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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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Karen Andreas
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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My Heartfelt Thanks
During the month of October, this special time dedicated to breast cancer awareness, I pause to applaud the many brave men and women who confront such challenges in their lives. Your courage and tenacity is truly inspirational,and I am consistently amazed by your strength to battle against breast cancer.I also say thank you to the incredibly talented researchers who continue the fight for innovation and excellence, allowing the medical community to have the important advancements necessary to serve our patients. My deepest gratitude. Patients and researchers, I applaud you. Sincerely yours,
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Lynda Talbot was a very private person. Only close friends and family knew about her lengthy battle with breast cancer. Shewas diagnosed four times over a 23-year period before succumbing to the disease in 2010. She was 61. She was very strong, very committed, said Stacy Bazylinski, one of Talbots two daughters. Bazylinski was 12 when her mother was first diagnosed with breast cancer. She battled this disease for a long time, 23 years. She wasvery determined to get better. Theres a certain amount of determination, she noted, to recover from three prior diagnoses. On Sunday, Oct. 21, friends, family and the Danvers community will honor Talbots memory and others who have fought the disease in the second annual Lynda J. Talbot Memorial Walk/Run.
The event kicks off at 9 a.m. at the Danvers YMCA. Our family lived in fear of this disease all our lives, and our worst nightmare finally came true, said Julie Donnelly, Talbots daughter. Every doctor appointment, every mammogram, every blood test, etc. took on a whole new meaning for us. Now we have to do something to help others. Last year, Bazylinski and friend Kristen Clark were thinking about participating in a Susan G. Komen for the Cure three-day walk. But after talking it over with others, they decided to hold a walk of their own. It made sense to do something locally in honor of my mother, Bazylinski said. The first Lynda J. Talbot Memorial Walk/Run was a success. More than 600 people participated. The money raised went to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, ArtBecause, the Danvers YMCA and two scholarships for Danvers
From left, Jodi Fish with her son Thomas, Sharna McNeill with her daughter Mya, and Stephanie Rooney during the first Lynda J. Talbot Memorial Walk/Run last year.
Courtesy photos
On Sunday, Oct. 21, friends, family and the Danvers community will honor Talbots memory and others who have fought the disease in the second annual Lynda J. Talbot Memorial Walk/Run.
High School graduating seniors. Bazylinski said the money raised through this years walk will go toward breast cancer research for a cure, but the exact organization has yet to be determined. Organizers also hope to continue to fund scholarships for Danvers High seniors. A graduate of Danvers High herself, Talbot met her husband, Bruce, in high school and raised her family in a community she loved. It was family and mostly close high school friends who were her support system, Bazylinski said. A lot of the support has come directly through the community, she said. And although Talbot kept her battle private, the mark she left on her community is plain to see. For us, the amount of community support that weve received has been overwhelming, said Bazylinski, who is also raising her family in Danvers. Danvers is a wonderful town and people are very committed to one another here. For more information or the preregister for Sundays walk/run, visit racewire. Ashley Clark, 8, of Danvers at last years Lynda J. Talbot com/talbot.
Memorial Walk/Run.
THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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the women being tested but for her family members and her children. Finally, some women may be canreast cancer is the didates for preventive medications most commonly that have been shown to decrease diagnosed maligthe incidence of breast cancer. Most nancy in women in importantly, breast health profesthe Western world. sionals like those at The Breast Many of us know Health Center at Beverly Hospital someone who has at Danvers are knowledgeable been touched by about new investigational studies the disease: a friend, a neighbor, a colleague, a sister or mother. That that would have otherwise been assessment tools have been develand are able to offer leading edge someone may even be you. undetectable on routine mammog- care to women. oped for breast cancer. We have embraced innovation in raphy. This spring, we are excited Our breast center is dedicated It is estimated that one in nine the fight against breast cancer right to incorporate a new, cutting-edge to the comprehensive care of our women may at some time in their here on the North Shore at Beverly generation of mammography called breast patients, from screening and life be afflicted with breast cancer. tomosynthesis or tomo-mammogHospital. We have incorporated diagnosis, to treatment and long But our future is not so grim, as free breast cancer risk assessment raphy. This technology is similar to term follow-up. We incorporate a advances in the science of breast a CT scan, in that images appear as team approach, with a dedicated at the time of an annual screening medicine are making a significant cross sectional slices of breast tisstaff of nurses and imaging techdifference. Diagnostic imaging tech- mammogram, utilizing one of the nologists, radiologists and surgeons, nologies continue to evolve, improv- newly developed tools. The results sue. Our radiologists may analyze slices of breast tissue, rather are then incorporated into a mammedical and radiation oncologists, ing in their ability to detect and than the entire loaf. It will now mogram report that is sent to the nurse navigators and genetic coundiagnose breast cancer at earlier be much easier to identify a small selors. We gather weekly with our referring doctor. Women who are stages. Basic and applied science marble placed in the center of the patients in our Multidisciplinary identified as high risk (currently research in the field of molecular loaf, particularly helpful in young Conference, along with our patholobiology and genomics show promise defined as a 20 percent greater women with very dense breasts. lifetime risk of developing breast gists, and (by video conferencing) a in both treatment and prevention. Breast health specialists, surcancer compared to their contemsecond-opinion medical oncologist The academic medical community geons and breast navigators poraries), are notified by letter. It from the Beth Israel Deaconess Hosis in constant quest for new therais recommended that these women (nurse practitioners who specialpital. As a team, we recommend the pies and treatment protocols, and consider consultation at The Breast ize in breast health) are available optimal, tailored treatment program with the help of the tens of thouto counsel women on preventive Health Center at Beverly Hospital for each patient with newly diagsands of women willing to particinosed breast cancer. We are compate in clinical trials, there is great at Danvers for further counseling measures that can further impact and screening recommendation. A a womens risk of developing mitted to providing comprehensive hope in our battle against breast breast health specialist will review breast cancer. These risks can be care, looking out not only for your cancer. breast health, but for your emotional We are transitioning to a new era a womens mammogram with a separated into those that can be of personalized medicine, which radiologist specialized in breast modified, allowing a woman to bet- well-being throughout the process. imaging at the time of her visit to utilizes the information related to ter shape her destiny, versus those And it is our goal to bring the promising advances in knowledge and a persons unique set of genes com- determine if additional imaging that are non-modifiable. Examples technologies into our community. bined with relevant environmental or preventative strategies may be of modifiable risks include diet, beneficial. One factor considered factors in order to effectively preweight management, exercise, is the overall breast density of her vent, diagnose and treat diseases, alcohol intake, breast feeding and Audrey Duva-Frissora, MD, is mammogram; the more dense, the including cancers and non-cancer hormonal use. Non-modifiable risk board certified in diagnostic radimore likely a potential cancer could factors include gynecological hisrelated medical disease. So called ology and a member of Beverly be masked on a mammogram. risk assessment models and tory, overall breast tissue density, Radiology Associates Inc. located Studies have shown that with the genetics, family history of all cansophisticated genetic testing are in Beverly, where she serves as the being developed to identify patients selective addition of breast ultracers to name a few. If approprimedical director of breast imagsound, and at times breast MRI, who may be unknowingly at high ate, genetic testing for the BRCA ing. She is an active member of the additional early breast cancers will gene may be recommended. These American College of Radiology and risk for developing a particular be identified in high risk women disease. A number of such risk results can be valuable not only for Society of Breast Imaging.
By Audrey duvA-FrissorA, Md
We have embraced innovation in the fight against breast cancer right here on the North Shore at Beverly Hospital. We have incorporated free breast cancer risk assessment at the time of an annual screening mammogram, utilizing one of the newly developed tools.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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Tell me about your options for treating your cancer. What treatment option did you decide to go with, and how did you come to that decision?
Treatment for IBC is different than early-detected breast cancer. It starts with Tell me about your diagnosis. Did you know something chemotherapy, followed by wasnt quite right? a modified radical mastectomy (where they remove I first noticed some pink/ associated lymph nodes) redness on my left breast and then radiation. At stage in the middle of the sum4, by definition, the cancer mer of 2011. I thought it has already spread outside was weird, but chalked it the breast, so often people up to a summer rash and (and their doctors) choose figured Id wait and see to skip the surgery and what it did. It started to get radiation, opting instead worse and soon I suspected for systemic treatment I had some sort of infec(chemotherapy, antibody tion. I hadnt nursed my treatments or hormone daughter for a year at that treatments). This focus on point, but thought perhaps keeping the cancer at bay I had a blocked duct that and improving quality of life got infected. My symptoms is often referred to as palwere consistent with masliative care. But, because I titis, though I had no pain. was diagnosed as oligometaThe redness worsened, the static (often defined as canbreast was swollen and the cer confined to less than five skin started pitting a bit. lesions to a single organ) Then my nipple started and Im young, my doctor to flatten and I knew I recommended we move had to get to the doctor. forward with an aggresMy symptoms progressed sive plan with a curapretty quickly, but I didnt tive intent. Basically, we let myself Google anything wanted to throw everything online I think somehow I Where are you undergoing we can at itand that is still knew that it might be more treatment? our approach. My cancer is than just an infection. So, I I am undergoing treatHER2+, which means that waited until after my famment through Harvard ilys vacation in August Vanguard Medical Center at its a fast-growing cancer, 2011 and searched the Kenmore Square in Boston. but also that there are a Internet the night we got They are affiliated with both lot of new, effective drugs available now and on the back. That is when I first Beth Israel and Dana Farheard of IBC. I had all the ber. My surgery was done at horizon. The decision for me to classic symptoms. My heart BI. My care team has been sank. I knew this terrible, outstanding and my oncolo- treat the cancer aggresrare disease was exactly gist has always involved me sively was easy. With a then 4-year-old and 17-month-old, what I had. in her decisions and been I want to make sure I am The next day I was able to open to discussions about fighting with all that is out see my PCP in Boston. The treatment options and difthere to be with them for look on her face confirmed ferent therapies.
Lisel Voosen Fields, right, with her husband Mike and daughters Marika, 5, and Valena, 2, at Calumet, a Lutheran camp in Freedom, N.H., during Labor Day weekend.
a long, long time. My kids have served as a huge motivation and distraction. The thought of not being there when they grow up was and still is just too much to bear. Im going to do everything I can to be here with them, my husband and our family and friends.
Courtesy photos
and to give the doctors time to figure out what to do with me. In the end, I was sent home and started daily injections of blood thinners, which I am still taking seven months later. I started back on chemo every three out of four weeks. We waited to see what the clot did on the thinners, with the expectation that it would melt Where are you now in the treatment process? away. Fast forward a few months and the clot barely I completed my initial changed. So, this summer, chemotherapy in January my care team decided the of this year. At this point, I clot was stable and it was also received a clear scan, which was an amazing first- safe to move forward with surgery. response to my significant Seven months after I amount of disease. A maswas supposed to have the tectomy was scheduled for surgery, I finally had my Leap Day (which I thought was nice not an anniver- single mastectomy on Sept. 19. I am recovering well sary I need every year!). and quickly. The best part But, it wasnt in the cards for me. A routine heart echo is that my pathology report found a 2 centimeter clot in came back and there was NO residual cancer! While my right atrium that was inadvertently caused by my my clinical response had been outstanding from the port-a-cath (an implanted get-go, my care team and device which is used to access a vein to administer I were collectively holding our breath for the pathology chemo). I was ironically report. IBC is sneaky and it hospitalized in the cardiac really is almost unbelievable ward at Beth Israel on Valentines Day for more tests that they found nothing in
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the tissue and skin examined. Starting in two weeks, I will move on to targeted radiation therapy for six to seven weeks. They will radiate my chest wall, under my arm and a targeted part of my spine. Even though my pathology came back great, the idea is to mop up any remaining cancer cells that may still be lingering. Through radiation I will continue on a drug called Herceptin, a HER2-targeted therapy and a breakthrough drug that is likely at the root of my success thus far. I will receive a Herceptin infusion every three weeks for a very long timeeither until it stops working for me or they find a cure for cancer.
I think the hardest part has been staying strong and positive for my kids. Telling a 5-year-old you have cancer and later that you need your breast removed, is NOT easy and I wish it on no one. And yet, for me, staying positive and as optimistic as possible, was the only way I could get through this, though often difficult for a realist like myself. I had a couple weeks soon after diagnosis last fall that I felt sorry for myself and was weepy all the time. I quickly realized that it wasnt going to get me anywhere. I need to enjoy the time I have with family and friends and make as many memories as possible. Physically, the hardest part was probably the hair loss. It seems so superficial and vain, but losing your hair is such a kick when you are down. Not only do you feel crappy from treatments, but you LOOK like you feel. Its not easy. And I was so fortunate in that even though I went through 35 chemo treatments this year, my hair started growing back in January, so I really only had a few months bald and a few more with super-short hair. And Im still waiting for my eyebrows and eyelashes to fill back out to normal!
tremendously when we needed it the most. She was invaluable to our family, going to chemo with me or watching the girls when I couldnt. When I finished the harsher, first chemo, she got a job offer and was able to go back to work. Also last fall, friends from Calumet, the Lutheran camp Mike and I worked at, organized a benefit concert for us and a fund was set up by our church in Marblehead. We used the proceeds from the concert to take a spur-of-the-moment trip to Disney World in January, right after my first clear PET scan. My parents and siblings both dropped everything and found ways to be there to share in the magic of Disney with us. It was an awesome trip with priceless memories. My colleagues at Bain created amazing and generous care packages for my family each month for about six months. Each one had a theme and a creative array of gifts for my whole family that brought smiles to our faces when we needed them most. My husHow have your family and friends supported you? bands colleagues at Winter Street ArchiI have received an overwhelming amount tects in Salem also sent care packages and donated cleaning services to help make of support from pretty much every aspect things easier for us during a tough time. of my life. Whether it was help with the My parents have also been a huge supkids, making dinners for my family, rides to chemo, or just sending a package, a note port to us, particularly this fall while Im or prayer, so many people reached out and recovering from my recent mastectomy. supported us. I am so blessed and my diag- They have been staying with us, watching the girls and just making our lives easier. nosis really drove that home for me. And of course my husband of 10 years, One of my closest friends happened to be Mike, has been with me every step of the out of work last fall. She had been desperately looking and interviewing all summer, way. I couldnt have fought as hard without but to no avail. But because she was out of his confidence and assurance that I was just going to kick this cancer. work, she was able to help our family out
me to be more spontaneous and focused on today and making as many memories as possible with family and friends. During this past year, we took a trip to Disney World (conceived and planned in three weeks!), packed the kids in the car and took Tell me about Lutherans for Liesl. How did the a roadtrip to my sisters wedding in Misteam come about? souri (with stops to family in D.C. and Tennessee on the way), I flew to Germany for As the daughter and granddaughter of work, went to Baltimore with my husband Lutheran pastors, Ive been a Lutheran all of my life. And as a child, I was a camper at for my brothers engagement party, took a last-minute cruise with a dear friend to the Calumet, a Lutheran camp up in Freedom, N.H. At age 16, I spent the summer as a CIT Bahamas, and spent a week tent-camping (counselor in training), followed by six life- with life-long friends and their families! changing summers on staff (I even met my Right now, I am enjoying planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii for my younger husband at Calumet and we were married brothers wedding in June. Its been awethere in the Outdoor Chapel in 2002!). Two some to have something to look forward to of my fellow CITs and dear friends, Sarah and plan towards (since this year was such Carlson Arens (of Melrose) and Shannon a whirlwind of spontaneity still out of my Dunne OBrien (Medford), wanted to do something to help after my diagnosis. They comfort-zone!). Of course, the nature and viciousness of IBC doesnt stray far from quickly organized a team, Lutherans for Liesl, for the ACSs Making Strides Against my mind. The sad and sobering fact is that the recurrence rate of IBC is extremely Breast Cancer walk in Boston. Sarah and high, particularly within the first two years Shannon are both my age and have young of diagnosis. But, I cant live my life wonkids of their own. I think they felt this was dering whats going to happen, so we are something that they could do at a time when Im pretty sure everyone was feeling moving forward the best we can. We will keep adjusting to any new normals along a little helpless and shocked by my news (me included). They created the team three the way. And I refuse to let this disease be what defines me and my family because we weeks before the walk, a week after my diagnosis. They recruited other team mem- are so much more than that. bers, mainly friends from our camp family, including my husband and parents. Is there anything else you would like to add? I would like to thank the American CanI hear the team raised a tremendous amount cer Society and the Making Strides Against of money last year $22,000! How does that Breast Cancer Boston team. Because of the make you feel? staggering amount of money we raised in The support of the team was completely three short weeks, I asked the ACS if they could direct the funds specifically to IBC overwhelming. To me, the most amazing research. I figured it was a shot in the dark, part was that there were very few donabut that sending an email to check couldnt tions more than $100, and there were no hurt. We were very fortunate as they were corporate donations. The sheer number able use the funds to help support an IBC of people who donated was incredible. An email went out to my colleagues at Bain & research grant. This isnt something that ACS is able to do often, and my case was a Company, telling my story and sharing a link to my husbands Making Strides page. bit of an exception, and it makes me even Within hours, thousands of dollars in dona- more thankful that we could help in this tions flooded in from Bain employees, many way. A lot of people are aware of breast cancer whom I had never even met before. Their already. It impacts the lives of so many generosity and words of support were so and with all the pink out there in October, moving. My colleagues really my Bain family contributed about half of the total its hard to miss. But inflammatory breast cancer is still unknown by most. And while funds we raised last year. it does account for less than 5 percent of breast cancers, it is still very real and a How are you doing? very scary disease. It is often found too late As far as how Im doing, Im recovering or misdiagnosed. I strongly urge women really well from my surgery! I even went and men to read up on IBC and be mindful to a friends wedding this weekend, only of changes in your and/or your partners two weeks post-op. My energy is starting body. Tell those you know about IBC. Even to pick back up and Im gearing myself up for the next step in this journey, radiation. though there is no early detection, early By nature, I am a big planner in life. But my diagnosis could make a big impact on the life of one of your loved ones. diagnosis with IBC has taught (or forced!)
The prayers and well-wishes from family and friends have not stopped, even a year later. I am still supported and often overwhelmed by the love and thoughtfulness of others.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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Black bean and corn salsa served with yellow corn tortilla chips, on a woven Mexican table runner.
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Being a health nut is a lifestyle people will want to embrace literally. If youre recovering from breast cancer and getting your appetite back, you may wonder what you should be eating now. Perhaps youre experiencing fatigue; youd like a diet that gives you some energy. If your taste buds were affected during treatment, youd like to once again eat foods that taste good. Most of all, youd like a diet plan that reduces your risk of a cancer recurrence. Your food choices can help you improve your health and stamina, as well as your mealtime enjoyment. However, dont search for magic bullet foods such as broccoli or a super-berry. Instead, look at your entire dietary pattern. Design it so youre emphasizing plant foods, including produce, whole grains and beans, while limiting meat, says Alice Bender, registered dietitian. At the same time, control your caloric intake. If youre overweight or obese, getting to a normal weight is important once youre finished with treatment. Being overweight can put women at risk for a recurrence, says Bender, nutrition communications manager, American Institute for Cancer Research, Washington, D.C. Gain weight after recovery and you could increase your risk by as much as 50 percent, depending on how much you gain, according to data from breast cancer survivors within the Nurses Health Study (an ongoing study of womens health, with more than 200,000 nurse participants). The same foods produce, whole grains and lean protein that benefit your health can help you lose weight without feeling deprived, says Cheryl Rock, Ph.D., registered dietitian, professor, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. Maybe youll still crave the occasional piece of chocolate, but if you fill up on vegetables before you reach for chocolate, youll eat a smaller portion, Rock says. Salsa and chips are such a decadent treat you might not consider the zesty duo in your post-treatment diet. But this tasty
Design your diet so youre emphasizing plant foods, including produce, whole grains and beans, while limiting meat.
version is chock-full of nutritious vegetables and low in fat. The chips are baked, not fried. The recipe is from The Back in the Swing Cookbook by Barbara C. Unell and Judith Fertig (Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2012). 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained 1 (15-ounce) can corn, rinsed and drained 1 cup canned tomatoes, drained and chopped 1 cup finely chopped red onion 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 teaspoons olive oil, grapeseed oil or canola oil 1 small jalapeno chile, seeded and finely diced Juice of 1 lime Baked tortilla chips: 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil or canola oil 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt 1. For the salsa, combine the black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, oil, chile and lime juice in a large bowl. Toss to blend. Cover and refrigerate several hours to let the flavors blend. 2. For the chips, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. With a sharp knife or pizza wheel, cut each tortilla into eight wedges. Arrange the wedges on two large baking sheets. Brush the tops with oil and sprinkle with salt. 3. Bake for 6 to 7 minutes, then rotate the trays in the oven. Continue baking for 6 to 7 minutes longer, until the chips are lightly browned. Serve right away or let cool, then store in an airtight container. Makes 12 servings. Each serving has 207 calories, 3.5 grams total fat, 38 grams carbohydrates, 8.5 grams protein, 400 milligrams sodium and 10 grams dietary fiber.
Black Bean, Tomato and Corn Salsa with Baked Tortilla Chips
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age
Two primary breast cancers (breast cancer in both breasts) Male breast cancer Triple-negative breast cancer Pancreatic cancer with a breast or ovarian cancer Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with breast or ovarian cancer Two or more relatives with breast cancer, one under age 50 Three or more relatives with breast cancer at any age A known BRCA mutation in the family
For additional information about early detection for breast or ovarian cancer, Kontoules suggests Bright Pink (www.brightpink.org). The national nonprofit organization has a Boston area chapter.
Proud Supporter
October 2012
In every company there are compelling reasons to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At Moynihan Lumber these are our reasons: Vikki Rundlett, wife of Webb Rundlett, breast cancer victim - 2003 Sandra Moynihan, wife of Gerard Moynihan, breast cancer victim - 2005 Lisa Bernstein, breast cancer survivor Carol Karsadi, breast cancer survivor Cathy MacMullen, breast cancer survivor Eileen McNeil, breast cancer survivor Rita Mullin, breast cancer survivor Barbara Surdam, breast cancer survivor
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By Cheryl leCesse
Guo is part of a team, including the breast surgeon, medical and radiology oncologists, social worker and breast health navigator who sit down with a patient to discuss treatment options. Depending on the type of breast cancer at which stage the patient is diagnosed, Guo said breast conservation options, such as a lumpectomy, arent viable. If Im involved early on, Brigham and Womens I am able to guide their Hospital, where he worked primarily with breast recon- decision a little bit, Guo said. struction patients. In fact, During the team meetmany of his patients followed him to Lahey, he said. ing, Guo fields questions At Lahey, Guo said one of pertaining to cosmetics, the best parts of the process as well as concerns about how radiation would affect is the multidisciplinary approach the hospital takes the reconstruction process, since radiation can distort with its cancer patients.
At Lahey, Guo said one of the best parts of the process is the multidisciplinary approach the hospital takes with its cancer patients.
about two to three surgeries. If a patient chooses reconstruction, hell meet with her three to six weeks before the initial surgery, then on a weekly basis for about a month, followed by check-ups every couple of months and follow-up surgery as needed to complete the process. If theres no radiation or chemotherapy, Guo said the reconstruction could be complete in less than a year. Dr. Lifei Guo Guo said, with many patients diagnosed at a the tissue. young age, faced with the The patient is always reality of having to lose a concerned with how long breast, he knows his work the surgery takes, he said. can make a big difference in Although reconstruction their lives. starts immediately after a Its a very rewarding mastectomy, Guo said the surgery field to be in, Guo full process is a series of said.
Peabody Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness Because What You Dont Know Can Hurt You.
1 in 8 women will face breast cancer. Early detection and breast cancer screening saves lives.
110 Newbury Street (Rte 1 South after Calitris) Danvers www.NMTW.org 1-800-942-9575
* 2.75% Annual Percentage Rate based on .25% discount for signing up for direct deposit or automatic payment. A 60 month auto loan at 2.75% APR for $10,000 would be $178.58 in monthly payments. Rate may vary depending on each individuals credit experience. Other rates and terms available. Rates, terms and
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From a scientific standpoint, triple-negative breast cancers (usually invasive ductal carcinomas) are those whose cells lack estrogen and progesterone receptors, and do not have an excess of the HER2 protein on their surfaces. Because the growth of the cancer isnt supported by these hormones or too many HER2 receptors, it doesnt respond to common hormonal therapy (such as tamoxifen) or therapies that target HER2 receptors, such as Herceptin. Anyone can get triple-negative breast cancer, but it is more likely to occur in premenopausal women, says Patricia Prijatel, author of Surviving Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (Oxford University Press, 2012) and founder of the Positives About Negative blog (HormoneNegative.BlogSpot.
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com). In addition, although African-American women are less likely to get breast cancer than Caucasian women, if they do get it, they are more likely to get triple-negative. While this group of cancers is not hereditary, Prijatel notes that it does have a strong association with the BRCA genetic mutation, which is hereditary. The correlation works one way, but not necessarily the other, she adds. Women with the genetic mutation who get breast cancer are most likely to have triple-negative breast cancer than other forms, but women with triple-negative breast cancer do not necessarily have the mutation. Other studies have found that women with triple-negative were younger at the onset of menstruation, on average had more children (at least three) than non-triple-negative women, they were less likely to breast-feed for more than four months, and they were more likely to not breast-feed at all if they had at least three children, Prijatel says. Another risk factor she finds intriguing is related to metabolic syndrome a combination of risk factors such as high blood glucose, high blood pressure and abdominal obesity, plus problems like low good cholesterol, high bad cholesterol and high triglycerides. Women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer are much more likely to have metabolic syndrome
the individual tumors that respond to treatment. So, a treatment may only work on 5 percent of triple-negative tumors, but if we can identify the 5 percent, then we are making good progress. Also, now that from a genetic point of view these cancers are no longer black boxes, we can also learn from other tumor types. (Our) study, for example, suggests that a drug used for malignant melanoma might be useful in a small subset of the triple-negative cancers. Of course, this would have to be rigorously tested, but its an excellent lead already. If you have a strong family history and the BRCA mutation, you have several options. The most extreme is a mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy to remove ovaries and fallopian tubes. Less extreme than those with other forms of and more in our control are breast cancer, Prijatel says. Some exercise and diet modifications that research suggests that insulin can help reduce the risk of all forms resistance might be associated with of breast cancer and a batch of other triple-negative breast cancer. illnesses, including cardiovascular Although triple-negative isnt disease and diabetes. a good candidate for hormonal In general, this means at least therapy, it can be treated with sur- five servings daily of fruits and gery, radiation therapy and chemo- vegetables, with an emphasis on therapy. In fact, some research has cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, shown that chemotherapy is more kale and cauliflower; complex careffective for triple-negative than for bohydrates, such as whole grains, hormone-positive, Prijatel says. seeds and nuts; and little or no trans Knowing that triple-negative or saturated fats, Prijatel says. I breast cancer is a family of diswould save alcohol for special occaeases, the goal going forward is to sions only and keep it to one understand the genetic makeup of drink at those times.
Although triplenegative isnt a good candidate for hormonal therapy, it can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. In fact, some research has shown that chemotherapy is more effective for triple-negative than for hormonepositive, Prijatel says.
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By Cheryl leCesse
Anita Broach, a breast cancer survivor, ran the Twin Lights Half Marathon in May.
around her work. With appointments close to home at 7 a.m. for six weeks, Broach didnt miss a day at the office. Luckily, she didnt suffer side affects from the radiation, either. At the same time,Broach started to run. Exercising not only helped her efforts to live a healthier lifestyle during her treatment, but also provided some much needed TLC. We had a mild winter, so I did not miss one day [of running], she said. The beautiful scenery we have here in Rockport made it easy, and it was good for stress relief. She ran her first 5K the Hangover Classic in Salisbury, which ends with a plunge into the icy Atlantic with her brother on Jan. 1, and did well. That kicked me off saying, I
can do this, she said. So she set a larger goal: To run the Twin Lights Half Marathon in May.She followed a five-day, 12-week half-marathon training program offered by coolrunning.com, and never looked back. Broach says her family provided a tremendous amount of support. Her diagnosis was even more personal for her and her three sisters, all of whom have had some form of breast cancer in the last 15 years. One sibling has battled the disease twice. All four are doing fine now. Since we have the history in my family, they do watch me, Broach said of her doctors, whom she still sees about once every six months. Im lucky that mine was caught early.
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Penny Schuler, right, and her son Todd. When Penny began losing her hair from chemo treatments, Todd shaved his head so they could be bald together.
wasnt me II say it imagineeasy for was but, cant how it for my mom, and I still cant.
Todd Schuler, in college application essay
important thing to me was my moms health, comfort and happiness. I say it wasnt easy for me but, I cant imagine how it was for my mom, and I still cant. She has fought in the toughest fight of her life, and won. She is my hero. I know what happened to my mom was a horrible thing, but I believe good things come from every situation, good or bad. Because of this experience, I have changed. I have become closer to my mom and my family. I have changed how I view the world and my life. I dont want to travel through life without a purpose. I am more determined than ever and this is all because of my moms incredible courage and strength. And so it goes.
Penny Schuler is a Marblehead resident and board member of the Sue de Vries Cancer Foundation.
Courtesy photos
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Claudia Worth has worn this sign in every PMC since beating breast cancer.
rides that weekend, never knowing if I would actually finish. After that PMC, I had surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. I was all done with treatment by the following spring and began
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Women in the United States have a 12.15%, or 1 in 8, chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Source: American Cancer Society (www. cancer.org)
In the Vietnam War, more than 50,000 Americans died. Each year, almost as many women die of breast cancer. A woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 3 minutes. A woman dies from breast cancer every 11 minutes. In the 1960s a womans risk of breast cancer was 1 in 14; today a womans risk of breast cancer is 1 in 8. 85% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no prior family history. Mammography detects approximately 2 to 3 times as many early breast cancers as physical examination. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women aged 35 to 54. Source: Men Against Breast Cancer (www.menagainstbreastcancer.org)
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Sherri Temkin, shown here with her boyfriend Bob Oliver, is a breast cancer survivor.
KEN YUSZKUS/ Staff photo
PEABODY Sherri Temkin considers herself one of the lucky ones. Temkin, 53, was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ in August 2007. Ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, is considered to be one of two stage 0, or noninvasive, breast cancers. Her mammogram that year actually came back negative. But Temkin has a history of breast cancer in her family her mother had battled breast cancer when Temkin was young, and another family member had recently been diagnosed with a form of the disease. Her doctor sent her in for an
ultrasound. The test picked up shadows in both of her breasts. MRIs and biopsies followed, and her right breast tested positive for cancer. When you hear the word cancer, shock sets in immediately. You dont know how to react, said Temkin, who lives in Peabody. I got over the initial shock and then went into gotta do this mode. I knew what I had to do and that was that. Doctors gave Temkin a range of options. In many cases, DCIS can be treated without removing the entire breast. But Temkin opted for a bilateral, or double, mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Because of the family
history, I didnt think I had much of a choice, she said.For Temkin, it helped to have seen her mothers experience first hand, although treatment options have evolved exponentially since then. Her mother was diagnosed with a stage two form of the disease, underwent a mastectomy and radiation, and wore a breast prosthesis. After 17 years, cancer reappeared in her esophagus, in the form of a tumor believed to have been at least partially caused by the radiation. I think, after knowing what my mother went through, I think at that point I decided that, if I was ever diagnosed, I would get a mastectomy, she said.
She made the right decision after the mastectomy, tests showed Temkin had the beginning stages of cancer in her left breast, too. But reconstruction didnt go as smoothly as she had hoped. Her surgeon used the TRAM flap method, in which a piece of the abdomen is cut and used the reconstruct the breast. But Temkin says her surgeon didnt explain the surgerys side effects, including abdominal weakness, or that she should refrain from lifting anything overhead. To make matters worse, Temkin said, the surgeon also told her the cosmetic effects couldnt be fixed. It looked like I had a tire around my stomach, she
said. So on top of the breast cancer and the surgery, its very depressing. At the urging of a friend, she scheduled a consultation with Dr. Beverly Shafer, a plastic surgeon in Beverly. Shes very, very compassionate, said Temkin of Shafer. She guaranteed me she could fix it. Temkin said Shafer fixed the stomach surgery, and everything fell into place from there. Her father, daughter and close friends were extremely supportive throughout her recovery. Having people to talk to made a big difference for Temkin. I think the best thing, after a diagnosis, the best thing anybody can do is talk
to people, she said. You can go online and theres women online discussing it all the time. Today, Temkin is cancer free but still goes for blood work every six months. And the emotional reminders of the experience remain. Its a tough process, she said, especially since she was single at the time of her diagnosis. I think its really hard for single women. You dont want to get to that point where you get intimate. Youre self-conscious about things. Its a tough choice. But those pieces have since fallen into place, too. I have a boyfriend who doesnt care about what happened, she said.
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Looking back over the 30 years, there were good and bad times but I am glad I chose just to move forward and enjoy the good in whatever each day brings.
of my surgery, the plastic surgeon did the best he could with implants,but I was still left with having to wear small external silicone prostheses. After consulting with my doctors and hearing the negative and positive, I decided to go ahead and have children. I have two daughters: Kate, a scientist who works at Biogen Idec, and Anna, who works as an registered nurse at Spaulding Rehab. Now, 30 years later, I am a survivor after stage 3 breast cancer. This is just part of my life that I have shared. Every breast cancer patient has their own unique journey. We all have to make difficult decisions about our own health and family after being diagnosed. Looking back over the 30 years, there were good and bad times but I am glad I chose just to move forward and enjoy the good in whatever each day brings. I have dedicated many years of my life facilitating cancer support groups and providing services
From left, Nancy McGonegal and her daughters, Anna Pullo and We Care Breast Forms and Kate McGonegal. Accessories is an American
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Daileanes said he hopes this years activities lay the foundation for a greater fundraising effort next year. Hed like tosee schools across the Cape Ann League expand on what Newburyport started this year by designating some of its sporting eventsin October as official Breast Cancer Awareness games.
For Flaherty, the effort being made at Newburyport High and across the city is heartwarming. The breast cancer survivor saidseeing young people getting involved means only one thing. Theres going to be a cure, she said, and it wont affect my daughter and granddaughter.
Sam Wahlgren, 18, left, and Liz Fiascone, 17, sell pink shoelaces at lunch at Newburyport High School to raise breast cancer awareness.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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Since 1855, Salem Five has been listening to the needs of our
communities. In keeping with that commitment, we are proud to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Two locations in Salem:
We believe in educating, empowering and taking action. Take care, schedule your screening today!
Kimberley Driscoll, Mayor and the City of Salem
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CHANDINI PORTTEUS
Susan G. Komen for the Cures vice president of research and evaluation talks about the organizations past, current studies and the continual search for a cure
By Lisa iannucci
CTW FEATURES
We need to find a cure for cancer. Its a common sentiment among those who have it, had it, lost someone to it or know someone whos suffered from it. The Susan G. Komen for the Cure has made it their sole mission to help and, in May, released their 2012 research program grants, which take aim at early and late-stage breast disease. Since 1982, the Komen Foundation has funded $685 million in research grants, 154 grants in 22 states and seven countries. But what does that mean for patients? We had a chance to talk to Chandini Portteus, the vice president of research, evaluation and scientific programs at Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The important thing to remember about Komens research portfolio is that weve been funding since 1982, but our portfolio has shifted over time, Portteus says. It has a sense of urgency now. The requirement for the research we fund is to show impact within a decade for women and men, so we focus on research that reduces the incidence and mortality of breast cancer. We take discoveries from the lab and translate them into the clinic where women participate in the furthering of that knowledge.
We are beginning to understand every womans cancer, tailoring it to that person and targeting therapies that come with better outcomes.
Chandini Portteus
more study is that estrogen preceptor positive breast cancer has treatment options, but within five years after diagnosis, they are coming back with a recurrence of their cancer. What is going on there? This year, we focused on the causes.
and 90s we didnt know much about the biology of breast cancer. We funded some important discoveries back then, including Dr. Mary King discovering BRCA1 genes that have a great disposition for breast cancer. (Editorial note: a single gene on chromosome 17, later known as BRCA1, was found to be responsible for many breast and ovarian cancers). Now, there are exciting things with research on triple-negative breast cancer and we know that this is a more aggressive type of breast cancer. An important thing we learned from studies we did then and the work we do now is that breast cancer isnt one disease, there are sub-types of cancer and women come to the table with complicating factors. All of those things need to be taken into consideration when treating a woman or man. We are beginning to understand every womans cancer, tailoring it to that person and targeting therapies that come with better outcomes.
to us, especially during our Promise Grants, and tell us they thought they were going to find something, but their path has changed and they want to redirect their research. Or sometimes a drug treatment wasnt the right one or the drug wasnt available. We know that science is an art and we have flexibility. We also have an eight-member scientific advisory board that looks at our Promise Grant projects and gives feedback on its direction.
Q: When can we expect to see results from the research youre funding now? A: Of course, science fails and What about the research in previous every experiment we do isnt going years are you seeing results now? to turn out to be a cure. The impor-
Q: What happens if you fund a study that doesnt have a positive result or falls completely flat during the research time?
A: We were already set to fund $58 million, and we met our goal. Research is a priority for Komen and always will be. We are mindful that the economy has affected A: A few years ago, we funded a us all, but weve been pleased to mammography reminder system on telephones, and the data showed see how people are still passionate for what we do. Komen will still that even women who are insured, be there to help you, provide educollege-educated and Caucasian cational resources. Well be there arent getting mammograms. Cellphones are a norm for us, and while at your diagnosis, and to provide support. We were the first advocacy awareness, education and access organization. We know women are are important, we needed to bring dying every day, and until no one cellphones into the study and see dies from breast cancer, our work how it makes a difference. isnt done.
Q: In one study, Hee Lee, Ph.D., at the University of Minnesota is working to develop a prototype cellphone study to deliver information and messaging to empower Korean American women. Why not just create an app, and how has technology changed your studies?
A: We dont fund drug development. Instead, we fund early stage clinical trials for stage 1 or 2. Were at that translational bridge and we do things that are really moving out of the lab and to the patients. Funding drug development can be cost-prohibitive for us, and we feel our mission is to urge scientists to get from the lab to the bedside where the women can see progress.
A: This is one of the things we For more information on the tant thing is to understand the les- talk to our advisers about, and this Susan G. Komen for the Cure, sons learned. Researchers can come year, one area we noted that needed visithttp://ww5.komen.org/.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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The team behind you can make all the difference.
Doctor?
Claudia Luque, M.D. in Lynn John Trautman, M.D. in Beverly Vidya Raju, M.D., (left) Tejal Patel, M.D. (right) in Saugus
Look no further
A COLLABORATION
AMONG EXPERTS
The Mass General/North Shore Breast Health Center is a collaboration among experts from North Shore Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital who provide coordinated care to support your breast h ealth, from annual mammograms to an array of advanced treatment options.
CONTACT US:
Kristy Cahill, M.D., M.P.H. in Danvers
Our primary care physicians are ready to care for you and your family. With offices located throughout the North Shore, our physicians can offer you and your family an appointment with little to no wait time. And all of our primary care offices use electronic medical records that connect the experts of North Shore Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and the other specialists of Partners HealthCare. To learn more about our primary care physicians, please call our Physician Finder service at 1-877-NSMC-MDs (1-877-676-2637) or visit us online at nsmc.partners.org.
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All Mass General and North Shore Medical Center mammography facilities are licensed and accredited by the ACR, FDA and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Radiation Control Program.
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Since its inception in 1991 the North Shore Cancer WALK has raised more than $17 million for cancer care in our community! Join us Sunday, June 23, 2013 for the 23rd annual WALK where thousands will come together for the largest single-day fundraising event on the North Shore. www.northshorecancerwalk.org
Mass General/North Shore Breast Health Center radiologist Claudia Reynders, M.D. (L) and surgeon Jeanne Yu, M.D., represent a team of experts to care for you.
Mammograms are available at North Shore Medical Center sites in Salem, Lynn, Danvers and Gloucester.
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A number is applied to each diagnosis, but what does it mean? Here, a simple guide to understanding the stages of breast cancer, what they mean and the types of treatments to expect.
By Lindsey Romain
CTW FEATURES
A breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming enough on its own. But throw in the new terminology that family and patients must comprehend to process and understand the disease, and that overwhelming factor is ramped up tenfold. One of the hardest to grasp concepts can be the stages of breast cancer. Doctors use stages to classify the progress of the cancer, as well as the origins and prognosis. From zero to four, each stage can be broken down into even more categories and types, depending on factors like size, the involvement of lymph nodes and whether the cancer has spread. Here, Dr. Lise Alschuler, a naturopathic physician, author of Five to Thrive: Your Cutting-Edge Cancer Prevention Plan (Active Interest Media Inc. 2011) and breast cancer survivor herself, walks us through each stage. Many people are unaware of the very first stage of breast cancer, stage 0. Considered a precancerous condition, not all of it goes on to become cancer, Alschuler says. While patients may still be offered treatment such as radiation or a lumpectomy, Alschuler calls this more of a wait and watch period, before an official diagnosis can be confirmed.
Stage 0
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still involve aggressive treatment, she says. When a sample is taken through a biopsy, the The main difference between stage 0 and pathologist will give a grade to the tumor. stage 1 is that (the cancer) is now invasive, The higher the grade, the more aggressive, Alschuler says. Alschuler says. A stage 1 diagnosis means that a group of cells Not everyone with the same stage is treated have been mutated enough that they are able to the same. At stage 2, the treatments differ; a grow into a tumor. Stage 1 tumors are considered patient may undergo chemotherapy, or a masfairly small less than 2 centimeters in the tectomy, or maybe just radiation. The intent greatest diameter. At this point, they have not of the treatment in these stages is to cure spread to the lymph nodes, or if they have, there because it hasnt spread yet, Alschuler says. are only microscopic cells that have moved.
Stage 1
treatment. There are not as many effective treatments available for this type. The cancer is still treatable at stage 3, but it generally has a greater degree of risk for reoccurrence. Its more aggressive than the other stages, with systemic treatment. Alschuler says its very rare that doctors wouldnt recommend chemo at this point.
There are two types of stage 2 breast cancer: type A and type B. In type A, the tumor is larger than type B, but there are no cancer cells in the nodes, or cells are in the nodes but on the same side as the tumor and in small numbers. In type B, the tumor is between 2 to 5 centimeters, but there is more lymph node involvement. There is also a rare type of B with a large tumor but no node involvement. Stage 2 is still considered early stage breast cancer, according to Alschuler, meaning its a potentially curable disease. But it does
Stage 2
Stage 4, the final stage of diagnosis, is the most serious and the most progressed. Any Stage 3 size of tumor or lymph node involvement can A stage 3 diagnosis indicates a 5-centimeter appear at this stage, but the main indicator of or larger tumor. The tumor is on the same side stage four is that the cancer has spread, typias the lymph nodes where it has spread, usucally to the bone or liver. Alschuler says to ally in the armpit area. There are more nodes expect very aggressive treatment at this point. involved, typically more than three, usually The treatment is typically sequential at this four to nine. Sometimes in stage 3, the tumor stage, she explains. Youll go through an has grown deeper into the chest wall or up initial round of treatment, get a break, then go into the skin, affecting different types of tisback into it. Its about managing the growth sue. At this stage, a different type of breast so people can live with the disease as long as cancer may be on display: inflammatory. possible. Inflammatory breast cancer is a different While this may be the final stage of diagnosis, type of cancer cell, Alschuler says. It tends Alschuler points out that, rare as it may be, a full to be more aggressive, and more resistant to recovery is still possible.
Stage 4
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Support from friends, family and community are an integral tool in the fight against breast cancer. Many are taking their illness to the Internet, creating online support groups on Facebook, Twitter, blogs and forums.
By Renee Lee
CTW FEATURES
Laura! Jane! Laura! This went on for a few minutes because Laura forgot to ask Jane what room she was in on the sixth floor. The two went on screaming until they found each other in the hall. Then, it was like something out of a movie, Laura says. The two hugged, and cried and laughed at the same time. They reached over and touched the tufts of hair on each others otherwisebald heads. Just as everything else theyd shared as breast cancer sisters during the past 11 months, at that moment both women shared similar amounts of regrown tufts of hair on their heads. Breast cancer survivor and lawyer-turned-rockmusician Laura Roppe turned to an online forum the day she got diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. The next day, as if a private prayer had been answered, Jane Barker from Sheffield, U.K., wrote that she had been diagnosed with exactly the same type of breast cancer on the same day. The two also went on to start their chemotherapy treatments on the same day. While Roppe also had what she called flesh and blood friends and family that supported her, she found one of her biggest sources of support online. Roppe, of San Diego, is just one of many people now turning online to social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to seek support when a diagnosis of breast cancer is found. Many women are starting online
groups to unite all of their friends and family, which makes sharing information easy, fast and effective. It also makes connecting with strangers going through the same thing easier, something that can be a source of both strength and information for women that often feel alone and isolated. Just being diagnosed the same day as someone doesnt ensure a lifelong bond, Roppe says of Barker. We were meant to be sisters, though. We bonded over our love for the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice and I called her My dearest Jane. Roppe chronicled the emails she and Jane sent back and forth in her book Rocking the Pink: Finding Myself on the Other Side of Cancer (Seal Press, 2012). Marci A. Schmitt from Chandler, Ind., turned online to find information and support and wrote March Forth (Outskirts Press, 2011) as a way to provide support for others battling breast cancer. Schmitt was diagnosed in January 2009. Her mother had passed away from breast cancer in 2004, and she went on to lose her father-in-law and brother to cancer in the years surrounding her own battle. After talking to another survivor who went on to give talks around the country Schmitt hung up the phone with one goal in mind: write a book and provide support for others in her shoes. She wrote and wrote until she couldnt think of anything else to write, Schmitt says, and it was a full year until she told anyone shed written the book, not even
died. Thats the last thing anyone with cancer wants to hear, she says. Roppe recalled the very worst days when she was in the thick of chemotherapy and love from her kids carried her through. I would feel little tiny lips kissing my bald head, Roppe says of her daughters Sophie and Chloe, who were in third and first grade at the time of her treatment. Then theyd squish into bed with me and I could feel their warmth.
cancer-free for three years. Shes going on quarterly visits and has been scanning clear, and is taking things one day at a time. Roppe currently has no evidence of disease, and its been that way for the past three years. Just weeks before the diagnosis Roppe signed a record deal with a Londonbased record level, achieving a longtime dream of hers. The diagnosis left Roppe with what she calls in her book, a victory in the sense that she quit her law job and dedicated herself full time to music. I followed my heart, my voice, Roppe says. Dont wait until you get cancer until you do what you really want to do. The question everyone has after reading her book, Roppe says, is What about Jane? How is Jane? Barker, forever Roppes breast cancer sister, also is in recovery and is doing great, Roppe says.
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Ellen Hardy, also a breast cancer survivor, is now interim executive director of the Salem Arts Association.
For the love of a Mother, For the love of a Sister, For the love of a Grandmother, For the love of an Aunt, For the love of a Friend, For love, schedule your screening today!
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Cheryl leCesse
about. They dont always know where to look, Fitzpatrick said. For women who dont speak English well or at all, patient navigators can help. Fatima Gomes and Lucy Clinton are fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish, and the VNA Care Network has other translators on hand available to help women who speak a different language. Before receiving assistance, each applicant is assessed for financial and social need, any barriers to care, and whether she has insurance, Fitzpatrick said. Most are insured, she said. Every once in a while someone comes in who needs insurance. When that happens, the Massachusetts Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program will provide MassHealth coverage for treatment of women diagnosed with either cancer. While some women
From left, Fatima Gomes, Joan Fitzpatrick and Lucy Clinton of the VNA Care Network and Hospice in Danvers. All three work in the organizations Breast Cancer Treatment Support Program.
seek help on their own, many come to the program through a referral. Fitzpatrick said social workers, the Dana Farber Cancer Center, and Lowell Community College have all pointed women to the program. So far this year,the VNA Care Networks program has helped 86 women statewide, buttheres always a greater need. Fitzpatrick said the program receives its funding in six-month increments, and theres already a waiting list for the next installment. Most women understand the VNA Care Networks limitations. And every year the program seeks more opportunities, such as its partnership with the North Shore Community Health Network. The Komen grant provides the bulk of the programs funding, and the organization is thankful for the support. VNA Care Network
employees do their part to give back, too -- they have a team in the 20th annual Komen Massachusetts Race for the Cure, taking place Saturday, Oct. 20, in South Boston. Statistics show that breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide among women, and the VNA Care Networks Breast Cancer Treatment Support program falls in line with Komens mission -- to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening diagnosis by advancing research, education, screening and treatment. One of their goals is to really help people who are underserved or uninsured, Fitzpatrick said. For more information about the VNA Care Network and Hospice, visit www.vnacarenetwork.org or call 800-521-5539. For more information aboutthe Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, visit www.komenmass.org.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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Salem High School senior Kayla Pellitier soars in the air and tips the ball over the net against Beverly.
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Footprint Power supports our friends, family, and neighbors in our community in the fight against breast cancer. Schedule your screening today and take a step toward beating breast cancer.
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The Salem State Athletics Department has sponsored Think Pink events since 2008. Studentathletes compete in pink uniforms, raise funds, and help raise awareness on campus and in the community. Seaport Credit Union of Salem is this years sponsor for all events. Monies raised are donated to the North Shore Medical Center in honor of SSU alumni who have received treatment or are fighting the disease. The womens field hockey team kicked off this years events on Oct. 6.
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Salem High Schools Jason Alas, left, wins a header from Marbleheads Paul Elder, right. Both Salem and Marblehead sported pink attire in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
DAVID LE/Staff photo
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
CONSTANT
CHEMO
CRAVINGS
Radiation and chemotherapy cause many nausea and headaches, and can make eating nearly unbearable. Navigating food choices isnt easy, especially when healthy foods are the path to healing and chips are the only thing that sound good whats a woman to do?
S41 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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s a health professional, Patricia DImperio urges her patients to make the most nutritious food choices. The chiropractic neurologist is a nutrition role model, who searches out wholesome food for her family. Then, theres Doritos. When DImperio has to have them, shes unstoppable.Im a craver of salt, says the owner of Healthy Living in Bayville, N.Y.Its not one; Ill consume an entire bag and have to get it out of my system. I cant stop even though I know better. DImperio, who finished her treatments for breast cancer, is struggling with an occasional craving for a salty snack as she tries to eat the best diet possible to stay cancer-free. Shes not alone. Some days Im good, some days Im not so good, says Cynthia Newsome, who is finished with radiation treatments for breast cancer. The Dairy Queen strawberry shake beckoned, and Newsome responded. It was good, says Newsome, weekend anchor for NBC Action News in Kansas City, Mo. You may have an itch for a particular ingredient, like DImperio and salt, which hits every two months or so. Perhaps you associate a certain food with a positive experience you want to recall. Whatever the reason, if you learn to manage your food urges, you can splurge without the guilt, while developing more healthful habits. While youre educating yourself, youll also look for ways to let your loved ones know how youd like to be supported. Getting into a breast cancer recovery nutrition program can help. Find a registered dietitian who will show you what you can eat. If you need to lose weight to reduce your risk of a breast cancer recurrence (or your risk of other diseases), you dont want a diet that feels like punishment. Emphasize enjoyable options, not what you should forgo, says Cheryl Rock, Ph.D., registered dietitian and professor, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine. You may find you have a lot of
By Bev Bennett
CTW FEATURES
control with the occasional tortilla chips or milkshake, your loved ones may not understand. When her 9-year-old daughter sees her reaching for the Doritos, her eyes will get really wide and she says, MOM, DImperio says.My husband and daughter say, Moms on the Doritos again. I explain that this is one little thing I do once in a while. portion control as a way to enjoy favorchoices that are equally pleasurable, How do you tell your friends and ite high-calorie foods. Rock says. loved ones you appreciate their conIn Newsomes situation, a small shake cern but dont need policing?You can She is studying the effects of weight was satisfying. loss and increased exercise on qualprovide the answer. You can tell others I would have gotten a large in times how you want to be supported, accordity of life and on coexisting medical conditions in overweight breast cancer past, she says. ing to Unell.How you phrase the quesWhen youre more aware of nutrition, tion makes a difference. survivors. The women she counsels are helped you can stop beating yourself up over Dont say to the family, I want to eat the candy bar you couldnt resist. to change their behavior. better, help me. Theyll nag you with However, its easy to understand We dont hand out a list of foods you everything you eat, Rock says. shouldnt eat, but (advice on) how to fill the those feelings of guilt. Instead, suggest something specific: Your trust in your body is gone, plate. Its not a punishment, Rock says. Lets go to the farmers market and For example, she suggests switching says Barbara C. Unell, founder of Back pick up some salad ingredients for dinin the Swing USA, Overland Park, Kan. ner.Let friends know how to help you. from regular bacon to savory, fullYou think, If I have that extra cookie, flavored Canadian bacon. Newsome says she is looking for it will put me over the edge, says Pizza? information more than people motivatUnell, whose nonprofit organization You can have it. Its a wonderful ing me. promotes joyful and healthy living for vehicle for having vegetables in your The Kansas City television anchor breast cancer survivors. diet, Rock says. Her tip is to trade says, I like to read things that say Again, educating yourself about pepperoni for sun-dried tomatoes as a heres what to do; heres what to try, wholesome eating will help. pizza topping. like, for instance, a good-tasting sugarBut, even though you may feel in The health expert also teaches free ice cream.
When youre more aware of nutrition, you can stop beating yourself up over the candy bar you couldnt resist. However, its easy to understand those feelings of guilt. Your trust in your body is gone, says Barbara C. Unell, founder of Back in the Swing USA, Overland Park, Kan.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Former resident talks about her diagnosis, treatment, and the lingering effects
Now 35, Kelly Miner is only a few months away from being able to say she is cancer-free. Miner was 30 when she was diagnosed with stage three infiltrating ductile carcinoma in her left breast. Originally from Olathe, Kan., Miner spent most of her childhood in Buffalo, N.Y., before her family moved to Framingham when she was 11, and later to Danvers when she was 17. She has since lived all over the North Shore until three years ago, when she moved to Pennsylvania for a better job opportunity. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy at Beverly Hospital. Of all the places Ive lived, I consider the North Shore my home, she said. A youth pastor and foster parent, Miner also has a blog, The Aftermath, about how her life was affected after cancer. For more, visit www.kellysaftermath.blogspot.com.
Tell me about your diagnosis. Did you know something wasnt quite right?
I felt something. I wouldnt even call it a lump. It felt more like one of those wiggle worm toys that slip out of your hands. In school they had you feel for lumps Kelly Miner, having her head shaved while undergoing chemotherapy in 2007.
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S43 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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a week. I had my chemo and surgery at Beverly Hospital. I had my radiation in Peabody. Beverly Hospital did not have a radiation clinic at the time. My medical team was the best I could have asked for. People asked me if Id rather be in Boston and I said, no way. The nurses and staff knew me by name, fought for me, and What happened after your diagnosis? Did you undergo all truly cared in every way. of your treatment at Beverly I couldnt have asked for Hospital? better. Life was a whirlwind after my diagnosis. I had multiple Tell me about your options for tests and met many doctors. treating your cancer. What treatment option did you More people touched my decide to go with, and how did breasts than I could have you come to that decision? ever imagined. Appointments were scheduled Because I had stage 3 QUICKLY. I was never given cancer, surgery, chemo, and an official prognosis, but I radiation were all needed to knew it was bad because of save my life. I had the option how fast my appointments of going with a lumpectomy were scheduled. I was in a instead of a mastectomy doctors office once or twice depending on how much my the size of a pea. By the time I found mine, it was 5 centimeters wide. I was scared, but hoped for the best. I first knew something was wrong when the ultrasound technician looked at me and told me she was going to call in the doctor. The look in her eyes was one of terror.
People asked me if I d rather be in Boston and I said, no way. The nurses and staff knew me by name, fought for me, and truly cared in every way.
Kelly Miner
after my treatment ended. To the world, you are cured, the cancer is gone, but the reality is that the effects linger and you are never the same.
tumor shrank after some chemo, but everything I read pointed me toward a mastectomy. There was a brief discussion about harvesting some of my eggs, as I didnt (and dont) have any biological children, but my tumor was receptive to estrogen and progesterone and harvesting eggs would have been VERY dangerous.
My family and friends were a huge help during treatment. they provided of estrogen in my body. I see an oncologist every four food, cared for my foster child, sat with me through to six months. I have reguchemo, and kept me laughlar mammograms, chest ing. Laughter was the best x-rays, and visits with my medicine by far. gynecologist.
However, cancer has taught me to live each day to the fullest, as if it were my last. (Cliche, but true.) I am hoping to adopt through the foster care system. I truly love my life.
Is there a particular message you would like to send out to other women reading this?
Age doesnt matter. Family history doesnt matter. Know your body and get those regular check-ups no matter how annoying they are or uncomfortable they make you feel.
Its hard to pick just one. 1: Hearing the shock in the voice and the fear in the eyes of the people I love when I told them I had cancer. How do you tell someone that you might die? 2: Everything that happened
Im hopeful for the future and looking forward to the day when I can officially say Im cured. (Five years after I ended treatment Feb. 1, 2013.) I still struggle with fatigue, the fear of recurrence, survivor guilt, and more.
Dont think you are doing good just by going pink. If you want to truly be aware, read the blog of a cancer patient or survivor, visit a clinic, and research where your dollars actually go.
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
try on some for me? What ensued was a dress-up session of Dale modeling a big blonde Dolly Parton-style wig and one that made her look like Elvira from the 1988 film Mistress of the Dark. Silver and his wife found it was a lot easier to laugh at cancer than to constantly be afraid of it. Silver and his wife have been together now for more than 30 years. Dale was able to share any thoughts, whether good or bad, with her husband. As Silver says, if she couldnt share them with him, whom could she share them with? Being a caregiver to a sick loved one comes with its own burden. Silver recommends caregivers also take some time off to take care of themselves. Silver talked to some wives who said they would call their husbands
friends and ask them to go out with him to make sure he was getting time for himself as well. Other advice Silver has for caretakers? Take all the help you are offered from friends and family. Its also very important to go to doctors appointments with your wife, Silver says. You become part of a team, and you can listen and help discuss treatment options. Dale eventually had lumpectomies in both breasts and underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy.At the end of treatment, Silver says his wife, a high school teacher, gave him a solid B for his efforts as a breast cancer husband. She gave me a B, but shes a tough grader, so I have no complaints, Silver says.
S45 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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S47 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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To reconstruct or not to reconstruct its one of the toughest questions a woman faces following a mastectomy. Heres the information needed to make an informed decision.
By Jeff Schnaufer
CTW FEATURES
or the suggestion to have a second opinion, Rakoff recalls. Within four days of my diagnosis, I had a simple mastectomy with no reconstruction. At the age of 44, Michele Rakoff disAfter the surgery, Rakoff began invescovered she had breast cancer. She recalls being not well-informed by her tigating the possibility of having reconstruction, educating herself. She decided surgeon about her options for breast to have breast reconstruction six months reconstruction. I was rushed into making a quick deci- later. That was in 1988. Today, Rakoff serves as executive director with the sion and was not given the opportunity
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
RECONSTRUCTION
Continued from Page S47 have time to get a second opinion, do research and speak with well-educated advocates who can share their own experiences. Reconstruction is one of the toughest decisions a woman faces following a mastectomy. According to a Colombia University study, fewer than one in four women with invasive cancer opt for the immediate reconstruction of their breast. More than one in three with early stage cancer got the procedure. The biggest predictor of whether a woman got reconstruction was insurance coverage. Ultimately, its a personal decision. But many fears can get in the way of making the best choice. We asked a few experts to weigh in on the validity of these fears.
Fear #1: I have to decide right away because reconstruction can only be done immediately following the mastectomy.
Incorrect, says Dr. Christy Russell, a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society and associate professor of medicine at the University of Southern California. They can always have a delayed reconstruction. One can do a delayed reconstruction. But if one
can get it together and really make a decision upfront, theres some economies of scale, so to speak, says Dr. John Link, author of The Breast Cancer Survival Manual, 5th Edition (August 2012, Holt Paperbacks) and director and founder of Breastlink Medical Group, a comprehensive breast cancer treatment group in Orange, Calif. There are a variety of types of reconstruction, he says. One is a silicone implant. The second type is where fat and skin are brought in from somewhere else to create the new breast. The third option is a hybrid of both. When the breast implant is put in after the mastectomy, it eliminates an added surgery, Link says. In our practice, 90
percent of women have immediate reconstruction. Those women who deny it are more likely to do it because of age or underlying health issues like pacemakers, severe obesity, diabetes or heart failure.
Fear #2: If I have to have radiation or chemotherapy, I cant have reconstruction until it is over.
Each person receives different treatment and depending upon that treatment, a decision should be made with discussions between the woman and her health care team, Rakoff says. Women should be informed that radiation does have an effect upon the skin and
District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett is proud to support breast cancer awareness month.
S49 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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at the end. There should be no guilt about trying to become as whole as possible.
Fear #3: It is too dangerous to have reconstruction when you have an aggressive form of cancer.
No, Russell says. Even if women are dying of breast cancer, they deserve to have any type of body they want. You just have to make sure a patient is healthy enough to go through the surgery.
Fear #6: If my cancer comes back, it will be easier to detect if I dont have reconstruction.
Absolutely incorrect, Russell says. Women who get a recurrence on the skin, it looks like a mosquito bite in the skin. Its very, very easy to detect. Local recurrences occur less than 10 percent of the time, Link says. When they reoccur, they are almost always on the surface.
have chosen not to have reconstruction and are beautiful, sexy women, Rakoff says. I know several who were diagnosed in their 20s, married after breast cancer and had children. They and their partners feel they are lovely, wonderful women.
Fear #4: If I dont have reconstruction, Fear #7: My partner wont be as Ill never feel like a woman again. attracted to me if I dont have There are many women of all ages who reconstruction.
I have a lot of patients who have not had reconstruction and they are still functioning normally sexually, Russell says. Many of them said the fact that they developed a life-threatening illness changed the relationship both emotionally and sexually. It was a wake-up call to the Fear #5: Reconstruction is a vanity decision I should just be grateful my marriage. My advice is to know how you use your body sexually before you go into cancer is gone. these surgeries. At the same time, Russell points out that Absolutely not, Russell says. This is all about doing everything you can to try to the breast is a sexual organ. A mastectomy even out the chest wall, not only for physi- will deaden sexual stimulation in the skin cal appearance but to even out the weight over the removed breast. And getting a new breast from reconstructive surgery on the chest and stop back problems. will not improve sexual stimulation, either. Following a mastectomy, Russell says There is always an adjustment period women with large breasts get very unbalanced. They start leaning in one direction. after breast surgery, and discussions can help, Rakoff says. Many couples find The whole process of being treated it helpful to get professional counseling. for breast cancer is difficult enough, Your partner should love you for who you Link says. Theres no reason a woman are. shouldnt try to feel good about herself
S51 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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survivors
CTW FEATURES
Supporting those who are touched by this disease, remembering those who have been lost and rallying for a cure.
By Lisa iannucci
Tara Mullen, 38, is a married mom of two daughters, ages 8 and 5. She was diagnosed at age 35 for ductal carcinoma in situ after her doctors found a cyst in her breast. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive breast cancer with abnormal cells contained in the milk ducts. In situ means in place because the cells have not left the milk ducts to invade nearby breast tissue. Due to my family history of breast cancer, they were keeping an eye on it and I was getting an ultrasound every six months, she says. A few months later, the fluid-filled cyst turned into a solid mass. I didnt hear anything after the doctor told me that I had breast cancer, Mullen says. The doctors performed a lumpectomy, and a few months later, more cysts were found. They werent in the lymph nodes, thankfully, but I opted for a double mastectomy in May 2012, she says. Mullen went through radiation treatment and a chemotherapy shot in her stomach every three months. I never had a choice to stop going and never had time to really think about it, Mullen says. I broke down at the end of radiation when it all hit me at once and my radiation oncologist said, I was waiting for that. I worked in the oncology department, so when I heard the news, my first thought was, What stage is it? Did it metastasize? she says. I thought about my kids, they were small and I didnt know whether it had spread or not. And all of the surgery was a pain. Mullen says she couldnt care less that she lost her breasts. I just wanted them off me, she says. I didnt want to have to worry about it anymore. You can get them reconstructed. There are more important things than breasts. What I hated
was the fact that I couldnt care for myself and all of a sudden I was shut down completely with drains in me. Mullen needs more reconstructive surgery, but she says her health is good. Meridith Stevens was diagnosed with inflammatory invasive ductal carcinoma on Oct. 26, 2011. It had spread to some of her lymph nodes. I followed through on a suspicious lump in my left breast and then other topical changes that were apparent, she says. I dont remember exactly when it was, but I think my suspicions started in early August. I had felt a hard lump in my breast, perhaps an inch away from my nipple. I noticed it by chance, either adjusting a bra or showering. Prior, I had not been good about selfexaminations because I had cystic breasts and I blew off self-examining because I figured Id always be feeling lumpiness, so I might as well leave it up to the experts to determine the differences. This time, it was different though. It was more solid than I had ever felt. I was in complete disbelief because, for goodness sake, I had just had a clear mammogram in April. There was no way the lump could be anything serious. As time went on, the lump got harder and bigger and began to swell, and Stevens nipple began to discolor and invert. The skin over the lump and neighboring area started turning red and swelling, too. She was treated with two rounds of chemotherapy and a mastectomy and then radiation. Next July, I will have the right breast removed and the first of my reconstruction surgery for both breasts, she says. Physically, besides having a higher blood pressure than at the start, residual fatigue from chemo treatments, and having to lose weight and get in condition, Im otherwise healthy.
THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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BREAST CANCER
Barbara C. Unell finished her radiation treatments for breast cancer in 1998 and assumed shed be given help on getting back in the swing, as she called it. She was looking for follow-up care for side effects and guidance for rebuilding her health. When it wasnt offered, her frustration led her to form Back in the Swing USA (www.backintheswing. org). The Back in the Swing mission is to educate and empower health care professionals to provide care for the (post-breast cancer) consumer, Unell says. The organization also helps women develop a personal survivorship care plan. New is The Back in the Swing Cookbook (Andrews McMeel, 2012) by Unell and Judith Fertig. The book features nutritious recipes, luscious indulgences such as celebration chocolate cake, and anecdotes and health tips to get readers back to their full lives.
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Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners. 2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, bakingsoda, salt, cinnamon and flaxseed. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the applesauce, buttermilk, brown sugar, oil and egg. Stir the applesaucemixture into the flour mixture until just moist. Fold in the blueberries. 4. Fill the muffin cups equally, about two-thirds full. 5. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the centerof a muffin comes out clean.
Nutrition:
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil or canola oil 1 large egg, beaten 3/4 cup fresh or thawed frozen blueberries Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
Calories: 144 Total fat: 3.5 g Saturated fat: 0.5 g Carbohydrates: 26 g Protein: 3.5 g Dietary fiber: 3 g Sodium: 94 mg
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Illusions, a magical fashion event to help make breast cancer disappear WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 1, at 6 p.m. WHERE: Danversport Yacht Club, 107R Elliott St., Danvers TICKETS: $75, available online or at Lorraine Roy Designer Collections, 30 Maple St., Danvers INFO: 978-774-0 825 or www. lorraineroy.com
Lorraine Roy Designer Collections is bringing pink to the catwalk. On Thursday, Nov. 1, the Danvers shop and fellow sponsors will present Illusions, a magical fashion event to help make breast cancer disappear, at the Danversport Yacht Club. Because were a womens store, we decided it would be nice to do something that primarily affects women, said owner Jeanne Hennessey. Unfortunately, we all know so many people who have been affected by breast cancer. The fashion show will benefit the Breast Oncology Program at the Mass General / North Shore Cancer Center. We wanted to give to breast cancer, but we wanted to remain local at the same time rather than give to Avon or Susan G. Komen, Hennessey said. We wanted to make a difference in our own neighborhood. She added: Ive had relatives whove been treated so wonderfully there. Its nice to give back when you know people who have benefited from all of their expertise and compassion. In addition to professional models showing off Lorraine Roys dress collections, 12 local breast cancer survivors will make their way down the catwalk, modeling a series oftrench coatsthat will be raffled off throughout the evening. Hennessey said the survivors range in age from their
30s to their 70s, and each will be recognized with a short story about their cancer fight. Among the survivor models will be Noreen Forlizzi of Danvers. Forlizzi, now 57, was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 32. She celebrated her 25th anniversary in June. I was very lucky. I never had a problem, she said. Forlizzi found a lump while doing a breast exam on herself. A registered nurse in the outpatient oncology ward at St. Elizabeths in Brighton at the time, she was aware of the possibilities. She made an appointment, and doctors determined the lump was cancer. With two young children at home a 5-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter she opted for a bilateral mastectomy with breast reconstruction. I wanted the most assurance I could get, she said. It turned out to be a great decision. A neighbor of Hennesseys, Forlizzi is very familiar with her charitable fashion shows, although
Illusions will be the first in which she will be an active participant. She said shes looking forward to it. This a whole new experience for me, so it will be fun, she said. Hennessey said the event has been met with tremendous response so far. Weve already sold more than a few hundred tickets, she said. In line with its magical theme, Illusions will feature four magicians donating their time to entertain, as well as raffle prizes, cocktails, and dueling piano players from Bostons Howl at the Moon nightclub. We wanted it to be fun, upbeat, and interactive with the audience, said Hennessey. Rather than having separate baskets up for grabs, ticket holders will have the chance to win raffle tables, each worth around $500. Themes include books, golf, and a Fifty Shades of Grey table, featuring gray accessories and handbags. A separate Hocus Pocus board will offer guaranteed prizes to those who play. Women in the area are jumping on board, she said. People want to help. Lorraine Roy holds a fashion show every year, each for a different charity.Sponsors include the Danvers Butchery, Peoples United Bank and East Boston Savings Bank. Paulas Salon does the hair styling for the models, and The Makeup Artist provides the makeup. Hennessey said raffle prize donations are still being accepted, and sponsorships Lorraine Roy Designer Collections owner Jeanne Hennessey. are still available.
S55 THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
To benefit The Breast Oncology Program at MGH North Shore Cancer Center
The Mass General/North Shore Cancer Center Breast Program in Danvers is a program providing the highest quality breast cancer care in the area with a multidisciplinary team consisting of breast surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, geneticists, breast radiologists and pathologists. Patients are offered access to the latest national and regional clinical trials at all stages of disease. Monies donated to the program help support participation in these clinical trials, as well as the education of breast cancer nurse practitioners and access nurses. Thank you for your support in helping to make breast cancer disappear! Sincerely, Jeanne Hennessey, President Lorraine Roy Designer Collections
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THE SALEM NEWS Breast Cancer Awareness Tuesday, October 16, 2012
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