Deanna Favre - Breast Cancer Wellness

Transcription

WHAT IS THERMOGRAPHY?
p.10
The New
Doctor Is In
THE CALL
Deanna
Favre
Overcoming
Hopelessness
LIFTING
YOU UP
What would you
do if you knew
everything was
going to be
okay?
Thrivers Share
Words of
ent
Encouragem
Volume 5, Issue 4
Winter 2011
www.breastcancerwellness.org
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Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine | Be a Thriver!®
Contents
COVER THRIVER
Deanna Farve
6
eighteen
Photo courtesy of
Kristi Harris Photography
WINTER 2011 Volume 5, Issue 4
40 **
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Openings }
Renew }
4
5
22
24
26
28
Editor’s Letter
BCW Bulletin Board
Grow }
6 Facing Your Tiger
10 Thermography
12 The New Doctor Is In
Nourish }
16 Soup for Supper
18 10 Easy Tips to Grow
Your Organic Garden
s
Meet other Thriver
n
fu
and share the
on the 5th Annual
se.
BCW Thrivers Crui
r
fo
See page 34
details.
Navigating Forward
The New “New You”
I Have a Choice
Balance, Comfort and Dignity
Inspire }
30
36
40
42
Words of Encouragement
Overcoming Hopelessness
What Would You Do If You Knew
Everything Was Going to Be Okay?
The Call
Connect }
44 Pink Pages Directory
Connect with us! Online at www.BreastCancerWellness.org / Join us on
3
Openings
“To survive is our starting point.
To thrive is our original design.”
DEAR FRIENDS
DOWNLOAD THE
I AM A THRIVER!
SCREENSAVER
You can have a constant
reminder that you are
a Thriver on your
monitor. Visit us at
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for the free download.
4
Happy New Year. Happy You.
A New Year and a New You is here. This issue
of the magazine focuses on the NEW YOU and
CHOICES.
In all areas of life and in all challenges of life
awaits the gift of choice. Making choices is the
highest level of power any of us has. Perhaps the most
challenging part of life is to consistently choose best in
spite of the fears, challenges, diagnoses, circumstances
and conditions. Or maybe the most challenging part is
to be aware when we are making choices just to make
others happy and not considering if the choice feels
right for us at the time. But Bernie Siegel MD, author
of Love, Medicine and Miracles has a prescription to
help us with making choices and it is simply to “Do
what makes you happy.” Think about it.
In this issue Deanna Favre shares a C.U.R.E. for
hopelessness and overcoming a chronic life. She
asks a candid, challenging and thought-provoking
question: Do You Really Want to Get Well? Her book
and her life help each of us to be better connected
with our faith and our beliefs about healing.
–Beverly Vote
For the past few years I have watched my
daughter’s interest for gardening grow and her
enthusiasm is contagious. I was delighted when
she sent me the article for this issue on organic
gardening. I appreciated the special message that it
is just as important to have a large basket ready to
receive the fresh harvest as it is in planting the seeds.
Tomato seeds produce tomatoes, carrot seeds produce
carrots, and symbolically only wellness seeds can
produce wellness. Seeds of wellness {and even seeds
of unconditional happiness} must be deeply planted.
None of us are promised a weed-free experience, but
we plant anyway. None of us are promised a growing
season without storms, but we plant anyway. Think
about it.
The work at BCW is to help you understand what
you can do today to help yourself heal not only your
body but your life. Our mission is to help you survive
and to thrive and to show you living examples of
women who flourish after a life-threatening diagnosis
of breast cancer and to demonstrate how they became
thrivers.
I love the word “encourage”. As we encourage
others, we share our courage and belief in others
until they can see it for themselves. Thrivers are encouragers!
Be a Thriver!
Publisher / Editor
18 year breast cancer thriver!
Grow
Facing your tiger
by robyn lynn
So often in life we are faced with situations that seem to have no positive
outcome viewed from our current perspective. As cancer patients and survivors we have been through an already disempowering diagnosis which can
leave us feeling like we have lost control over lives and our bodies. We are often left feeling immobilized by the quantity and importance of the decisions
we must make as we fight for our lives. Inevitably frustration and grief over all
that has been done without us having a say in the original reason – becoming a cancer survivor – sets in and we are left feeling as if there is no “good”
decision to be made.
As we are perched precariously between
difficult situations in which we feel like we
have lost control we are actually at a place in
which we can actively choose to shape our
experience instead of being along for the
ride. Our day to day lives are often a series
6
of bumping along from one crisis or stress or
activity that absorbs us into its drama. We
build stories around why our stories are so
important and then justify the “why” with
our stories of what will happen if we don’t
do something, or what might happen if we
do. We willingly, although without realizing
it, give up our power by making decisions
based on how our lives are happening TO us
instead of based on how we WANT to live
our lives. We operate from a place of fear
instead of from our own inner wisdom.
We can pause and see this as an opportunity to call the shots instead of sitting
passively while stuff happens to us. We can
actively choose how we want to use our precious time and energy. Even when all outcomes seem dire, there is beauty around us
that will help us free ourselves from the grip
of the negative and shine a light on ways to
stay present in the moment and make decisions based on what is true for us and based
on what is best for us. u
There is a story in Zen Buddhism that
goes like this….
Because you know a Breast Cancer patient or survivor… be a friend, tell a friend. Visit Softee USA.com or call 1‐866‐605‐8585 Prosthetic garments for comfort during recovery & after. Helpful resources & inspirational support from a Breast Cancer Survivor. seeing beauty, to hear our inner voice, and
to be available to see small miracles. We can
choose to focus on the tiger, on our
lifeline breaking and in a place of fear
A man crossing a field encounters a tiger.
or let go and experience the sweetThe man flees, the tiger pursues. Coming
ness of the strawberry. What if the
to a cliff top, the man grabs the root of a
man in the story never paused, never
vine and swings himself down below the
took the risk to find the joy from that
tiger’s reach. The tiger waits. Looking down small gift? What do we stand to lose
by focusing on the “good” around us
the precipice upon which he precariously
and let the “bad” take care of itself?
swings, the man sees another tiger looking We frequently take risks when we are
expectantly upwards at him. As if this
in the active state of problem solving,
but how often do we take a risk in orwere not sufficient cause for peril, two
der to have a beautiful experience, or
mice begin to chew the root from which
one true to who we really are? How
he hangs. As he digests his unenviable
often are we allowing ourselves to
condition, the man sees a ripe strawberry
choose our experiences based on our
desires instead of our fears?
within his reach. Releasing the vine with
It is easy to see cancer as someone hand, he gently picks the strawberry
thing that happened to us and to
with the other. How sweet it tasted!
continue to feel as if we have to keep
making decisions we don’t want to
When we are asked to choose between
make based on this diagnosis. We blindly
the lesser of several evils we often sit in a
follow what someone in a position of authorplace of turmoil while we struggle with our
ity tells us instead of listening to our hearts
sense of powerlessness. We can spend our
or we angrily make decisions because we feel
time fretting about the inevitable tigers
we have no other choice. “Cancer did this to
and how fast we are going to fall or take a
me and now I have lost control“ is frequently
moment to be present in the moment and
the underlying feeling even when we put on
hear the inner voice that guides us towards
a positive survivor face for the outside world.
our highest good. When we wrap ourselves
Fear paralyses us and we do not see that we
in fear over potential outcomes, we let go of
are the ones in control over our destiny.
our ability to receive. It is simply not posCancer is another opportunity to come
sible to accept a gift with a tightly clenched
to terms with how closely we are aligned
hand. The man in the story had to release
with what our heart really desires and who
the vine in order to pick the strawberry. The
we truly are. Cancer holds a mirror up to
possibilities for us are endless when we let
us and shows us where we are and asks “is
go of our fear about what MIGHT be.
this where you want to be”? Cancer teaches
In the pause we take time to “digest our
us to take the reins in our lives and begin
unenviable condition”, we open ourselves to
making decisions for what is in our own
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highest good based on the inner voice we
give room to by taking a moment to pause in
the middle of our own story.
As a breast cancer patient diagnosed suddenly without having had any symptoms I
underwent dramatic and difficult treatment
options immediately. For some reason, maybe because I gave myself no time to think
for myself, I sat in a place of acceptance that
this was what was required to save my own
life. But when the day came that I was asked
to keep taking a drug that I wasn’t sure
was right for me, I felt like I had run from
the tiger only to be sitting on that branch
looking at more potentially bad options. I
had done what I was told, I had fought the
good fight and yet I had to take a drug that
made me feel sick, out of control and not
like myself in order to increase my chances
of staying well. I was angry and frustrated
and felt like cancer had screwed up my life.
I felt I only had decisions to make that made
me unhappy and sick and that cancer had
taken control of everything—even long after
the diagnosis.
After much discussion with my family,
it was universally decided that being okay
NOW was infinitely better than continuing
to act out of a place of fear. I spent much
time talking, reflecting and creating how I
really wanted my life to be. I decided that I
wanted to be the one in charge—not cancer and while the tigers may not totally go away,
there was a place for me to make a decision
that resulted in a future I chose. I created
space to listen to my heart and make decisions based on how I wanted to LIVE.
I could have come to this decision from
the other direction as well…. I could have
chosen to keep taking the drug in order to
reduce the questions about whether I am
doing enough to care for myself. It doesn’t
matter what the decision is—it only matters
that you make the decision having paused
and listened to your heart and what was true
for you. We must take the risk to experience our life in this moment for what we
CHOOSE it to be, regardless of all the tigers
growling around us.
As a cancer survivor many of us already
know the truth of the statement “How sweet
it is!” Those moments of joy are so often in-
fused with an extra saturation of beauty that
stems from having to fight for so much. We
often cry easier, love more deeply and pause
more often because of those tigers that
reminded us of how dear this life is. But
we are human and get wrapped up in the
drama that unfolds around us in our daily
lives and forget the lesson taught by that
strawberry dangling within reach. Take time
to stop worrying about what might happen,
or how to get yourself out of the moment.
Listen to your heart and to what it is telling
you. Pause for a moment to ponder instead
of acting or responding. Take a risk to give
yourself the gift of being true to your highest
good. There are always tigers so why not
enjoy a strawberry when you can? n
Robyn Lynn
BCW Magazine Assistant Editor Intern
Robyn Lynn is a writer and professional
outdoors-woman in the Seattle, WA
area. She can be reached through her
blog http://becomingamazon.com or
email at [email protected].
(Photo courtesy of Rachel Dodd)
u
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Grow
THERMOGRAPHY
A Screening Tool for Prevention
by Christine Horner, MD
There’s no question that mammograms are a useful screening tool. They
have helped us find cancers at earlier, more treatable stages and have helped
save lives. However, mammograms aren’t perfect.
This test uses potentially dangerous
radiation, can be painful, can’t see through
“dense” breast tissue (found typically in most
women younger than forty), and doesn’t
work well for women with breast implants.
At its best, a mammogram can only “see”
breast cancers that produce calcium or significant masses—about 70 to 80 percent of
all breast cancers. Regardless of their size, 20 to 30
percent of breast cancers
won’t show up on a mammogram. So, women with
these “invisible” tumors feel
falsely reassured by normal
mammograms, and diagnosis of their cancers may
be dangerously delayed. In
addition, 80 percent of the
findings on a mammogram that are “suspicious” enough to lead to a breast biopsy are
not cancers. In other words, mammograms
wrongly suspect the presence of breast
cancer 80 percent of the time! The financial
and emotional costs of the “false positive”
readings from mammography are enormous. More than 1 million breast biopsies
are performed in the United States every
year. So, approximately 800,000 women
undergo expensive, physically traumatizing,
and emotionally devastating surgical breast
biopsies unnecessarily every year.
Because of the well-recognized shortcomings of mammography, additional tests, such
as ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, are frequently employed.
An ultrasound uses sound waves to show
images of the tissues in the body. It is safe,
noninvasive, and painless. But it doesn’t
give enough information to be valuable as
a screening or diagnostic tool for breast
cancer. An ultrasound can only be used to
determine whether a breast mass is cystic
or solid (solid masses are of more concern).
MRI scans use a magnetic field instead of
radiation to generate images of the interior
structures of the body. These scans are safe
We need a highly accurate,
inexpensive, noninvasive,
painless safe test that can
show abnormalities at very
early stages.
10
for most people, painless, and noninvasive.
They are very good at revealing the minute
structural changes associated with breast
tumors, including those that mammograms
might miss. But the downside of MRI scans
is that they are very expensive. The average
cost for a breast MRI is about $2,000—a
price too high to make it practical as a pri-
mary screening tool.
We need a highly accurate, inexpensive,
noninvasive, painless safe test that can show
abnormalities at very early stages. Recent
research shows that there is a reemerging technology with all these qualities that
shows tremendous potential as a screening
tool for breast cancer. It’s called “thermography.”
Thermography uses infrared technology
to detect heat. It was first developed by the
military in the early 1950s as a way to see
enemy forces at night—by sensing their heat
and movement. In the early 1960s, thermography was introduced in a very rudimentary
form for medical use. It was approved by
the FDA in 1982, but unfortunately, this
promising technology fell out of favor when
it was prematurely, hastily, and haphazardly
included in the Breast Cancer Detection
Demonstration Project, a large national
study of mammography. Poor training, quality controls, and equipment led to misinterpretations and the false conclusion that
thermography wasn’t a valuable screening
tool for breast cancer. But a few individuals,
believing in its potential, persevered.
In the last few years, thermography
equipment has vastly improved. The digital
cameras and computer-software systems
that are now available are so sophisticated
that their high-resolution images and
precise heat-variation calculations generate extremely valuable information. Recent
research shows that, unlike mammograms,
when thermography suspects something is
wrong, it usually is. A study published in the
American Journal of Radiology in January 2003 concluded that this technology
could help prevent most unnecessary breast
biopsies: “Infrared imaging
(thermography) offers a
safe noninvasive procedure
that would be valuable
as an adjunct to mammography in determining
whether a lesion is benign
or malignant.”
A breast thermogram
is a digital infrared picture that reveals the
heat and vascular patterns of the breast
tissue. These patterns change when a breast
tumor starts to grow. Breast cancer cells
require new blood vessels to feed them nutrients and oxygen. These new blood vessels
don’t grow like normal blood vessels. Instead, they grow in characteristically abnormal patterns, and they generate increased
heat that is detectable by thermography.
Thermography can detect breast cancers
much earlier than any other available
technology. Because blood vessels ordinarily start to grow before any other significant
changes and tumor growth, a thermogram
can “see” these abnormal physiological
processes as early as five to ten years before a
cancer can be seen by a mammogram, MRI,
or ultrasound or felt by a physical exam.
What is most exciting is that when these
abnormal processes are caught this early,
they are reversible. The warning patterns
seen by thermography have been found to
resolve and return to normal after only a few
short months of the healthy diet and lifestyle
changes.
You can learn about everything that
research shows that you should avoid and
everything that you should favor to reduce
your risk in my book, Waking the Warrior
Goddess: Dr. Christine Horner’s Program
to Protect Against and Fight Breast Cancer.
One simple approach that can dramatically
contribute to your breast health is to take
some key dietary supplements. I worked
with Enzymatic Therapy, one of the largest
most reputable supplement companies, to
formulate a supplement that contains 7 different nutritional supplements in one tablet
called Protective Breast Formula (PBF). Included in the formula are indole-3 carbinol
and calcium D-glucarate--two substances
from cruciferous vegetables, turmeric, green
tea, maitake mushrooms, grape seed extract
and vitamin D. The intention was to provide
a simple, convenient, cost effective way for
women to positively impact their breast
Thermography can detect
breast cancers much earlier
than any other available
technology.
health. I’m very excited to say that thermographers across the country are reporting
remarkable results with PBF. On average, in
just 8 to 12 weeks, they have noted significant reversals of the physiological changes
associated with early warning signs for possible future cancers.
Thus, thermography is the first tool we
have that shows promise in being able to
pick up breast cancers so early—at a stage
that involves only precancerous physiological changes—that women can reverse these
changes and avoid getting breast cancer
by making a few simple diet and lifestyle
modifications.
The potential of this technology is electrifying. In the near future, thermography
may play a dominant role in the screening
and prevention of breast cancer. But before
that can happen, many well-designed studies must be conducted to understand what
the full potential of thermography really is:
its precise capabilities and limitations, how
it can best be used, where it fits in with other
technologies, and how to properly evaluate
and interpret the information it generates. 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 see page 38 or visit
www.drchristinehorner.com.
11
Grow
THE NEW
DOCTOR
IS IN
by BEVERLY VOTE
“I have learned to make changes in
my life by hearing the wake-up calls
or screams that others have experienced. Their screams in essence have
become the whispers of my life. It is
also through the disease process, and
the deaths of some of my patients
and friends, that I have learned that
the most precious gift of all is the gift
of healing. I now understand that human interaction and connection are
the most important things a physician can share with a patient. The
only thing we have eternally is the
energy between two individuals.”
–Beth Baughman DuPree, MD
Imagine stepping into a medical office
that is as warm and inviting as your living
room, a place that gives the feeling that it
wants to hug you. It is not the typical office
setting, nor is typical that it was decorated
and personally created by Dr Beth DuPree
and her caring staff and family with the
objective that everyone who walks through
the doors will feel at home. Dr DuPree’s
intention was to create an environment that
nurtures and supports the whole person’s
healing needs.
Dr Beth DuPree—“Beth” is what she
prefers to be called—has performed surgery
on thousands of patients. She believes the
personal and energetic connection she
shares with her patients is as important to
their healing process as the surgery she performs. Her focus as a physician has shifted
12
Beth Baughman DuPree, MD
from one based solely in Western medicine
to one that combines the wisdom of Eastern
medicine with the state of the art Western
medical technology. Beth has come to realize the surgery is but a small part of what
patients need to truly heal. The way that
Beth relearned what healing means was the
result of a series of events that she refers to
as “wake-up calls”.
Beth’s first wake up call came and then
another, but they only turned into meaningful experiences when Beth integrated the
messages of her “wake up calls” into her daily
life. Beth said, “This was not an acceptance
that came upon me overnight. It took many
experiences and events to lead me to this
understanding. As I reflect upon my past, I
can recall many times that I had just a glimmer of this understanding. I can honestly say
it wasn’t until 1997 that I was able to hear the
messages my life was sending me.”
“I always tell my patients that the messages in life can come in two forms, a gentle
tap on the shoulder or a two-by-four across
the head. It would take the diagnosis of
brain cancer in my dear friend Lauren that
I really started paying attention.” Lauren
was a radiologist and thirty-eight weeks
pregnant when diagnosed with brain cancer.
While Dr Beth Dupree searched for answers
for her friend in clinical trials, radiation
treatments and surgical solutions, Lauren
found her answers in prayer.
It would take over a year for Beth to
delve into what Lauren wanted her to know
about the answers she found in prayer and
how powerful her new healing choices were.
Once Beth stepped into Lauren’s world of
healing, Beth gained information beyond
what her medical academia had presented
to her. In hindsight Beth was able to see that
her life’s experiences were preparing her to
integrate holistic healing principles along
with her medical education and experiences.
After the loss of a patient, Beth needed
healing too and she also wanted to better understand the multifaceted healing
needs of her patients, so Beth signed up and
conditioned for the Avon Breast Cancer 3
Day Walk in Atlanta, Georgia. Weather wise,
the 3 Day Walk was a grueling experience
for Beth and all of the 2,700 participants.
The first day was just short of a hurricane
with cold torrential rains followed by a day
of blistering unusually hot 100% humidity.
Beth took the conditions in stride the best
she could but asked herself “Could this be
something like what my patients feel with
each and every chemotherapy treatment? If
it is, how do they get up and drive to the next
session, knowing what lies ahead for them?”
Laura was one of her friends who walked
within Beth’s group on the 3 Day Walk.
Laura had serious problems completing
the course of the day. Beth had to become
involved in Laura’s healing process whether
she wanted to be or not. Beth realized that
Laura’s problems on the 3 Day Walk were a
reflection of other underlying issues. Beth
further realized that Laura had never been
empowered to find healing
after her breast cancer ordeal. No one had taken the
time to teach Laura to look
within and to find the healing she so clearly needed.
Beth saw how afraid Laura
was; Laura’s fear was so
paralyzing that it stopped
her from receiving the help
she desperately needed. On
the spot, Beth gave Laura a
Reiki treatment which helped ease her fear
and her pain. Reiki is a healing force that
some call a combination of prayer, intention,
and centralized healing energy.
Through the experience with Laura, Beth
witnessed once again that our healing needs
go beyond the physical body and that “It was
another reminder that healing is truly about
the journey, not the destination.”
Beth continued to see that as a doctor
committed to bringing in new healing concepts that there were new types of patients
awaiting her services, ones who were eager
for a physician to understand that they
Beth’s first “wake up call” came
and then another, but they
only turned into meaningful
experiences when Beth
integrated the messages of her
“wake-up calls” into her daily life.
needed help with healing beyond surgery,
chemotherapy, radiation, and prescription
drugs could provide for them.
Beth’s dedication to breast cancer care
first received national recognition in 1999.
Dr DuPree and Dr Rob Skalicky, a plastic
surgeon who reconstructs breasts after
breast surgery, performed the first u
13
bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction
procedure live on the internet to an audience of over one and a half million people
from around the world. The patient, Patty
Derman, along with Dr Beth’s medical team,
wanted to bring awareness about breast cancer, treatment options and personal choices.
Today Beth Baughman DuPree, MD,
FACS, continues to be a breast surgeon and
is Medical Director of the Breast Health
Program at Holy Redeemer Health System
in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania where
she created an innovative treatment setting
for diagnosis, treatment, and healing for
women with breast cancer. With a focus on
prevention and embracing complementary
therapies, Holy Redeemer Women’s HealthCare at Southampton is the first-of-its-kind
site that embraces the whole woman.
Imagine a medical care facility with a
stone waterfall and artwork that tributes the
images of women. Digital mammography,
ultrasound and stereotactic breast biopsy are
some of the latest in medical and diagnostic services available to best serve women.
You won’t find disposable gowns here but
800-thread-count robes with cowl necks.
This new whole woman care facility was
developed with the intention of creating less
stress for women during the examination
and diagnostic process. It was also created
so that women would be able to see a breast
surgeon and get a biopsy the same day she
received concerning results. Any woman
who has had to wait any length of time for
her medical results personally knows how
emotionally difficult this can be. But the care
doesn’t stop there, also available is acupuncture, energy therapy, guided imagery, clinical
hypnotherapy, therapeutic massage, cranio
FAR R O W
sacral therapy, reflexology, meditation, essential breathing, and yoga.
In addition, Beth established the Healing
Consciousness Foundation in 2007, a nonprofit organization to fund these holistic
and wellness therapies for women and men
diagnosed with breast cancer. In partnership with Holy Redeemer Health System,
those with breast cancer can access these
complementary therapies at Holy Redeemer
Women’s HealthCare at Southampton, PA.
The Healing Consciousness, a Doctor’s
Journey to Healing, written by Dr Beth DuPree, presents a different and certainly nontraditional, perhaps controversial to some,
template for prescribing medical treatment,
including treating women diagnosed with
breast cancer. If you have ever wanted to
take a peek at the personal thoughts, tribulations, triumphs and transformations of a
physician living a spiritually awakened life,
The Healing Consciousness offers that opportunity and much more. In her book, Beth
shares her personal discoveries that stirred
her beliefs about healing, spirituality, and
how faith, trust and surrender would become the keys to moving her life forward to
help those diagnosed with breast cancer. Her
second book, Shifting Gears, is scheduled for
release end of 2011.
“I pride myself on staying current with
the latest technological advancements in
breast cancer care. I offer my patients the
best that science has to offer both surgically
and medically to treat their bodies when
they have dis-ease—the dis-ease—we call
cancer. By dis-ease, I mean the lack of ease in
function, a departure from mental, physical, and spiritual well being, which often
manifests in the processes we define as a
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14
disease of the body. Curing
the disease of the physical
body and its symptoms
will not guarantee healing
of the dis-ease within the
individual.”
“Understand, I am by
no means ready to scrap
Western medicine. I am
biased when it comes to
treating illness as I have
been trained in some of
the greatest health care
institutions in our country.
I was, however, being
called to look at medicine in a more holistic
way. I was willing to be open to a new level
of understanding about the human spirit
and its relationship to the physical body. If
disease is really a reflection of a deeper issue
within our make-up, then treating only the
symptoms of the disease within the body
would result in a void in the spirit.”
“My commitment to empower the healing process in every patient continues to be
paramount in my life. The more I am open,
the more I see. The more I
realize what is possible, the
more I know what can be.”
Beth was born and
raised in York, Pennsylvania and is the youngest
of seven children. She is a
graduate of the University
of Pittsburgh, and Hahnemann University School
of Medicine. She completed her surgical residency
at Albert Einstein Medical
Center in Philadelphia.
Dr DuPree has practiced
surgery in suburban Philadelphia since 1991.
Beth also serves as the Chair of the Board
of Advocates for the American Society of
Breast Surgeons and serves on the Advisory
Board for Breastcancer.org and the Susan G.
Komen for the Cure® in Philadelphia. Beth
is host of the popular radio program The
Medical View that is currently on hiatus.
Dr DuPree is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, diplomat of the American
Board of Surgery, and a member of The
Association of Women Surgeons. Beth has
earned numerous humanitarian and medical awards. She has appeared on numerous
national broadcasts including The Nightly
News with Brian Williams. Beth lives with
her husband Joe and their sons Tom and
Dean in a fieldstone farmhouse built in 1740
where they are learning to flex their home
restoration muscles.
Join this warm, kind-hearted, driven,
compassionate, outspoken, down-to-earth,
action-taking and empowering healer on our
5th Annual Breast Cancer Thrivers Cruise,
May 14-21. Beth will provide the keynote
address and workshops on the following:
• How Survivors become Thrivers
• The benefits of Yoga Nidra
• How to use “Journaling” as a powerful
and interactive healing tool to let go of fear
• How to make healing a mainstay
of your life. Journals will be provided by
Amoena, our Partnering Sponsor. n
www.hcfbucks.org
www.comprehensivebreastcare.com
www.HolyRedeemer.com
15
Nourish
Mini Meatballs
soup for supper
by HOLLY CLEGG
On a cold winter day, nothing is more heartwarming than a bowl of soup.
This is one of my favorite recipes from Too Hot in the Kitchen cookbook that is
a one-meal dish chocked full of great ingredients to keep you satisfied and
healthy. This hearty Italian Wedding Soup includes mini-meatballs, yet the
chicken broth keeps it a lighter tasting soup. When using meat, always look
for your leaner cuts of beef, ending in a “loin” or “round”.
Italian Wedding Soup
Think of this as an extra good chicken soup with mini meatballs. A family favorite.
Makes 12 (1-cup) servings with 3-4 mini meatballs.
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 cup diced carrots
1 tablespoon minced garlic
8 cups fat-free chicken broth
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 cup orzo pasta
Mini Meatballs (recipe follows)
6 cups fresh baby spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
1. In large nonstick pot coated with nonstick cooking spray, sauté onion, celery, carrots
and garlic until tender, 7 minutes. Add both broths and oregano.
2. Add orzo. Bring to boil, reduce heat, and cook 5 minutes. Add Mini Meatballs (see
recipe), and continue cooking 8 minutes or until meatballs are done. Add spinach, cooking a
few more minutes until wilted. Season to taste.
16
1 pound ground sirloin
1 egg
1 egg white
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1. Combine all ingredients into bowl and
shape meat mixture into 1-inch diameter
meatballs.
Nutritional information per serving: Calories 153,
Calories from fat 19%, Fat 3g, Saturated Fat 1g,
Cholesterol 40mg, Sodium 433mg, Carbohydrate
17g, Dietary Fiber 2g, Sugars 2g, Protein 14g
Dietary Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 1/2 lean meat
Buy it!
Holly Clegg’s new
cookbook—”Too Hot
in the Kitchen” is available for purchase at
www.HollyClegg.com
Holly Clegg
Holly Clegg, author of the best selling
trim&TERRIFIC™ cookbook series
including a diabetic cookbook with the
ADA and Eating Well Through Cancer,
has sold almost 1 million copies. Holly
has promoted her healthy lifestyle
recipes on national shows including
Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, and
The 700 Club. She understands the demands of the busy person and with her
user friendly, pantry friendly, and time friendly cookbooks, she has garnered
a national reputation as the healthy “Queen of Quick!” For more information,
visit www.hollyclegg.com or http://thehealthycookingblog.com.
17
Nourish
10
Easy Tips to Grow
Your Organic Garden
by Laurie Bennett
Our local meteorologist has predicted below freezing temperatures for
the rest of the week. It’s too cold to get outside if you don’t have to and too
cold to think about spring and summer gardens. But today, low and behold,
I received my first 2011 vegetable seed catalog in the mail at the same time
that a fresh blanket of snow lay on the ground.
I must admit I am not ready to think
about new seeds and breaking soil as I am
still enjoying my garden’s bounty from last
summer.
For dinner last night my husband made
a squash, pepper, and onion stir fry. It was
warm, comforting, and straight from our
freezer. I had planted only three crookedneck squash plants and three zucchini plants
in the spring and had enough for my freezer
and enough to share with many.
I have over 55 quarts of green beans in my
pantry. However, we harvested enough for
three families to have a years supply as well.
All are chemical free. We have a hundred or
more jars of salsa, enough peppers to outlast
the season and all the relish, pickles and
stewed tomatoes we can eat. The families I
share with have the same bounty.
Someone once asked me how I got such
bounty. The most important thing I do is to
share the first fruits. My family never eats
the first fruit of the crop. Each plant that
provides a harvest, I always give its first fruits
away. I give the produce away to whomever
God leads me to share them with. His
blessings continue to settle upon the rest of
the growing season.
Blessings: God does give. This harvest
I have canned over 115 quarts of salsa.
Since my raised beds have already paid for
themselves in the first year of harvest, I
profit everything except plant purchases. I
spend maybe $50 on plants for tomatoes and
peppers. I already had my tomato stakes. I
use old panty hose for ties, newspaper for
18
weed control and grass clippings for mulch.
I use home-grown compost for fertilizer and
a $2 basil plant for bug control. I use my
canning jars from year to year. My raised bed
of tomatoes and peppers supplied all my salsa
and my stewed tomatoes and my canned
pepper recipes and saved me hundreds of
dollars and I have enough to share with
others. The leading pint of store salsa is $3.25
per pint. If I applied the store price I would
have $747.50 worth of salsa, far more than
the $50.00 spent, not counting all the stewed
tomatoes and peppers I canned from the
same plants. And tomatoes and peppers are
only the beginning. So many Blessings from
such a little space.
I encourage gardening in raised beds.
Except the cucumbers on the climber, all
produce including the green beans and the
corn can be grown in raised beds. Mainly
I grow in raised beds as they are so much
easier. The more I have worked in my raised
beds, the more I value their bounty. Since
I always seem to run out of space in raised
beds, I planted some seeds outside of the
raised bed areas in a well fertile, organic
matter filled space but this just didn’t
produce the quality or quantity as the same
varieties in the raised beds.
I am an average mom with an active and
busy life, a nice husband, job, family and
friends. So if I can grow a garden and provide
my family with fresh healthy food, you can too.
Here are my top ten tips to grow your
organic garden:
Tip #1 Build a reusable raised bed. An 8
foot by 4 foot size works best for variety. If
it is any wider you will have a hard time of
reaching your produce from the side. Use
concrete blocks for longest use. Untreated
sturdy lumber will work as well. If you do
not have supplies for a frame, mound up
your soil.
Tip #2 Fill your bed with equal amounts
of compost, vermiculite, peat moss. I have
used top soil and a composted manure mix
in some of my earlier beds and have to do
some annual weeding. So feel free to try some
other soil combinations. The root system of
your veggie plants will forever thank you as
they will have wiggle room instead of trying
to grow in compacted, thick, water-logged or
clay soil.
Tip #3 Plan out your beds. If you have only
one or two beds and have a smaller family,
you can easily grow enough for your family,
and more. Figure out what you need to
have the most space for in your garden and
then lay it out. At our house, tomatoes u
and peppers trump over other vegetables.
Strawberries, green beans, squashes, corn,
lettuce, spinach, onions, peas, and broccoli
get the rest of the space.
come and invade. Crop rotation helps a lot
with bug control. Garden clean up helps. I
always have enough to harvest even if I lose
some to pests.
Tip #4 Know what you can plant in March
and April and what to plant after your
local frost date. Each area of the country
has different growing seasons. I am eating
on spinach and lettuce and onions while
planting peppers and all the tomato plants
I can fit in my raised beds. Call your local
university extension office for more season
planting assistance.
Tip #6 Don’t touch wet plants as sometimes this will spread plant disease into
your garden.
Tip #5 It’s a simple law of nature, if you
plant something, bugs and pests will try to
Tip #7 Raised bed gardens require more
watering as the water drains well. Water in
the morning.
Tip #8 Harvest and Share. At our house, I
harvest in the mid-morning and I pass on the
vegetables to a couple of friends. I supply the
sterile canning jars and the produce. They
do the canning. We split. Their freezer and
pantry is full, and mine is too. This works
well for me as I would rather garden than do
the canning. The only thing I can for myself is
my salsa. Sharing your harvest is fun.
Tip #9 Clean out the beds after the last
frost or when the plant are retired. I do not
have a lot of weeds in my raised beds as I
place newspaper all around and then cover
in straw, or grass seed or mulch.
Tip #10 Add more compost and then cover
the beds at autumn time with the leaves
from your ground and let the garden rest
over winter.
There is no need to be overwhelmed with
a garden. No need to spend hours in the
garden to have a harvest. No need for a lot of
space. You need planning, start up costs, but
most of all you need a large garden basket
for your harvest.
These tips are as general as saying, “Wanna have a salad for lunch?” I learn more each
year about organic gardens and the benefits
of raised beds. I enjoy trying new varieties
of tomatoes every year. They tempt me like a
new pair of shoes.
But in reality, gardening can be general,
easy and productive. Providing food free of
chemicals and radicals that my family can
enjoy all year long is well worth getting my
hands dirty. It does more than just saving
money, it provides me with peace of mind. It
provides dinner. My carbon footprint is less.
It’s good therapy for me, and it’s good for my
soul. Last, it gives me new things to try each
growing season. Just as Moses recorded in
Genesis chapter 8, “while the earth remains,
seed time and harvest.... shall not cease.”
2011 seed time season awaits. Plan. Grow.
Share. Eat. n
Laurie Bennett
Laurie Bennett loves gardens, books and
tea. She lives in the country with her
husband Brian and their three beautiful
daughters. She serves her state as a
volunteer Master Gardener and provides
service through community centered
gardens and youth teaching-growing
projects. This coming season Laurie
wants to increase her cherry tomato
variety to10 heirlooms because she has
a new cherry tomato recipe that she wants to serve fresh from the vine.
[email protected]
20
***************************
Congratulations!
to MARTHA CURTIS
The raffle winner of the BCW Quilt Project is Martha Curtis from Burleson,
TX. Martha has been battling lung cancer and was diagnosed with breast cancer
in 2010. Enjoy the quilt Martha, let its’ beauty and the care that was put into it
surround you with love.
A special thanks to Nedra Fillmer for creating the beautiful quilt.
The quilt is a powerful reminder of women’s beauty, strength and the
many hats that we wear.
Thanks to Anita Care Int’l for sponsoring the BCW Quilt Project.
“Anita Care Int’l, Ft Lauderdale, FL, is proud to have partnered
with the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine for the 2010 Quilt project.
Congratulations to Elaine English of Boca Medical Supply for
selling the most Quilt Raffle tickets. Elaine provides excellent service
for her clients and specializes in both breast and lymphdema fittings,”
said Andrea Barbera of Anita Care.
Right: Merri Feldmen, Anita Care Consultant, Andrea Barbera, Care Manager
of Anita International, and Elaine English, co-owner of the breast care division
Boca Medical Supply, Boca, Fl.
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9224 Glades Road
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561-488-5600
866-209-0343
Elaine English
PTA-CLT, WCC, CFom, CMF
Co-owner of Boca Medical Supply, Boca Raton, Florida
Certified Fitter
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www.bocamedicalsupply.com
21
NAVIGATING FORWARD >>>
Custom-made
Survivorship
by SHARON FRANCZ
Finding the new you after cancer treatment may start long before your
cancer treatment ends. With the growing number of cancer survivors and
thrivers, the need to address survivorship becomes ever increasing. Cancer
comes custom-made, survivorship does not.
With an increase in public awareness,
screening, early detection, and improved
multimodal cancer treatment, cancer has
evolved for many patients from what was
once a fatal disease to a chronic condition. Navigators are becoming a part of
the patient’s treatment team throughout
the process from newly diagnosed to active
survivor.
Cancer destroys your health and it invades and disrupts every aspect of your life.
Changing from active treatment to survivorship care is different for each individual
much like the cancer treatment one may
receive. Treatment completion may not always signal the end of the cancer experience;
many patients and families continue to face
complicated care issues related to cancer
diagnosis and lingering side effects related
to treatment.
Today the Oncology Nurse Navigators (ONN), Breast Cancer
Navigators (BCN) and
Patient Navigators (PN)
are welcome additions to the
Big News—Just for
Oncology Nurse Navigators!
Register today to win a cabin for 2 on the 5th Annual...
May 14-21, 2011
For more info & to register for this Cruise Contest, visit
www.NCONN.org or www.BreastCancerWellness.org.
Sponsored by BREAST CANCER WELLNESS
AND Amoena USA Passports required
multi-disciplinary treatment team. Navigators enter a patient’s treatment course at
different junctures in the patient’s treatment
plan. In breast cancer treatment the BCN
commonly meets the patient at the imaging
center when a patient is having a screening
mammogram or has been determined to
have an abnormal imaging study. Overtime
the role of the BCN has expanded. It has become acceptable and common for the BCN
to follow a breast cancer patient long after
treatment is concluded.
A growing number of patients diagnosed
with breast cancer will find that at the end
of active treatment the Breast Care Navigator will be instrumental in assisting patients
to transform to survivorship. An oncologist
may no longer follow patients forever but
change a patient to a survivorship program
that will better meet her long-term survivorship care needs.
Survivorship programs are increasingly
being added to the cancer treatment centers.
What should a breast cancer patient
expect to find in a survivorship program?
n A survivorship program champion: Par-
ticipation of members of the cancer treatment team may include a surgeon, oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiologist,
psychologist, social worker, registered
dietician, oncology nurses, pastoral care,
and pain/palliative care team member,
massage therapist and the Patient, Breast
Cancer or Oncology Nurse Navigator.
n Algorithms, guides or prognostic factors
that indicate when and where a patient is
in the survivorship process.
n Support groups or community programs to help the breast cancer patient
throughout the survivorship process.
n A treatment summary plan (TSP) of the
patient’s cancer treatment from screening, diagnosis, surgery until completion
of treatment. The TSP would also include
a long-term patient specific survivorship
care plan, clinical breast exams, imaging frequency, bone density tests and
follow-up appointment frequency with
the patient’s physicians.
The BCN can be instrumental in the
implementation and development of the
survivorship care model. The BCN interviews and identifies the patient’s short term,
long term and immediate needs. Navigators
can initiate the TSP and explain the continuum of care process and how the survivorship
process is customized to each patient.
Navigators can also initiate the psychological support the patient may need during
and after treatment. Members of the survivorship many times will include patient or
lay navigators, individuals who are specially
trained to provide one-on-one support. The
patient navigator is matched to the patient
on several levels, age, type of breast cancer,
Amoena is a registered trademark of Amoena Medizin-Orthopädie-Technik GmbH.
stage of disease, and anticipated treatment
plan. The relationship between the patient
and patient navigator is established at a pace
and frequency suited to fit the needs of the
breast cancer patient.
In addition, to transforming the patient
into survivorship the BCN provide education
to the patient, patients’ family and support
network if desired. Collaboration on many
levels is vital to the success of a patient going from active treatment, survivorship to
thrivorship.
To find out more about the services a
Breast Cancer Navigator can offer or to
locate a navigator in your area you may
contact the National Coalition of Oncology
Nurse Navigators www.nconn.org. n
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Find an Amoena
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CaringBridge helps connect
people during a significant health
challenge. Patients and families can
create a free website to share the
experience and receive support.
To create a website, visit:
www.CaringBridge.org
FREE DOWNLOAD
Sharon Francz
Sharon Francz is the Executive Director,
LPN, BS, BHA, President and Co-founder
of the National Coalition of Oncology
Nurse Navigators. She is also the Oncology Nurse Navigator for Shady Grove
Adventist Hospital in Rockville, MD.
Sharon is a nurse with over 20 years
experience and has a degree in Health
Care Administration. She is a guide and
personal care coach for patients and
families at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and throughout the expanded
community. She is also the facilitator for four cancer support groups. Sharon
has served as a National Advocate Grant Reviewer for the Susan G. Komen for
the Cure, Grant Reviewer for the D.C. Cancer Consortium, American Society of
Breast Surgeons Board of Advocates Member, C-Change Member and speaks
nationally on patient and oncology nurse navigation.
for Breast Cancer Patients, Survivors and Thrivers
www.BreastCancerWellness.org
By Julie Aigner Clark
Available in Bookstores
Book Heather Jose
for your Professional
and Patient Seminars
Professional Guided
Imagery Certification
www.HealingImages.com
636-273-9003
Change your inner mind and
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HOW WE BECAME
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THRIVERS
Our hindsight can be your foresight
By Beverly Vote, Publisher of the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine, and 44 Stories From
Her Breast Cancer Thriving Friends Now Living with Conviction, Clarity, Passion and Purpose
Available at
www.HealingImages.com
Get your copy at
BreastCancerWellness.org
Renew
for me
The New “New You:”
Start Small
by LEE THRASH
It’s astonishing, the grand changes you can effect by making one tiny
change in your established routine. An example: I’ve walked for exercise
most of my adult life. Typically, the nearest place has been the streets of my
subdivision. The college gym’s soft indoor track served me well some years.
Still other times, a walking video has been
the best option. So I’ve tried them all. My favorite walks have always occurred on nature
trails, with leaves and pine needles underfoot,
shaded by giant trees. So I decided: Today
I would walk on the nature trail at a nearby
mountain.
That change from a regular walk to a hike
along an inclined path was eye-opening!
It gave me a whole new outlook on my
workout—a breath (literally huffing and puffing!) of new life. I felt changed while I walked
up and up the trail—excited to do something
I feel like I’ve been doing so long. Because the
mountain path added a level of complexity to
my regular walk, I felt new muscles working.
I approached the steps differently. But it was
still a walk: I spent exactly the same number of minutes, I wore the same shoes. That
incline made all the difference.
I think I’m going to take a hike twice a
week. Not every day, just twice a week: I can
manage that change.
There are so many other examples of
making one easy alteration, to achieve a
greater benefit:
24
Listen to nothing.
Are you a headphones-when-exercising
person? Try your walk (or hike!) without
them, just once. The noises around you,
whether they’re city sounds or birds
twittering in the bushes—or simply the
silence of your wandering thoughts—might
be a new source of delight.
Happy accidents.
Surely you’ve had the fashion success
of pairing an old tee-shirt with a new piece
of chunky jewelry or a scarf, making it an
entirely different ensemble. It’s an easy
mood booster and usually brings new
compliments your way!
Rest, revisited.
Getting to bed a half-hour or hour
earlier than usual can change your outlook
noticeably. You don’t have to sacrifice every
evening—just choose one or two nights
when you can try it. Sleep is cumulative, and
feeling well-rested can be a revelation for
people who are constantly on the go.
Applying this theory to your breast forms
and bras might make a world of change
for you, too. Amoena constantly reviews
and refreshes our product offerings to give
you different options to try. You know your
body best, but your certified fit specialist
knows that a slightly newer shape (like our
new Energy forms, in an oval or a “heart”
shape) might benefit your posture, your
temperature, or your overall silhouette. She
knows that a new bra with Comfort+ can
help keep you cool, and new accessories
like padded shoulder straps are available to
alleviate little aches and pains. Ask her to
show you something new. It’s a small effort
that might be a turning point, in ways you
hadn’t ever thought of before.
The New Year is always a time of
resolution and change, but keep it in
perspective. We don’t have to abandon all of
our current plans in order to implement the
new ones. Make smaller changes. You’ll be
pleasantly surprised how “new” the New You
can feel. n
Lee Thrash
E-business & PR Coordinator, Amoena USA
Lee Thrash manages Amoena’s online
community, theBreastCareSite.com and
Amoena Life magazine to help breast
cancer survivors and their families.
A graduate of Emory University, her
writing experience includes reporting
for and editing health care journals
such as Hospital Case Management,
Case Management Advisor, and Hospital
Home Health (AHC Media), as well as 10+ years editing educational websites,
brochures and publications.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food
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Satisfaction
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Renew
Girl Talk for Thrivers
I Have a Choice
by HEATHER JOSE
I want you to know that I am as middle of the road as they come, middle
child, raised in the Midwest, the list goes on and on. I believe in medicine. I
believe in God. I am not asking you to abandon your beliefs. In fact, I am asking you to rely on them
Believe in the choices you make with all
of your heart and soul. I want you to realize
that your belief in yourself will be the beginning of healing. I am sure beyond sure that
my choices made all the difference in helping my body to be well. I believe that it made
my treatment more effective and helped me
to become someone who has far outlived
all expectations (except those that I set for
myself ). This belief and choices as a result of
them are something that doctors will never
be able to give us. We need to help our bodies learn to heal from within.
We don’t need to wait for someone to
find the cure.
You have a choice. A choice as to how you
view your situation and a choice to make a
difference. Isn’t that a great thought? Knowing that you can make a difference? Cancer
need not leave you paralyzed. I often think
of the picture of the frog who is halfway
down the throat of the bird. He has his
hands around the neck of that bird and the
picture says, “Never, Never, Never Give Up!”
That is a choice to make a difference regardless of the odds.
Coffee or Tea? Red or Blue? Peas or
Corn? If I asked you to tell me your choice
it would take two seconds, right? We make
choices all day long every day. So why is it
when we begin to talk about our own bodies
we no longer think we have choices?
I am here to tell you that your choices
can lead you to wellness. There is no doubt
in my mind. The very first step may simply
be to try that out. “I have a choice. I have a
choice. I have a choice.” This is not hocuspocus. There is no magic formula. However,
if you interviewed women who are thriving
well beyond cancer you would find similarities, one of which would be that they exercised their right to choose. I have been asked
a million times what made the difference for
Looking for Inspiration
on your Cancer Journey?
Buy the book today!
Are you ready to go Beyond Treatment?
Heather Jose is a ten year survivor of
stage IV breast cancer. Diagnosed at 26,
Heather chose to go beyond treatment to kill cancer.
Heather is a dynamic speaker and writer,
inspiring action in survivors and the heathcare
providers that they encounter. She will empower your
group to make positive actions and words count.
It’s time to go beyond treatment!
Contact Heather today.
[email protected]
(517) 262-8397
www.GoBeyondTreatment.com
26
“Letters to Sydney is a compelling and
riveting approach to give hope to those
experiencing cancer. it is a must read for
every woman diagnosed with cancer.”
–Greg Anderson, Author of The Cancer Conqueror
Founding Chairman & CEO
Cancer Recovery Foundation of America
me and I am convinced it was the choice to
participate fully in my healing. First, each of
us need to get comfortable with what it feels
like to make a choice that is right and one
that makes you feel good.
Initially, I was told that
there was nothing that I
could do but get my affairs
in order. What a horrible,
helpless feeling. The first
choice that I made came
the next day, when I decided that I was going to do
everything in my power to
regain my health. It was a
relief to know that I could
do something, that I had a
choice. I didn’t have to accept my fate and wait to die.
Choices build momentum, which we all need
to take on cancer. Every
thought in your head can lead to positive
momentum. For instance, I always have a
choice when it comes to aches and pains that
occur in my body. I could think, “That is the
bone mets. They are painful. There is nothing I can do. I guess I won’t exercise today.”
OR I can choose another route that may go
like this: “That could be bone mets, but it
could be that great workout that I finished
making my body stronger. That is a good
pain. I am strong.”
Choices give you freedom to live to your
potential. Choices provide opportunities to
make you stronger, happier, and empowered. They also give you the ability to forgive
yourself and move forward without guilt. No
one always makes the best choice in terms
of physical, mental and spiritual health.
You are not perfect. But you also have the
choice as to how you react. You can enjoy the
moment and move forward or we can beat
ourselves up and turn the momentum to the
other side.
Remembering that
you aren’t dependent on
someone else for your
health is one of the keys
to wellness. It is freeing
to know this and yet a
responsibility to stop
waiting for someone else’
actions to impact you.
Beverly Vote and I
have been talking about
the best use of my time
with you. I am feeling led
and compelled to help
you see that you are the
most important person
when it comes to healing. It is my goal to help you set goals that
will lead you down the path to wellness. For
now the goal is this—know that you have a
choice.
Looking for a new mantra? Here’s one for
you: “I have a choice.” 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. Ten
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”.
Visit her online at www.heatherjose.com.
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27
Renew
From the Fitting Room
Balance, Comfort
and Dignity
by Linda Jackson
A bra and prosthesis fitting is an important part of achieving overall wellbeing following breast cancer surgery. Your fitting is not just for aesthetic
purposes, although it is very important to feel good and confident about your
outward appearance. Replacing the weight that is lost following the removal of
one breast is essential in order to bring the body back into symmetrical balance.
As a Board Certified Post Mastectomy
Fitter, I tell women that going without a
breast prosthesis which closely matches the
weight of the remaining breast, is comparable to wearing a shoulder bag all day while
shopping. After a few hours you begin to
feel discomfort and aching in your neck,
shoulder and back on the non-surgery side.
This occurs because your skeletal structure
is being pulled out of alignment.
A silicone prosthesis is designed to match
the weight of a natural breast which is the
same size. If you have had one breast re-
28
moved, when you are fitted with the correct
style and size prosthesis the weight distribution should be the same for both the natural
and the prosthetic side.
It is perfectly understandable and acceptable during sleep and leisure times to go
without a bra and instead wear a SOFTEE®
Prosthetic Camisole, leisure garment with
lightweight breast form or nothing at all.
However it is highly recommended that
you wear an appropriate size and weighted
silicone breast prosthesis for at least part of
the day.
If you have had bi-lateral surgery (both
breasts removed), achieving weight balance
is not a concern. You may choose to remain
your previous cup size or decide to be larger
or smaller. You can also opt to wear either
fully weighted, lightweight prosthesis, or
non-weighted like the soft or foam breast
forms. Just remember to consider the proportions of your body and choose a size that
is complementary.
Most specialty stores offer bras and
prostheses from several different manufacturers, some carry products exclusively from
only one manufacturer. Styles, sizes and
the way they fit and feel vary from company
to company, so visit a business that offers
you variety. The experienced recommendations of your fitter are important, but the
final decision is yours, only you know what
is comfortable and works best for your individual lifestyle.
Medicare and Insurance generally
reimburse for a minimum of one prosthesis (two if bi-lateral), up to four bras and
a minimum of one SOFTEE® Prosthetic
Camisole per year, every year. It is helpful
if you verify your medical benefits before
your fitting so you know if there is a co-pay
and what percentage of the total bill your
insurance will cover. It is also appreciated if
you bring prescriptions with you or you have
your physician fax them directly to the store
beforehand. You will need one Rx for
bras and prosthesis, a separate Rx for a
SOFTEE®. Remember to take your Medicare and secondary insurance cards or your
private insurance card.
For more information about after-breastsurgery bras, breast prostheses and more,
visit The Fitting Room at www.SofteeUSA.
com. Here you can also sign up to receive
a short monthly e-bulletin with helpful,
no cost breast cancer resources and link to
a Facebook page with useful, up-to-date
breast cancer information and news. n
Legacy of the SOFTEE®
Prosthetic Camisole
Ladies First
Bringing Comfort & Dignity to women
following Breast Cancer Surgery
In 1990 and before the SOFTEE®:
Physicians and nurses did not have nor
consider recovery options for their breast
surgery patients
Breast cancer patients were discharged
from the hospital with post-operative
drains pinned to their clothing and no
resources or support
Insurance and Medicare offered no
reimbursement for breast cancer surgery
recovery products
Retailers of after-breast-surgery products
did not see customers until after the 6-8
weeks of healing, sometimes longer
Women recovering from breast cancer
surgery were silent about their emotional
and physical post-surgery needs for
comfort and confidence
SOFTEE® brand, the FIRST recovery
option of any kind following breast
surgery. Celebrating 20 Years of:
Educating the medical community
Using patient experience to create optimal
designs for the post-op and extended
needs of breast cancer survivors
Advocacy to secure medical
reimbursement
Celebrating 20 years of comforting women with
specialty garments designed for recovery and
leisure after breast surgery of any kind.
SOFTEE® brand
Prosthetic Camisoles
The acclaimed original, gold standard prosthetic camisoles
offering protection, shape & security after breast surgery
5 Styles 4 Colors 6 Sizes
 SOFTEE TWO® for Recovery  Original SOFTEE® for Sleep & Leisure  Support SOFTEE® for Anytime Covered by
Medicare and
Insurance
Created by a
survivor!
The Original SOFTEE®
Prosthetic Camisole
Promoting hospital support services
Creating awareness of recovery products
by fitters & retail providers
Comforting women
The SOFTEE®—much more than a pioneer
and product... a significant contribution from
the heart of a survivor...
Linda Jackson
25 Year Breast Cancer Thriver
and Creator of the SOFTEE®
Board Certified Post Mastectomy Fitter
President Ladies First, Inc.,
SofteeUSA.com and Ladies First Choice,
a breast cancer boutique In Salem, OR
www.ladiesfirst.com,
www.softeeusa.com
Support SOFTEE®
Prosthetic Camisole
Enjoy your SOFTEE®s for a
lifetime, whenever comfort
with shape is desired.
To find a local retailer call 8004978285
If the SOFTEE® style, color or size you need is not in stock,
the store can order it and ship direct to you.
To order SOFTEE® Camisoles online with free shipping,
visit www.SofteeUSA.com or toll free at 8666058585
Our products are 100% American made for American quality!
SOFTEE® The first and most recommended & prescribed prosthetic camisoles.
Inspire
YOUR WORDS
Words of
Encouragement
All of us want need encouragement from others when facing breast cancer. May you be touched today by
these thrivers who have faced the darkness of breast cancer and who understand and care enough to send
each of you their heartfelt words of wisdom, compassion and encouragement.
You need faith, love, and a positive attitude! You
will gain strength from your family, friends, and
most of all from trust in yourself and your doctors
and their staffs. At age 43 and again at 57 my
cancer was detected from mammography. I was
scared since my mother had also been diagnosed at
age 43 and lost her battle one year later. However,
my doctors were optimistic due to early detection
and the much improved treatment possibilities vs.
35 years ago. After radiation I was cancer free for
14 years. Then I was diagnosed a second time. This
time the the medical recommendations were
chemotherapy and a mastectomy. I am now
cancer free for four years with no complications.
I didn’t choose reconstruction at age 57 but wear
a prosthesis. I’m thankful for those who helped me
and I’m confident about my future.
Fran Skillman
Indianapolis, IN
[email protected]
trust
30
When faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, it often
seems as though our world is spinning out of control.
The same can be said for an unexpected divorce, job
loss, death, in fact, anything that shakes the very
foundation of our soul. No matter what the challenge,
we must understand that we cannot always change
what happens to us, but the knowledge that we
have control of how we respond can be empowering
beyond belief. The idea that we have a choice can be
liberating and make a tremendous
difference in life! Today, choose
your attitude, because you can.
TAMMY MILLER
Port Matilda, PA
www.tammyspeaks.com
I was diagnosed in May 1996, HER2 positive, stage
3. After a double mastectomy, loss of one lung, and
two recurrences reaching stage 4, in November 1999
my oncologist told me to do everything I wanted
to do because I had about 18 months left. At that
moment I knew what I wanted to do: get a new
oncologist! I did and I have had 11 years of life from
that fateful day. I live each day to the fullest like it is
my last day on earth and appreciate
every moment.
LESLEY PAARMANN
Santa Barbara, CA
www.ribbonsventura.org/
lesleypaarmannsteppan2
Facing breast cancer can be very scary. Upon hearing
your diagnosis, you may feel many emotions moving
rapidly through you: fear, confusion, panic, tears, and
be stone cold in your tracks. STOP! Take a couple of
deep breaths. Calm down so you can think about this
devasting life altering news. First, know that this is
not a death sentence. You can get through this with
the grace of God, a positive attitude about it, a willing
and loving support system of family and friends, other
survivors and thrivers, and a very capable medical
team. Begin to prepare yourself. Your diet is very
important so make sure you eat your antioxidant
fruits and your green leafy veggies. The proper rest
is critical to your healing. Research, read, education
yourself, pray, plan, and proceed. This will be a tough
experience for you; however, it will teach you just how
strong you really are. Everyone’s experience is their
own. This is part of your journey. There is a higher
purpose in this experience. Focus on the
silver lining as you move through it.
Many prayers to you.
A’dele Langham
Chicago, IL
[email protected]
compassion
wisdom
Be kind to your body but do not give up on setting
physical goals for yourself. Staying physical will help
with the side effects of treatment. When you are diagnosed with breast cancer you feel like you have very
little control over everything that is happening in your
life. Exercising everyday no matter how little you are
able to do is one thing you have control over. It will
help you with fatigue, weight management, stress,
emotions as well as your self-esteem. I wanted to be
stronger and healthier than ever after my treatment.
Less than a year after finishing chemo, a bilateral
mastectomy, and radiation I tried running for the first
time in my life and completed my goal
of running my first 5K.
Stacey Michaud
Omaha, NE
[email protected]
Wow! Why am I here, there must be a reason.
Through my spinal fusion, two heart attacks, dialysis,
kidney transplant, breast cancer and now diabetes,
abusive marriage, rape and I have survived it all. God
had a plan for me. The key to my success is the will
to live and a positive attitude. I am here to share my
story for those who don’t believe it’s possible to go
through these horrible turmoils and come out happy
on the other side. I am a survivor and a thriver!
PAMELA DUBOSE
Sacramento, CA
[email protected]
I live by humor, humility, and hope. Laugh at everything! When my hair started coming out I decided
to go for the Mohawk. It was a big hit! One day my
daughter and I were driving to the store and I said,
“OH NO I LEFT MY HAIR AT HOME AND I FORGOT TO PUT
MY EYEBROWS ON!” We all fear the unknown, so take
charge and look cancer in the face. Fight for yourself,
those who have gone before, and those who are yet to
come. This is the only way we can truly have hope.
Janet Bauer
Vancouver, WA
[email protected]
www.caringbridge.org/visit/
janetbauer
My name is Gina and I am a stage three breast cancer
survivor and thriver. After being diagnosed in October
2004, I went through chemotherapy, lumpectomy, mastectomy, radiation followed by multiple surgeries. I am
married and have two beautiful daughters. Cancer gave
me a new lease on life. I wrote many songs throughout
my cancer treatments and discovered myself. True
beauty is on the inside and radiates outward. In 2008
I released my first CD called “Life is Wonderful” and am
pursuing writing other songs for major artists. I love to
sing and share my story with others. Life is a gift and
each breath we breathe is another moment to reflect on
what is really important. Never give up
and keep moving forward because
after all, “Life is Wonderful.”
Gina Cook
Dallas, GA
www.ginacookmusic.com
Four years ago, I didn’t think I would be seeing another Christmas. It’s been a long journey with too many
ups and downs. Without the help and love from my
family, I don’t think I would be here and actually smiling. It’s hard to cope with the diagnosis; everything
seems to be going in slow motion. Don’t hesitate to
ask for help and advice from others who you trust. I
have been helped tremendously by other survivors
and thrivers on the subjects that were worrying me.
Here I am with another breast cancer
thriver, my friend Elaine.
Lynn Watts
Somerset, England
It’s ok to wonder why, what’s next and try to find the
reason for the trials in your life. But if you can’t find
the answers, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist.
You may not recognize or except them and it may
be meant for someone else’s benefit. Don’t make
excuses for not enjoying your gift of life. There are no
guarantees for survivors or 100% healthy people that
tomorrow will be better or worse than today. You
need to move on and continue to live life and do what
makes you happy in whatever situation you are in.
Karen Dziech
Goshen, OH
[email protected]
I wonder what words could actually encourage a
person newly diagnosed with breast cancer. I know
when I was diagnosed with bi-lateral breast cancer
while breast feeding my daughter, there was nothing
anybody could have said that would make anything
seem encouraging. Breast cancer isn’t something we
sign up for and it just stops you right in the middle of
your life, but somehow we get through it with words
of encouragement from other breast cancer survivors.
It’s amazing how much we hear at the beginning
that we never really listen to but later we remember
what people have said. Hang in there, you too will get
through this!
CARRIE FITZPATRICK
[email protected]
Walking through our cancer journey, surviving,
thriving, or whatever journey means to you, we are
growing, moving and discovering new and different
parts of ourselves. We are becoming spiritually in
tune with who we are or want to be; with what gives
us meaning and purpose, with who and what we are
connected to and this is our spirituality, which is the
glue of life that holds all things together, providing
balance and footing through God or a higher power
and for me it is God and my relationship with Him. What or who is it
for you?
Grace Clark
RNC, MS, MSN
The diagnosis of ‘cancer’ snapped me right into the reality that life is finite. I darned well better do my dream
things now, instead of waiting for a tomorrow that
may never come. Having enough money, or enough
time just didn’t seem to matter anymore. I pulled on
my reserves and went to town. I started small with
sushi cooking classes, rock climbing and guitar lessons.
Then, I moved on to bigger things like working on
board a ship that sailed around the world. I survived
this round of cancer and now I see life
differently altogether.
LINDA SMITH
Anchorage, AK
[email protected]
support
guidance
Inspire
YOUR WORDS
Words of inspiration to new breast cancer survivors
from a 24 year survivor is to look up and live, thank
God that he has allowed you to see another day. This
is not a journey you have to travel alone, allow others
to travel with you, especially other survivors. Hang on
to those who lift your spirit with joy letting you know
breast cancer is not a death sentence and you can live
life to the fullest. Drop those travelers who have given
up and are not looking for the sunshine in their lives.
Start each day saying “Thank you Lord, I AM A Live “ !
Annie S. Staten
Monroe, LA
Celebrating Life After Breast
Cancer Support Group
[email protected]
I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer 10-012008. I underwent a mastectomy and chemo therapy.
In the difficult months of treatment I found support
through my church and neighbors. They walked my
dog every day and for 6 months they delivered meals
to my family, showing me that love and concern is
there if you are willing to accept it, and my faith in humankind’s generosity was strengthened. I was much
stronger than I had given myself credit for. I kept my
eye on the prize of total healing and
recovery. You can do this! There is
always hope.
Koryn
Woodbridge, VA
IN YOUR WORDS
You are invited to share how you made
peace with your body after your diagnosis
of breast cancer with the readers of the
Breast Cancer Wellness magazine.
Share your thoughts in less than 100
words. Include your name, city and state
at the end of your submission. Feel free
to include your email.
1. Your high resolution photo MUST
be received WITH your submission.
2. Email your submissions to Robyn Lynn
at [email protected].
Remember, you must send your photo
WITH your submission so that your article
can be considered. Deadline is March 1,
2011. NO EXCEPTIONS.
32
As the director and founder of a breast cancer organization, I have the wonderful opportunity to feature
survivors each year in our Breast Cancer Survivor Fashion Show held each October at Woodland Hills Mall in
Tulsa, OK. I love seeing the inner beauty shine in each
survivor when the mall provides her beautiful outfit,
and does her hair and make up before the show. The
crowds who watch appreciate the courageous battle
these women have fought and conquered. And the
women, although nervous at the beginning – realize
just how fabulous they are when the show is over!
JUDY GROVE
Founder and Director
Breast Impressions, Inc.
Tulsa, OK
www.BreastImpressions.com
I’ve traveled the road that some of you may be entering
now. I’m a registered nurse, and I’ve been on both sides
of the fence as giver and receiver of health care. During
a monthly breast self examination, I discovered a lump
in my right breast. I immediately called my doctor and
scheduled a mammogram; this was in 1987. The mammogram was negative for malignancy but I insisted on
a biopsy—a definitive diagnosis was made for breast
cancer. Empower yourself with information about
breast cancer so that you can advocate for your health
care needs and don’t forget to seek information from
official cancer organizations like the American Cancer
Society and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. I encourage you to feel good about yourself, you are the same
person you were before being diagnosed with breast
cancer. Do something special for yourself each day
because you still have wants and needs. Start your day
with an attitude of gratitude; get dressed with makeup,
jewelry, and your stilettos—step out with your head
high, and chest out. Be confident! Attending support
groups that are therapeutic. And lastly, maintain your
spirituality, keep close contact with friends, reach
out, share, and help others.
augusta williams
24 year Breast Cancer Thriver
North Andover, MA
[email protected]
As a survivor of two bouts with breast cancer I can attest to the power of perseverence. During treatment,
support groups (where I could be both witty and
serious) and journaling became life ropes to which I
clung. My diary through chemo holds nothing back.
In addition, I sought to help others through their
struggles. As a veteran patient I comforted a woman
in a waiting room facing her first radiotherapy round,
assuring her it was doable. My advice in a nutshell?
Smile, connect, find a niche and strive to help others
thrive.
Jan Hasak
Paradise, CA
www.janhasak.com
[email protected]
We acknowledge that we are creatures with the
power of informed choice. Our freedoms and decisions
are what makes us happy. But when we receive a
cancer diagnosis we realize that we cannot always
choose. We call ourselves victims and stumble along
at the mercy of the disease. We bury ourselves in
unhappiness, fear and stress. When I was diagnosed
with cancer, I walked that road until I realized that I
had given away my choices. I was letting the cancer
make decisions for me. I signed up for a multi-day
walk because I wanted to ensure I could make choices.
I wanted to prove to myself that I am not a victim,
and by participating in the walk I could contribute to
improving the community of cancer survivorship. I
walked 9 hours a day, through horrid rain, wind and
cold for three days. With blisters and sore muscles, I
completed the task, fueled by my passion. I showed
myself, my friends, and my family that cancer
survivors are capable of doing much more
than they realize.
Carrie Wells
New York, NY
SurvivorsRetreat.com
[email protected]
thrive
Words of Encouragement
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995. Breast
cancer does not define me and although it certainly
changed my life, some of those changes meant
surprising improvements. Through my business I
now help other thrivers feel comfortable in their
new bodies, and their feedback and determination
enrich my life. Experiencing cancer has provided me
with a mission and an understanding that I am much
more than a wife, mother and grandmother—I am a
celebration of life!”
Janet Cockburn
www.janacmastectomywear.com
[email protected]
It’s Alright To Be Happy
When I was told that I had breast cancer, I remember
just being stunned. In my bedroom, I begin to pray. I
asked the Lord to give me strength to face this illness.
Then the Bible verse Isaiah 40:31 came to mind. I
knew that it was a sign giving me hope and faith.
When family and friends heard the news, they all
came to check on me. One of them asked why was I
smiling and not crying. Why I was not all broken up
and sad. I replied Isaiah 40:31.
BETTY ANDREWS
Marietta, GA
[email protected]
Cancer is not automatically a death sentence. Through
my journey with cancer I meet many individuals who
were 20 and even 30 year survivors. This gave me
hope! Don’t let fear control you. Step back, breath and
empower yourself with information from reputable
sources and other survivors! Strengthen yourself
spiritually. Immerse yourself with spiritual words from
the Bible like Jeremiah 29:12-13 and 11; listen to
uplifting music and express your cares to the Lord! In
conclusion, these were the steps I took and now I am a
four year thriving breast cancer survivor, encouraging
others in their journey.
PAULA EAKINS
MS Nutritionist, Naturopath
Huntsville, AL
www.hseminars.com
While the losses do come fast and furious, there does
also come gifts with healing. Appreciation for things,
that may never have crossed your mind before the loss
and grows with each step of recovery. Keep your mind
on the prize while your body transitions through the
darkness of disease, with acceptance of the process as
best you can. Understand that your body will never be
the same and allow yourself to grieve the loss. Your
loved ones will stand by you even though it is very
painful for them also. Fear is part of it, but believe in
healing.
To all my PINK SISTERS, know that you’re not alone in
your fight. Somewhere, someone is holding you up in
prayer always. We all have a special and unique bond
together. My prayer to all; that God will give you supernatural strength and comfort. To all of us who have been
down that road, remember our sisters... stop, and say a
prayer for them. We may not know who we are comforting at that time, but just agreeing with them in prayer,
God knows and hears us! “For those who BELIEVE in the
Lord, will RENEW their STRENGTH...” –Isaiah 40:31
Ruthie Mills
Bryan, TX
Amy Anderson
3 1/2 year survivor
Merrill, WI
[email protected]
I don’t know of one woman who wasn’t rock-herworld-shocked when she first heard the words “you
have breast cancer.” It throws the element of chaos
into your every-day “normal” world. So what do you
do? There’s no one answer. I can only speak from
personal experience when I say that you continue
to do everything else in your life just like you’d done
it before. You forge on. You just keep going. You get
through it. And you become stronger for it. You learn
more about what’s important in your life and you
foster it. So, “you have breast cancer”
can turn into “you will have a
better life.”
Breast Cancer - a Blessing in Disguise
My experience with breast cancer helped me change
my outlook and perspective towards life. My priorities
changed for the better. I don’t take life for granted
anymore. I learned to live in the moment. My life is
fuller and richer now. I appreciate every moment,
consciously making decisions that correspond with how
I want to feel in the moment. I make time to take a
walk, smell the roses, listen to the birds chirping, talk to
my plants, and listen to the silence. I feel precious life all
around me.
Lea Yekutiel
Sherman Oaks, CA
www.ilovemybreastcancer.com
Judy Baker
Marietta, OH
[email protected]
I’ve been living well with metastatic breast cancer
for almost three years. When you have this diagnosis, statistics for survival aren’t great. But I’m not a
statistic, and neither are you. Statistics lump everyone
together. They don’t take into account your mindset
or whether you’re taking an active role in staying
healthy. I’ve interviewed people nationwide who
have beaten the odds of a “terminal” cancer diagnosis.
One of the most prominent attributes they share is a
healthy stubborn streak. They didn’t believe cancer
would kill them, and they proved medical science
wrong. I plan on doing the same, and you can, too.
AT FIRST YOU THINK YOU’RE GOING TO DIE. Your mind
wanders to all the people, places, things, you haven’t
spoken to, seen or accomplished in your life. Tell yourself “I’m worthy of life.” You’ll need the confidence,
you have a battle ahead of you. For the first tiime
in your life, put yourself first. Do everything in your
power to be informed about breast cancer and your
personal situation. FIGHT FOR YOU! Rest, pray, leave
your disease to a higher power. Let the energy within
you radiate and shine, because with you in the world,
it’s a better place.
TAMI BOEHMER
Author, From Incurable to
Incredible:Cancer Survivors
Who Beat the Odds
www.miraclesurvivors.com
comfort
Kimberly Jane Oswald
Cincinnati, OH
Three month breast cancer
thriver
[email protected]
33
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Cindy Giles CPC, EL-MP
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Finding Your PEP
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Inspire
Thriver Profile
DEANNA FAVRE
Overcoming
by BEVERLY VOTE
Deanna Favre was diagnosed with
breast cancer in 2004 at the age of
35. The need to help others was the
catalyst for writing her New York
Times best selling book, Don’t Bet
Against Me! We know Deanna as
the wife of famed NFL quarterback
legend Brett Favre, but she is also President
and CEO of Favre 4 Hope Foundation, mother
to her two daughters Brittany and Breleigh and
grandmother to her new grandson Parker. Many
know Deanna as a woman of profound faith.
Deanna’s most recent book, The Cure for the Chronic Life;
Overcoming the Hopelessness that Holds you Back, was cowritten with Shane Stanford. Shane is the author of several
books including You Can’t Do Everything... So Do Something.
In 1986 at the age of 16, Shane tested positive for HIV due to
contaminated medicines.
Like many of us, Deanna and Shane have more in common than meets the eye. The Hattiesburg Mississippi Roman
Catholic and the Pensacola Florida Methodist Church pastor
both survived life threatening illnesses. Both have personally
experienced the grace and strength of God and want to share
with others how to heal a chronic life and and how to heal
hopelessness.
Their book outlines the seven worries of living in crisis,
the seven wonders of living in Christ and an action plan of 40
days for moving through hopelessness. The scriptural tools
of the “C.U.R.E”—compassion, understanding, response, and
encouragement—are their recommended methods to move
any one’s life to their greater potential and for living a higher
purpose life.
36
{
Hopelessness
“It wasn’t until my bout with breast cancer
that God truly showed me the importance of
really responding to the needs of others. And
it was during this revelation that I learned that
“response” is a scriptural tool that God uses to
move you through your own struggles and to
redefine your priorities and life.”
–Deanna Favre
The following includes excerpts from
Deanna’s and Shane’s new book, The Cure for
the Chronic Life; Overcoming the Hopelessness that Holds you Back. Deanna’s heartfelt
message asks us to consider our willingness
to heal not just our body but our life. She
includes how response is a powerful gift to the
world, to the recipient and to the responder.
Through the gift of response, a new you and
your “new normal” awaits you.
Do You Really Want to Get Well?
Scripture: Read John 5: 1-9
I remember days during my treatment for
cancer when I couldn’t decide if I wanted to
be well or not. I hurt too badly. The nausea
was too great, and the aches too painful. I felt
so bad that I couldn’t decide if it was worth
the effort and the fight to get well. Certainly, I
don’t know what it is like to sit by the healing
pool at Bethsaida all day for years, waiting
for someone to push me into the waters when
they are stirred, but I can imagine that you
grow weary as much from the waiting as from
the disease itself. Living the chronic life is
somewhat like the experience of the man by
the pool in John 5. Each day, we wait for the
next shoe to drop. We may wake up feeling so
much better, only to have it wear us down by
the end, and we find that we are back where
we started. Chronic situations are like this
too. We believe the progress is just around the
corner, only to have a too-human situation
take place that pushes us back into our doubts
and mistrust.
Jesus’ question of the man by the pool
was telling: “Do you want to get well?” In
other words, he was asking, “After all you
have been through, after sitting at this pool
for all of these years, after this being all you
have known, are you sure you want this to
change? Are you prepared for what this
change will mean in your life?” It sounds like
a silly question to ask of someone who had
been waiting at the pool for so long, but it
makes perfect sense. There comes a point in
our battle where the question is not whether
we can be healed or whether God can work
in our lives, but the real question is when are
we willing for it to happen. Jesus pushes us
out of our comfort zones and asks, “Are you
really ready to trust me?”
“Yes,” was the man’s answer. Jesus could
tell that he meant it. On the spot, the man was
made well. Not only was his body changed,
but his life was changed as well. Healing
didn’t just mean a new physical state; it also
meant the change to move out of his neighborhood of broken lives into a new place
where one could make a difference. What
about you? Maybe you have been living in this
condition of the chronic life for so long, you
wonder if you can live any other way. Now
God is offering you something different. But it
will take moving from the poolside, where you
have learned to cope, and trusting that God
can give you a new chance for new relationships and a new future. It will take more than
just courage; it will also take a deep-seated
willingness and the belief that having your life
change is all that really matters.
My prayer for you, as it is for all of us, is
that we might watch the waters stir inside
each of us and that we will follow where
Christ leads. It won’t be easy, but it will
certainly be for our good, and the result is that
we will never be the same.
Are you really ready to be healed? Or have
you become content with living in a chronic
state of life? What happens when you voice
your willingness to be healed? What changes
can you expect from this new life? What do
you think happened to the man at the pool
in John 5 on the next day of his life? Do you
believe God abandoned him? If not, how do
you believe God would have continued to
work in this man’s life to bring renewal and
restoration? u
37
What keeps you from asking for God to
heal the whole of your life? What does real
healing mean for you? Make a list of what
keeps you “by the pool” and from being
healed. What do you need to “set down” in
your life in order to respond to God’s urging to
be healed and begin again?
Response
My bout with breast cancer showed me
that not everyone has either the connection
of family or the resources needed for the
most basic of tasks and routines. The more
time I spent at treatment and trying to fight
my own battle with cancer, the more God
showed me those around me who did not
have it so easy. These revelations and rela-
tionships haunted me. I couldn’t imagine
a life without a supportive family. Thus, I
woke up every day with two things on my
mind—trying to get well, and thinking about
the person I had met at the clinic the previous day who didn’t have even a small portion
of what I had to win the battle.
“I felt the need to do something... anything,” my coauthor Shane says in one of his
previous books, You Can’t Do Everything... So
Do Something. I didn’t know Shane during
this time of my life, but I understood that
spirit nonetheless. I wanted to do everything
but I quickly realized that even with all of
the blessings our family had, we did not have
enough to do all that we encountered. But we
could do something.
Shane Stanford. Photo courtesy of Anthony Thaxton.
That is when I created the Favre 4 Hope
Foundation. The purpose of the foundation
is to provide resources in terms of basic assistance for women who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer. We are not raising
money for research or for treatment; we know
there are other agencies for both. The purpose
of our foundation is to help young women,
wives, and mothers have enough money to
make ends meet while undergoing treatment.
Some people have questioned the simplicity of the foundation’s purpose, and I have
even had people ask why I don’t spend more
time on other pursuits. But this is what God
has called me to do in response. This is my
something. I have heard Shane talk about how
his heart was changed when he realized the
plight of those living with HIV in developing
countries who did not have the blessings of
resources and family that he had. Even with
his own journey so closely tied to the subject,
those stories of need around the world had
a significant impact upon him. This project
is not going to meet every need. But to the
people it assists, don’t tell them that it does
not make a difference.
I feel the same way about our foundation.
It is our way to do something, to respond.
And it is about more than just making us
feel better or providing charity. This work is
spiritual activity. There is a biblical imperative
to its mission. In Mark I, a man with leprosy
sat by the city gate day after day, waiting for
someone to come by. Finally, he heard about
Jesus, a teacher and rabbi who could do great
things and heal people. As Jesus drew closer,
38
the man called out to him, “If you want to, you
can make me well again.” (Mark I:40). I have
always thought this was an odd way to approach Jesus. But do you know the rest of that
story? Jesus reached out his hand, touched
the man, and healed him (see Mark I: 41-42).
We know that Jesus was always willing to be
involved in people’s lives, and we know that
Jesus made an incredible difference in so
many different ways.
But if you read the story again, you get the
picture. This man with leprosy does not know
Jesus. However, he believes that the stories
he has heard about this man from Nazareth
are true. There were lots of people who had
passed by this man, and who had the power
to make some kind of difference in his life, but
they didn’t act. Why? They chose not to do so.
They did not have the “will.”
I love how the Scripture reads from this
point. It says that Jesus was “Moved with pity,”
and said “I want to” and “Be healed!” (verse
41). Jesus crossed the line. He went from
having the ability to do something to actually
doing it. In one moment, Jesus transformed
religion. All the rabbis who had walked by
before and even the people who had shouted
a prayer or a promise to pray hadn’t gone this
far. Jesus went beyond merely understanding,
and even beyond compassion; he responded
to the man’s need. This wasn’t about Jesus,
the disciples, the religious leaders, or even
the crowd. For probably the first time in this
man’s life, Jesus made the story about him.
Jesus’ response not only healed the man’s
body, it gave him an identity, healed his heart,
and changed his life.
All of us are called to respond to whatever
God is doing in our lives. True, most of us will
not be able to use our names alone to hold
fundraisers or add to the validity of a cause,
and those who are able to do so in glory to
God should feel truly humbled and blessed.
But all of us, the Bible says, have been gifted
with something, and our only responsibility
is to respond. And yet, in that response we go
from being a spectator in the world, engaged
only by our own situation, to diving into the
lives of others and making a difference. And
did I mention that the real transformation
appears in us, too, and not just in those whom
we help! n
http://www.favre4hope.com
http://www.shanestanford.org
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39
Inspire
Thriver Profile
What Would You Do if You Knew
Everything was Going to be Okay?
by Cindy Giles
Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly.
On a Friday afternoon of Memorial weekend in 2006, I am living in Naperville, IL with my husband and our three daughters. From the outside looking in, my life appears lucky, fortunate, and even blessed.
I am a wife, mother, community volunteer, friend, neighbor and whatever keeps
me busy on my treadmill of a life. May 26
was a beautiful day and I was waiting for a
phone call, a call that I thought would kick
off the summer to a great start. The call
came right when my youngest was getting
home from school. The call would change
my life forever. I had breast cancer.
I am not sure what a typical or natural
reaction would be when discovering that you
have cancer, but I didn’t cry, I wasn’t angry,
I just felt numb. It was just something else
I had to deal with; hurry here, hurry there,
hurry up and get this “thing” over with too.
I am the type of person who makes lists
and crosses things off: grocery store, dry
cleaning, drive to volleyball, call surgeon to
remove tumor from breast, etc. My life was
structured, predictable and a little boring-but that was all about to change.
My first week of having breast cancer felt
surreal, like living in the twilight zone. My
predictable boring life was not predictable
and uncommonly busy with things that surprisingly revolved around me. On Wednesday, my plan of lunch with my friends was
traded for a meeting with my surgeon to talk
about removing a tumor from my breast.
A new vocabulary was emerging in a world
that I had no desire to know anything about.
On Friday, my 48th birthday was celebrated
with blood tests, x-rays and a breast MRI followed by dinner near Northwestern Hospital.
On Saturday, my 12-year-old daughter and
40
I were driving to her volleyball tournament
and a car in the other lane was zigzagging,
crossing the line and driving out of control. I
quickly pulled off the road just as the swerving car slammed into the side of my car.
Fortunately, no one was hurt but my car was
seriously damaged. My daughter asked me
if I was mad about my car and I told her, it
was not important because she was all right,
but inside I knew I still had cancer. I looked
around at the police, fire truck, ambulance
and 20 very odd spectators and thought,
what happened to my life? It was becoming
unrecognizable. I was trying to be a spectator, but my life was insisting that I take a
starring role. I hadn’t been the star of my own
life in so long the thought of taking control
made me feel extremely uncomfortable, yet,
invigorated. I have had two secret fears in
my life that I have never told--getting cancer
and being in a serious car crash. Both of these
happened in the same week. What the hell
was going on with my life?
I was not used to soul searching so I didn’t
make time to think about the dramatic turns
my life was taking; instead, I just kept putting
one foot in front of the other. In truth, that
was how I went through life, crossing things
off that were done. This was what I was
thinking about as we drove to Northwestern
for my surgery. I felt anxious about being the
person that all the fuss was about. I had been
invisible in so many parts of my life and cancer was forcing me to take center stage. When
we got to Northwestern, I glanced at myself
in the mirror and, for all my anxiety, my eyes
were alive with mischief - they were asking
me if I was ready for an adventure.
I was lucky that my surgery was scheduled
a week after diagnosis, evidently not many
people wanted surgery on June 6, 2006
(6/6/06). I didn’t care; I just wanted this
“cancer” off my list. The surgery was a success
with the tumor removed from my right breast
but the little tumor was actually a big tumor
and it wasn’t stage one it was stage three with
cancer found in my lymph nodes. This confirmed that I would need chemotherapy and
radiation. I am not happy because I realize I
will lose my hair and my summer is shot. This
turned out to be the least of my worries.
I seriously thought
about the question
and, for the first time
I answered it.
I discovered the magnitude of this life
threatening illness when doctors began
the hunt for more cancer in my organs and
bones. What if I died of this disease? I had
never experienced that kind of raw fear in
my entire life. It was the kind of fear that
consumes your mind, makes your blood run
cold and locks your thoughts in a prison
of worry. I was terrified; I couldn’t grab a
rational thought. I went home and got into
bed to hide under the covers.
As I laid in my world of denial, I heard,
“What would you do if you knew everything
was going to be okay?” I pretend I didn’t
hear that voice in my head but it repeated
the question. “What would you do if you
knew everything was going to be okay?” I ignored the voice because I was convinced that
the cancer had spread to my brain and I was
doomed. I was scared, lost and wanted to
escape my life. I didn’t know how to handle
the situation so I reverted to the activity that
worked for me before cancer: I jumped on
my bicycle and took off.
I loved to bike and usually rode for a few
hours or more in the forest preserve behind
my house. It was a natural meditation. At the
The last leg of the journey was six weeks
of radiation. The irony of radiation is that it
takes longer to undress then it does to get
zapped, yet the process is completely and
totally exhausting. I laid my bald, plump
steroid body down for a nap and felt so different from the women that biked two hours
a day and walked three miles every morning
that I broke down and cried for the first time.
Tears poured down my face. I didn’t recognize
myself, inside or out. I felt such despair and
hardship. I was feeling broken when the voice
broke through, “What would you do if you
helping me through. I also felt in my heart,
that I would never go through this again.
When I returned home from the
Ukraine, I knew something had shifted, the
old and the new me had merged into one. I
was at peace and I was not angry at cancer
anymore, in fact, I was thankful for the
experience. The journey into cancer had reminded me that I am important and to take
the time and laugh, enjoy moments--all of
them—good and bad. I try very hard not to
take my life for granted and to push myself
to reach out to life with both hands.
Left to Right: Cindy and fellow thriver Krissie Dowd at the Survivor Tent for the American Cancer Society Strides Walk 2010. The Giles family—Duncan, Anne,
Maddie, Cami and Cindy—celebrating Christmas 2010. Cindy loves to Zumba. Cindy looks forward to meeting you on the 2011 Thrivers Cruise.
beginning of the ride, I would have terrible
fears and worries but eventually my thoughts
would shift to only the sound of the road. I
pondered thoughts like: What would I do if I
knew everything was going to be okay? What
would I do if I knew this was just a bump
in the road? What would I do if the doctors
found cancer somewhere else in my body?
I worked myself into a state of panic. I had
trouble breathing, my eyes twitched, fear had
me in its grips, when I heard, “What would
you do if you knew everything was going to be
okay?” I seriously thought about the question and, for the first time I answered it. If
everything were okay, if I didn’t have cancer, I
would take control of my life. I would be grateful for everyday. I would be the best person I
could be. Life would no longer pass me by. Did
I just say that out loud? Yes! I would live! I
would be grateful for everyday and be the best
person I could be! I felt an incredible release of
pressure off my mind and body. And then...
Relief, pure relief. The doctors did not
find any cancer in my organs or bones. It
was around the time I started chemo when
I began to feel like the caterpillar morphing
into the butterfly; so many changes were going on with me, physically, mentally, emotionally. I would ask myself, what would I do if
everything was going to be okay? This became
my mantra. Saying it would instantly stop the
pity-party going on in my head and I could
refocus my energy into moving forward.
knew everything was going to be okay?” But
this time it answered, “You’re going to Russia.”
What? As I was laying in my pity-party, I
lifted my head up and wondered, “Russia??
Where did that thought come from?” But it
was something to think about. I didn’t know
it then, but a seed had just been planted
about my future.
The day finally came when all visits to the
hospital were finished. I return to my old life
only to find that it no longer existed. I found
that I had morphed into someone I didn’t
know anymore. The pieces of my puzzle didn’t
fit like they used to. I didn’t know who I was
anymore. My old life was gone and I wasn’t
sure what to do next. So I did the only thing
that made sense, I went to Russia.
I found a place to volunteer in an orphanage for two weeks in the Ukraine, not quite
Russia, but close enough. It was difficult and
challenging living in a foreign country with
minimal English spoken, not to mention my
apartment didn’t have hot water. These conditions allowed me to reflect and acknowledge
that I had gone through cancer with courage
and strength and I could do anything, even
live without hot water. I had the luxury of
being alone, away from family and friends, so
I was able to think a lot about me. I realized
going through cancer made me feel alive, deep
and spiritual. I was grateful for the voice I
heard that reached out to me so many times
and wondered if that was God or my soul
I have re-discovered my passions, which
thankfully, doesn’t allow my life to get dull or
boring. I have gone skydiving, volunteered as
an extra in movies and started playing tennis
again. I have become an artist and a ZUMBA
instructor. My one true passion of helping others turned into a business. I am the
proud owner of Gutsy Lady Coaching which
partners with women to capitalize on their
cancer experience and uncover a new outlook
on what matters in life. I remember my own
road, and no I don’t tell them they have to
travel to the Ukraine, but I do ask them, what
would you do if you knew everything was going to be okay?
I hope you will join me on the 5th Annual
Breast Cancer Thrivers Cruise where I will
be giving an interactive workshop called,
Finding Your PEP... Your Discovery to Passion, Empowerment and Purpose. This free
workshop will inspire you to re-connect with
your talents and dreams and live your life with
no regrets. I look forward to meeting you on
the Thrivers Cruise! n
Cindy Giles is the founder of Gutsy Lady Coaching which specializes in “surviving”
for women who are in cancer treatment and/or cancer remission. Combining her
experiences as a breast cancer survivor and thriver and knowledge and skills as a
coach, Cindy helps her clients move forward with passion and live their lives with
no regrets. She is a passionate speaker and offers inspirational workshops at cancer treatment centers. Cindy also has a radio show featuring survivors who have
improved the world as a result of their experience with cancer. She is currently
writing her first book called, From Vulnerable to Invincible... A survivors guide to
having it all. She lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with her husband and
three daughters. She enjoys laughing with friends, Bikram yoga and reading
books. [email protected], www.gutsylady.com
41
Inspire
Thriver Profile
The Call
by Jackie Fox
”The Call”, every thriver remembers where she was when she got it.
I got mine on April 2, 2008, at home, while packing for an overnight
business trip. My family doctor told me I had breast cancer.
The good news is it was very early stage—
so early that it was classified as stage 0. I
thought cancer only came in stages 1 through
4 (or I through IV, as the medical profession
prefers to express it). As soon as I heard my
doctor tossing out 50-cent phrases like ductal
carcinoma in situ and comedo and micropapillary cell types, I knew I was a stranger in a
strange land, in for a journey I’d never forget.
That journey was memorable for many
reasons. I learned things about medicine and
about my body, which had never experienced
surgery and would soon be undergoing five. I
learned that my husband, family and friends
were the best support a woman could hope
for. Most of all, I learned things about myself
and my ability to cope.
But did getting The Call change my life?
I think the answer is both yes and no. Breast
cancer won’t fundamentally change who you
Yet there’s no denying you will be affected,
and possibly even changed, by breast cancer.
That’s where a different meaning of The Call
comes into play. To Christians, getting The
Call means being called by God to share their
faith and do good work. And even if you don’t
attend church or belong to a particular faith,
you can still be called by something spiritual,
something larger than yourself. Major life
events such as cancer often act as catalysts.
They’re a signal to change, no matter how
large or small the change may be.
I’ve talked with several breast cancer
survivors who felt compelled to help other
women the same way they had been helped.
Some knit “chemo caps” for women who’ve
lost their hair. One started a group called
Flamingos for Hope, whose mission is to
enrich the quality of life of those touched by
cancer. Its founder, Cheryl Stevens, started
wearing silly hats to her
chemotherapy treatments as a way to cope
and lighten up the
mood. She quickly found
that in addition to helping her own physical and
mental healing, it was
providing relief to other
patients and healthcare
providers. Flamingos for
Hope is now affiliated with Harper’s Hope,
a cancer survivors program in Omaha, Neb.,
and its volunteers visit cancer facilities once
a month.
You may not suddenly develop an urge to
knit, put on a silly hat or develop a survivors’
support group. And you shouldn’t feel guilty
if you don’t. But if you’re open to it, your
Then the lightning bolt called
breast cancer showed up,
and things changed in a way
I never imagined possible.
are. If you’re the glass half-full type, like I
am, you won’t suddenly see it as half-empty.
Your personality will be intact, and cancer
won’t magically bestow any new powers. It’s
like that old joke about the guy asking the
doctor if he’ll be able to play piano when his
arm heals. The doc says “Sure,” and the guy
replies, “Great! I could never play before!”
42
cancer experience may free you to be more
of who you are or hoped you could become.
It may give you the courage to try something
you always wanted to try (like playing the
piano), or you may rediscover an old passion.
It’s possible you may be called by passions
both old and new. That’s what happened to
me. An old love, poetry, re-entered my life
while a new passion, for communicating with
other women about breast cancer, entered it
as well.
The way I reach out to others is primarily through writing. I’ve always loved to read
and to write. School writing assignments that
other kids struggled with were as natural to
me as breathing. Today, I’m one of those lucky
people who are able to do what they like to do
and trained to do. My degree is in journalism,
and my day job is in corporate communications/public relations so I do a lot of writing
and editing. Yet while I strive to be clear and
concise and to do my best for my employer,
I’m not writing about things that have a deep
personal meaning for me. Perhaps more to
the point, it never occurred to me to try to
find those things and write about them.
Then the lightning bolt called breast cancer showed up, and things changed in a way
I never imagined possible. If you had asked
me what’s the least likely thing that could
happen as a result of this experience, I would
have said that I’ll start writing poetry again.
I had been writing poetry ever since I was
a little kid and studied it in college, but not
long after that my poetry muscles atrophied.
I barely read it and never wrote it. I missed it,
but figured that part of my life was over.
After I was diagnosed, strange things
started happening. First poetry started
speaking to me again. The day I decided on a
mastectomy after weeks of internal struggle,
I happened to read a poem that spoke to my
confusion as though the author had written me a personal letter. A few months later,
my husband and I were on vacation in Cabo
San Lucas and wandered into a restaurant
where a jazz singer named Daline Jones was
performing at her CD launch party. Out of
nowhere, she started reciting a poem, “Truth,”
I had loved in high school and forgotten for
30-some years. As it turned out, her dad
wrote it. I had only recently started writing
poems again when this happened. G.K. Chesterton called coincidences “spiritual puns,”
and these experiences sure felt spiritual.
If you’d asked me the second least likely
thing that would happen, I would have said
I’m going to take up writing about breast cancer. Almost as soon as I was diagnosed, I had
friends encourage me to start a blog and write
a book. I remember wondering why on earth
I’d want to write about breast cancer. Thanks,
but no thanks. Yet I was sending some very
detailed e-mails to friends and family, and
cataloging my many appointments and surgeries. I was doing research without knowing
I was doing research.
Then another strange thing happened. I
was flipping through a magazine in one of my
doctor’s waiting rooms and saw an essay contest for “the most important day of your life.”
I thought, “Heck, I can do that.” The most im-
portant day of my life was the day I decided
to have a mastectomy because I believed it
was the best way of ensuring a good outcome.
So I wrote my essay, which didn’t win.
But I was fascinated by this whole DCIS/
stage 0 business. I had never heard of it and
knew others, even experienced PR pros, who
hadn’t either. I got in touch with the health
editor at my local paper and suggested it
would make a good news story. I sent my
essay as background and was shocked when
they asked me to do a series of essays about
my experience. The response of women to
those essays gave me the courage to start
blogging and writing a book. I’ve written
books before, but again, not about anything
personal. My book and my blog became
labors of love. And having women tell me I
helped them means more to me than I can
say. I haven’t had such a good feeling since I
was a mental health worker in a former life.
I’m in my 50s, and I think it’s natural for
us to become more reflective as we get older.
But I also believe that breast cancer can be a
welcome if uninvited channel for reflection.
No matter how early it’s caught or how old
you are when you’re diagnosed, it’s a wake-up
call. It can make you wonder what you want
to do with this life you’re so lucky to have.
That same inner voice that helped you decide
on a course of treatment, once you calmed
the anxious noise and really listened for it,
can help guide you now. In my case, I feel like
someone flipped a switch, and I’m grateful
for it.
The amazingly gifted poet Mary Oliver
expressed it much better than I ever could, in
the closing lines of one of my favorite poems,
The Summer Day. She asks, “Tell me, what
is it you plan to do/with your one wild and
precious life?” n
Jackie Fox is a breast cancer survivor and author of
the book “From Zero to Mastectomy: What I Learned
And You Need to Know About Stage 0 Breast Cancer,”
named one of the Best Consumer Health Books of
2010 by Library Journal. She lives in Nebraska with
her husband Bruce. She blogs about breast cancer,
gratitude, humor and life at http://secondbasedispatch.com.
Left to right: At Jackie’s book launch, she and her husband Bruce take time to celebrate the amazing gifts in
life. Jackie gets support from her friend Pam, who’s living with metastatic stage IV breast cancer, at her
booksigning party.
43
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Alternative Medicine
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Communication Support
CaringBridge.org CaringBridge helps
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Mylifeline.org cancer foundation
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ANOKHI The softest cotton scarves you will
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CompressionStockings.com CompressionStockings.com is a leading internet provider of
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A thrivers resource directory at your fingertips
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Certified mastectomy
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BOSOM BUDDY is a lightweight, more
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Confident Clothing Company This is the
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831-440-8834 www.confidentclothingcompany.com
Lymphedema Garments
CARING COMPRESSIONS LLC Based in Northwest
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Please call us with your questions - we’re here to
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Gentle Touch Medical Products, Inc.
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Jillianna Mastectomy Wear Jillianna is
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break through product and rediscover freedom.
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45
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Mastectomy Products
Janac Mastectomy
Wear for Fighters
& Survivors
Designed by a breast cancer survivor
Natural Skin & Hair Care
South Beach Skin Solutions Suffering from
discolored intimate areas? We offer the ultimate in
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Thermography Services
THERMOGRAPHY is a true breast cancer
screening and early detection tool. Thermography
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Travel
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professional development among oncology nurse
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Pink Ribbon Products
Support Your Survivor Dedicated to the
quality of life for the long term Breast Cancer
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Travel Towards Wellness Woman-owned
travel company specializing in health and wellness
travel programs for women living with, working
through, and surviving a cancer diagnosis. Our
clientele includes survivors, co-survivors, family
and friends. www.traveltowardswellness.com
Wellness Consultants
Support Groups
Breast Friends of Cadillac MI Breast
Friends Affiliate Support Group. Meets second
Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at CareLinc
Home Medical Equipment and Supply, 205 Bell
Ave, Cadillac MI. Contact Robin Mosher at 231-7757143, [email protected]
Advertise in
BCW
Contact Bonnie Phelps
[email protected]
417-581-3438
Ask about our sponsorship opportunities
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WhatsNextForMyLife.com Provides life
changing tools to thrive for anyone affected by
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46
Support Breast Cancer
Wellness
T-Shirt $15.00
Cap or Visor $15.00
Shirt 3/4 Sleeves $35.00
Fleece Vest $35.00
Hoodie $35.00
Hooded Sweatshirt $35.00
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BE A THRIVER!
Send your photo wearing your
I am a Thriver! shirt and share how you are
thriving after breast cancer (50 words or less).
Include your name, city, state (email optional)
to [email protected].
These will appear in the next issue
of the BCW magazine!
Get your copy at BreastCancerWellness.org
FREE E-Book
How We Became Breast Cancer Thrivers
By Beverly Vote, Publisher of the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine, and 44 Stories From
Her Breast Cancer Thriving Friends Now Living with Conviction, Clarity, Passion and Purpose

Deanna Favre - Breast Cancer Wellness

Transcription

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