unexpected wellness journey. From all my doctors to my family, friends and coworkers, including Delilah, I am forever grateful for ‘Team Elaine.’”
The coaching relationship between the two continues to be strong, even as they surpass the 1-year mark of working together. Landrum, now a national board-certified health and wellness coach and founder of Strive Health Coaching, credits Heath-Ward for broadening her approach to coaching.
“Her strength and grace during this time have reminded me of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of gratitude for life,” Landrum shared.
UWG’s Chief Wellness Officer Bridgette Stewart said this partnership exemplifies how the university cultivates connections that go beyond the classroom.
“The real impact of the program is its ability to foster partnerships that extend beyond the academic setting and into the real lives of others,” she concluded. “Delilah and Elaine’s story is a perfect illustration of the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching’s definition of health coaching: a collaborative, client-centered process that supports the creation of personal goals and fosters resilience. Their journey is a beautiful portrait of human connection that continues to evolve into a lasting relationship – one that has empowered Elaine to continue to thrive in her health journey.”