My Purpose is in the Journey
In December 2017, Jolanda K. Harris was diagnosed with stage IIIA breast cancer. Her cancer journey changed her mindset – JoLanda believes, “No one can go through this and come out the same.”
After completing chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, radiation, reconstruction, and maintenance chemotherapy, JoLanda found out she was the first of her Oncologists’ patients to have the traits and characteristics necessary to take a relatively new oral chemotherapy drug. The side effects would be aggressive. Being the first to try a new drug was daunting. If JoLanda did not take this drug, how would her oncologist know if it would help others? She was willing to take that leap of faith.
Side effects from the chemotherapy forced JoLanda to take early retirement. Still, her positivity and resilience in redesigning her life and career started her on a new journey. In order to enlighten and strengthen others, JoLanda became the first certified cancer coach in the state of Alabama. Born with a strong sense of purpose, positivity, and passion for leading, JoLanda founded LivOn, Inc., a cancer and major illness coaching practice. Her mission is to engage and inform and empower others about the cancer journey and how to live during and after cancer.
JoLanda is a graduate of Alabama A&M University and is actively involved in her church and the community. She has more than 15-years of experience leading women entrepreneurs in building sustainable client relationships and served nearly 30-years as an auditor with the Federal Government.
Staying present with others affected by cancer is now a part of her life. JoLanda is an Ambassador of Hope volunteer at Clearview Cancer Institute. She has spoken to various cancer support groups and introduced “cancer coaching” to the Oncology Nurses of North Alabama.
JoLanda is a bestselling author in the anthology, Soul Talk, Volume 3, a compilation of soul-stirring stories of people who let go and let God. She lives in Huntsville, Alabama, with her loving husband, Andre.
