Breast Cancer Wellness

Transcription

Breast Cancer
Wellness
M A G A Z I N E
Empowering MIND • BODY • SPIRIT
SPECIAL TRIBUTE
25Years
Susan G Komen
for the Cure
The Power of Purpose
Hala Moddelmog: Her Story of
Service, Strength, and Survival
Is Nutrition
Nonsense?
Pay Attention to
Your Emotional
Needs
PRSRT STANDARD
US POSTAGE PAID
PERMIT 205
BOLINGBROOK, IL
FREE
Volume 2, Issue 3
Fall 2007
contents
Fall 2007
23
ON OUR COVER
Hala Moddelmog
CEO and President of
Susan G. Komen for the Cure,
6 year breast cancer survivor
26-27
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In the spring of 2007, Hala was
introduced to breast cancer
advocates in the Middle East,
including the countries of
Israel and Jordan. It was an
alarming experience for Hala
to learn that in some cultures
it is a standard and acceptable
practice that when a woman is
diagnosed with breast cancer,
her husband will automatically
take a second wife. This
shocking knowledge only
convinced Hala more that her
life was being drawn toward
worldwide empowerment and
leadership for women and for
breast cancer.
F E AT U R E S
POWER OF PURPOSE 7
Before i die, will i have made
a difference?
A TRIBUTE 23
Special tribute to the Susan g Komen
for the Cure for 25 years of making a
worldwide difference for breast cancer
HALA MODDELMOG 26
Her story of service, strength and
survival
WORDS FROM SUZY KOMEN’S
BEST FRIEND 28
SUSAN G KOMEN’S
HEART AND SOUL 29
PASSION WITH PURPOSE
IS A VERY POWERFUL
COMBINATION 30
ITS OUR JOB TO MAKE SURE THEY
KNOW HELP IS AVAILABLE 31
AT AGE 25, SHOCK, PAIN, AND
FEAR CAME WITH DIAGNOSIS 32
TRIBUTES 33-35
Honoring 25 years of commitment
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D E PA RT M E N TS
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR
EMOTIONAL NEEDS 10
Christine Horner, MD explains the
importance of processing your emotions
effectively to improve how your mind
and body react to stressful situations.
IS NUTRITION NONSENSE? 14
GIRL TALK FOR SURVIVORS 16
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING CAN
CERTAINLY BE BAD! 20
Dr Holly Lucille outlines six ways to help
restore hormonal function to your body
FALLING INTO A ROUTINE 39
Ann Leach provides 5 important ways to
empower the caregiver
GIVE BACK BEFORE YOU GIVE UP 40
AMOENA FOR ME 42
NEW ASSISTANT EDITOR AT BCW 43
Meet Donna St Jean Conti
SURVIVING & THRIVING 44
A CALL TO SELF 53
PINK PAGES 68
www.breastcancerwellness.org
3
publisher’s letter
Dear Friends,
Please welcome Donna St Jean Conti – the Assistant Editor for the
Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine. Donna is a seven-year breast cancer survivor.
Her fight led her to meet extraordinary people and to have amazing experiences
that she knew had to be published as inspirational stories. Now, Donna stands
ready to write your inspirational stories, ones that make hearts soar as they illustrate the resilience of the human spirit in the face of great challenges. Three
stories will appear in each issue.
In addition, please welcome Heather Jose – as a new contributing writer for the magazine. Heather was featured in the 2007 summer issue, and is a
power-filled reminder that each day we must try our best to meet the challenges
of the healing journey. Heather is an amazing woman and an amazing survivor.
She was diagnosed with a death sentence of less than six months to live, and
that was eight years ago. Heather’s column will help tackle the delicate issues of
young women facing the challenges of breast cancer.
The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine pays Tribute to Nancy Brinker, Hala Moddelmog, leaders, executive directors, associates, staff members,
and thousands of volunteers and leaders of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure
organization that help drive The Promise made between two sisters into a reality
someday soon. Please continue to hold them and all breast cancer warriors and
all breast cancer foundations in your prayers so that the vision can remain clear
for our world to be one without breast cancer.
Mark your calendars for Wellness Wednesdays at 12:00 noon CST
for the new internet radio show, “Inspire!”, hosted by Carolyn Gross. Our website,
www.breastcancerwellness.org has the direct link to connect with these weekly
informative and uplifting messages from breast cancer survivors and leading
experts in the field of holistic health.
Come sail with us on the 2nd annual Breast Cancer Survivors
Cruise April 24-28, 2008. It is time that we meet and discuss the issues
close to your heart, and it is another special time for us to laugh, to cry, and to
celebrate the moments in our lives. Many survivors that have already signed up
are taking advantage of the best discounts and the best availabilities. Thank you
Amoena for sponsoring the second annual Breast Cancer Survivors cruise! We
look forward to this great time together.
Join us on
the internet
radio show for
breast cancer
survivors!
Inspire!
Airs on Wellness Wednesdays
at 12:00 noon CST. To tune in:
Effective this summer, the Breast Cancer Wellness organization is now
qualified as a 501c3 as a charity nonprofit organization under the name of ONE
Health Institute. Our mission continues to educate and empower women and
men for their breast cancer wellness journeys.
My prayer and invitation is for each of us to experience healing and wellness to
the fullest.
Wellness Blessings,
Beverly Vote, Publisher/Editor
5
FALL 2007
Volume 2, Issue 3
Show Mey
the Wa Out
Mary Ann thought she had everything going her way
Until breast cancer was to change her every day.
In anguish, Mary Ann cries out, her pleas full of doubt.
She was in a dark hole with no light to show her way out.
She thought she had hope when a doctor walked by.
Why didn’t he understand her tear filled cry?
He wrote her a prescription and went on his scheduled way.
But her hopes and her direction were still in dark dismay.
Again, Mary Ann cries out, her pleas full of doubt.
This time a priest nearby heard her shout.
He walked to the hole Mary Ann was in.
I hear your cries, I will pray for your sin.
Bless you my child, he had to say,
And gave three Hail Marys to anoint her way.
Once again, Mary Ann cries out, her pleas full of doubt.
Quietly a stranger responds,
I know your fears inside and out.
I know the secrets hidden within.
I know too well this hole that you are in.
The stranger jumped without hesitation
Into the hole filled with so much tribulation.
Bewildered, Mary Ann cries out, her pleas full of doubt.
What have you done, why are you here?
I appreciate your grace,
But now we are both in this dark, dark place.
Shhhsssh, says the stranger to Mary Ann.
I hear your cries, your pleas full of doubt.
I have been here myself, as a survivor showed me,
I will show you the way out.
–Beverly Vote, 15 year breast cancer survivor
“Show Me the Way Out” is the mission statement
of the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine.
6
Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine
PUBLISHER
Bevery Vote
[email protected]
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Donna St. Jean Conti
[email protected]
______________
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Bonnie Phelps
[email protected]
SALES ASSOCIATE
Kaye Crippen
[email protected]
SALES ASSOCIATE
Holly Hendrick
[email protected]
______________
ART DIRECTOR
Stacie L. Hill
[email protected]
The Breast Cancer Wellness
Magazine
P.O. Box 2040
Lebanon, MO 65536
417.532.9763
Fax 417.532.9783
breastcancerwellness.org
T h e r e i s p u r pos e a n d pow e r i n e v e r y th i n g
by Beverly Vote
Along with the diagnosis of breast cancer comes
fear, unfamiliar medical terms, a new way of trying to
manage even the simplest of tasks, and more decisions
than most of us are prepared to handle at one time. But
the diagnosis also brings these questions:
Do my loved ones truly know that I love them?
How will I live the rest of my life?
Before I die, will I have made a difference?
And we want to know what is our life purpose.
Published quarterly for Breast Cancer Wellness. Reader
discretion is advised. Publisher of The Breast Cancer
Wellness Magazine does not endorse or promote any
product or service of advertisers of this publication nor
does it verify the accuracy of any claims made in the advertisements or articles. This magazine is not intended
to replace the care and advice of expert medical professionals. All rights reserved. Reproductions of any information appearing in this publication in whole or in part
cannot be made without the express written permission
of the publisher.
Many have defined the diagnosis of breast cancer as a
life-changing experience, yet at the time of diagnosis most
of us do not know what it is we are to be changing into
or where the road will lead us. It is the not-knowing that
often times is perplexing and uncomfortable. However:
Did Nancy Brinker, Founder of the Susan G. Komen
for the Cure, know that when she made The Promise
to her beloved sister she would create an unstoppable
momentum through worldwide patient, volunteer,
political, and medical advocacies? Did Nancy know that
her passion and commitment to this heartfelt purpose
would not only change the world, but also herself and
millions of others in the process?
Did Hala Moddelmog, CEO and President of Susan
G. Komen for the Cure, know that when she was
diagnosed with breast cancer that in a few short years
she would be leading the world’s largest grassroots
movement for breast cancer? Did she know that she
would reflect upon her current life and make new
choices based on something deep within her that was
steering her in a new way and with a new understanding
of her strengths? Did she know that her strengths would
help other women to recognize their strengths as well?
Did any of us know that our lives would be changed
to a different perspective and with a new purpose from
a diagnosis of breast cancer and that we would learn so
rapidly to start living our life in a way that matters most
to us? I have met hundreds of women that consciously
chose to change their lives and how they serve u
7
Christine Clifford Beckwith, CSP
Don’t forget to laugh! ™
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1994, Christine
Clifford Beckwith wrote five humorous portrayals
of her story in her books entitled, Not Now…I’m
having a No Hair Day; Our Family Has Cancer, Too!
and Cancer Has Its Privileges: Stories of Hope &
Laughter. She is CeO/President of The Cancer Club,
today the world’s largest producer of humorous
and helpful products for people with cancer,
which offers a free monthly enewsletter, Prayer
List and more. www.cancerclub.com. Let Christine
touch your heart on page 40.
Kim Dalzell, Ph.D, R.D., L.D.
Nature’s Answers to Cancer
As a respected holistic health professional, Kim
developed a nutrition course for the first u.S.
government-funded complementary medical
residency program in illinois. She was selected
as a medical advisor for Lifetime Television
Walgreen’s Health Corner TV show, served as
spokesperson for Cancer Treatment Centers of
America, and was invited to colloborate with
Dr John LaPuma (ChefMD) and Dr Andrew Weil.
www.challengecancer.com. Dr Dalzell’s answers
your questions on page 14.
Christine Horner, MD
Christine Horner, MD is a board certified and
nationally recognized surgeon, author, expert
in natural medicine, professional speaker and
a relentless champion for women’s health. She
spearheaded legislation in the 1990s that made
it mandatory that insurance companies pay for
breast reconstruction following mastectomy. She
is the author of Waking the Warrior Goddess: Dr
Christine Horner’s Program to Protect Against and
Fight Breast Cancer, winner of the independent
Book Publishers Award 2006 for “Best Book in
Health, Medicine, and nutrition.” For more information go to www.
drchristinehorner.com read Dr Horner’s empowering message for
breast cancer survivors on page 10.
Ann Leach
Caring for the Caregiver
Ann has been coaching caregivers to avoid burnout and practice self-care since 1988 when she
founded the Cancer Support network in illinois
after serving as her mother’s caregiver through
her mother’s final stages of cancer. now a Missouri
girl, Ann continues coaching clients and speaking
around the country and writing. Ann is a board
member of the Missouri Association of Publications. . She enjoys the area’s many lakes and is
expressing her creativity by designing beaded
necklaces with a water theme. Her website here. See her column on
page 39.
Laurie Seligman, M.A.
Wellness Educator for the project “Three Women on
Their Healing Journeys”
Laurie is a Motivational Speaker, Wellness educator, and is trained in the fields of energy Medicine,
Mind Body research, Acoustic Therapy and Brain
Waive entrainment with The Monroe institute.
She created Conscious Fitness, a layered program
of daily mental, emotional, spiritual and physical
fitness. She holds a Masters in Spiritual Psychology from the university of Santa Monica. A partial
list of clients include Cedar’s Sinai Medical Center,
Kaiser Permanente, Mission Hospital, Motion Picture Television Wellness
Center, upland Hospital, Antelope Valley Hospital, Medical Speakers
network, Wellness Community, and Cordelia Knott Center. Her upcoming book, “Whispers from the Heart” is now available through iuniverse
and she is currently completing “The Missing Link to Transforming your
life: The Worthiness Factor”, scheduled for release in 2008. Laurie lives in
Los Angeles with her Jack russell Terrier, Zoe, and one brave bamboo
plant. www.transformationconsultinginc.com. read about the upcoming project on page 53.
8
Heather Jose
column is on page 16.
Diagnosed with stage iV breast cancer at 26,
Heather Jose chose to fight the cancer head on
by putting together a plan to battle cancer on a
daily basis. eight years later, Heather is healthy
and using her experiences to speak to healthcare
providers and patients about how much their
actions and words can impact success. Heather
is the author of “Letters to Sydney: Every Day I am
Killing Cancer”. Her husband Larry is a high school
coach and they have two children, Sydney and
Ty. www.heatherjose.com. Heather’s heartfelt
Holly Lucille, ND, RN
Heatlthy Hormones
Dr. Lucille is a licensed naturopathic Physician
who lectures throughout the nation and has
been featured on Lifetime Television for Women
and the Discovery Health Channel. She has been
a guest on a number of radio show speaking on
naturopathic medicine. She is the author of Creating and Maintaining Balance: A Women’s guide to
Safe, natural, Hormone Health. (iMPAKT Health,
2004) and recently joined forces with Jon Benson,
the author of Fit Over Forty to develop “naturopause” an informational audio program focusing on nutrition and
exercise to optimize normal hormonal transitions including menopause
and andropause. Dr. Lucille has been promoted as an expert in her field
and has a heartfelt passion for the individual wellness of all people
and wholeheartedly believes in the mystery and magic of the healing
process. Page 20.
Donna St. Jean Conti
Assistant Editor, Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine
Donna is a seven-year breast cancer survivor
who was diagnosed at 34. She found that writing
about her cancer-related experiences helped,
and she even found joy in the uplifting experiences that came through amazing, real-life and
serendipitous encounters. Donna is now an
award-winning professional writer and marketing communications practitioner who specializes
in public relations. She is president of St. Conti
Communications in Mission Viejo, Calif. (www.
stconticommunications.com) and also operates a blog, The St. Conti
Communicator. Donna provides compelling breast cancer survival stories each issue. read them on pages 44-49.
{continued from p. 7}
others after a diagnosis of breast cancer. Many have
changed relationships, careers, and lifestyles. Many
breast cancer survivors have become mastectomy
fitters, nurses, caregivers, volunteers, authors, speakers,
designers of pink ribbon products, fundraisers, leaders,
philanthropists, musicians, therapists, movie producers,
talk show hosts and made changes to what they were
most passionate about. Most survivors have set out to
live their remaining days with the purpose of making
the most of life, and many are choosing to live their
life anew by applying the Golden Rule more often.
A few suggestions for exerting more power into your purposes for healing, for
sharing, for living, and for making a difference, for others as well as yourself, are:
reflect upon what the breasts symbolize to you. Do breasts represent the heart center of your
feminine being, an expression of what is nourishing, joyous, beautiful, creative, soft, compassionate,
and loving? if so, express more of these attributes into your experiences. The purpose of this is is to aid
in the grieving process, whether you lost a breast, a part of a breast, or if you lost an image you once
had of yourself.
if breasts are symbolic of love to you, both expressing and receiving love, from heart to heart,
exchange more heart to heart expressions with others, not only loved ones, as well as casual
acquaintances and strangers. This serves to heal the whole-being.
Start hobbies or engage in activities that make you feel alive and passionate. everything formed from
a place of passion or from a place within your heart of caring are the most enjoyable and beautiful
creations. Creativity helps everyone to feel more alive.
Do for another that you wished had been done for you in your healing experience. if you wished you
had been sent flowers, send flowers to a newly diagnosed breast cancer patient with a note that you
are available to help if they would like. if you wished someone would have helped drive you to your
treatments, make yourself available for a patient on a regular basis for this. The time spent driving back
and forth to treatments will bring joy and healing to both of you. if your medical center was cold and
uninviting, ask if you can provide flowers and plants or artwork for it. Perhaps it needs your care and
compassion as a volunteer at its center. (When i was diagnosed with breast cancer, i had no role model
for healing, or how to achieve wellness, thus i started this free publication with survival stories in hopes
that others would never feel alone or feel the fear that i felt 15 years ago.) if you feel that your needs
were not being met, learn to become a good listener. if you feel you lost your beauty because of breast
cancer, help another rediscover her authentic beauty - help her feel and express beauty as often as
possible whether it is her physical beauty, inner beauty, her garden, her home, or her surroundings.
Create a personal mission statement that reflects your core beliefs and values and how you wish to live
your life.
When asked, let people know what you stand for.
remind others how they have made a difference in your life and thank them.
give yourself permission to explore your talents and gifts and enjoy them for yourself as well as share
these newly found gifts with others. Don’t wait until the gifts are developed, share them with joy and
as an expression of what you are doing.
Practice finding and creating more beauty, joy, and love in your life every day.
Find purpose and power in everything and in every expereince.
give daily thanks for love, joy, family, and your life and for all that empowers you. n
THere iS PurPOSe AnD POWer in eVeryTHing
BCW Contributors
9
Pay Attention to Your
Emotional Needs
by Christine Horner, MD
Emotion Molecules
Each feeling that you have creates
a biochemical reaction in your body.
In her book Molecules of Emotion,
Candice Pert, Ph.D., documented that
every thought you think, every emotion you express, triggers the release
of neuro-transmitter molecules that
spread throughout your body. These
molecules of emotion, in turn, cause
the release of other chemicals and
hormones or may stimulate impulses
in your nervous system. When you feel
positive and upbeat, healing chemicals
and hormones are released by your
mind/body that enhance your inner
healing intelligence, stimulate your
immune system, and strengthen your
health.
On the other hand, negative emotions, unresolved anger, repressed and
suppressed emotions, and stress can
take a big toll on your health. When
you feel down and depressed, stress
hormones and other chemicals that obstruct your healing intelligence, impair
your immune system and weaken your
health become abundant. It’s no wonder researchers have found that the
chemicals released in response to your
emotions can affect your risk of breast
cancer as well as many other diseases.
The good news is that there are many
techniques that you can use to process
your emotions effectively and reduce
how much your mind/body reacts to
stressful situations.
If you’ve ever questioned the mind/
body connection, think back to a time
when you just missed hitting another
car or almost fell down the stairs. Your
heart started racing, your breathing
increased, a prickly sensation may
have rushed through your body, you
felt a little lightheaded, had a sinking
feeling in your stomach, and maybe
even started trembling. When you
become angry or upset your face turns
red, your blood pressure goes up, and
your skin may break out in hives. In
these situations, your body is reacting to a flood of chemicals released by
your brain and nervous system. The
connection between mind and body is
10
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clearly an intimate one; you can’t separate them.
The Science of How Emotions
Affect Our Immune System
When you feel an emotion, scientists say that it’s processed through
the brain’s limbic system and the
hypothalamus. The hypothalamus
releases neuropeptides, which then
stimulate the pituitary gland to release
hormones. All the endocrine glands,
especially the adrenals, react to these
hormones by producing other hormones that can weaken or strengthen
the function of the immune system.
Certain immune system cells called
“lymphocytes” have receptors that
receive messages from the molecules
released by thoughts and feelings. The
hypothalamus also has receptors for
peptides released by the immune system’s lymphocytes.
A two-way communication takes
place between your emotional center
and your immune system. Anger, fear,
and rage produce neurochemicals
that strain your body and can damage your organs. Whereas, laughter
reduces levels of cortisol and epinephrine, stress hormones that are released
by the adrenal glands. Laughter also
stimulates the activity of the immune
system. In a study published in Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine
in March 2002, researchers found that
laughter increased natural killer (NK)
cell function, as well as that of many
other types of immune-system cells.
These immune-boosting effects lasted
for twelve hours after “humor intervention.” Depression and suppression of
strong emotions can generate such a
blow to your immune system that it
nearly stops functioning. Depressed
women are nearly four times more likely to get breast cancer than those who
have never been depressed, according to researchers at the University of
Pennsylvania. u
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11
Pay Attention to Your Emotional Needs
To Be Human
Is to Be Emotional
We are spiritual beings having
a human experience. The human
experience involves a wide range of
feelings and emotions—from sadness,
resentfulness, and hatred, to compassion, forgiveness, and love. As human
beings, it is part of our journey to
continually feel and process emotions.
Imagine if you felt nothing— no compassion, no desire, no joy, no sense of
accomplishment, no pride, no pleasure,
no pain. Nothing could move you to
tears—not the most exquisite beauty of
Nature, not the birth of your child, not
the atrocities of war. Nothing! It’s hard
to even imagine. Feelings and emotions
were designed for a reason: They give
purpose to life.
The Energy Center of Emotion
The ancient Ayurvedic texts describe energy centers called chakras,
which are located in different areas of
the body. The heart chakra is referred
12
{continued from p. 10}
to as the fourth chakra. In Sanskrit,
it’s called the Anahata chakra. It’s said
to be the energy center that enables
you to feel higher emotions, such as
love, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, happiness, and joy. Your heart
is what allows you to “feel,” according to Ayurveda. It is the center of
your emotions and the home of your
consciousness. Activating and balancing the heart expands your consciousness. The heart chakra is considered
to be the fundamental center for your
growth as a human being.
Dr. Caroline Myss, medical intuitive and author of Anatomy of the Spirit: The Seven States of Power and Healing and Why People Don’t Heal and
How They Can, says that the fourth
chakra focuses on your feelings about
your internal world. Your emotional
responses to your own thoughts, ideas,
attitudes, and inspirations, as well as
the attention you give to your emotional needs, are all contained within
this chakra. Anatomically, the fourth
chakra is located right over your heart
and breasts. Energetically speaking,
everything you feel with your heart
also affects your breasts. According
to Dr. Myss, breast cancer is a fourth
chakra issue. The fourth chakra has to
do with how you express the emotions
that you feel and your capacity to form
mutually beneficial, balanced relationships with others and with yourself.
In Dr. Myss’s experience, women
who develop breast cancer have issues
of hope and trust. They often suffer
from hurt, sorrow, and unfi nished
business. In a 1995 study, women
who had suffered a major loss such
as divorce, loss of a job, or some other
stressful trauma within the past five
years were twelve times more likely
to have breast cancer than those who
hadn’t had one.
According to Christiane Northrup,
M.D., in her book Women’s Bodies,
Women’s Wisdom, studies that look at
the different personality patterns of
women with different types of cancers
found some statistically significant
common patterns in women with
breast cancer. For example, they
tended to have emotionally distant
fathers; they had a greater tendency to
stay in loveless marriages; and during
their childhood, they most likely had
the responsibility of caring for their
younger siblings. These women also
had a greater probability of not taking
care of their own physical needs and
getting proper medical care. Behavioral
studies show that women who develop
breast cancer have a tendency to be
caregivers. They take care of everyone
else’s needs before they take care of
their own.
Taking Care of Your Needs
Take a look at your life, and make
sure you’re taking care of your own
needs. Don’t sacrifice what you need
to do to take care of yourself in order
to take care of other people. Nurture
yourself by doing things that make you
feel good. As a very wise friend of mine
says, “The best way to take care of
other people is to take care of yourself
fi rst.” n
Christine Horner, MD
Christine Horner, MD is a board certified and nationally recognized surgeon, author,
expert in natural medicine, professional speaker and a relentless champion for
women’s health. She is the author of Waking the Warrior Goddess: Dr. Christine Horner’s
Program to Protect Against and Fight Breast Cancer, winner of the independent Book
Publishers Award 2006 for “Best Book in Health, Medicine, and nutrition.” For more
information go to www.drchristinehorner.com.
13
is nutrition Nonsense?
Maybe it’s time to throw out the
broccoli and bite into a refi ned white
bagel after all. Why not? In light of the
latest study released in July of this
year, I’m not so sure I would blame
you for thinking this way. Researchers from the WHEL Randomized Trial
(conducted from 1995 to 2000 with
subjects being followed for seven years
thereafter) reported that a diet high
in fruits and vegetables and low in fat
did not reduce cancer recurrence rates
in women with a history of early stage
breast cancer. This absolutely counters
what many nutritionists (myself included) have recommended to patients
for years.
So what are you supposed to
believe? Let’s say it out loud—some
of you are seriously wondering if
diet makes a difference. This dietary
dilemma has been a frequent topic of
conversation with my patients who
want proof that if they make changes
to their diet they will reap rewards of
better health and enhanced longevity.
And certainly, we have many studies to
suggest that is the case. But the WHEL
study findings just may be the last
straw for many of you who are tired of
hearing about confl icting nutritional
recommendations.
One of my past clients painfully
explained her take on the nutritional
controversy in a recent email: “Fighting genetics, a metabolic stand-still
heightened by chemo and a hysterectomy and reduced energy levels is a
daily struggle. In all honesty, women
like me (and there are a LOT of us)
need ammunition to get the strength to
take that on for the long haul. There is
this small voice that constantly says,
“why bother, it won’t do you any good
anyway. Most of us would agree it is
worth it if it will make a difference; but
one study showing benefit seems to
be neutralized by a study showing it
doesn’t make any difference. It is maddening to say the least.”
You have a right to feel confused
and frustrated. You may even have
a right to throw a bran muffi n at
your favorite nutritionist. The studies are confl icting—and as a health
care professional in the midst of the
controversy, even I get frustrated with
the ever-changing recommendations.
The beauty of science, however, is that
through constant research and followup we get better at figuring out what
works and what doesn’t work, what
by Kim Dalzell
appears to be promising, and what
appears to be realistic in terms of outcome. Accolades to scientific advancement aside, that still may leave you
with a huge question mark about diet.
The media didn’t help when they
recently splashing about sensationalized headlines suggesting we all might
as well go back to the McDonaldized
way of life. Unfortunately, the media
are not experts in discerning whether
or not study methodology is sound, nor
are they able to critically assess the
other components of these women’s
lives, such as their weight status, how
much saturated fat they consumed, or
if they were compliant in following the
guidelines established for them.
There will always be controversy
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kind of food you put into your body
affects the structure and ultimately
the function of your cells. That is basic
physiology 101. Unfortunately, medical doctors do not receive information
about nutrition and therefore, do not
pass the importance of a good diet onto
their patients.
At the end of the day, knowledge
of the confl icting nutritional findings
leaves you with two choices: throw
your hands up in the air and say,
“whatever will be, will be” or fight.
Fight for your husband, your kids, the
life you knew and loved, the life you
miss. Fight for you.
I believe wholeheartedly (and have
plenty of patients who would attest
to it) that nutrition is one of the most
powerful tools we have to prevent and
fight cancer. Cancer outcome aside, by
changing your diet you will have more
energy, your body will feel and work
better, you will have reduced your risk
of other chronic diseases and you will
have been able to “do something yourself” about your health destiny. Taking
action, steeped in faith and hope, is
always a good thing. The alternative,
quite frankly, is death of body, mind
and spirit.
Wishing you continued hope and
optimal healing in your journey. n
by Kim Dalzell, PhD, RD, LD
Author, Challenge Cancer and Win! and Oncology nutritionist.
Visit www.naturesanswertocancer.com for more health advice.
1-800-832-2983
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in science, but the common threads
of eating well in order to live well are
ever present. Common sense tells us
that what we eat affects our health.
Why is it that people from Japan,
who have a lower incidence of breast
cancer, relocated to the United States,
embrace a Westernized diet and lifestyle, and have breast cancer rates
similar to Americans? And what about
the newest study from China, where
obesity and disease rates are increasing dramatically? Researches studied
the habits of 1,459 women with breast
cancer compared to 1,556 matched
controls between the ages of 25-64
years. Their diets were classified as
“meat-sweet” (typical American diet
rich in refined sugars, animal foods
and milk) or “veggie-soy” (comprised of
plants, soy foods and fresh water fish).
Not surprisingly, the women who ate
the meat sweet diet had double the risk
of developing estrogen positive breast
cancer as the veggie-soy eaters.
The majority of scientific evidence
continues to show that populations
of people who eat a low fat, high fiber,
plant-based diet have lower rates of almost all forms of cancer and degenerative diseases and even when people in
these populations develop cancer, they
have much higher survival rates. The
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15
Girl Talk for Survivors
On a dark December day in 1998 I
became an involuntary member of the
young survivors club. I didn’t want
to join. In fact, I had spent two days
praying that I wouldn’t be eligible. By
being a part of this group everything
that was familiar to me was fleeing and
I was left with uncertainty and fear.
Maybe you have been there as well. Inducted into the club because of breast
cancer at young age. I was twenty-six.
As if it weren’t enough to have
cancer, I was also in limbo. Constantly being told, ‘you’re too young
to have cancer.’ My friends, God bless
them, just couldn’t relate as I began to
deal with issues that they never even
considered. They were very helpful in
many ways but I always felt set apart
in normal conversations. While they
were able to discuss when they would
have baby number 2 or 3, I would quietly think ‘If only that were my biggest
problem’. My ability to be carefree was
gone.
Are you in the young survivors
club? Have you faced menopause,
infertility, loss of breasts, body image issues, or the possibility of dying young and leaving behind young
children that might not even remember
you? These are just a few of the issues
that may accompany the words, ‘it’s
cancer’.
Don’t get me wrong, I know that I
am blessed to be a survivor. Continuing to have a quality life for eight years
after stage IV cancer is a gift, and I
am thankful for that. But sometimes
it seems as though I have already been
through things that my friends won’t
face for years. I mean really, do you
16
by Heather Jose
want to talk about hot flashes to your
peers who are having babies or do you
want to admit to the next generation
that you understand what they are going through even though you are still
in your twenties? It just never feels as
though there is a perfect fit.
I found over time that I have more
in common with other survivors that
I barely know who have been in my
shoes at a similar stage of life. Women
who have heard the same words as I
have and felt the same despair at their
situation. They have been frustrated
at people who complain over every
little thing instead of being thankful
for their good fortune. And they have
questioned their femininity and sex
appeal after having a double mastectomy praying that their husbands
really mean it when they say the
words, ‘you’re beautiful’. These are the
women that understand when I talk
about finding childcare in order to get
treatment and the women who sympathize with me when my ability to have
more children was destroyed in order
to kill cancer.
Cancer has shaped each of our
lives in a way that most of us ever
imagined. For me it has brought
unique perspective and opportunities that I never envisioned. It has
helped me to be courageous and to
find strength that I never knew I had
in order to face the challenges that
came with doing treatment and creating wellness on a daily basis. There
have been many challenges, and they
continue to evolve as time goes on.
In some ways I feel old beyond my
years having dealt with things that
most women my age haven’t faced
yet. Should a thirty something really
be thinking about osteoporosis, and
whether or not my life has made a difference? How do I switch from deep
issues to daily life which includes flag
football, piano lessons and ‘did you
brush your teeth?’
It is our goal with this column to
unite as young survivors to discuss
the lives that we live. We can use the
words that only we understand, from
our lives as cancer fighters and as
young moms, wives and friends. We
can switch from treatment talk to
nutrition struggles, to kids dealing
with cancer. Most of all, we can know
that we are not alone. Together we
are stronger, openly discussing issues
that are unique to young breast cancer
survivors.
I am thankful to be a new columnist for “Girl Talk for Survivors” for
The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine
so that together we can discuss these
important challenges and issues that
are heaviest on our hearts and minds.
Email your experiences, questions, or
challenges to [email protected]. n
Heather Jose
Diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer at 26, Heather Jose chose to fight the cancer
head on putting together a plan to battle cancer on a daily basis. Eight years later,
Heather is healthy and using her experiences to speak to healthcare providers and
patients about how much their actions and words can impact success. Heather is the
author of “Letters to Sydney: Every Day I am Killing Cancer”. www.heatherjose.com.
17
Flax Research for Breast Cancer
1. Flaxseed is one of the richest
dietary sources of lignans, phytoestrogens thought to protect against cancer
of the breast, prostate, and colon. - Dr
Andrew Weil (www.naturalhealthweb.
com)
2. Research has found that
women who eat the highest amounts of
omega-3s have the lowest risk of breast
cancer. Flax is the richest plant source
of omega-3 fatty acids. - Christine
Horner, MD
3. Flaxseed is very high in alphalinolenic acid, one of the ‘protective’
omega-3s. Studies have explored the
theory that alpha-linolenic acid inhibits the development of breast cancer.
-Jane Reinhardt-Martin, RD, LD
4. Flax provides omega-3 fatty
acids which help to lower the risk of
breast cancer by quieting inflammation and by decreasing the rate at
which breast cells divide in response to
estrogen. Inflammation is a key factor
in the initiation and progression of
a variety of diseases including heart
disease, rheumatoid arthritis, skin
diseases, and cancers such as breast
cancer. If you have breast cancer, omega-3s have been found to help shrink
breast tumors and prevent them from
spreading to other parts of the body. Christine Horner, MD
5. Flax provides more “lignans”
than any other edible plant. Lignans
provide high concentration of protection for breast cancer. - (www.flaxhealth.com)
6. Flaxseed is high in lignans, up
to 800 times the amount as in any
tested plant food. Lignans (a phytoestrogen) have been called by H. Adlercreutz (in his article “Phytoestrogens:
Epidemiology and a Possible Role in
Cancer Protection”), natural cancerprotective compounds. Flax seed is
also high in alpha linolenic acid (ALA)
which has been found to be promising as a cancer fighting agent. (www.
flaxhealth.com)
7. The American National Cancer
Institute has singled out flaxseed as
one of six foods that deserve special
study. Flax seed, high in fiber, lignans,
alpha linolenic acid, is a key player in
the fight against cancer, particularly
breast and colon cancer. (www.flaxhealth.com) n
Disclaimer: Confirm with your health care professional on the benefits of flax for your healing
regime. As winner of this contest, Terri Cameron
is being awarded 3 deluxe gift packs of flax
seeds from North American Nutrition (www.
golden flax.com), one for herself, and two gift
packs to “Pay It Forward” to friends or breast
cancer survivors of her choice. Terri Cameron
has not been diagnosed with breast cancer but
believes in researching what is available for her
health and wellbeing.
Announcement of the
Flax Seed Contest Winner:
Terri Cameron – Republic, Missouri
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Take a...
to Raise Funds and Awareness
for Stage IV Breast Cancer Patients
www.galtogalwalk.org
You are invited to walk with us from Oct. 1–31, 2007
Even though we live in all parts of the country, it’s easy for us to walk together
via the virtual walk to raise funds and awareness for stage IV breast cancer patients.
Registration is simple: go to www.galtogalwalk.org. For a minimum donation of $3.00, you can design
your character and you will be added to the walk landscape where you can invite friends and family
to join you. As a supporter, you will receive a virtual goody bag with items donated by the Foundations
strategic partners. Walkers may also purchase merchandise featuring their character on
www.designhergals.com to support The Gal to Gal Foundation.
You will also be joined by celebrities... Lynn Redgrave, Kristin Chenoweth, Molly Sims,
Mena Suvari, Diane Farr, Leisha Hailey, Punch Hutton, Marg Helgenberger, and Jorja Fox.
Supporters will participate in The Gal to Gal Walk by creating their virtual likeness online and then
watching themselves talk a virtual walk across America. The walk begins in the Virtual World of
Harvard Square in Boston, MA and concludes on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco,
visiting 29 cities along the way. The landscape walkers travel through will change on a daily basis,
giving you a reason to return; new walkers will be joining all the time, sharing their stories and
building momentum as more people participate in this innovative fundraising effort.
Jeanne Fitzmaurice, founder of Design-her Gals and Gal to Gal Foundation, thanks you for your support
so that the Foundation can continue to benefit individuals who are facing the most difficult battle of their lives.
The goal of the Gal to Gal Foundation is to raise awareness and funds for stage IV breast cancer patients
and their families and to bring dignity and comfort to those who need it most.
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19
Too Much of a Good Thing
Can Certainly Be BAD!
by Dr. Holly Lucille
When there is an excess of any hormone in relation to the whole, an imbalance develops, and health problems
can arise. When there is too much
estrogen and not enough progesterone
to counteract its effects, the situation
is called estrogen dominance.
Estrogen dominance is a multi
factorial situation and is caused by
such things as exposure to excess
environmental xenoestrogens, use of
synthetic estrogens such as the birth
control pill and hormone replacement
therapy (HRT), anovulation (lack of
ovulation during menstrual cycle,
which is not uncommon among women
older than 35), digestion issues (which
tax the estrogen-detoxification process
in the liver), unrelenting stress (which
strains the adrenals and the thyroid),
unresolved emotional issues, poor diet
and negative lifestyle factors such as
smoking and alcohol use.
How does estrogen dominance
specifically alter women’s health?
It has been linked to a wide range
of conditions, including increase in
PMS symptoms, uterine fibroids, and
endometriosis, as well as symptoms
including allergies, decreased libido,
fatigue, fibrocystic breasts, headaches,
infertility, irritability, and fat gain
around the abdomen and on the top
of the thighs. In addition, numerous
studies demonstrate excess estrogen
can cause breast, uterine, and ovarian
cancers (which are all considered estrogen dependent cancers), and cervical dysplasia (a precancerous condition
characterized by abnormal changes to
cervical tissues).
It is easy to see how, in our contemporary lifestyles, estrogen can begin
to dominate the hormone scene, with
the prevalence of xenoestrogens; the
use of HRT and oral contraceptives;
diets skewed in favor of nonorganic
fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy
products (which frequently contain
xenoestrogens); stressful lifestyles; and
increased estrogen production because
of anovulation, imbalanced ovarian
function and hysterectomies.
Cancer is among the most disconcerting of the possible outcomes of
estrogen dominance. Because cancer
20
rates are increasing every decade, it
is likely that cancer has touched your
life in some profound way. I know I am
seeing more women with estrogen-dependent cancers in my clinical practice
than ever before. The American Cancer
Society (ACS) estimates one in three
women will develop some type of cancer in her lifetime. Breast cancer rates
have increased from one in 20 in 1960
to one in eight today, though the rates
have slowed since the 1990s. But the
ACS says breast cancer incidence rates
have increased lately in women older
than 50. Among the risks the ACS lists
for breast cancer are long menstrual
history (early onset of menses and late
menopause) and use of oral contraceptives and postmenopausal estrogens
and progestin. These risk factors increase the lifetime exposure to estrogen. The connection between excess
estrogen and certain cancers is clear.
Harmful estrogens are difficult to detoxify and are stored in fat. In a recent
study published in the Journal of the
National Cancer Institute, researchers
linked obesity to breast cancer. Women
with a higher body mass index (BMI),
which equated to higher levels of body
fat, also had elevated hormone levels,
particularly of estradiol, which is the
more potent of the estrogens produced
in the body. The researchers concluded, “The increase in breast cancer risk
with increasing BMI among postmenopausal women is largely the result of
the associated increase in estrogens.”
According to a study featured in
Cancer Causes and Control, women
can reduce their breast cancer risk by
maintaining a normal weight, because
that reduces the amount of hormones
stored in fat.
Other things that are extremely
important to remember to protect your
tissues from an excess of estrogen and
begin to restore function in your hormonal system are:
q Eat a diet full of organic whole
foods and fiber and get at least
5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
q Identify and decrease any
unrelenting chronic stress and
support your adrenal and thyroid glands with proper rest and
supplementation.
q Restore any digestive imbalances and make certain that
you have plenty of good bacteria
on board to crowd out any over
growth of yeast or bad bacteria.
q Decrease exposure to xenoestrogens by wearing and using
safe products free of hormone
disruptors such as parabens
and phalates. I recommend
Theo Colburn’s book “Our Stolen Future” for further reading.
q Search for a practitioner that
will offer safe and natural relief
for symptoms during hormonal
transitions and decrease your
use of HRT. Try visiting www.
naturopathic.org.
q Decrease your use of alcohol
and if you smoke, please stop.
Next issue we will talk more about
the powerful hormone estrogen and
how to make sure it is being metabolized in a way that actually has health
benefits! n
Dr. Holly Lucille N.D., R.N.
6399 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 401
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-658-9151 (p) / 815-425-8815 (f )
www.AllHealLucille.com
www.DrLucilleInfo.com
21
savepinklids
Saranne Rothberg
Andrea Ivory
Jeanne Fitzmaurice
Randi Passoff
Beverly Vote
Sandra Walters
Tenille Oderwald
LaTondria Carter
everylidmatters
Every lid you collect helps us raise $1.5 million* to support Susan G. Komen
for the Cure in the fight against breast cancer. Do your part, collect pink
lids and bring us one step closer to a cure.
everyonematters
Every year, Yoplait® honors 25 individuals for their extraordinary efforts in
the fight against breast cancer. Their motivation and creativity help
make a difference in the lives of people they touch. They inspire us with
their determination, and are making a difference in our lives, too.
For their tireless efforts in the fight against breast cancer, we salute all of
the Yoplait Champions, and their supporters.
Meet these champions and hear their stories at yoplait.com
*For every pink lid mailed in by December 31, 2007, Yoplait® will make a 10¢ donation to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
$500,000 guaranteed minimum donation.
©2007 General Mills
A Tribute
These heartfelt words of my dear friend, Susan Little, say it well.
On behalf of The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine and thousands
and thousands of women in the world whose lives have been touched
by the compassion and commitment of Nancy Brinker and her
grassroots organization and the millions of indviduals that are helping
to create a world without breast cancer, we honor the largest breast
cancer awareness organization in the world and we say THANK YOU.
– Beverly Vote, Publisher
W
hat an amazing twenty-five
years this has been!
From a group of two to a group of millions…..one can only guess at the number of
lives that have been saved as a result of that commitment made between sisters. Many years later, this is
what Susan G. Komen for the Cure has done for me:
When breast cancer struck back in 1998, I jumped
in with both feet and learned everything that I could
about the “whys and hows and what-to-do’s” of the disease. And, while my husband and children were my loudest cheerleaders and greatest advocates for “the cure,” I
came to realize that there was a huge population of underinsured and underserved women in our community
who needed the same access to mammograms that I had.
Fortunately, I worked for a state social services agency
whose administrator, Carmen Schultz, was a proactive
force in any initiative that had the potential to make life
better for those we served. So, in conjunction with our
local health department, we were able to put together
a coalition as part of the Breast and Cervical Cancer
Control Project that resulted in a number of women able
to obtain mammograms with subsequent diagnosis and
treatment options. The Komen Foundation was instrumental in providing guidance and leadership in those
efforts.
I was honored and privileged to participate in the Susan G. Komen for the Cure – St. Louis event in 2006
where my daughter and I were among well over 60,000
participants. Along with a daughter-in-law and grand-
son, I have shared the day in
Kansas City, as well. Emotions ranged from thankfulness at being there with so
many others who came together for the festivities to
tears from those family members and friends who had lost
loved ones to breast cancer
over the years. The event organizers, the volunteers, the
newly diagnosed who walked
side by side with the longterm survivors (I clasped the
hand of an eighty-seven year
old survivor!) – these are the folks who keep the energy
flowing through this grass roots movement. Thank goodness for the corporate sponsors who give center stage to
breast cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment
issues for, without them, the task would be far more
daunting, indeed.
And thank you, Nancy Brinker, for working tirelessly
and passionately on behalf of your sister. In health care
arenas throughout the world, your efforts have carried
over to many, many other grassroots movements that address not only breast cancer but other preventable and
curable diseases, too. The future holds such promise
for so many, and what a legacy that is!
Susan K. Little
Eldon, MO
23
A Tribute
A LETTER FROM NANCY G. BRINKER, FOUNDER OF SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE:
F
irst and foremost, i’d like to
express my gratitude to Breast
Cancer Wellness for this great Tribute to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. When I started
this organization 25 years ago as a promise to my sister,
Susan G. Komen, who died from breast cancer, I had a
vision. We’re a quarter of a century into that vision and
I now call myself a breast cancer survivor. I often marvel
at what has been accomplished in such a short period
of time - millions of people around the world taking my
promise to Susan and making it their own.
It is tempting to trumpet the tremendous accomplishments of this organization and its caring, dedicated
people - for there are so many wondrous successes. But
I’d rather use this space to talk about two more important things: cancer survivors and the future.
Today, there are more than ten million cancer survivors around the world. We are people who faced breast
cancer and other types of cancer head-on, and through
courage and perseverance, have lived. The work breast
cancer survivors and activists do brings critical issues
to the forefront; issues such as improving health care
for the economically disadvantaged, the importance of
regular breast cancer screening, cuts in cancer research
funding, inadequate health insurance or the reduction
in the number of cancer treatment facilities.
Despite all the progress and promise - the fi rst-ever
decline in cancer rates, research breakthroughs in genomics, increased rates of diagnosis - I have never been
as worried about our nation’s commitment to the war
on cancer as I am today. Why is our nation no longer
expressing outrage over a disease that kills more Americans every year than died in all the wars of the 20th
century? A culture of complacency has developed in our
nation.
Together, we can determine the future of the war on
cancer. We can change the bureaucracy. We can change
the health care system. We can change the way the world
views the war on cancer. There is still tremendous work
to be done. Even after more than 25 years of research, we
still don’t know what causes breast cancer and we don’t
know how to prevent it. If we do not fi nd the cures, in the
next 25 years an estimated ten million women could die
from breast cancer.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure will continue to lead the
movement for a world without breast cancer, as we’ve already invested nearly $1 billion in breast cancer research
and community outreach programs. We’re making this
historic pledge: over the next decade, we will invest another $1 billion, including some $600 million for cuttingedge research. And we will bring together thought leaders from a myriad of fields to tackle the great social and
economic roots of cancer disparities and research.
24
Above: nancy g. Brinker at the national
race for the Cure in Washington, D.C., in
memory and in honor of her sister, Susan.
Below: nancy g. Brinker at the Hungarian
Bridge Walk, Hungary.
Right: Sisters Susan g. Komen and nancy
g. Brinker in the late 1970s.
In the words of Marie Curie, “I never see what has
been done. I only see what remains to be done.” My
friends, we know what remains to be done. The only
question is: Do we - as a nation, a cancer community,
as individuals - have the will to do it? My conviction is
this: What began as a promise to my sister will end in
the cures. Will you help me?
With love and gratitude,
Nancy G. Brinker
Founder
25
A Tribute
HALA MODDELMOG, CEO AND PRESIDENT OF SUSAN G KOMEN FOR THE CURE
Her Story of Service,
Strength and Survival
S
omething didn’t feel right.
In mid-summer of 2001, while showering in the
Bahamas during a vacation with her daughter and
another mother-daughter duo, Hala Moddelmog
felt something in her breast, and thought “yikes.” Hala made
an appointment with her primary care physician immediately
following her return home. Upon his initial examination, her
physician concluded that something didn’t feel right. He immediately advised a mammogram, which failed to show any
problems or concerns. Hala is thankful that her physician
was professionally astute and persistent and advised her to
have further testing.
A sonogram conveyed that Hala, 45 at the time, had invasive lobular carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that many
times is not detectable by mammography. Because her physician felt there was a high probability for recurrence in the
other breast and because there were micro cells in her lymph
nodes, Hala opted for a double mastectomy. Her surgery was
on September 4, 2001. A week later, while recovering at home,
Hala would watch America’s life changing experience of 9-11
play over and over on the television. Not only would America
never be the same, but at the same moment in time, breast
cancer was creating a personal life-changing experience for
Hala.
Hala’s greatest concerns were for her children and her
husband. She knew the experiences and impact of losing a
mother at a young age as she was only 17 when her own mother died. Therefore, the possibility of leaving her 13-year-old
daughter Kierstin and 16-year-old son Ty motherless weighed
heavily in Hala’s thoughts.
At the time of her diagnosis, Hala was President of
Church’s Chicken, which employed well over 10,000 men and
women. During this attack on America, she was concerned
for the safety and well being of the employees of Church’s that
were traveling throughout the world as part of their job. Their
whereabouts and well being remained in her thoughts as she
faced her own life-challenging experience.
Coupled with the 9-11 trauma that America was watching
unfold, Hala’s friend lost his wife in a car accident where their
16-year-old daughter was driving. All of this came crashing
down - Hala was experiencing a life threatening disease, personal grief, the worst assault in America’s history, concerns
for her employees and the corporate organization, preparing
to start chemotherapy treatments, and dealing with the multifaceted impact of all of this on her family.
With her unwavering strength, Hala was able to instinctively focus on her health, not only for herself, but for the well-
26
by Beverly Vote
being of her family. This was not impossible, but was duly
challenging because she was concerned corporate America
and Wall Street would not be fully understanding of a woman
needing personal health time and support beyond the challenges of her job. Hala quickly put her diagnosis into a different perspective and knew that she could make it through
whatever was before her. She chose to keep her diagnosis of
breast cancer as private as possible with the hopes of not disrupting the professional confidence placed in her by her corporate management. This decision is something that she still
reflects upon to this day. Of concern is how our corporate society treats the health needs of all individuals who are facing
life-threatening diseases. After nearly 10 years as President
of Church’s, Hala left the corporate world.
While volunteering for the Brand Atlanta campaign, an
associate mentioned that Susan G. Komen for the Cure was
seeking a new CEO and President for their new worldwide commitment and mission, and encouraged Hala to consider this
possibility. A few days later, Hala and her husband Steve were
carefully reading through the job description and criteria for
the Komen position, and Steve instantly
agreed with her that many things about
this position felt right for Hala.
Since 2001, Hala has been instinctively drawn to make a difference for
breast cancer so that her daughter, son,
and husband never have to fear breast
cancer in their lives again. In addition,
she wants to personally stand as a reminder for women to commit to have
their mammograms as professionally
advised, but to also follow diagnostic
testing until everything feels right, leaving no shadow of a doubt. If she had just
accepted the mammogram, which did
not show the lobular cancer, she might
not be cancer free today.
In the spring of 2007, Hala was introduced to breast cancer advocates in the Middle East including the countries of
Israel and Jordon. It was an alarming experience for Hala to
learn that in some cultures it is a standard and acceptable
practice that when a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, her husband will automatically take a second wife. This
shocking knowledge only convinced Hala more that her life
was being drawn toward worldwide empowerment and leadership for women and for breast cancer.
Hala has been married to her husband Steve for 22 years.
They have two children, Ty, a student at Dartmouth, and Kierstin, who is attending the University of Colorado in Boulder.
In her free time, Hala enjoys water and snow skiing, traveling
and reading, but her greatest joy is spending time with her
family. Currently this is quite challenging due to her extensive business travel and her children’s hectic college schedules. Keeping connected with family means trading e-mails
and quick cell phone calls on most days.
Hala is grateful for the gift of her life and her family. She
feels that working for Susan G Komen for the Cure and its
mission to end breast cancer forever is also a gift. “It is the opportunity I really wanted. I am not a scientist, nor have I been
involved in the medical field, but Nancy Brinker’s passion,
drive, and commitment to not rest until this disease is wiped
off the face of the earth is an experience unlike any other.
When I evaluated the role and commitment of this position,
and looked at what I could provide through my professional
and personal experiences, I knew I could make a difference towards this cause. The totality of the organization’s dedication
to community advocacy and the sheer level of integrity gave
me the intense desire to participate by sharing my expertise
and leadership skills.
Komen launched the strongest grassroots movements in
the world today, and to be involved with the organization is a
gift of which I am extremely grateful. I am humbled to serve
as President and CEO of the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists who work tirelessly to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for
all, and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events
like Komen Race for the Cure, the organization has invested
nearly $1 billion over the past 25 years
to cutting edge research and community-based programs, and I intend to do
everything in my power to ensure we invest that much if not more in the next ten
years. We’re on a mission.”
Hala Moddelmog, president and chief
executive officer, joined Susan G. Komen
for the Cure in September 2006. As CEO,
Ms. Moddelmog is responsible for all aspects of the organization’s management
including budgets, forecasts, managing
business units including the global Affiliate network, policies, procedures and
compliance, and the development and
successful implementation of the organization’s objectives and strategies to end
breast cancer forever. She works closely with Komen volunteers, staff and the board of directors.
As a 6-year breast cancer survivor and former Fortune
500 executive with a passion for championing women’s issues
and community engagement, Ms. Moddelmog’s commitment
to Komen’s mission is fueled in her belief in the power of hope,
the strength of survivors and the belief that one day the cures
will be found. She embraces the core values of Komen, which
seek to build a culture of hope through inclusion, honesty,
passion and empowerment.
Prior to joining Komen for the Cure, she served as founder
and CEO of Catalytic Ventures, a consulting firm that worked
with private equity investments in the food service industry.
She was the first woman in corporate America to lead an international quick service restaurant brand in 1995 when she
was named president of Church’s Chicken, a division of Atlanta-based AFC Enterprises. She subsequently led Church’s to
record sales and profit performance. She also held executive
management and marketing positions at Church’s Chicken,
Arby’s Franchise Association and BellSouth.
Ms. Moddelmog has served on the boards of Leadership
Atlanta, the Atlanta Police Foundation, the B.B. King Museum
Foundation and Women Looking Ahead magazine. She is a
recipient of the Women’s Foodservice Forum Emerging Leader
Award, the International Franchise Association Bonny LeVine
Award, the Restaurant Hospitality Rising Star Award and the
Roundtable for Women in Foodservice Pacesetter Award. In
2003 she received the Women of Achievement Award from the
YMCA of Greater Atlanta.
Ms. Moddelmog earned a bachelor’s degree in English
from Georgia Southern University and a master’s degree in
journalism and mass communications from the University of
Georgia. She received an honorary doctorate from Georgia
Southern University. n
27
A Tribute
BREAST CANCER WELLNESS MAGAZINE ‘A TRIBUTE’
NANCY BYRD, VICE PRESIDENT OF DOMESTIC AFFILIATE NETWORK FOR SUSAN G KOMEN FOR THE CURE
Words from Suzy Komen’s
Best Friend
“S
by Beverly Vote
uzy and i were extremely close.
It was the kind of special friendship one is so fortunate and gifted to have in a lifetime. As Suzy and I
modeled professionally, we met at a fashion show at
a large charity event in Peoria; quickly we became what some
might call ‘soul sisters’. Soon we discovered many common
interests, understandings and goals way beyond the fashion
scene. She was my best and dearest friend, and it was my
privilege to know her.”
“Suzy battled breast cancer for three years after being
diagnosed at 33. She was a devoted wife and mother to two
young children. She was courageous and strong, always with
a smile on her beautiful face. When she lost her battle in
1980, I was by her side as she took her last breath. Suzy’s
outer beauty was magnificent only to be surpassed by an inner beauty of perseverance, kindness and determination. She
fought the insidious disease of breast cancer at a time when it
was almost unthinkable to mention. It was also a disease associated with much older women, not someone young, fit and
vibrant. It was Suzy’s fervent wish that women would not have
to experience the threat of breast cancer.”
Suzy’s sister, Nancy Brinker, was driven to find a cure
for breast cancer. She had promised Suzy she would do everything she could do to help other women. At the time of
Suzy’s death Nancy did not yet know just how she could make
a difference … but did know she WOULD make a difference!
With the help of a handful of friends Nancy held an October
fundraising event the year following Suzy’s death. Linda well
remembers. “It was an all women’s polo match and luncheon
held at Nancy’s ranch outside Dallas, Texas.”
The following year, Linda returned to Dallas for the first
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. As a recreational runner
and trained dancer she was thrilled to be first out of the chute
“for about 30 seconds!” “With over 1,000 participants in that
first Race, I felt Suzy’s presence with me as I ran just as I feel
her spiritual connection and love today.”
After that first Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Dallas, Linda left with a surge of excitement to bring the Race to
Peoria, IL, hometown of sisters, Susan G. Komen and Nancy
G. Brinker. With a sense of urgency, she jumped in full force
to make it happen. After 18 months of research and development, knocking on doors, making phone calls and putting
blinders on in dealing with the naysayers, Linda was ready to
take the concept and her plan to the Junior League of Peoria. She and Suzy had enjoyed membership in the League
and had worked together on many projects. But collaboration
between two not-for-profit organizations, Susan G. Komen for
28
the Cure and The Junior League of Peoria, at that time was
uncharted territory. An added touch was needed…
Then,
opportunity struck. When she learned former First Lady Betty
Ford was to make an appearance in Galesburg, Illinois, an
hour from Peoria, Linda decided to try to maneuver her way
through security to greet Mrs. Ford. (The two had met in Dallas during several Komen events). Linda courageously made a
request of the First Lady: a letter of endorsement supporting
her mission in Peoria.
Funding, organization, cooperation and Mrs. Ford’s letter led the way to Peoria’s first Race for the Cure. The Junior
League of Peoria Women’s Health Awareness Project culminated with the first regional site of Race for the Cure outside
Dallas in 1986. It was truly a milestone for Linda. Twenty
thousand dollars was raised with 1,258 participants. In its
22nd Race for the Cure held this past Mother’s Day weekend,
over $750,000 were raised with approximately 25,000 people
attending from the Peoria community and beyond.
Linda’s lifelong passion and mission continue. Through
the years she has developed prototypes for other Races
throughout the United States. In 2006 she was a delegate of
the U.S. State Department and Susan G. Komen for the Cure
launch of the U.S.-Middle East Partnership for Breast Cancer
Awareness and Research, a series of events and speaking engagements bringing together health professionals, breast cancer survivors and local advocates in the United Arab Emirates
(UAE). n
Affiliates and Volunteers
are the Heart and Soul
by Beverly Vote
N
ancy Byrd first became
involved with the Susan g.
Komen for the Cure in 1986
as a volunteer because she had close friends that had
been diagnosed with breast cancer. But in December
1993, just months after joining the Susan G. Komen
organization as a staff member, Nancy Byrd was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Not only was Nancy Byrd facing the life challenges
of breast cancer, she was doing so while she felt she was
living in a glass house. At the time of her diagnosis, no
one within the Komen Headquarters had ever had breast
cancer other than Nancy Brinker. Nancy Byrd’s diagnosis made it very real for the other staff members, as her
new associates watched her undergoing treatment, they
asked questions, and they asked more questions.
“It was a very public experience“, says Nancy Byrd.
She was 45 at the time and had just become the interim
Executive Director nationally. But through it all, Nancy
Brinker, founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, provided Nancy Byrd with caring and steadfast support.
“For me personally“, says Nancy, “I wouldn’t have had
the information that I needed when I was diagnosed with
breast cancer if it weren’t for the Komen organization,
Nancy Brinker, and Nancy Brinker’s book, “The Race is
Run One Step at a Time“. There are so many decisions to
be made when diagnosed with breast cancer and not a
lot of time for the learning curve.”
Nancy’s 21 year history of knowing Komen for the
Cure as a volunteer, and in her work with the country’s
Affi liates, and as a breast cancer survivor, Nancy knows
how important her purpose in life is, how important
Susan G. Komen for the Cure was for her own healing
experience, and how important her job is to help the Affi liates fulfi ll their missions in their communities. Under
her guidance, she has helped the Komen Affi liates implement programs such as “Komen on the Go” which started as an outreach program for young women and the college community to educate women about breast health.
Now the program has been expanded and combined
with the “Komen Community Challenge,” which includes
reaching young women but also their mothers. “Our
dedication to The Promise is strong. We are continuing
to place mammography opportunities into rural areas,
adding new Komen Affi liates, and adding programs that
promote breast health education, and serve the many
needs of those facing breast cancer within communities
all across the United States,” says Nancy.
Today, as Vice President of Domestic Affi liate Network, Nancy Byrd works with the 122 Domestic Affi liates. “The Affi liates and the thousands of volunteers are
the heart and soul of the Komen organization. Many of
these volunteers work 40 - 60 hours a week. They have
true compassion and commitment for making a difference. The Affi liates are the face of the Susan G. Komen
for the Cure in each of these communities. They are the
grassroots of the mission of The Promise, and they are
amazing individuals. I have never seen more passion and
dedication than what the Komen volunteers and Komen
Affi liates have,” says Nancy Byrd.
For more information about The Promise, Komen on
the Go, and Komen Challenge, go to www.komen.org. n
29
A Tribute
Passion with Purpose is a Very
Powerful Combination
“M
by Beverly Vote
y life is an example of being
at the right place at the right
time”, says Donna Sanderson,
Executive Director for the Sacramento Valley Affiliate of Susan G Komen for the Cure. “Only two months after becoming involved with Komen for the Cure, I was diagnosed with
breast cancer. I learned first-hand, up-close and personal,
how valuable Komen’s message of early detection can be. Becoming involved with this organization and being diagnosed
with breast cancer helped me expand my artificial boundaries. I learned a new sense of strength. For a long while after
being diagnosed with breast cancer, I shied away from the
label of ‘breast cancer survivor’ until I saw how my experience might make a difference for someone else.”
In 1996, an associate persuaded Donna to attend the
Komen Affiliate conference in Dallas on behalf of the Sacramento Valley Affiliate. It was at that national conference
that Donna learned how Komen’s resources could benefit her
local community. She learned how well organized and committed the Susan G Komen for the Cure was to ending breast
cancer. This type of grass-roots activism was exactly what
she wanted to bring home to the Sacramento area. Donna
continued to feel that she was at the right place at the right
time when she was elected to be the first President of the
Sacramento Affiliate’s Board of Directors, and then to be appointed to the position of their first Executive Director.
The first Komen Race for the Cure in her community had
2,039 participants. In May 2007, the Sacramento Valley Affiliate held their 11th annual Race for the Cure. In the past
11 years, it has grown to over 24,000 participants, raising
over $2,500,000 for the cause! Donna believes that this is a
good example of the compassion and generosity of the people
of Northern California. “We receive many calls from members of our community that do not know what to do when
a loved one, friend or co-worker has been diagnosed with
breast cancer. The local race has provided a much needed
avenue for co-survivors to show public support by volunteering, forming a team or donating to the cause. The 2,000 survivors wearing pink shirts and hats participating on race
day show the people in the community that you can survive
this disease. Early detection is the key”.
Because of Donna Sanderson’s extraordinary service in
community outreach, she has been selected to serve as one
of the 25 U.S. breast cancer delegates to meet with 25 international delegates for the first-ever Susan G. Komen for the
Cure Global Advocate Summit. At the Summit, to be held
30
September 29-30, 2007
in Budapest, Hungary,
Advocates from 21
states and 30 countries will seek to elevate
the dialogue on breast
cancer’s global impact
and to share the strategies they use to combat
breast cancer in their
local communities.
As a 14-year breast
cancer survivor and an
educational psychologist, Sanderson is passionate about building
on and sharing an appreciation and respect
for other cultures. “I
recognize that we have
the opportunity to unlock components that
may fulfill our commitment to access to quality care for all, both in scientific research and psycho-social issues” said Sanderson. “We will
not have achieved our mission until we end breast cancer
forever. The Global Advocate Summit is an important step
toward that goal.”
“As someone who has experienced the shock of being told
they have a potentially deadly disease, I felt that my training as a psychologist finally had some personal purpose. I
knew that a positive attitude, perseverance and determination could make a difference in my treatment experience and
living the rest of my life. As any cancer survivor can tell you,
part of the process of recovery is reprioritizing your life. It is
a gift of the process. Cancer helped me to see what is truly
important in life and what are mere distractions. What I was
wholly unprepared for was the intensity of my passion and
the sense of purpose I feel everyday I walk into our Affiliate
office. Sometimes it has been overwhelming. When I feel I
can really make a difference in our community, then it becomes difficult to separate the rest of my life from what I do
for Komen and the cause. It is a constant balancing act but
one that I know I must continue in order to give my best to
meeting Komen’s promise to save lives and end breast cancer
forever. I am learning that passion with purpose is a very
powerful combination. If we can harness all the passion that
people have for the cause, we really can end breast cancer for
ever!” Donna can be reached at [email protected]. n
it’s Our Job to Make Sure They
Know Help is Available
“I
by Beverly Vote
t is because of Susan g. Komen
for the Cure that i am alive today,”
said a very grateful young Native American woman
to Christy Southard. “I found a lump in my breast
and I thought I was going to die because I had no insurance,
and no way to pay for any treatments. Then someone told
me that the Komen for the Cure organization had special
programs that could provide for my mammogram and help
with treatment.”
Christy Southard, Executive Director of the Tulsa, Oklahoma Affiliate of Susan G Komen for
the Cure, appreciated hearing firsthand of this breast cancer survivor’s
testimony. Christy wants everyone in
her community to know of the programs and the community outreach
that are provided by the Komen for the
Cure.
Christy became involved in the
Race for the Cure in 1999, and in 2003
co-chaired the Race, followed by three
years as the Race Sponsorship cochair. In April 2006, Christy became
the first employee and first Executive
Director for the Tulsa Affiliate. Christy
feels honored to be working with such
a dynamic organization, both locally
and nationally, and marvels at the level
of commitment that the volunteers for
this cause display. She feels honored
to be working with so many volunteers
that have such a level of passion to be
helping others.
“I see the tremendous amount of
time and energy our volunteers expend
on the Race and our other Affiliate educational and fundraising programs,
and I am constantly amazed at all they
manage to get done. In fact, because of the dedication of our
volunteers, we have doubled the amount of money we raise
in just four short years!”
One component of the Komen’s mission is to empower
people to become activists in the breast cancer movement,
and it’s important to Christy that every person in Tulsa who
wants to participate be given that opportunity. “Receiving a
breast cancer diagnosis, whether yours or a loved one’s, can
make you feel helpless. Having an organization like Komen
for the Cure, where you can become a voice, an activist, helps
people to feel like they can do something about it.”
Another component of the Komen’s mission is ensuring
quality care for all. Christy said that Komen is focused this
year on closing the gap in healthcare disparities, both nationally and locally. “Oklahoma has one of the highest uninsured
populations in the U.S., so we know there are people in Tulsa
County who need our help. It’s our job to make sure they
know help is available. Through our grant program, we currently provide funding to two organizations in Tulsa County
where women can receive low-cost or no-cost mammograms.
But it’s not just enough to provide the
service – we need to make sure women
know it’s available to them and how to
access it. We are partnering with these
organizations to conduct education
and awareness programs in churches,
schools, and community groups. Our
goal is to make sure every woman
knows the importance of breast selfexam and mammography in relation
to early detection and surviving this
disease, along with a phone number to
call if she needs financial assistance.”
Every year, Christy and her mom,
Carol, walk the Tulsa Race for the
Cure together. Christy’s mom, now 73,
is a 20 year breast cancer survivor.
This cause is a personal commitment
for Christy because she has lost four
friends in the last two years to this
disease, and her paternal grandfather
and maternal great-aunt were breast
cancer survivors.
In her personal time, Christy enjoys spending time with her family and
her four nephews and three great-nieces, being a discussion leader in Bible
Study Fellowship, and teaching Sunday School and leading Bible Studies in her home church.
This fall Christy will have the opportunity to combine her
passion for breast cancer with her love of travel when she
travels to Budapest, Hungary to participate as one of the 25
U.S. delegates to the Komen Global Advocate Summit. But of
course, that’s only after she and her mom walk in the Tulsa
Race for the Cure on Saturday, September 15th! For more
information on the Tulsa Race and the Tulsa Affiliate go to
www.komentulsa.org. n
31
A Tribute
SHEILA SEILER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR GREATER EVANSVILLE AFFILIATE
At Age 25, Shock, Pain, and
Fear Came with Diagnosis
by Beverly Vote
S
heila Seiler was diagnosed with
breast cancer in 1990.
She was only 25 years old, and had recently
given birth to her fi rst son when she felt a lump
in her breast. At age 25, it really didn’t enter her mind
that it could be breast cancer. Yet Sheila and her doctor
monitored the lump carefully for a couple of months until
one morning there was a significant change - the lump
had become larger. After having a mammogram, ultrasound, and surgical biopsy, Sheila
was diagnosed with breast cancer.
She immediately was scheduled for
a modified radical mastectomy.
The Race for the Cure came to
her area in September 1998, and at
that time, Sheila wanted no part of
anything that was connected with
breast cancer, let alone a huge gathering of breast cancer survivors. She
felt so overwhelmed by the diagnosis
and the shock, pain, and fear that
came with being diagnosed at age
25 with breast cancer.
However, the following year,
Sheila went to the Komen Evansville
Race for the Cure by herself. Sheila
had always been painfully shy, yet
she started the Race by herself.
Moments into the survivor parade,
Sheila was overwhelmed with uncontrollable tears, and she pulled
her friend Judy from the sidelines
with her to finish. Her sobbing was
so overwhelming that Sheila could
barely stand. Following the Race,
Sheila called the local Race organizer Mary Beth Owen and thanked her for bringing the
Race to Evansville. She immediately signed up to become
a part of the Teams Committee because the experience
had impacted her so deeply.
Three years ago, Sheila left her full time position that
she dearly loved and accepted a part time position as
administrative assistant with the Evansville Affi liate.
Sheila was giving up a job working with at-risk children,
and giving up a job that had full health and retirement
benefits.
32
Breast cancer has taught Sheila how strong she is.
She overcame her shyness, went to college, and made a
personal proclamation that the message of being one’s
own health advocate and literally and figuratively taking
your life into your own hands is what we each must do.
Sheila regularly teaches Breast Self-Exams and speaks
about the importance of breast health to high school
students, women’s groups, local business organizations,
and even family reunions.
In November of 2006, Sheila Seiler was appointed the
Executive Director for the Susan G.
Komen for the Cure Greater Evansville Affi liate. “It is so important to
me that I reach as many people as I
can. Young or old, men or women,
it doesn’t matter. Everyone needs to
understand the importance of literally taking your breast health into
your own hands. If you don’t know
how to do a breast self-exam – I will
teach you. If you can’t remember
to do it – I will send you a monthly
email reminder. If you have questions or concerns – call me and
I will help you. My mother once
asked how could God do this to me
(referring to my breast cancer). I
say God has blessed me with an opportunity. What better way to reach
people than to have lived through it
yourself?”
The area in which Sheila lives
has a very high rate of breast cancer yet the fatality rate is very low.
When asked how this could be,
Sheila says it is due to the hard work
of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to
teach breast self-exams, get women screened regularly,
and fi nd breast cancers early. It’s summed up very simply – the best protection is early detection.
Sheila and her husband, Tim, have been married for
23 years. They have two sons, Austin, age 17 and Dillon, age 15, who are both active in football and baseball.
In her spare time, Sheila loves to relax at home with her
family, swim, and attend her sons’ sporting events. Occasionally, she spends time with her girlfriends at weekend getaways for scrapbook enthusiasts. n
Former First Lady Barbara Bush
“Through the years I have watched with heartache as loved ones have battled breast
cancer. Breast cancer is not fatal anymore as knowledge has proven to be a most powerful
Better education and early detection are direct results of the hard work
of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. I salute them on their 25th Anniversary
weapon.
and their S U C C E S S which has been key in giving our future generations
nothing less than a
legacy of life.”
– Barbara Bush
Missouri’s First Lady
Mrs. Melanie Blunt
Susan G. Komen for the Cure continues to play an
invaluable role in the fight against breast cancer.
Komen for the Cure’s support for breast cancer education, research, and patient services and its unwaivering
commitment to eradicating breast cancer as a life-threatening disease has made an impact on women too numerous to count.
Breast cancer touched my life personally, when as a
teenager I lost my mother to the disease. I appreciate the
selfless contributions that have made Komen for the Cure
what it is today and for the difference the organization
has made in my life and in the lives of so many others.
Standing with volunteers, survivors, family members
and supporters at any Komen for the Cure event, it is easy
to witness the spirit of hope that the organization has
come to embody. I congratulate Komen for the Cure on 25
years of impacting women’s health and raising awareness
about breast cancer!
I am honored to have participated in Susan G. Komen
Races for the Cure, legislative days, and educational outreach programs and look forward to the day, together, we
find a cure for breast cancer.
Related Bio information: Mrs. Blunt serves as honorary chair and spokesperson for Susan G. Komen for the
Cure, Mid-Missouri Affiliate. She led teams in both the
St. Louis and Kansas City Komen Race for the Cure and
participated in both the organization’s legislative day at
the Capitol and educational PSA’s. She is an advocate for
Women’s Health and Wellness and shares Komen for the
Cure’s commitment to finding a cure for breast cancer.
33
A Tribute
Mark Goldstein
Breast cancer survivor, Komen race for the Cure runner, 2003 yoplait Champion
and 2005 recipient of the Komen “Suzy Award”
I came to be involved with Susan G. Komen for the Cure by way of rejection. Not,
for a moment, believing that a man could develop breast cancer, I was diagnosed in
May, 1988 at age 55. My treatment included a modified radical mastectomy, followed
by chemotherapy and radiation. I soon realized that I could use the uniqueness of
breast cancer in men as a platform for heightening awareness and advocacy for all
people. Motivated by the restriction that a particular Race for the Cure® was “for
women only,” I started my fight for awareness. In 1992, I, and my family, signed up
and showed up, only to be told, “You can’t run, you’re a man!” We did anyway and I
haven’t stopped since.
Now, years later in 2007, as a member of the National “Honorary Team New Balance” and with the support from Susan G. Komen for the Cure, I have run in every
Komen Race (114) plus duplicates, for a total of 169 Races throughout the country
and internationally. My overriding motivation is the fulfi llment of the goal that men
should not die from breast cancer out of ignorance! And the realization that you survive the disease, but you, the individual, must conquer the emotions!
Not a day passes that I do not think of breast cancer. With the sponsorship of New
Balance Athletic Shoes and the wonderful reception from most of the Race for the
Cure locations, I plan my days, months and years around the opportunity to run in
as many Races as I can. As an extension to my running, I am a member of a number
of support groups and also make presentations focusing on awareness and attitude.
Who would have ever thought I would feel so good being “In the Pink?” Now, at age
74, I cannot describe how motivating it is to be a part of the single most uplifting organization in the arena of disease eradication and personal fulfi llment. How, in the
company of those wonderful, optimistic and defiant survivors can a person be more
elevated and fulfi lled? I am one of them.
Rakhi Dimino, M.D., OBGYN
34
Marci Shimoff
Co-author of Chicken Soup for the Woman’s Soul, author of Happy for no reason, featured teacher in the hit film, The Secret
I thank Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the thousands of compassionate and caring people across the
country who’ve helped us all, women and men, become
more aware of the importance of nurturing our health
and well-being. I appreciate the difference you’ve made
over the past 25 years within our communities and the
world in which we live.
Pati Slay, St. Louis
Celebrating 7 years cancer free and counting!
Susan G. Komen For The Cure is like a “pink thread”
bonding sister to sister, community to community;
throughout the world. As one pink thread, like one
promise, might seem weak, when multiplied one at a
time, we see its strength is abounding. Komen started
our pink thread providing awareness, education, promoting mammograms, embracing early detection, and
donating funds endorsing the latest treatment technology. Thank you Nancy Brinker for keeping one promise
that continues to make such a difference. Thank you!
Houston Affiliate Board of Directors Member
Jane Ali
I first learned about Susan G. Komen for the Cure when I was in high school
and started running Race for the Cure. Over the last 16 years, I have become
more and more involved. I started volunteering on the day of the Race, then by
helping with registration for the Race. Before I knew I was helping in many more
ways. In the process, I went to medical school and eventually became an OBGYN. Now everyday, I do breast exams on women and teach them about how to
do their own exams and when to get mammograms. Unfortunately, sometimes
I’m the one to tell them they have a breast cancer. As my career developed, so
have my activities with Komen for the Cure. Now, I give presentations to new
volunteers about breast cancer so that they can go out in the community and
teach more women. I am also on the Board of Directors for the Komen Houston
Affiliate. And of course, I am still very involved with the Race!
I volunteer with Susan G. Komen for the Cure because I believe that we really have made a difference in the last 25 years. The number of women getting
mammograms has increased, the survival rate from breast cancer is much better, and the treatments have improved dramatically. I believe that this is a fight
that we can win, and that someday soon we will find a cure. In the meantime,
we can fund research toward this goal, and help women get the screening they
need for early detection. Komen for the Cure has made a difference in my life,
because everyday in my job I teach women about their breast health. When I
first learned about Komen, I was in high school. Now, I am an OBGYN taking
care of women everyday, and helping them keep their bodies healthy.
Thank you Susan G. Komen for the Cure!
What a journey we have been on together. I was diagnosed in April 2005. I found the lump in my breast while
exercising. After the doctor visits and deciding on what
treatments you’re going to do, the next thing you do is
go online and find out as much information as you can.
Komen.org is so informative and answered so many questions for me. Everything they do is top notch. You have
inspired and educated so many people. When I read the
Komen story I wanted top notch treatment and I wanted
answers to my questions. I didn’t rely on one person telling me what to do. All of this was from Suzy’s story and
what happened to her. My mother had breast cancer and
a mastectomy and she just listened to her local doctor
and did not seek other opinions. From all the research
you have done, we know to research everything, ask questions and don’t be intimidated by doctors and surgeons.
I appreciate all you are doing for the cause. Keep up the
good work.
Marathon of Miracles Foundation, Santa Monica, CA
www.eclipsesports.com
35
ng
Readi
a good boo k
Hu
Lunc h with a friend
ggin
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the park
n
i
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A
When fighting metastatic breast cancer...*
little things count
In a clinical trial, the tumor response rate was nearly
double for patients who received ABRAXANE.1†
Only ABRAXANE combines proven chemotherapy,
paclitaxel, with albumin—a very small protein
that could make a big difference.
ABRAXANE uses albumin, a human protein, to
deliver the chemotherapy. It does not contain
chemical solvents, like cremophor. This eliminates
the need for premedication with steroids or
antihistamines for hypersensitivity reactions
caused by these solvents. Plus, since ABRAXANE
is administered in just 30 minutes (compared to
3 hours for solvent-based paclitaxel), you’ll have
more free time to spend enjoying the little things
that really matter.
1.ABRAXANE [prescribing information]. Los Angeles, CA: Abraxis Oncology,
a Division of Abraxis BioScience, Inc; May 2007.
† Compared to those who received solvent-based paclitaxel.
36
*ABRAXANE is indicated for the treatment of breast cancer
after failure of combination chemotherapy for metastatic
disease or relapse within 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy.
Prior therapy should have included an anthracycline unless
clinically contraindicated.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
One of the more important side effects associated with
chemotherapy is neutropenia, which is a decrease in the number
of infection-fighting white blood cells (neutrophils). Normal levels
range from approximately 1,500 cells/mm3 to 1,800 cells/mm3
(but vary according to several factors, such as age and race).
If levels fall below 500 cells/mm,3 your risk of developing an
infection increases and treatment may be interrupted. To avoid
the risk of serious infection and fever, your doctor will monitor
your absolute neutrophil count (ANC) during therapy.
Women should avoid becoming pregnant while being treated
with ABRAXANE. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, if you
become pregnant, or you plan to become pregnant while taking
ABRAXANE. Discuss with your doctor how ABRAXANE may
affect fertility. Nursing a baby while taking ABRAXANE is not
recommended because the drug may be present in breast milk.
The most important adverse events included lower white and red
blood cell counts, infections, tingling and numbness, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, muscle and joint aches, and mouth sores.
Other adverse reactions included weakness, visual disturbances,
fluid retention, hair loss, and liver and kidney dysfunction. Low
platelet counts, allergic reactions (which in rare cases were
severe), cardiovascular reactions, and injection site reactions
were uncommon.
FIGHT THE CANCER, NOT THE TREATMENT
®
Sensory neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or burning in the
hands and feet) can occur with ABRAXANE and other paclitaxel
medications. Severe sensory neuropathy can improve with proper
management, as prescribed by your doctor. You should tell your
nurse or doctor if you experience numbness, tingling, or burning
in your hands or feet while taking ABRAXANE.
Please talk to your doctor or nurse if you have questions
regarding the potential side effects of ABRAXANE therapy. You
may want to review the Product Information, including Warnings,
Precautions, and Contraindications, on the adjacent page.
Copyright © 2007 Abraxis BioScience, Inc. and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. All Rights Reserved.
Visit abraxane.com or talk with your doctor
to learn if ABRAXANE is right for you.
ABRAXANE is marketed under a co-promotion agreement
between Abraxis BioScience, Inc. and AstraZeneca.
Abraxis Oncology is a division of Abraxis BioScience, Inc.
All Abraxis BioScience, Inc. corporate names, names of services, and
names of products referred to herein are trade names, service marks
and/or trademarks that are owned by or licensed to Abraxis BioScience,
its divisions or its affiliates, unless otherwise noted.
AO-500/250891 6/07
37
®
Rx Only
Table 1: Frequencya of Important Treatment Emergent Adverse Events
in the Randomized Study on an Every-3-Weeks Schedule
(Continued)
Percent of Patients
ABRAXANE
Paclitaxel Injection
260/30minb
175/3hc,d
(n=229)
(n=225)
Brief Summary of Full Prescribing Information.
WARNING
ABRAXANE for Injectable Suspension (paclitaxel protein-bound particles for injectable
suspension) should be administered under the supervision of a physician experienced in
the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Appropriate management of complications
is possible only when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available.
ABRAXANE therapy should not be administered to patients with metastatic breast
cancer who have baseline neutrophil counts of less than 1,500 cells/mm3. In order to
monitor the occurrence of bone marrow suppression, primarily neutropenia, which may
be severe and result in infection, it is recommended that frequent peripheral blood cell
counts be performed on all patients receiving ABRAXANE.
Note: An albumin form of paclitaxel may substantially affect a drug’s functional
properties relative to those of drug in solution. DO NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR OR WITH OTHER
PACLITAXEL FORMULATIONS.
INDICATION:
ABRAXANE for Injectable Suspension (paclitaxel protein-bound particles for injectable suspension) is indicated for
the treatment of breast cancer after failure of combination chemotherapy for metastatic disease or relapse within
6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy. Prior therapy should have included an anthracycline unless clinically
contraindicated.
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
ABRAXANE should not be used in patients who have baseline neutrophil counts of <1,500 cells/mm3.
WARNINGS:
Bone marrow suppression (primarily neutropenia) is dose dependent and a dose limiting toxicity. ABRAXANE
should not be administered to patients with baseline neutrophil counts of <1,500 cells/mm3. Frequent monitoring
of blood counts should be instituted during ABRAXANE treatment. Patients should not be retreated with
subsequent cycles of ABRAXANE until neutrophils recover to a level >1,500 cells/mm3 and platelets recover
to a level >100,000 cells/mm3.
The use of ABRAXANE has not been studied in patients with hepatic or renal dysfunction. In the randomized
controlled trial, patients were excluded for baseline serum bilirubin >1.5 mg/dL or baseline serum creatinine >2
mg/dL.
Pregnancy – Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category D
ABRAXANE can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Administration of paclitaxel
protein-bound particles to rats on gestation days 7 to 17 at doses of 6 mg/m2 (approximately 2% of the daily
maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m2 basis) caused embryo- and fetotoxicity, as indicated by
intrauterine mortality, increased resorptions (up to 5-fold), reduced numbers of litters and live fetuses, reduction
in fetal body weight and increase in fetal anomalies. Fetal anomalies included soft tissue and skeletal
malformations, such as eye bulge, folded retina, microphthalmia, and dilation of brain ventricles. A lower
incidence of soft tissue and skeletal malformations were also exhibited at 3 mg/m2 (approximately 1% of the
daily maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m2 basis).
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women using ABRAXANE. If this drug
is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while receiving this drug, the patient should
be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid
becoming pregnant while receiving treatment with ABRAXANE.
Use in Males
Men should be advised to not father a child while receiving treatment with ABRAXANE (see PRECAUTIONS:
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility for discussion of effects of ABRAXANE exposure
on male fertility and embryonic viability).
Albumin (Human)
ABRAXANE contains albumin (human), a derivative of human blood. Based on effective donor screening
and product manufacturing processes, it carries an extremely remote risk for transmission of viral diseases. A
theoretical risk for transmission of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) also is considered extremely remote. No
cases of transmission of viral diseases or CJD have ever been identified for albumin.
PRECAUTIONS:
Drug Interactions
No drug interaction studies have been conducted with ABRAXANE.
The metabolism of paclitaxel is catalyzed by CYP2C8 and CYP3A4. In the absence of formal clinical drug
interaction studies, caution should be exercised when administering ABRAXANE (paclitaxel protein-bound particles
for injectable suspension) concomitantly with known substrates or inhibitors of CYP2C8 and CYP3A4 (see
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Potential interactions between paclitaxel, a substrate of CYP3A4, and protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir,
saquinavir, indinavir, and nelfinavir), which are substrates and/or inhibitors of CYP3A4, have not been evaluated
in clinical trials.
Hematology
ABRAXANE therapy should not be administered to patients with baseline neutrophil counts of less than 1,500
cells/mm3. In order to monitor the occurrence of myelotoxicity, it is recommended that frequent peripheral blood
cell counts be performed on all patients receiving ABRAXANE. Patients should not be retreated with subsequent
cycles of ABRAXANE until neutrophils recover to a level >1,500 cells/mm3 and platelets recover to a level
>100,000 cells/mm3. In the case of severe neutropenia (<500 cells/mm3 for seven days or more) during
a course of ABRAXANE therapy, a dose reduction for subsequent courses of therapy is recommended (see
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Nervous System
Sensory neuropathy occurs frequently with ABRAXANE. The occurrence of grade 1 or 2 sensory neuropathy
does not generally require dose modification. If grade 3 sensory neuropathy develops, treatment should be
withheld until resolution to grade 1 or 2 followed by a dose reduction for all subsequent courses of ABRAXANE
(see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Injection Site Reaction
Injection site reactions occur infrequently with ABRAXANE and were mild in the randomized clinical trial. Given
the possibility of extravasation, it is advisable to closely monitor the infusion site for possible infiltration during
drug administration.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
The carcinogenic potential of ABRAXANE has not been studied.
Paclitaxel has been shown to be clastogenic in vitro (chromosome aberrations in human lymphocytes) and
in vivo (micronucleus test in mice). ABRAXANE was not mutagenic in the Ames test or the CHO/HGPRT gene
mutation assay.
Administration of paclitaxel protein-bound particles to male rats at 42 mg/m2 on a weekly basis
(approximately 16% of the daily maximum recommended human exposure on a mg/m2 basis) for 11 weeks
prior to mating with untreated female rats resulted in significantly reduced fertility accompanied by decreased
pregnancy rates and increased loss of embryos in mated females. A low incidence of skeletal and soft tissue
fetal anomalies was also observed at doses of 3 and 12 mg/m2/week in this study (approximately 1% to 5% of
the daily maximum recommended human exposure on a mg/m2 basis). Testicular atrophy/degeneration has also
been observed in single-dose toxicology studies in rodents administered paclitaxel protein-bound particles at 54
mg/m2 and dogs administered 175 mg/m2 (see WARNINGS).
Pregnancy – Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category D
(See WARNINGS section).
Nursing Mothers
It is not known whether paclitaxel is excreted in human milk. Following intravenous administration of carbon-14
labeled paclitaxel to rats on days 9 to 10 postpartum, concentrations of radioactivity in milk were higher than
in plasma and declined in parallel with the plasma concentrations. Because many drugs are excreted in human
milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, it is recommended that nursing
be discontinued when receiving ABRAXANE therapy.
Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of ABRAXANE in pediatric patients have not been evaluated.
Geriatric Use
Of the 229 patients in the randomized study who received ABRAXANE, 11% were at least 65 years of age
and <2% were 75 years or older. No toxicities occurred notably more frequently among elderly patients who
received ABRAXANE.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
The following table shows the frequency of important adverse events in the randomized comparative trial for
the patients who received either single-agent ABRAXANE or paclitaxel injection for the treatment of metastatic
breast cancer.
Table 1: Frequencya of Important Treatment Emergent Adverse Events
in the Randomized Study on an Every-3-Weeks Schedule
Percent of Patients
ABRAXANE
Paclitaxel Injection
260/30minb
175/3hc,d
(n=229)
(n=225)
Bone Marrow
Neutropenia
< 2.0 x 109/L
< 0.5 x 109/L
Thrombocytopenia
< 100 x 109/L
< 50 x 109/L
Anemia
< 11 g/dL
< 8 g/dL
Infections
Febrile Neutropenia
Bleeding
38
80
9
82
22
2
<1
3
<1
33
1
24
2
2
25
<1
20
1
2
(Continued)
Hypersensitivity Reactione
All
4
12
Severef
0
2
Cardiovascular
Vital Sign Changesg
Bradycardia
<1
<1
Hypotension
5
5
3
4
Severe Cardiovascular Eventsf
Abnormal ECG
All patients
60
52
Patients with Normal Baseline
35
30
Respiratory
Cough
7
6
Dyspnea
12
9
Sensory Neuropathy
Any Symptoms
71
56
f
Severe Symptoms
10
2
Myalgia/Arthralgia
Any Symptoms
44
49
Severe Symptomsf
8
4
Asthenia
Any Symptoms
47
39
Severe Symptomsf
8
3
Fluid Retention/Edema
Any Symptoms
10
8
f
Severe Symptoms
0
<1
Gastrointestinal
Nausea
Any symptoms
30
22
3
<1
Severe symptomsf
Vomiting
Any symptoms
18
10
4
1
Severe Symptomsf
Diarrhea
Any Symptoms
27
15
Severe Symptomsf
<1
1
Mucositis
Any Symptoms
7
6
Severe Symptomsf
<1
0
Alopecia
90
94
Hepatic
(Patients with Normal Baseline)
Bilirubin Elevations
7
7
Alkaline Phosphatase Elevations
36
31
AST (SGOT) Elevations
39
32
<1
1
a
Based on worst grade
b
ABRAXANE dose in mg/m2/duration in minutes
c
paclitaxel injection dose in mg/m2/duration in hours
d
paclitaxel injection pts received premedication
e
Includes treatment-related events related to hypersensitivity (e.g., flushing, dyspnea, chest
pain, hypotension) that began on a day of dosing.
f
Severe events are defined as at least grade 3 toxicity
g
During study drug dosing.
Myelosuppression and sensory neuropathy were dose related.
Adverse Event Experiences by Body System
Unless otherwise noted, the following discussion refers to the primary safety database of 229 patients with
metastatic breast cancer treated with single-agent ABRAXANE in the randomized controlled trial. The
frequency and severity of important adverse events for the study are presented above in tabular form. In some
instances, rare severe events observed with paclitaxel injection may be expected to occur with ABRAXANE.
Hematologic
Neutropenia, the most important hematologic toxicity, was dose dependent and reversible. Among patients
with metastatic breast cancer in the randomized trial, neutrophil counts declined below 500 cells/mm3 (Grade
4) in 9% of the patients treated with a dose of 260 mg/m2 compared to 22% in patients receiving paclitaxel
injection at a dose of 175 mg/m2.
In the randomized metastatic breast cancer study, infectious episodes were reported in 24% of the patients
treated with a dose of 260 mg/m2 given as a 30-minute infusion. Oral candidiasis, respiratory tract infections
and pneumonia were the most frequently reported infectious complications. Febrile neutropenia was reported in
2% of patients in the ABRAXANE arm and 1% of patients in the paclitaxel injection arm.
Thrombocytopenia was uncommon. In the randomized metastatic breast cancer study, bleeding episodes
were reported in 2% of the patients in each treatment arm.
Anemia (Hb <11 g/dL) was observed in 33% of patients treated with ABRAXANE in the randomized trial
and was severe (Hb <8 g/dL) in 1% of the cases. Among all patients with normal baseline hemoglobin, 31%
became anemic on study and 1% had severe anemia.
Hypersensitivity Reactions (HSRs)
In the randomized controlled metastatic breast cancer study, Grade 1 or 2 HSRs occurred on the day of
ABRAXANE administration and consisted of dyspnea (1%) and flushing, hypotension, chest pain, and arrhythmia
(all <1%). The use of ABRAXANE in patients previously exhibiting hypersensitivity to paclitaxel injection or human
albumin has not been studied.
During postmarketing surveillance, rare occurrences of severe hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with
ABRAXANE. The use of ABRAXANE in patients previously exhibiting hypersensitivity to paclitaxel injection or human albumin
has not been studied. Patients who experience a severe hypersensitivity reaction to ABRAXANE should not be rechallenged
with the drug.
Cardiovascular
Hypotension, during the 30-minute infusion, occurred in 5% of patients in the randomized metastatic breast
cancer trial. Bradycardia, during the 30-minute infusion, occurred in <1% of patients. These vital sign changes
most often caused no symptoms and required neither specific therapy nor treatment discontinuation.
Severe cardiovascular events possibly related to single-agent ABRAXANE occurred in approximately 3%
of patients in the randomized trial. These events included chest pain, cardiac arrest, supraventricular tachycardia,
edema,thrombosis, pulmonary thromboembolism, pulmonary emboli, and hypertension. Cases of cerebrovascular
attacks (strokes) and transient ischemic attacks have been reported rarely.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities were common among patients at baseline. ECG abnormalities on
study did not usually result in symptoms, were not dose-limiting, and required no intervention. ECG abnormalities
were noted in 60% of patients in the metastatic breast cancer randomized trial. Among patients with a normal
ECG prior to study entry, 35% of all patients developed an abnormal tracing while on study. The most frequently
reported ECG modifications were non-specific repolarization abnormalities, sinus bradycardia, and sinus
tachycardia.
Respiratory
Reports of dyspnea (12%) and cough (6%) were reported after treatment with ABRAXANE in the randomized
trial. Rare reports (<1%) of pneumothorax were reported after treatment with ABRAXANE. Rare reports of
interstitial pneumonia, lung fibrosis, and pulmonary embolism have been received as part of the continuing
surveillance of paclitaxel injection safety and may occur following ABRAXANE treatment. Rare reports of radiation
pneumonitis have been received in paclitaxel injection patients receiving concurrent radiotherapy. There is no
experience with the use of ABRAXANE with concurrent radiotherapy.
Neurologic
The frequency and severity of neurologic manifestations were influenced by prior and/or concomitant therapy
with neurotoxic agents.
In general, the frequency and severity of neurologic manifestations were dose-dependent in patients
receiving single-agent ABRAXANE. In the randomized trial, sensory neuropathy was observed in 71% of
patients (10% severe) in the ABRAXANE arm and in 56% of patients (2% severe) in the paclitaxel injection
arm. The frequency of sensory neuropathy increased with cumulative dose. Sensory neuropathy was the cause
of ABRAXANE discontinuation in 7/229 (3%) patients in the randomized trial. In the randomized comparative
study, 24 patients (10%) treated with ABRAXANE developed Grade 3 peripheral neuropathy; of these patients,
14 had documented improvement after a median of 22 days; 10 patients resumed treatment at a reduced
dose of ABRAXANE and 2 discontinued due to peripheral neuropathy. Of the 10 patients without documented
improvement, 4 discontinued the study due to peripheral neuropathy.
No incidences of grade 4 sensory neuropathies were reported in the clinical trial. Only one incident of motor
neuropathy (grade 2) was observed in either arm of the controlled trial.
Reports of autonomic neuropathy resulting in paralytic ileus have been received as part of the continuing
surveillance of paclitaxel injection safety.
Cranial nerve palsies have been reported during postmarketing surveillance of ABRAXANE. Because these
events have been reported during clinical practice, true estimates of frequency cannot be made and a causal
relationship to the events has not been established.
Ocular/visual disturbances occurred in 13% of all patients (n=366) treated with ABRAXANE in single arm
and randomized trials and 1% were severe. The severe cases (keratitis and blurred vision) were reported in
patients in a single arm study who received higher doses than those recommended (300 or 375 mg/m2). These
effects generally have been reversible. However, rare reports in the literature of abnormal visual evoked potentials
in patients treated with paclitaxel injection have suggested persistent optic nerve damage.
Arthralgia/Myalgia
Forty-four percent of patients treated in the randomized trial experienced arthralgia/myalgia; 8% experienced
severe symptoms. The symptoms were usually transient, occurred two or three days after ABRAXANE
administration, and resolved within a few days.
Hepatic
Among patients with normal baseline liver function treated with ABRAXANE in the randomized trial, 7%, 36%,
and 39% had elevations in bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and AST (SGOT), respectively. Grade 3 or 4 elevations
in GGT were reported for 14% of patients treated with ABRAXANE and 10% of patients treated with paclitaxel
injection in the randomized trial.
Rare reports of hepatic necrosis and hepatic encephalopathy leading to death have been received as part
of the continuing surveillance of paclitaxel injection safety and may occur following ABRAXANE treatment.
Renal
Overall 11% of patients experienced creatinine elevation, 1% severe. No discontinuations, dose reductions, or
dose delays were caused by renal toxicities.
Gastrointestinal (GI)
Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, and mucositis were reported by 33%, 27%, and 7% of ABRAXANE treated patients
in the randomized trial.
Rare reports of intestinal obstruction, intestinal perforation, pancreatitis, and ischemic colitis have been
received as part of the continuing surveillance of paclitaxel injection safety and may occur following
ABRAXANE treatment. Rare reports of neutropenic enterocolitis (typhlitis), despite the coadministration of
G-CSF, were observed in patients treated with paclitaxel injection alone and in combination with other
chemotherapeutic agents.
Injection site reactions have occurred infrequently with ABRAXANE and were mild in the randomized clinical trial.
Recurrence of skin reactions at a site of previous extravasation following administration of paclitaxel injection at
a different site, i.e., “recall”, has been reported rarely.
Rare reports of more severe events such as phlebitis, cellulitis, induration, skin exfoliation, necrosis, and fibrosis
have been received as part of the continuing surveillance of paclitaxel injection safety. In some cases the onset
of the injection site reaction in paclitaxel injection patients either occurred during a prolonged infusion or was
delayed by a week to ten days.
Given the possibility of extravasation, it is advisable to closely monitor the infusion site for possible infiltration
during drug administration.
Asthenia
Asthenia was reported in 47% of patients (8% severe) treated with ABRAXANE in the randomized trial. Asthenia
included reports of asthenia, fatigue, weakness, lethargy and malaise.
Other Clinical Events
Rare cases of cardiac ischemia/infarction and thrombosis/embolism possibly related to ABRAXANE treatment
have been reported. Alopecia was observed in almost all of the patients. Nail changes (changes in pigmentation
or discoloration of nail bed) were uncommon. Edema (fluid retention) was infrequent (10% of randomized trial
patients); no patients had severe edema.
The following rare adverse events have been reported as part of the continuing surveillance of paclitaxel
injection safety and may occur following ABRAXANE treatment: skin abnormalities related to radiation recall as
well as reports of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, conjunctivitis, and increased
lacrimation. As part of the continuing surveillance of ABRAXANE, skin reactions including generalized or
maculo-papular rash, erythema, and pruritis have been observed. Additionally, there have been case reports of
photosensitivity reactions, radiation recall phenomenon, and in some patients previously exposed to
capecitabine, reports of palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesiae. Because these events have been reported during
clinical practice, true estimates of frequency cannot be made and a causal relationship to the events has not
been established.
Accidental Exposure
No reports of accidental exposure to ABRAXANE have been received. However, upon inhalation of paclitaxel,
dyspnea, chest pain, burning eyes, sore throat, and nausea have been reported. Following topical exposure,
events have included tingling, burning, and redness.
OVERDOSAGE:
There is no known antidote for ABRAXANE overdosage. The primary anticipated complications of overdosage
would consist of bone marrow suppression, sensory neurotoxicity, and mucositis.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
After failure of combination chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer or relapse within 6 months of adjuvant
chemotherapy, the recommended regimen for ABRAXANE for Injectable Suspension (paclitaxel protein-bound
particles for injectable suspension) is 260 mg/m2 administered intravenously over 30 minutes every 3 weeks.
Hepatic Impairment
The appropriate dose of ABRAXANE for patients with bilirubin greater than 1.5 mg/dL is not known.
Dose Reduction
Patients who experience severe neutropenia (neutrophil <500 cells/mm3 for a week or longer) or severe sensory
neuropathy during ABRAXANE therapy should have dosage reduced to 220 mg/m2 for subsequent courses of
ABRAXANE. For recurrence of severe neutropenia or severe sensory neuropathy, additional dose reduction
should be made to 180 mg/m2. For grade 3 sensory neuropathy hold treatment until resolution to grade 1 or 2,
followed by a dose reduction for all subsequent courses of ABRAXANE.
Preparation and Administration Precautions
ABRAXANE is a cytotoxic anticancer drug and, as with other potentially toxic paclitaxel compounds, caution
should be exercised in handling ABRAXANE. The use of gloves is recommended. If ABRAXANE (lyophilized cake
or reconstituted suspension) contacts the skin, wash the skin immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
Following topical exposure to paclitaxel, events may include tingling, burning and redness. If ABRAXANE
contacts mucous membranes, the membranes should be flushed thoroughly with water.
Given the possibility of extravasation, it is advisable to closely monitor the infusion site for possible infiltration
during drug administration. Limiting the infusion of ABRAXANE to 30 minutes, as directed, reduces the likelihood
of infusion-related reactions (see PRECAUTIONS: Injection Site Reaction).
No premedication to prevent hypersensitivity reactions is required prior to administration of ABRAXANE.
Preparation for Intravenous Administration
ABRAXANE is supplied as a sterile lyophilized powder for reconstitution before use. AVOID ERRORS, READ
ENTIRE PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS PRIOR TO RECONSTITUTION.
Each mL of the reconstituted formulation will contain 5 mg/mL paclitaxel.
1. Aseptically, reconstitute each vial by injecting 20 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride
Injection, USP.
2. Slowly inject the 20 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, over minimum of 1
minute, using the sterile syringe to direct the solution flow onto the INSIDE WALL OF
THE VIAL.
3. DO NOT INJECT the 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, directly onto the
lyophilized cake as this will result in foaming.
4. Once the injection is complete, allow the vial to sit for a minimum of 5 minutes to ensure proper wetting of
the lyophilized cake/powder.
5. Gently swirl and/or invert the vial slowly for at least 2 minutes until complete dissolution of any cake/powder
occurs. Avoid generation of foam.
6. If foaming or clumping occurs, stand solution for at least 15 minutes until foam subsides.
Calculate the exact total dosing volume of 5 mg/mL suspension required for the patient: Dosing volume
(mL) = Total dose (mg)/5 (mg/mL).
The reconstituted suspension should be milky and homogenous without visible particulates. If particulates
or settling are visible, the vial should be gently inverted again to ensure complete resuspension prior to use.
Discard the reconstituted suspension if precipitates are observed. Discard any unused portion.
Inject the appropriate amount of reconstituted ABRAXANE into an empty, sterile IV bag (plasticized polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) containers, PVC or non PVC type IV bag). The use of specialized DEHP-free solution containers or
administration sets is not necessary to prepare or administer ABRAXANE infusions. The use of an in-line filter is
not recommended.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to
administration whenever solution and container permit.
Stability
Unopened vials of ABRAXANE are stable until the date indicated on the package when stored between 20°C to 25°C
(68°F to 77°F), in the original package. Neither freezing nor refrigeration adversely affects the stability of the product.
Stability of Reconstituted Suspension in the Vial
Reconstituted ABRAXANE should be used immediately, but may be refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) for
a maximum of 8 hours if necessary. If not used immediately, each vial of reconstituted suspension should be
replaced in the original carton to protect it from bright light. Discard any unused portion.
Stability of Reconstituted Suspension in the Infusion Bag
The suspension for infusion prepared as recommended in an infusion bag should be used immediately, but may
be stored at ambient temperature (approximately 25°C) and lighting conditions for up to 8 hours.
HOW SUPPLIED:
Product
NDC
No.
No.
103450
68817-134-50
100 mg of paclitaxel in a single use vial, individually packaged in a carton.
Storage
Store the vials in original cartons at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Retain in the original package to protect from
bright light.
Handling and Disposal
Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer drugs should be considered. Several guidelines on this
subject have been published.1-8 There is no general agreement that all of the procedures recommended in the
guidelines are necessary or appropriate.
U.S. Patent Numbers: 5,439,686; 5,498,421; 6,096,331; 6,506,405; 6,537,579; 6,749,868;
6,753,006
REFERENCES:
1. Recommendations for the Safe Handling of Parenteral Antineoplastic Drugs. Publication No. 83-2621. For sale by the
Superintendent of Documents, US Government NIH Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
2. AMA Council Report. Guidelines for Handling Parenteral Antineoplastics. JAMA, 1985; 253(11):1590-1592.
3. National Study Commission on Cytotoxic Exposure Recommendations for Handling Cytotoxic Agents. Available from
Louis R Jeffrey, ScD, Chairman, National Study Commission on Cytotoxic Exposure. Massachusetts College of
Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences. 179 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115.
4. Clinical Oncology Society of Australia. Guidelines and Recommendations for Safe Handling of Antineoplastic Agents.
Med J Australia, 1983; 1:426-428.
5. Jones RB, et al: Safe Handling of Chemotherapeutic Agents: A Report from the Mount Sinai Medical Center. CA-A
Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 1983; (Sept/Oct) 258-263.
6. American Society of Hospital Pharmacists Technical Assistance Bulletin on Handling Cytotoxic and Hazardous Drugs.
Am J Hosp Pharm, 1990; 47:1033-1049.
7. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. (OSHA WORK-PRACTICE GUIDELINES.) Am J Health-Syst
Pharm, 1996; 53:1669-1686.
8. ONS Clinical Practice Committee. Cancer Chemotherapy Guidelines and Recommendations for Practice. Pittsburgh,
Pa: Oncology Nursing Society; 1999:32-41.
ABRAXANE is marketed under a co-promotion agreement between Abraxis BioScience, Inc. and AstraZeneca.
Copyright © 2007 Abraxis BioScience, Inc. and
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. All Rights Reserved.
AO-502/250892 05/07
Falling Into a Routine
‘fresh start’ in that role?
This is the perfect time of year to
redesign your caregiver role. Just as
the children are beginning a new experience of learning time management as
they go from class to class, so too can
you as you go from task to task. Here’s
how:
1. Take ten minutes to journal what’s
by Ann Leach
3. Call a family meeting and share
your list with those who care about
you. Remember, ‘family’ can also
include good friends who want to
support you and not just those
blood relatives. Ask for their help
and suggestions for solutions to the
parts of caregiving that you are tiring of.
not working in your role as a caregiver. You might write something
like ‘I don’t like always having to
pick up the medication at a pharmacy that’s so far from home,’ or
‘it bothers me that well-meaning
friends call at night, just as I am
getting mom/grandma/sister/aunt/
wife ready for bed.’
4. Create a gentle timeline. For those
2. Take another ten minutes to review
on your calendar. Just fifteen
minutes to sit on the porch or read
a chapter in a good book can do
wonders to restore your soul.
It happens every year about this
time: children are settling into a new
school year, their mothers cherishing a
quiet day at work or at home, without
the distraction of how to entertain the
kids during the long summer days.
As caregivers, your days may have
a totally different routine that includes
doctor appointments, trips to the pharmacy and the library to copy insurance
forms and other documents for your
patient. Or perhaps that routine must
simply be inserted into an already full
day of responsibilities.
The fall months bring a melancholy
all their own, especially with the turning of the leaves and the crispness of
the temperature. We anticipate a new
beginning; a fresh start.
So how do you as a caregiver get a
the list and circle the ones you
have some control over and write
out their solution. For example,
‘driving across town for medication’
could turn into ‘call to transfer
the prescriptions to the pharmacy
down the street’ and ‘well-meaning
friends calling at bed time’ could
be solved by asking people to call
between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
nightly.
changes that are yours to make,
set a time to begin and record the
actions on your calendar. Do not
overwhelm yourself by attempting
to make a number of changes at
once, instead, introduce one new
change every week.
5. Be sure to include some ‘me’ time
Fall is a time of new beginnings
and new routines. Let this time work
on your behalf as you evaluate your
many ways of caring for your loved one
and for yourself.
Let me know how you’re doing!
Email me at [email protected]. n
Ann Leach
Not quite sure how to follow these tips on a regular basis? Contact Ann at ann@
annleach.net for further support.
Helping caregivers chart their course
through the waves of change
Visit
www.life-preservers.org to purchase your copy of
101 Tips for Caregiver Coping & 101 Tips for Caregiver Grieving
By Ann Leach, The Caregiver Coach
Need coaching support or a conference speaker?
Contact Ann at 417.624.3377
Breast Cancer Wellness Readers –
Take
$1 off the purchase price!
39
Give Back Before You Give Up
mfort
ng voice of co lt
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ea
h
’s
st
Jo
difcu
Let Dr.
ugh the most
help you thro healing journey!
times of your
I
by Christine Clifford Beckwith, CSP
I was diagnosed with breast cancer
at the age of 40 in December of 1994.
By May of ’95, I was deep in the heart
of treatments. A friend talked me into
participating in something called “The
Race for the Cure” on Mother’s Day in
Minneapolis where I live.
I remember that day as if it were
yesterday. Handed a bright pink t-shirt
and a hat to cover my bald head at
registration, I felt rather conspicuous
until I looked around and saw others
wearing the same t-shirt and cap. Two
thousand people ran in that race that
day, and when they summonsed the
survivors for a group photograph, I felt
overwhelmed when I was joined by 200
women.
This year’s Race in Minneapolis
had over 40,000 participants and over
4,000 breast cancer survivors. The
Race and the Susan G. Komen Foundation helped bring cancer out of the
closet. To this day, I can’t participate
in a Race without my eyes filling with
tears, remembering how they helped
me feel like I wasn’t alone.
I made two promises to myself
twelve years ago when I was diagnosed
with breast cancer: If I lived, I wanted
to find something in my life that would
bring me meaning, help other people,
and continue to generate income for
my family. I found that gift by starting
my company, The Cancer Club. Today,
with our Prayer List, free eNewsletter,
gifts for cancer patients, articles, references and more, our little company
has helped hundreds of thousands of
people worldwide find humor and hope
in their own personal journey.
My second promise was if I found
that “meaning in my life”, I would do
whatever I could to help the world find
the cure for cancer.
An avid golfer, with many connections throughout the golf industry as
well as in my professional life, I knew
I could convey the passion and drive
necessary to run a successful fundraising event. My expectation was,
with the love and support of family,
friends, and the community, we could
make a difference. I never dreamed, as
a team of concerned corporations and
individuals, that we would “blow them
out of the water”. In five years our
event has raised over $1,000,000 for
breast cancer research. Don’t wait until catastrophe strikes your life before
you make a decision to give something
back. The rewards you will receive
from the accomplishments of making a
difference will far exceed other awards
in your life. n
–Sam Walton
Christine Clifford Beckwith, CSP
Christine Clifford Beckwith, Professional Speaker, is President/CEO of The Cancer Club,
a company designed to sell humorous and helpful products for people with cancer.
She is the author of five books including Not Now... I’m Having a No Hair Day and
Cancer Has it’s Privileges: Stories of Hope & Laughter. You can reach Christine at 952-9440639, email her at: [email protected] or visit her website at: www.cancerclub.
com and register for a free monthly eNewsletter. Don’t forget to laugh!™
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Wear Your Bras and the Clothing
You Love With Confidence
by Beth Hohl
In a perfect world everything would
be symmetric. As most know, we don’t
live in a perfect world, and everything
is not symmetric. Women who have
had breast conserving surgery or
reconstruction may know this better than anyone. The left side may be
slightly different than the right or visaversa. Sometimes there is a noticeable
difference. In this case, even the best
fitting bra may not be enough to create
the visual symmetry for your desired
natural looking contour. To meet this
need, Amoena has designed special
symmetry shapers so that women can
look their best in their clothes at all
times.
Symmetry shapers are great for after lumpectomy, multiple biopsies, and
reconstruction, to balance naturally
uneven breasts, to offset imbalance
that results from the natural aging
process, as an enhancer during reconstruction or when plastic surgery is not
an option. We have even designed them
with an attachable adhesive if you wish
to wear strapless tops or dresses. Some
Balance Symmetry Shapers
For women who have undergone breast
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just where a woman needs it most.
42
shapers are designed to fill the whole
cup, while others are made to be a
fill-in for missing breast tissue. These
shapers are comfortable, lightweight,
and inexpensive, and the best part is
now you can wear the bras and clothing styles you love with confidence.
The true test to see if you are truly
symmetric…try on your favorite bra
with a sweater and take a good look in
the mirror. Sweaters are great for this
test because they usually ‘cling’ to the
body and provide a realistic view. You
will notice immediately whether there
are any symmetry issues. Obviously
the key to this test is wearing the right
size bra and that it fits well. A good
fitting bra hugs the chest and provides
separation without gaping. The cup
should fit smoothly and completely
cover the breast. The straps should fit
snugly without cutting into the shoulders and sides. You should be able to
get two fingers side-by-side under the
strap. If you see a difference in your
symmetry, you might then consider a
symmetry shaper designed to give you
balance where you need it most.
Amoena is the world’s leader for
knowing how to fit women properly after breast cancer surgery, and
throughout all of her life’s changes to
her breast. Professional and caring
fitters know how to assist you for your
fitting needs. If you have had breast
surgery, your medical insurance may
cover these products. To locate a specialty boutique near you, you can go to
the store locater at www.thebreastcaresite.com. n
New Assistant Editor at BCW
Donna St Jean Conti is a seven-year
breast cancer survivor who was diagnosed with a Stage 2 tumor at the age
of 34 when her children were just four
and two years old. She was blessed to
be surrounded by a hardworking husband and extremely supportive family,
friends, colleagues and neighbors, and
it was this outpouring of support from
so many sources that inspired her to
give back and pay forward whenever
possible. She found that the best way
she could do so was through her heartfelt, inspirational short stories, two of
which were published in two different
Chicken Soup for the Soul book titles.
Her stories also have been published in
numerous women’s and cancer-related
magazines, including The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine, COPING, OC
Metro, Today’s Woman, and
Women’s World. She serves
on the volunteer speakers’
bureau for Susan G. Komen
for the Cure, Orange County.
Donna is an award-winning, professional writer and
marketing communications practitioner
who specializes in public relations. She
is accredited by the National Public Relations Society of America and
certified by the American Association
of Advertising Agencies. She received
a Bachelor’s degree with high honors
in communications from the School of
Communications at California State
University, Fullerton. She is president
and owner of St. Conti Communications, Inc. in Mission Viejo, Calif.
Her influencers include Robert
Fulghum, Erma Bombeck and Susan
Jeffers. She knows that a positive
mind set and a “can-do” approach
combined with exercise and daily
meditation make it possible to accept
challenges with grace and to overcome
obstacles. n
Donna St. Jean Conti, Assistant Editor
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43
SURVIVING & THRIVING
Reaching for Our Recovery...
While Racing Dragons
by Donna St. Jean Conti
The first time I met Barbara
Singleton was seven years ago when I
was a newly diagnosed breast cancer
patient. One of my first calls was to the
American Cancer Society (ACS) through
which I participated in its Reach to
Recovery mentoring program. Barbara was my assigned mentor, and she
showed me her breasts. The last time
I saw her was in June 2007. She was
training for a dragon boat race.
Barbara is a 64-year-old two-time
cancer survivor (throat cancer in 1992
and breast cancer in 1997) and a
dragon boat racer. Her strength and
soaring spirit are immediately obvious,
and she shares them with everyone she
meets. She still volunteers as an ACS
Reach to Recovery mentor and helps
run ACS booths at health fairs and
expositions where she hands out pamphlets and answers questions.
On meeting Barbara, I knew I
wanted to be like her. Strong yet not
afraid to reveal her vulnerabilities, she’s
the perfect mentor. Whether she is
talking with cancer patients or on the
water racing dragons, Barbara’s life is
full of purpose. She’ll tell you it keeps
44
her positive.
“When you face the thing you’re
most scared of, you find out how strong
you are,” she says. “I’ve faced the
dragon under my bed.”
Barbara’s mother died of breast
cancer when Barbara was just 16 years
old. Her mother underwent a radical mastectomy that left her horribly
scarred. She later succumbed to the
disease.
“I knew I would have breast cancer,” Barbara says. “And, when I was
diagnosed and told I should have bilateral mastectomies, I went straight to a
support group and balled my eyes out.
After seeing my mother’s disfiguration,
I was scared of how I would look after
surgery. Of course, this was after getting past the ‘am I going to die’ fear.”
The women in Barbara’s support
group were very understanding, and,
when several offered to show her what
they looked like after surgery, Barbara
jumped at the chance to see. She found
relief in seeing their rather beautiful
reconstructions.
“That’s why I offer to show my
reconstructed breasts to newly diag-
nosed patients. It’s important for them
to know that they can be beautiful and
look whole again after surgery,” she
says. “I even find that it helps significant others cope with what’s to come.”
“I have to applaud the women who
came before us,” Barbara adds. “Women like my mom who stepped up and
spoke out to turn the mind set of the
medical establishment.”
She’s quick to point out that it was
those brave women before us with organizations like the American Cancer Society (http://www.cancer.org/docroot/
home/index.asp) and Susan G. Komen
for the Cure (http://cms.komen.org/
komen/index.htm) who worked to raise
awareness and who launched searches
for the cure that made it possible for
all of us to talk so openly about breast
cancer.
“That’s why I volunteer,” she says.
“I’m giving back and paying forward.”
In 2003, Barbara’s breast cancer
awareness activities lead to her dragon
boat racing.
While at a conference, she read a
pamphlet about dragon boat racing that
discussed its beneficial impact on the
health of breast cancer survivors. The
pamphlet was published to dispel the
myth that breast cancer survivors who
have undergone lymph node dissection
should not exercise using their affected
arms for fear of lymph edema. After
reading that, she was hooked. She had
always been athletic, so the thought
of not exercising post surgery seemed
wrong.
When Barbara started dragon boat
racing, she was part of an all-breastcancer-survivor team where she found
great camaraderie and support. Over
time, the team makeup changed. It
now includes between 18 and 20
women and men, several of whom are
cancer survivors or disabled.
They train at the Newport Aquatic
Center (www.newportaquaticcenter) in
Newport Beach, Calif., under the coaching of general manager Billy Whitford.
In May 2006, they were selected to represent the United States at the dragon
boat races in Miluo River, Nanning, and
Guangxi, China, where they placed 5th
in the 800 meter and 6th in the 500
meter.
“That’s very impressive considering
the average age of our team is over 50,”
Barbara says. “One of our members
just turned 80.”
According to DragonBoats.com (a
Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation
Sponsor), dragon boating began in China in 278 B.C. while the former state of
Chu was being invaded by Qin armies.
At the time, an exiled poet named Qu
Yuan, who was a Chu patriot, threw
himself into the Miluo River rather than
see his state conquered. Distraught
locals raced in their boats to save him,
but he drowned. The re-enactment of
the villagers racing out to save Qu Yuan
became dragon boat racing.
Celebrated on the fifth day of the
fifth lunar month of the Chinese Calendar, dragon boat racing is an important
Chinese tradition and an annual event
held in over 40 countries.
According to Whitford, dragon boating is similar to outrigging or canoeing,
but uses bigger, longer, heavier boats.
Each competition boat has 20 participants, most of them paddling in unison
while one person calls out instructions
and one person steers. During races,
the person who calls out instructions
also beats a drum that sets the paddling rhythm. Whitford adds that it is
all about timing and endurance.
“This dragon boat racing team
has meant an evolution of the Newport Aquatic Center,” says Whitford.
“Watching them has been humbling
and inspiring for everyone here, especially our other, younger competitive
teams. Barbara and our other dragon
boat racers may never be first across
a finish line, but they are already winners,” beams Whitford.
Woodrow Wilson is quoted as say-
Barbara Singleton and Billy Whitford
at the Newport Aquatic Center before a
dragon boat practice.
ing, “You are not here merely to make a
living. You are here to enable the world
to live more amply, with greater vision,
and with a finer spirit of hope and
achievement. You are here to enrich
the world. You impoverish yourself if
you forget this errand.”
Through her outreach to new
breast cancer patients and her efforts
to educate people about breast cancer,
Barbara is metaphorically beating the
drum and living a purposeful life that
enables others to live more amply. Even
while racing dragons, she has purpose.
“I want people to know that breast
cancer survivors can be strong and
beautiful,” she says. n
Are you thriving despite your challenges? Do you know a breast cancer survivor who
is your personal inspiration or hero? Tell Donna, and the story might appear in a future
column. Send to: [email protected].
45
Surviving & Thriving
Jennifer Terry Finds
Happiness at 71.5 mph
It may have been about the thrill
of almost literally facing death headon. It might have had purpose in
showing daughters what women can
do. It may have been about doing
something she’d always wanted to
do. Whatever her motivation, Jennifer Terry found happiness roaring
head first, her face inches from the
ice, getting certified with the United
States Bobsled and Skeleton Federation. In four days, this wife, mother,
and breast cancer survivor learned
how to skeleton on the world’s fastest
bobsled track.
Some people, on receiving a
cancer diagnosis, react by doing
something dangerous to regain some
control over their lives. One might
think that’s what Jennifer did, but
that would be wrong.
Jennifer chose to learn skeleton
racing after a friend suggested that
she bypass breast cancer support
groups in favor of seeking her happiness. Little did her friend know that
Jennifer would decide skeleton racing
would make her happy.
So, following a year of cancer
related treatment including chemotherapy, Jennifer took a break and
registered for a training clinic at the
Utah Olympic Park in Park City, before completing breast reconstruction.
Jennifer explains, “I’m a thrill
seeker. I’ve raced dirt bikes, driven
a dragster, bungie jumped, hung my
toes off the edge of Yosemite’s half
dome, and jumped horses. Naturally,
I thought speeding down the fastest ice track in the world, face first,
one inch from the ice, without breaks
would be perfect!”
Jennifer shares this story:
It was a huge class of about 25,
mostly young, single men, and then
me, a 41-year-old house wife with one
boob.
After a classroom briefing, we
headed ¾ up the track to begin our
adventure. It was zero degrees! The
instructors suggested that everyone
wear warm but close-fitting clothing.
It couldn’t be too bulky, because they
wanted us to have good contact with
the sleds. I chose thin layers of long
46
underwear and a ski shell. I then
padded up with a helmet, chest protector, elbow guards and ski gloves.
The first run was brutal. Though
we were reaching speeds around 55
mph, the instructor told us we were
banging into the side walls, because
we weren’t carrying enough speed!
The first night, some people were
very beat up. Some dropped out. I
called the instructor and said it was
the scariest thing I ever did. I told
him I was ready to quit and was
hoping he’d offer some encouraging
words; he didn’t. He said I would go
faster the next day.
I was sick with fear. I didn’t eat
and had trouble sleeping. My mind
told me I was going to die. Logic told
me that no one has died doing skeleton. So, I went back. Why? Because
I had two little girls watching me do
this, and I didn’t want to see me as a
quitter. This was the first time in my
life I actually had to face my fears.
Because I knew what to expect,
the second day was worse. One woman admitted she cried before coming
to class. I felt the same way.
The third day was the most terrifying. This was the day we started
from the top. One man got a concussion, another woman a hand injury. I
figured, if there were going to be a day
to die, this would be it. I changed my
strategy - no more fighting the sled or
trying to keep my head up. I would
try to survive. So, I talked to the
instructor and reviewed the proper
technique. Ironically, it was time to
relax, get low in the sled, keep my
head down, just go.
The instructor gave me a gentle
push off the starting line. Everything
was a blur. I would describe the ride
as a combination of the most intense
roller coaster ride I’d ever been on and
a fighter jet ride. I reached 70 mph
and made it down in one piece, without hitting walls. I survived.
I was thrilled, and, when I stepped
off the track, I cheered with a big
smile. It was a huge feeling of accomplishment for me. I did something
really extreme and defied death!
The last day we started from the
Above: Jennifer Terry with daughter, Zia
in the warming hut at the Utah Olympic
Park in Park City.
Right: Jennifer Terry on the skeleton
run.
top again. This time the instructor
gave me a running start instead of a
nudge. He wanted me to go faster. I
had a great time the day before, so I
decided to stick with the same technique - survive. I hung on for dear
life and made it down. I bumped into
some walls but stayed focused and got
down in one piece and went 71.5 mph.
I earned my one-mile certification!
My daughters, Mira (three) and Zia
(five), came everyday to cheer for me.
We’ve watched national competitions
and World Cup events. Zia doesn’t
seem to know the difference between
a World Cup athlete and Mommy
sliding down the track. She probably
thinks it’s perfectly normal for mommies to do that sort of thing!
My cancer treatment seemed endless and was very unpleasant. If I
were to compare my skeleton experience to my cancer treatment, I would
have to say that the skeleton was
much scarier. But those four days
gave me lifelong memories of facing my fears, finding strength to go
back, and showing my kids I’m not a
quitter. Comparatively, it made my
cancer treatment seem easier.
Will I ever do the skeleton again?
I think about it a lot. The instructor
said I would be conflicted after this
experience, because nothing else will
ever be that intense. He said I’ll come
back if I want that intensity again.
He may be right.
Jennifer’s husband, Paul, put her
accomplishment into perspective saying, “Her fastest run on the one-mile
track was 59.54 seconds. Do the
math. Her speed on that run was
71.5 mph. At that speed, she pulled
three to four Gs in the big turns. Go
that fast in your car; then lean out
and hold your face an inch from the
ground. Do it a foot from the center
divider. Have someone sit on your
head to simulate the G force. That
should give you an impression of what
Jennifer felt like careening down that
track.”
Jennifer’s words echo those from
Georgia O’Keeffe who said, “I’ve been
absolutely terrified every moment of
my life, and I’ve never let it keep me
from doing a single thing I wanted to
do.”
Jennifer Terry shows us there are
things scarier than cancer treatment
and that one can survive it all. It
takes determination – deciding not to
quit. She also proves that sometimes
one finds happiness while facing
fears. n
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47
SURVIVING & THRIVING
Bunco Bunny Hops From
Smile to Smile
There are just some people in this
world who look for humor in anything. It’s how they stay as healthy
as possible even in the face of illness
and stress.
These are people we especially love
having in our lives. They inspire us
to lighten up… to laugh. Well, anyone
who can look for laughter in the face
of a breast cancer diagnosis while
working to improve her community
is truly inspiring. Tina Pruitt Campbell, a northern Virginia resident, is
such a person. Diagnosed on March
15, 2007 with Stage I Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, Tina underwent bi-lateral
mastectomy surgery on March 28.
Her response was to educate herself,
pass on the knowledge and relieve the
stress through laughter.
Bob Newhart once said, “Laughter
gives us distance. It allows us to step
back from an event, deal with it and
then move on.”
You could say Tina took a step
back and hopped on. After her surgery, she wore bunny ears as she left
the hospital, prompting a laughing
elderly volunteer to say, “Hey, those
look like Playboy bunny ears.”
She replied, “Yep, that’s the point
and that’s me!”
Tina is a working mother and wife.
She fi nds much in her husband, Jack,
and four-year-old son, Riley, to keep
her positive.
“A four year old is a source of
humor on a daily basis,” says Tina. “It
was hard for us not to laugh when Riley was asking about my ‘sick humps!’
I can’t honestly say that my situation
is all laughs, but I have dealt with
everything the best I can by joking
with doctors, family and friends. It is
really a way to manage the day-to-day
things. I did not want people to be
sad and felt it was not healthy for me
to even hear about people being sad,”
says Tina.
The people around were inspired
by her response and keep her smiling through hugs and humor, and,
although their parents reside in
Florida and Pennsylvania, they also
have been great sources of support.
Their phone conversations about her
48
Tina Pruitt Campbell at a Woman’s
Club event.
Tina Pruitt Campbell following bi-lateral
mastectomy surgery.
surgery and recovery include joking
about the situation - to lighten the
mood, keep things positive.
Also, driven to make a difference, Tina fi nds purpose in the newly
formed Dominion Woman’s Club, part
of the Greater Federation of Woman’s
Clubs (www.gfwc.org) that received its
charter in April. The group works to
make a difference in its community
through arts, conservation, education, home life, international affairs,
and public affairs projects. In midMarch, Tina accepted a nomination
to be the second vice president of
membership.
“Tina is a genuinely caring and
compassionate individual,” says longtime friend, Debbie Carroll. “After
her diagnosis and surgery, she still
attended our many community functions and neighborhood gatherings.
She even entertained friends by hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party and recently hosted a summertime picnic.”
Tina has played Bunco for four
years with a neighborhood group
of 15 women. She recognized the
power in accepting their help as these
women along with their husbands rallied around her family.
As Tina says, “They lifted my
spirits daily, absolutely daily, and
continue to give me strength.”
For example, she was amazed
when they completely decorated her
house for her return from the hospital
with flowers along the walk, wreaths
on the front doors, balloons, and even
a big banner signed by everyone.
Her Bunco friends would say it is
Tina who gives them strength.
“From the moment Tina told us
about her breast cancer, she was
more concerned about how her friends
and family would handle it than
about herself,” says Carroll. “She is
an inspiration by fi ghting this battle
with a positive attitude and zest for
life. Of course, we can’t deny her
humor. When Tina went for her ‘fi lls’
(breast implant expansions) she made
jokes about how she could already see
cleavage developing so soon after her
mastectomies. Even before her surgery she nicknamed her new breasts
Bada and Bing, which gave us a big
laugh.”
Another friend, Lisa Braden, says,
“Tina seemed to face this dreaded
disease as just another project. She
immediately began researching her
options and soon realized that she
could help others with this same diagnosis. She decided that knowledge
and humor were her best weapons.
Tina emailed us with news, and she
launched a blog. Her messages are
uplifting and encouraging. She asked
us to treat her condition positively
and with humor. No tears.”
“If you can help or inspire just one
person it is worth sharing your story,”
Tina says. “So, I wish for that one
person who may happen on my story
to become inspired by taking control
of what she can to better understand
about breast cancer and improve her
life overall.”
Many people decide to participate
in breast cancer related walks after
they’ve been touched by the disease.
Even in this case, part of Tina’s
purpose was to lighten things up. To
prepare for a June 2 breast cancer
walk, she invited her fellow participants for a silly hat decorating party.
She made sure that her hat literally
shined.
“My co-workers gave us hats, and
each of us decorated them differently
- pom poms, feathers, bling, glitter,
trim - all in pink of course. Mine was
all bling. I had tiaras with ‘Celebrate
Life’ spelled out on the brim and Jack
and Riley’s names on the sides. I also
had a train on the back with bling on
its tails. We had a blast - glue guns,
feathers, rhinestones and pom poms
were a’flyin,” she says.
Tina adds that they received
compliments from smiling admirers
during their walk.
“We did seem to standout with our
fun and spirited headwear,” she says.
“Not a lot of humor there... just good
times and lots of bling and fluff.”
“It is about the smiles and comfort throughout the day and how that
makes everyone feel good,” says Tina.
When they walked, it was in
solidarity together with Tina, who told
Braden, “Lisa, I’m sorry this year we
have to walk this race, but I promise
next year we will run it.” We’re certain they will. n
49
Dr. Phil, The Talking Parrot
of The Caribbean Seas.
Join Captain PegLeg
(Peggie Sharry) of the
Dymanite Divas and
Captain Bev Bonny
(Beverly Vote) of the
Bonny Bunch, and
captains of the Survivors
Sisters and the Carefree
Cruisers (TBA).
Starting at $399
1-800-810-8610
Sponsored by Amoena and The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine
Enjoy 5 days and 4 nights on The Celebrity
Century and experience The Caribbean in
style. We sail out of Miami.
This fun filled excursion is for breast cancer
survivors, caregivers, friends, family, and
anyone that wishes to join us.
Deposit of $100 reserves your cabin.
Call Shelly Williams at Great Southern Travel,
1-800-810-8610 or email at
[email protected].
Dr Phil The Talking Parrot advises:
Five days and four nights to have fun,
fellowship, and many good times with
women and fellow survivors from across
the country.
Make your cabin reservations right away to ensure the lowest
prices. A deposit of $100 holds your cabin. Prices start at $399 P/P
based on double occupancy.
Be one of the first to get your secret key for the She-Pirates of the
Sea Scavenger Hunt on day two of the cruise. You will receive your
map and eye patch for your team (colored coordinated of course
as you are the “High” She-Pirates of the Sea.) And, you will also be
sent the best recommendations for your scavenger day lunch.
Shop, relax, sunbathe, enjoy workshops on health and beauty,
lounge, laugh, and let go throughout this special time just for you.
Invite whomever you want to join you on this fun filled excursion.
Get your passports early, as passports are now required on all
cruises outside of USA.
There are 3 levels of cabins:
Inside Stateroom starting at $399*
Ocean View Stateroom starting at $509*
Veranda Stateroom starting at $699*
*Per Person and Based on Double Occupancy
*Add’l gov’t taxes apply.
Special Tribute for all Amoena
Retailers that are joining us.
THREE WOMEN ON THEIR HEALING JOURNEYS II
A Call to Self
o
t
e
s
i
u
r
C
a
n
!
Wi
n
a
e
b
b
i
r
a
C
e
th
Leslie Kestin, Culver City,
CA, 2007 winner of the
1st annual Breast Cancer
Survivors Cruise Contest
The 2nd Annual Breast Cancer
Survivors Cruise Contest
At the beginning of 2007, three
breast cancer survivors were led by a
dream team of experts to help them
empower their journey toward wellness. Bettina, Alaine, and Diane were
supported in their journeys over a
course of six months; today, they are
available to support others in their
healing choices. This next project of
“Three Women on Their Healing Journeys” will be an invitation to any one
that wishes to join in.
If you are open, willing, and ready
to take the next step forward in your
Breast Cancer Wellness Journey,
please join me along with three other
women on their journeys as they
share their experiences honestly with
the readers of The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine. As a Wellness Coach,
I can guarantee that you will get your
hands dirty. It’s inevitable and it’s
daunting, yet it’s so exilerating to see
and to be able to create new wellness
opportunities together.
We will be joined once again with
the country’s leading experts in their
Sponsored by Amoena, TheBreastCareSite.com and
April 24 - 28, 2008
Celebrity Century
Sail with us to Miami, Key West, Cozumel,
Mexico and the Caribbean Seas!
Enjoy being pampered, a fun-filled scavenger hunt, and the
company of breast cancer survivors and family and friends.
Dr. Kim Dalzell
Dr. Sandy Jost
by Laurie Seligman, M.A., Wellness Coach
fields: Dr Sandy Jost, creator of The
Cancer Involvement Program. She
will teach what guided imagery is,
why it is so beneficial for breast cancer wellness, how simple it is to use,
and how to make it a regular process
for your maximum healing efforts.
Dr Kim Dalzell is a certified holistic oncology nutritionist and a contributing writer for this publication.
Her wit and wisdom will guide you for
your maximum healthy support. Your
body must have the proper nutrients
in order to heal, and Dr Dalzell is
our advocate for knowing the latest
information on what is best for breast
cancer wellness.
My work as your wellness coach is
patient-driven. That means, we journey together and you are at the center
of your recovery and transformation. It is my honor to companion you
and to assist you in releasing what
is standing in your way of becoming well, to identify and embrace new
truths, and to call your strength and
spirit back. I am there to encourage
you each step of the way.
Healing is an inside job, not just
a return to a prior level of full physical capacity. Breast cancer is a call
to self to transform from within
which needs nuturing, compassion,
strengthening, trust, and accountability. With a Wellness Coach by
your side, it is easier for both of us to
peer into your unknown and make it
known so that positive life changes
can become yours.
If you would like to be considered
as one of the three women for the next
six months and are willing to openly
share your experiences of transformation, please email me at laurie@
breastcancerwellness.org. Requests
are to be received prior to Oct 31.
However, everyone call follow along
in our weekly conference calls. The
exact time for this project to begin will
be posted at www.breastcancerwellness.org on November 1. n
r
u
o
Y
e
r
a
Sh
Journey
The winner will be selected by random drawing and announced
February 2008. Contest includes a cabin for TWO!
REGISTER TODAY AT
www.theBreastCareSite.com
52
Brought to you by the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine.
For more information, contact [email protected]
53
2007 Yoplait Champion
Jeanne Fitzmaurice
BEND, OREGON
When Purpose and
Passion Collide
by Beverly Vote
The Story of Founding Gal, Jeanne Fitzmaurice
“When passion and purpose collide,
magical things happen.” This is the
philosophy that has guided Design-her
Gals’ founder, Jeanne Fitzmaurice’s
success as an entrepreneur and crusader to support Stage 4 breast cancer
patients and their families.
Ask Jeanne about her most meaningful success story. She won’t tell you
that it was building an online community of 250,000 members in two years.
And while she may mention making
Oprah Magazine’s O List or receiving the 2007 Yoplait Champion award
for contributions in the battle against
breast cancer, she will tell you her biggest accomplishment to date was “When
a Stage 4 breast cancer patient said logging onto Designhergals.com after a day
of chemotherapy was a ray of sunshine
in her otherwise bleak day.”
Prior to founding Design-her Gals,
Jeanne had a successful career in
resort management. In 1998 Jeanne
left the resort management industry to
be a full-time mom. However, with the
help of a dear friend, Jeanne founded a
personalized stationery company which
she took online as an interactive website which allowed customers to create
their virtual selves and place them on
stationery and other gifts.
Sadly, the very same day that
Jeanne decided to launch designhergals.com, she received a call that
changed her life. Jeanne’s friend was
diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer.
This echoed the sad news of her cousin,
Robin, who lost her battle with breast
cancer a few years prior. Jeanne had an
epiphany. She would put “her Gals” to
work and shed light on a dark topic in a
fun and whimsical way. The Gal to Gal
Foundation was established specifically
for Stage 4 patients, addressing the
fact that there were limited resources
for the disease in this final stage. She
was determined to design a company
to empower and celebrate women while
raising awareness and funding for a
cause close to her heart. The Gal to
Gal Foundation, a non-profit partner of
Design-her Gals, receives 5% of every
sale made on www.designhergals.com.
The Gal to Gal Foundation will be
making “virtual” history this October
when a virtual walk will be launched
where supporters will create their
virtual likeness online at www.galtogalwalk.org and watch themselves and
others “virtually walk” across America
over 31 days. With a goal to register 1
million walkers, the event is already
generating a tremendous amount of attention and support of major corporate
partners, celebrities and scores of organizations who will be helping to spread
the message of hope and support for
Stage 4 breast cancer patients and their
families. Proceeds from this walk will
fund wishes through Making Memories
Organization for Stage 4 patients and
sponsor the first social network and resource website for stage 4 patients and
their families.
Jeanne Fitzmaurice finally found
her purpose and her passion - and
magical things are happening! Frequently sought after for media interviews and public speaking appearances, Jeanne is an expert on branding,
reinventing oneself and other marketing
topics. Having won several high profile
awards in leadership and innovation,
Jeanne’s dedication and business acumen have earned her the respect of her
community and colleagues. n
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ST. JOHN’S HOSPITAL–LEBANON
THE GIFT OF TIME
FROM YOUR COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
For Dawn Jones, time matters.
Diagnosed with cancer last year, the mother of four was
facing hours of exhausting travel for treatments, at the
time she most needed her strength. But she’s getting
the care she needs –right here at home– from St. John’s
Hospital–Lebanon.
Our hospital’s temporary on-site Cancer Care program
is delivering personalized treatment to Lebanon
residents. Upon opening in 2008, our 3,000-squarefoot state-of-the-art Curry Cancer Center will provide
expanded local diagnostic, surgical and treatment
options for Dawn and other patients like her.
Receiving cancer care close to home saves time. And
for some of us, that’s a precious thing.
For more information on Cancer Care services at
St. John’s Hospital–Lebanon, call 417-533-6419 or
visit us online at www.stjohnslebanon.com.
54
55
www.americanbiosciences.com
Avé -The good news is spreading
A miracle of nature, a triumph of science.
Have you heard the good news
about Avé?
Friends are telling friends about how this unique
dietary supplement helps support appetite,
energy and overall quality of life.* Physicians,
nutritionists and other experts are recommending it because of the extensive published
research that supports its use.
Avé is the only dietary supplement which
contains Avemar®, an all-natural, nutritional
compound made by the fermentation of wheat
germ by baker’s yeast through a patented
process. It has been the subject of clinical
trials and other research described in more than
20 articles in peer-reviewed medical journals,
many of which are available via the National
Library of Medicine website, www.pubmed.gov,
with the search term “Avemar“.
We support the
L
YOUNG SURVIVA
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(Young Women Un SM
er )
nc
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org
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Once daily use is shown to support the foundations of good health by supporting the regulation of cell metabolism and immune function,
which can be disrupted by environmental toxins,
physical injury and emotional stress.*
Although these sound like benefits only a doctor
can appreciate, they are benefits you can
actually FEEL in terms of appetite, energy and
quality of life. You’ll feel good about using Avé,
satisfaction guaranteed.**
Wendy Chioji
WINTER PARK, FLORIDA
“That News Anchor with
Breast Cancer”
When I was diagnosed with stage
II breast cancer in 2001, I was determined not to be “That News Anchor
With Breast Cancer.” I wasn’t going to
be the poster girl. I wasn’t going to let
cancer define my life. Looking back,
it’s hard to imagine the level of naivete
and lack of vision I had at that time.
My cancer treatment was very
public, as I am the anchor at WESH TV
in Orlando, Florida and have been here
for nearly two decades. We ran occasional, short blurbs on television to let
folks know when I had surgery, started
and stopped chemo and a clinical trial,
when I finished treatment and when I
by Wendy Chioji
was selected to ride across the country
with Lance Armstrong and the Tour of
Hope in 2003.
As I met more and more cancer
survivors and patients, I realized how
blessed I was that my prognosis was
good and it looked like I was going to
live. One day, in the mall, a woman
came up to me and asked, “Why do
you get to live and my sister had to
die of breast cancer?” I thought about
that for a very long time, and here’s my
answer: Everything happens for a reason. The reason I got to live is because
I have this incredible platform from
which to talk about survivorship and
clinical trials and hope. And I do it all
the time, in large groups and small, to
people I don’t know and people I love.
The fact that I got to live is the reason I will continue to challenge myself
in my personal life (I’ve now done nine
half ironman triathlons, and have
signed up for my first full distance
Ironman in 2008) and in my professional life. It’s also what pushes me
to raise money for the good fight: This
year I’ll pass the $100,000 fundraising
mark for the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
Today, I can tell you that cancer
doesn’t define my life, but it taught me
the value of passion and knowledge
and strength and love. And I’ll spend
the rest of my days trying to deserve to
be the one who got to live. n
Nature and Science For Better Health
Call 888-884-7770 for a FREE Sample and Supporting Research
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
** Avé is sold via health food stores, pharmacies and doctors, and all resellers honor our return policy. Consumers will receive a complete refund on one open,
partially or completely used box of Avé, and any number of unopened boxes. Avé is a trademark, and Avemar is a registered trademark of Biromedicina, Rt.
©2007 American BioSciences, Inc.
56
57
First Annual Breast Cancer
The first annual breast cancer
survivors cruise was a beautiful
experience. Not only the
magnificantly beauty of Alaska, but
also enjoying it together with fellow
breast cancer survivors and their
families.
Thank you Amoena, Mary Olsen Kelly,
and Dr Kim Dalzell, and every one that
travelled Alaska together for making it
a lifetime experience.
I look forward to the second annual
cruise to the Caribbean; it will be as
beautiful in its own way.
–Beverly Vote, Publisher
Survivors Cruise to Alaska
Colleen Johnson
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Leading the Charge
Colleen Johnson, Senior Director of Program Development for Saint
Luke’s Cancer Institute has been active in women’s health care for more
than 25 years. Her passion dedication
and tireless efforts have dramatically
improved the care and prevention
of disease for thousands of women.
Having earned her nursing degree by
working nights as a nursing assistant
on a post-partum-gynecological surgical floor, she knew immediately that
women’s health care was the field for
her. Within one year of earning her
R.N. degree, she was encouraged to apply to the University of Texas Women’s
Health Care Nurse Practitioner program earning her certification as an
Advanced Practice Nurse.
Johnson decided to specialize in
breast disease approximately 15 years
ago.” Breast disease is such an anxiety
provoking issue for women and such
an important part of routine health
care. “I felt that by specializing in this
area I could truly make a difference
in many women’s lives. Breast care is
never dull because the care and maintenance is unique for every women and
that extends to the entire family.”
Seeing the needs in her community
for increased access to health care for
women, Colleen has led the charge
to create many programs for breast
cancer support. She initiated Saint
Luke’s Cancer Institute’s transportable
mammography program which screens
more than 1500 low income women annually, Missys’ Mirror the only cancer
appearance center in the Kansas City
area, a newly diagnosed breast cancer
class open to the community, and
the nurse navigator program which
provides support to breast cancer
patients and their families. Colleen has
donated thousands of hours of clinical
and educational charity care and has
taken voluntary 24 hour call for the
last 8 years to meet the needs of patients. She is a board member of the
Young Survivors Coalition and serves
on the steering committee of the National Consortium of Breast Centers.
60
Laurie Seligman
WELLNESS COACH
www.transformationconsultinginc.com
In this inspiring memoir of spiritual transformation, Laurie
learns to take control of her destiny, rising from a series of
physical challenges and loss; three surgeries in three years,
death of her mother to cancer, and the sudden end to her
lifestyle, finances, health care and pension as a result of
disablement. She experiences a complete life makeover,
and with the assistance of free swimming dolphins,
overcomes her perception of diminished self worth
as a woman and a human being, and emerges
with new purpose and life direction.
Laurie serves as Wellness Coach for
The Three Women on Their Healing Journey.
To contact Laurie for her professional wellness services
for your healing journey, phone 323-782-1001.
Her dedication and hard work has
awarded her the Kansas City 2005 Local Hero in the “BMW Ultimate Drive”
a collaborative effort between BMW
and the Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and was one of only 25 in the
country to be chosen as a 2007 Yoplait
Champion for her contributions in the
fight against breast cancer. Yoplait,
Self magazine and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation sponsor this award.
Johnson continues to see patients,
even though much of her work is in
program development. “You don’t know
what is important to develop without
hearing directly from patients.” Presently, Johnson is working to support a
statewide program to increase breast
cancer screening for all women in
Missouri. She is also developing a
partnership with Saint Luke’s Cancer
Institute and Walter Reed Army Hospital, to participate in a congressionally
funded research project looking into a
cure for breast cancer. n
61
Japan’s Leading Alternative Cancer Therapy
“AHCC” Gains Acceptance in the U.S.
Reducing side-effects of chemotherapy and helping induce remission
By Dr. Debbie Bemis
Currently based at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Dr. Bemis was involved in
nutraceutical research in her previous position as a scientist at the Columbia-Presbyterian
Medical Center. She is an associate member of the American Association for Cancer Research
and a member of the AHCC Research Association to which she contributed this article.
Have you ever talked to your doctor about using nutritional supplements as a part of your treatment regimen or posttherapy? If so, then chances are that you were discouraged from using them. But now, an innovative biotechnology
company from Japan is working to change that by making the case to mainstream U.S. physicians that these natural
compounds should be used alongside pharmaceutical drugs during treatment and for managing remissions post-therapy.
One on Japan’s most widely-used nutraceuticals targeting cancer is Active Hexose Correlated Compound, known
commonly as “AHCC”. A fermented extract produced from the mycelium of hybridized medicinal mushrooms
grown in the extract of rice bran, AHCC been shown to significantly improve the immune system by increasing the
production of the body’s “killer cells”, whose function is to destroy abnormal cells and invading organisms in the body.
Currently used in over 700 clinics throughout Asia, AHCC has gained wide acceptance due to the volume of research
devoted to its applications. As the subject of over 100 research papers from the world’s leading research centers,
AHCC has been studied at prestigious U.S. institutions such as the UC Davis Cancer Center, Columbia Presbyterian
Medical Center, the Yale School of Medicine and the Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, among others.
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The most important factor driving the acceptance of AHCC at cancer clinics has been its impact on reducing the sideeffects of chemotherapy. AHCC has been shown to help reverse the suppression of immunity (that results from
cytotoxic chemotherapy treatments) by significantly raising patients’ white blood cell counts, as well as contribute
to the prevention of chemically induced alopecia (hair loss), the reduction of nausea and vomiting and the protection
of the bone marrow (by helping prevent myelo-supression and anemia, which contribute to the patient’s fatigue).
Numerous animal studies and a few human clinical trials have also been conducted to measure the effect of AHCC on tumor
mass, tumor growth and metastasis. While the results from animal models have been very promising, more clinical trials are
needed. However, in one landmark study of 269 post-surgical liver cancer patients, the group taking AHCC (113 patients)
showed a 14% higher rate of survival than those in the placebo group (156 patients). More importantly, only 49% of the
patients in the AHCC group had recurrence of cancer compared to 67% in the control group (the results were statistically
significant).
www.justlikeyoulouisiana.com
In his book on AHCC, Dr. Dan Kenner who extensively studied this compound writes that the “data from the treatment of
over 100,000 patients with various types of cancer has shown that 60% of the patients have benefited to some degree and
many have found it effective enough to induce remission”. In spite of these impressive results, AHCC should not be perceived
as a “magic pill” – rather it is a complementary cancer therapy to be used alongside pharmaceuticals as a part of a holistic
approach to cancer care.
For more information on AHCC, please contact Quality of Life at 877-937-2422 or via email at [email protected].
This article was submitted and sponsored by the AHCC Research Association
62
63
Purchase a
Pink Ribbon Bagel
today!
During October
Visit any Springfield or Branson area
Panera location and support the
BCFO with the purchase of a Pink
Ribbon Bagel.
25¢ from each bagel purchased
will be donated to the BCFO to
support the following programs
and services:
• Nonmedical Financial Assistance for
women facing breast cancer
• Free Screening Mammogram Program
• Free Lymphedema Garment Program
• Education, Support Groups and Mentor
Support
Recent thank you notes from those
benefiting from these programs –
“I feel like a burden has been lifted from
me because of what your organization
has done”
“Your assistance was a lifeline during
turbulent times”
Mark Your Calendar
Educational Series continued...
Awareness, Diagnosis &
Treatment: Physician Panel
Tuesday, November 6 • 6:00 PM
CoxHealth South Foster Auditorium
For more information please call:
Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks
330 N. Jefferson, Ste B
Springfield, MO 65806
417-862-3838
1-866-874-1915
www.bcfo.org
Need Washing?
A little girl had been shopping with
her Mom in Wal-Mart. She must have
been 6 years old, this beautiful red
haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind
of rain that gushes over the top of rain
gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the
earth it has no time to flow down the
spout. We all stood there under the
awning and just inside the door of the
Wal-Mart.
We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed
up their hurried day. I am always
mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in
the sound and sight of the heavens
washing away the dirt and dust of the
world. Memories of running, splashing
so carefree as a child came pouring in
as a welcome reprieve from the worries
of my day.
The little voice was so sweet as it
broke the hypnotic trance we were all
caught in “Mom let’s run through the
rain,” she said.
“What?” Mom asked.
“Lets run through the rain!” She
repeated.
“No, honey. We’ll wait until it slows
down a bit,” Mom replied.
This young child waited about another minute and repeated: “Mom, let’s
run through the rain,”
“We’ll get soaked if we do,” Mom
said.
“No, we won’t, Mom. That’s not
what you said this morning,” the
young girl said as she tugged at her
Mom’s arm.
This morning? When did I say we
could run through the rain and not get
wet?
“Don’t you remember? When
you were talking to Daddy about his
cancer, you said, ‘If God can get us
through this, he can get us through
anything!”
The entire crowd stopped dead
silent. I swear you couldn’t hear
anything but the rain. We all stood
silently. No one came or left in the next
few minutes.
Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now
some would laugh it off and scold her
for being silly. Some might even ignore
what was said. But this was a moment
of affirmation in a young child’s life. A
time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.
“Honey, you are absolutely right.
Let’s run through the rain. If GOD let’s
us get wet, well maybe we just needed
washing,” Mom said.
Then off they ran. We all stood
watching, smiling and laughing as
they darted past the cars and yes,
through the puddles. They held their
shopping bags over their heads just in
case. They got soaked. But they were
followed by a few who screamed and
laughed like children all the way to
their cars.
And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I
needed washing.
Circumstances or people can take
away your material possessions, they
can take away your money, and they
can take away your health. But no
one can ever take away your precious
memories. So, don’t forget to make
time and take the opportunities to
make memories everyday. Keep in
touch with your friends, you never
know when you’ll need each other...
and don’t forget to run in the rain! n
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64
65
Dear Reader,
inspiration
hope
Just over a year ago, The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine
was launched as a free subscription for breast cancer patients
and survivors. Its subscription base has grown more than we
expected, and we appreciate the compliments and words of
gratitude that we have received about the magazine.
It is a great honor to work for this cause and to meet breast
cancer survivors and to share their amazing survivor stories.
Our mission is to continue to bring you more breast cancer
survivor stories, and ideas that empower mind, body, and spirit
for healing.
At this time we are asking for your help to defray some of the
costs to mail the magazine. As you know, postal costs have
recently went up, and the requests to receive the magazine
continues to grow as well. That is why we are asking readers to
help us out through a voluntary donation. This contribution is
only for those who choose to, at whatever amount is comfortable.
By using this ‘pay it forward’ principle, this helps provide the
magazine to other breast cancer patients and survivors.
Thank you very much in advance for helping to publish and
deliver the magazine, so that we can continue to bring you
inspirational messages for healing.
Kindest regards,
Beverly Vote
Publisher

Voluntary Contribution Form
support
YES, I am happy to help provide assistance for the
magazine.
$5 ______$10_______$20_______ Other ________
Please make payable to:
P. O. Box 2040
Lebanon, MO 65536
THANK YOU!
“There is a light in this world... a healing spirit
much stronger than any darkness we may encounter.
We sometimes lose sight of this force, where there
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Through ordinary people and answer in
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God speaks in the silence of the heart when we listen.”
–Mother Teresa
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Reading this book, you will learn:
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67
Pink Pages
Breast Cancer Wellness Pink Pages and Website
provides you the easiest and most convenient
wellness resource directory at your fingertips.
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Sign up online at www.breastcancerwellness.org or use this form.
NAME: _______________________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ____________________________________________________________
CITY, STATE, ZIP: _______________________________________________________
EMAIL _______________________________________________________________
Send to: The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine, P. O. Box 2040, Lebanon, MO 65536
Skill Set / Requirements:
• Ability to work independently
• Highly personable
• Ambitious and pro-active
• Telephone, fax, and internet
Contact Director of Sales, Bonnie Phelps
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Appointments Requested,
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Advertiser Directory
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A Personal Boutique....................................................................54 Abraxis Astra Zeneca............................................................ 36-38
Absolutely Organic......................................................................68
American Bio Sciences...............................................................56
Amoena............................................................................................. 2
An Oasis of Healing......................................................................15
Bachs Medical Supply.................................................................69
Beautysurg.com............................................................................17
Beyond Treatment........................................................................61
Brandi Owens, Lymphathic Drainage Therapy..................68
Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks..............................64
Brightlife Direct, Inc.....................................................................45
Butterfly Boutique........................................................................21
Cancer Club....................................................................................70
Cancer Involvement Program..................................................41
Challenge Cancer.........................................................................49
Coldwater Creek...........................................................................72
Connie Mastectomy Boutique.................................................69
ContourMed Inc............................................................................40
Cosmetics Garments...................................................................63
Cottonfield Organics...................................................................68
Dearfoams......................................................................................... 5
EFT.....................................................................................................57
Family Pharmacy..........................................................................63
Fittings Unlimited.........................................................................16
Holly Lucille....................................................................................21
Inspire! BCW Radio Show..........................................................71
Janac Sportswear.........................................................................68
Just Like You...................................................................................63
LA Wigs.............................................................................................70
L’Brie Pure N Natural....................................................................11
Life Preservers................................................................................39
Lots to Live For..............................................................................18
LovelySalonOnline.com.............................................................54
MaMa Jeans....................................................................................55
Merle Norman Cosmetics..........................................................67
Name Brand Wigs.........................................................................43
Natural Health Shoppe...............................................................53
Nearly You.......................................................................................69
Neriah Naturals, LLC DBA GPRX..............................................13
North American Nutrition.........................................................60
OJ Medtech....................................................................................19
Prairie Pink Do Rags.....................................................................68
Real Purity.......................................................................................64
Regional Hospice..........................................................................69
Rhythm of Life...............................................................................21
Softee................................................................................................18
Spirited Sisters...............................................................................63
St. Johns Hospital – Lebanon...................................................55
SurvivorPosters.com....................................................................68
The Wig Salon Ltd & Mastectomy Boutique.......................14
Totally Organic..............................................................................68
Treatable & Beatable...................................................................67
Waking the Warrior Goddess...................................................65
Wear Ease Inc.................................................................................15
Women’s Boutique & Wig Salon..............................................47
Womens Health Boutique.........................................................55
Yoplait...............................................................................................22
Join us Wellness Wednesdays at 12:00 NOON CST
The internet radio talk show is for healing and inspirational
breast cancer survivor stories. PLUS experts in the field of
mind-body-spirit therapies will speak out on the latest news
for our healing journeys.
Go to www.breastcancerwellness.org to tune in!
Also, see who the scheduled guests are, how to call in, and
listen to archived shows. You won't want to miss a single show.
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Breast Cancer Wellness

Transcription

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