DEBI JEANS
Shortly after completing treatment ten years ago, Debi conceived of The Pink Project as an informal vehicle through which to empower patients like herself and their caregivers after a breast cancer diagnosis. She has done this by identifying, supporting, and actioning various projects since then such as bringing South African breast cancer surgeon Prof Carol Benn to Harare to speak to both patients and the medical community, facilitating an international course in breast cancer physio and rehabilitation for a local practitioner and most recently, uplifting the Cancer Centre (home to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe) by appealing to donors and artists who have given the centre a complete facelift; inspiring all who work and visit there.
As an Exercise Physiologist and Cancer Exercise Specialist, Debi is happiest when working with clients individually and in group fitness classes as well as giving talks and workshops with husband Austin on the most recent advances in cancer prevention and treatment from the perspective of metabolic health including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Up-to-date, evidence-based research along with an understanding of the world of oncology, provides participants with options when making informed decisions along the breast cancer continuum.
One-on-one consultations with Debi or Austin offer the opportunity for more detailed and individual-specific guidance, coaching and management. Personal consultations also offer support, warmth, reflection, investigation, and collaboration in difficult, critical decision-making.
Following the shock of a diagnosis, a conundrum of what to do next can be overwhelming. The BCC is an ongoing, systematic record of events as they unfold, critical data, appointments and a constant “breast friend” inviting reflective time, inspiration, research references and journalling.
Research shows that exercise should be part of every cancer treatment plan with significantly positive effects on healing and well-being. However, important implications in the safety and design of exercise programming include establishing a solid foundation upon which patients are empowered to include daily activity, starting with medical, lifestyle, postural and movement screening progressing to functional fitness.
Findings from an individual consultation lead to allocation of patients into red, orange or green wrist band categories according to medical, postural, balance and movement screening. These bands are worn so the instructor can guide patients according to exercise complexity and intensity. A consult is required before patients progress to the next level for assessment of band fitness level criteria.
Austin and / or Debi deliver impactful, insightful, and integrative tailor-made sessions for any audience. Ideal for corporate wellness, team building or group well-being functions.
These may be held over one or several days and tailored to client’s needs. The 6 E’s for Empowerment over Cancer Formula is taught infused with gentle yoga, outdoor walking, guided meditation, eating and preparing anti-cancer nutrition, informal talks and many opportunities for sharing and new friendships.
As a passionate and effervescent speaker, Debi brings an authentic, touching, sometimes humorous and always deeply relevant personal touch to a life-changing situation. As an Olympian, patient, survivor, and most importantly, breast cancer “thrivor”, she imparts messages of hope, wisdom and take-home evidence-based tips which uplift and resonate with her audiences.
