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In Her Words: Beverly Vote, Publisher of Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine

June 26, 2013 by

Our staff at the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction warmly welcomes this exclusive interview with Beverly Vote, publisher of Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine. 

The mag­a­zine is a quar­terly, full color printed pub­li­ca­tion that goes directly to thou­sands of breast can­cer patients and sur­vivors in all 50 states as well as to sev­eral thou­sand mas­tec­tomy cen­ters, breast can­cer sup­port groups, and breast can­cer cen­ters and events. In addi­tion, the mag­a­zine is avail­able online. The mag­a­zine was the 2007 recip­i­ent of the Don Ranly Pub­lish­ers Award for Best Issue in its cat­e­gory and a con­tender for Best Arti­cle for the arti­cle “Ser­vice, Strength, and Survival.”

Tell us a little bit about your own story. How was Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine created?

I will never forget the feelings I had in 1992 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 38.  I felt very alone and very afraid.  It wasn’t just my health that I was concerned about, but I was deeply worried how it was affecting my family.  Three perfect strangers reached out to me in my darkest hours and provided hope and inspiration at a time when my medical doctors had little to offer.  

The magazine was created because I learned first hand from these three women how important it is to share hope and inspiration with one another.  Twenty one years later, I continue to see the importance in sharing our healing stories. The Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine includes both valuable information from leading experts in the field of integrative medicine but also personal stories from breast cancer thrivers.

Have you noticed certain themes for articles lately? What are the big focus topics today for the magazine?

Themes in blogs and other articles seem to be more centered around empowering our mind, our body and our spirit.  The focus for the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine continues to include this, as it has since its inception, but the magazine now also campaigns to change self-communication from, “I am a survivor,” to “I am a thriver!”  There is a thriving force in all of us that wants to be experienced, to live life with more passion and joy, and if not after a diagnosis of breast cancer, when?  

 

There is big buzz around the Thrivers Cruise. What is it and why is this cruise different? What can passengers expect? 

The annual Thrivers Cruise is a fun and celebratory event that brings women together from across the United States.  Every year we have a “Far Out Thriver” contest for the person traveling the farthest to attend the cruise.  For the past two years, the winner has been from Liverpool England, but we have also had women travel from Canada, Belgium, Ireland, Grand Cayman Islands, and Afghanistan. Over 55% are repeat cruisers with many women traveling with us for five consecutive years.  We also have a Pink Celebration Party every year on the cruise, and recognize the Largest Group traveling together, the Best Karaoke, Prettiest Pink T-Shirt contest, and the Funkiest Flip Flop contest.  We recently added the Encourager Award and the Thriving Caregiver award. What is great about the Thrivers Cruise is that it offers the opportunity to do things with new found friends as well as time for personal recreation or with others. For the repeat cruisers, we love seeing friends that we have made from our previous trips.

Every year, we offer a Breast Cancer Thrivers Cruise giveway.  It’s very easy to register to win! The simple qualifications to win are on the website www.BreastCancerWellness.org. It is a random drawing and includes an inside cabin for the winning recipient and the guest of her/his choice. 

Our travel agent for our 8th Annual Breast Cancer Thrivers Cruise 2014 is Connie Saunders, owner of Your Cruise Agents. Connie and her Crew were selected as our travel agency because Connie has a real need to be of service for this annual event…. both her mother and her best friend were diagnosed with breast cancer. Connie knows the power that fellowship and fun provides!

Connie has created an easy monthly payment plan for our group.


What is the one thing you want all women to know about breast cancer?

The most important message that I personally want to convey to anyone facing breast cancer is that we are not powerless over breast cancer and we don’t have to face breast cancer alone. One of the greatest allies we have in this healing journey is the Pink Sisterhood. Connecting with someone who understands what we are going through is life-changing. The Pink Sisterhood is one of the most dynamic forces on earth and is an important resource no matter what age or stage of the journey that we are on.


What is next for the Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine? How is the magazine spreading outside of its pages?

The Breast Cancer Wellness Ambassadors’ program is soon to launch.  This program includes an introduction to the wholistic healing principles specific for breast cancer and tools to help empower our body, mind and spirit after a diagnosis of breast cancer.  Advanced training for the BCW Transformational Leaders and Speakers will also be offered. 

Find out more about Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine and subscribe at: www.BreastCancerWellness.org

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Pictures of Promise: An Interview with Photographer Susan Lloyd

April 24, 2013 by

Thousands run for Susan G. Komen Lowcountry Affiliate's 2012 Race for the Cure

Today, the team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is honored to share with you an In Her Words interview with professional photographer Susan Lloyd. Susan works closely with Susan G. Komen Lowcountry as their events photographer.

 Read below for our interview with Susan.

1. Tell us your story. How were you introduced to the breast cancer community?  

I’ve had an interest in photography for most of my life, but never took it seriously until about twelve years ago.  I shot professionally for a time, took another job for a few years, then came back to photography.  I just couldn’t put the camera down!  I started shooting professionally again just a few years ago and have an entirely new appreciation for the craft of photography.  In all honesty, I can’t think of another thing I would want to pursue, career wise.  Oddly enough, though, I studied music education in college, and the first time I came face to face with breast cancer was during that time, over twenty years ago.   A hall mate who became a very close friend of mine our freshman year started college the same year her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer.  For our whole college career her mom battled the disease, and it had a huge impact on my friend.  Just a few years after graduation, her mother passed.  I remember thinking of all the things she was going to miss- her daughter’s wedding, grandchildren, retirement- and how it seemed she was robbed of so much by something that seemed so senseless.  In recent years, I’ve had several friends and one family member diagnosed with breast cancer.

Family Circle Tennis Center at dawn- Race for the Cure 2012

These women are all still living, and living proof that breast cancer awareness, advances in early detection, and more sophisticated treatments ARE making a difference.   But it wasn’t until this past year when I got involved with Susan G. Komen Lowcountry that I really became aware of how far reaching the breast cancer community is.  Patients, family members, concerned citizens- so many people who have been impacted by breast cancer, have come together in support of each other and to continue to move forward towards a cure for all women who are diagnosed.


2. It must be eye-opening and humbling to be a photographer for Komen. How did this happen for you?  
My work was seen online by Jordan Freeman, an employee of Trio Solutions the marketing group that works with Komen Lowcountry.  Jordan had an interest in a band I had done some work for and followed the link on their photos back to my Facebook page.  From there she became a fan of my page, continued to see the work I posted, and when the time came for Komen Lowcountry to find a new photographer to cover their events, Jordan reached out to me.  I was hugely honored and really didn’t hesitate to contribute my time.  One of the goals I had when I started to shoot professionally was to make sure that I was using my skills to help build up my community.  Working with Komen gave me the perfect opportunity to do that.
Susan Lloyd Photography specializes in portraits for women and teen girls- this is one example of a Sono Bella Portrait.
3. Why is the opportunity to photograph for Komen so important to you? Do you have any photography stories to share?   
First of all, I truly believe that to try an exist outside of community is a recipe for disaster- if you live only for yourself and invest only in yourself, you’ve missed a big part of what it means to be alive.  So for me personally, being  involved in something that is bigger than myself, that’s hugely important.  Specifically, photographing for Komen means that people can see there is hope, there are people working very hard every day to make a difference, and there are women who can say ” I made it through”.  There are so many facets of the work Komen does, it would be impossible to capture it all in photos or words.  However, people need to see- they need to know- that getting involved with Komen does make a difference.  Things are changing.  More women are being diagnosed, receiving treatment, and surviving because people are getting involved.
Photographs many times will impact us in ways that words can’t, and I’m happy that I can produce something that might possibly move someone towards action.
 The most exciting thing that I got to witness last year was the start of the Race for the Cure from about two stories off the ground!  Seeing thousands and thousands of people with smiles on their faces, optimistic and solidified in their support of Komen, it was overwhelming and truly amazing.
4. What is the one thing you want all women to know about breast cancer? 
I think the most important thing to know, outside of early detection, is that a diagnosis does not have to bring isolation with it. In fact, because of the work that Komen is doing, a diagnosis can bring you into a new community.  You will not be alone.  There are health care professionals, volunteers, survivors, a whole host of people who will walk with you and support you.   And there is so much compassion in that community- true compassion that says “We are here.  You can fight this fight.   We will fight it with you.”

5. What’s next for you in the world of Komen and photography? Upcoming events? 
I recently photographed the Grants Awards Reception which is such an awesome thing to witness.  The fundraising efforts of Komen Lowcountry throughout the year translate into financial blessing for facilities and organizations that work tirelessly to reach so many underserved women in our area.  When the grant checks are awarded, a recipient representative speaks about what it means to receive that kind of financial support.  That’s when you really understand that Komen is reaching deep into the lives of women throughout the lowcountry, many of them who are uninsured and underserved.
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A Chance to Heal in Comfort

March 27, 2013 by

Cherie Mathews is the founder of healincomfort

Our team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction  welcomes Cherie Mathews, founder of healincomfort, as the featured guest for In Her Words this week. Here is her story:


At the age of 40, Cherie Mathews received the same diagnosis from her doctor that one-in-eight women across America will face – “You have breast cancer”.

Through the shock and horror Cherie made the difficult decision to have a double mastectomy. She faced her enemy in this battle with the same fortitude and resilience as the millions of other brave women warriors that came before and since, after. It wasn’t until the pre-op consultation before her mastectomy that Cherie got angry. When she was told the same thing that nurses still tell their charges today… to just bring something big and loose or one of their husband’s old dress shirts to wear home and to recover in.

“I can tell you first hand that when a woman loses her breasts in her battle against breast cancer she does not ‘feel’ ok wearing her husband’s dress shirt. Mentally, it’s cruel.  Cancer is hard enough! If a sprained elbow gets a sling to heal in, why isn’t there helpful equipment to heal in after a mastectomy?”

 

Something had to change.  A new “standard” in medical equipment for women recovering from breast cancer surgery needed to be created. Cherie Mathews would go on to launch and to provide the very healincomfort post-op recovery kits that she herself was denied. Now, women across the globe benefit from Cherie’s vision and ambition to make certain that no woman would suffer this complication. In this decade, thousands of breast cancer survivors have been spared this unnecessary discomfort. Today, thanks to Cherie, all women have the ability to “healincomfort.”

All healincomfort Kits Include: Healincomfort kits make great gifts for loved ones.

  • Patented healincomfort Shirt – Super soft moisture management material, self-adhering  fasteners (like Velcro®), Four Internal Pockets for Drain Management
  • Advanced Design Hands Free Lanyard Straps – Hands free Independence for Showers and Maneuverability
  • Private Medical Drain Pouch – Manages Drains while wearing Regular Clothing
  • Inspirational Story “My Shadow Story” – Your personal copy to help prepare for the ‘First Look’ after your breast cancer surgery.

 

For more information, visit healincomfort.com for more information.

You can also follow Cherie Mathews on Facebook.

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How One Woman Took Action Against Breast Cancer

October 17, 2012 by

Sue Young (right) pictured with Patricia Simon.

Today, the team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is honored to share with you an In Her Words post written by a dear friend, breast cancer survivor and active advocate, and the latest recipient of the Charlene Daughtry Award from Komen Lowcountry, Sue Young. She is an inspiration to all women who are facing breast cancer and proves there is strength in numbers and together we can get through anything.

 Read below for our interview with Sue.

1. You are a great advocate and an active volunteer for Susan G. Komen for the Cure  Lowcountry. Tell us what you’ve been doing to support women who are experiencing breast cancer or know of someone who is?

I’m a huge advocate of finding out everything you can about your options once you are told you have cancer.  Most people, me included, don’t really think about it until it happens to you or someone you care about.  I started volunteering with Komen after being diagnosed and reading Nancy Brinker’s book, “Winning the Race – Taking Charge of Breast Cancer”.  I was inspired to be a part of their story, their work.  Because of my diagnosis and participation, I have met and become friends with a number of people spanning all the facets of cancer.  I met doctors, nurses, volunteers, film directors, dragon boaters, comedians, politicians, fund-raisers, hospital and other medical administrators, survivors and co-survivors, and sadly, people that eventually would lose their battle.  Having met so many new and diverse people that I wouldn’t have met otherwise, when someone comes to me with questions about cancer, I can tell them what I’ve learned or connect them with people who know much more than that.  I may not be able to answer every question, but I know someone who knows.  The more you know about what you’ll deal with, the better equipped you are to make it down that “pink ribbon” road.  It’s a journey to say the least, and it is so much easier when you don’t have to take the trip alone.    I’ve always had a volunteer spirit, it’s nice to be there when someone needs you.  My mother taught us by example; she always responded when a “need” was presented.  From giving the postman a mayonnaise jar of iced water every day to raising funds to air-condition our elementary school, Mama took action.  She’s 81 and still going strong!

2. You are truly an inspiration to women who have been affected by breast cancer! Tell us how you managed to stay positive and embody the selflessness volunteer spirit while undergoing breast cancer treatment. What inspired you to keep moving forward? 

I was able to stay positive through my cancer treatments in three ways:

1.) I had an amazing support group.  My husband, Tom, was loving, caring, and understanding.  He was committed to me and my well-being through it all.  My family and friends went the extra mile, supporting my decisions, helping with the special things, and keeping the routine things in order.

2.) I had a super medical team.  Everyone, from the doctors to their staff was on their “A-game.”  They were educated, they were professional, they were caring, they were patient, they had a plan and they guided me through every step, every phase.  I felt like I was their only patient, but I knew they were being everything they were to me to others every day.

3.) Each time I started to sink into a depression, God sent someone into my life that seemed to have a bigger battle than I did.  I was reminded on more than a few occasions that I was not alone and that I had the tools to take the next step.  There was always someone that didn’t have the support group, didn’t have the medical team, didn’t get the positive answers that I got.

3. You are the 2012 recipient of the Charlene Daughtry Award from Komen Lowcountry. Tell me a little about this award and what it means to you personally.

I saw the first recipient receive the award at my first Komen Survivor Celebration in October, 2005.  I’d never met Charlene and she had already lost her battle with cancer.  I don’t know that I remember who got it the first couple of years.  It didn’t really became personal to me until  it was awarded to Lucy Spears.  I’d worked with her on a couple of Komen projects.  She was a tremendous volunteer with unending energy and drive – still is.  Bonnie Hancock received it the next year; I served on a committee with her for several years.  Again, selflessness embodied.  Gene Glave received the award last year . . . her last Survivor Celebration.  The Komen Board chose each of these women because they carry on Charlene Daughtry’s dream, her enthusiasm, her courage.  Me?  Part of this group?  I fear I don’t measure up, but I am honored, and I am humbled to be included.  Charlene, the recipients I know, and myself – our common threads?  Breast cancer, a desire to share our stories, our experience, and our courage with others.  Just like the candle-lighting ceremony at each Survivor Celebration, it’s about igniting your own light and passing it on to others.

4. What is the one thing you want all women to know about breast cancer?

Look for it!  Catch it early!  Deal with it!  Do not ignore it!  Know you are not alone.  There’s help every step of the way.

5. You have achieved so much and given back since being diagnosed with cancer. What is next for you in life? 

We’re still a few years from retirement, but that’s the next big thing.  Tom and I want to travel.  We’ve been to some wonderful places already: Jamaica, Hawaii, Barbados. We want to take some longer trips to see more of America up-close.  Of course, we’ll be planning those around small trips to Rock Hill to see my sister’s growing family.  Her third grandchild is due in March.  I want to make sure Kaylee (2-1/2), Wyatt (3 months) and G-baby #3 know they have great-grandparents and a great-aunt and great-uncle in Charleston.  I’m sure I’ll still find time for Komen.  Wouldn’t it be nice if Kaylee didn’t have to worry about breast cancer?

 

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One Breast Cancer Survivor’s New Take on Life: Laugh More and Love Harder

August 15, 2012 by

Today we are delighted to share this In her Words post featuring Regina McCray. Diagnosed at only 37 years old,  Regina shares her story with everyone she meets and is a ray of light for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

See below for our inspirational interview with Regina.

Tell us a little bit about your story and how you survived through breast cancer?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on March 10, 2009 at the age of 37 years old. I had no family history, but because I work as a radiation therapist and see young women with cancer every day I started having mammograms at the age of 35.  My tumor was aggressive and was stage 2, grade 3, with one lymph node involved. I had a right breast mastectomy 3 weeks later and started chemo in April of 2009. I survived because of my faith in God, and the love of my parents and 11 siblings (I am the oldest child).  I also have a great support system of friends, co-workers and family.

You had to experience radiation as part of your treatment plan. What advice or information would you give to other women who need to experience radiation as part of their breast cancer treatment?

About 3 weeks after completing my last chemo treatment ( I did 6 round lasting from April to August) I started radiation, 33 treatments. Radiation only affects the area being treated so my skin got irritated like a bad sunburn, but my aloe vera plant worked wonders. Skin will be sensitive about 2 weeks into treatment and may start to get sore as treatment progresses, but the prescription creams given by the radiation oncologists usually work great. About 3 weeks after completion of treatment (usually 28-33  days Mon.-Fri) the skin will start to get back to normal.  For any woman needing radiation, it’s not as bad as most people think. You don’t feel the treatment, and it normally takes less than 10 minutes to receive treatment. Please don’t let the radiation horror stories scare you out of a treatment that is designed to kill microscopic cancer cells that may have been left behind. It is so worth the peace of mind!

You’ve been a great advocate for The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction and a wonderful support source for your community. Tell us what you’ve been doing to support women who are experiencing breast cancer or know of someone who is?

After surgery, chemo, and radiation, I wanted to get my life, and body back so I joined support groups and started sharing my story with newly diagnosed women to help them get through the initial shock.  I speak to lots of my patients about my experience in order to let them know that they can get through it. I did a talk at my church to bring awareness to breast cancer, and I tell everyone that I come in contact with that if they know anyone that is battling this disease and need someone to talk to, they can call me anytime, day or night.

How has your life changed since being diagnosed with breast cancer?

Breast cancer has changed my life in so many ways, I never thought that something so painful, could make me a better person. I am grateful for the little things. I tell the people I love that I love them more often, and I don’t take for granted that I will have the chance of a tomorrow.  I live each day to the fullest, not caring nearly as much about pleasing others as I do about pleasing God and being happy.  I travel now and see places that I only dreamed about before, because now I know that tomorrow is not promised.  Even if I don’t make it to retirement,  God has given me today and I am enjoying Life! I laugh more and love harder.

What type of breast reconstruction did you have and would you recommend it to other women who might be contemplating natural breast reconstruction?

In May of 2010,  about 14 months after being diagnosed with breast cancer I went into the hospital for bilateral natural breast reconstruction along with a left mastectomy. Dr James Craigie (along with Dr Kline) performed the DIEP flap procedure  taking
fat and blood vessels from my tummy to make my beautiful new breasts. This procedure helped me feel whole again! I am so pleased with the results that I tell my patients, support group sisters, and anyone that is considering reconstruction that this is the way to go. My breasts feel like a part of my body, and I even have some feeling in them, not to mention they look great and I can wear a bathing suit and anything else, and look and feel great with my new girls and my flat tummy! I highly recommend the procedure and for anyone contemplating reconstruction please call Dr. Craigie’s office. He is in my opinion, the best Dr. on the planet. Skillful, patient, and his bedside manner is better than any other physician that you will ever meet. The staff is also awesome, courteous, patient and helpful.  I think the team from The Center for Natural Reconstruction was put here by God to give women like me a second chance, and they will always have a place in my heart!

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Perseverance: The Valuable Lesson Breast Cancer Taught One Survivor

July 18, 2012 by

Today’s In Her Words post comes to us from a past patient of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, Carlette Holmes. Carlette, is a breast cancer survivor who lives in Anderson, SC and traveled to Charleston to receive her reconstructive surgery. Today, Carlette and her childhood best friend partake in a culinary partnership entitled, Buffa’s Cheese Biscuits. The recipe for these delicious biscuits come from Buffa, a cook for Carlette’s grandmother while she was growing up.

See below for out interview with Carlette and to learn more about Buffa’s Cheese Biscuits. All images included are courtesy of Carlette Holmes.

1.  Buffa’s Cheese biscuits, even the name just melts in your mouth. Can you tell me a little bit about these delicious biscuits and where the recipe came from?

I think my grandmother found the recipe in a Jr. League cookbook and gave it to Buffa to try. They were a staple after that. They were always on hand in a covered dish as you came into the kitchen. Everyone who came in knew they were there & grabbed a handful. Buffa’s were always good but often different…. sometimes “short” as she would call them, sometimes crispy, sometimes light and puffy or sometimes dark and crumbly. I know now it could have been due to the humidity on any given day. One challenge I faced was to get them to turn out the same every time. Family and  friends didn’t seem to care, but I felt it was important when I started selling them.

2. It seems you spent a lot of time in the kitchen with Buffa, do you have a favorite memory with her?

My conversations with Buffa are favorite memories. She loved to talk while she cooked and could tell a great story. Often, I would shell peas or snap beans while she “held court”. I loved to “help” her make jams and preserves.

My least favorite memories are those of grease fires and exploding pressure cookers. I am scared for life, and to this day I don’t like to fry in my kitchen. The first time I tried to fry fish for Edmund is was slightly boiled and awful.

3. You have been making these biscuits for your family and friends for years. What was the turning point for you to finally give in and brand Buffa’s Cheese Biscuits to the public?

I think the turning point was surviving breast cancer. My best friend since 7th grade, and partner in BCB, Lide Vandiver, had been after me for years to brand them, but I had a family to take care of and businesses to help my husband, Edmund run. My 2 daughters, Sally Cade and Brelyn, were in college when I was diagnosed. I got through my treatment and I had been thinking of reconstruction options. I had heard horror stories of implants, expanders and that procedure, and I didn’t think that was an option for me. I researched DIEP flap surgery and was so impressed with the procedure. I truly believe that God led me to The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. I called another surgeon and was told that they didn’t take my insurance. They directed me to the The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. I called and got Gail on the phone. This was on the day that I took my last chemo treatment. Gail talked to me for over an hour that day. It felt right and I am thrilled with my decision. As you can probably tell, I don’t let much grass grow under my feet and DIEP flap seemed to me like the best & fastest way to get through the reconstruction process and move on.

4. How did you decide upon what reconstructive option was right for you?

I was pretty excited about getting rid of my C-Section Pooch. It was just the right size to make C-cups.

5. How has your decision to undergo breast reconstruction impacted your life moving forward?

I saw the picture Dr. Craigie took of me the day I came to him… on the day I got my tattoos. That was start to finish in a flash. It was definitely a process, but one that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I can remember, 6 weeks after my DIEP flap surgery, sitting on the beach in my bathing suit and feeling comfortable and “normal”. I took out my cell phone and called The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction to leave Dr. Craigie a message of thanks. I don’t have words to describe how good that felt after living with one breast for 6 months. Now they were both gone, but they were there. How amazing! DIEP flap has allowed me to move on. I know myself, and that I would worry if I had not had both breasts removed even though the cancer was only in one. It has been a great decision… nothing to stuff in my bra, no implants to worry about, just my C-Section pooch made into breasts. Dr. Craigie is a real artist (not to mention a gifted surgeon). I am still amazed at how real they look.

6. What advice do you have for women who have a passion, and want to turn that passion into a business?

I think my advice would be to persevere. Lide and I hit obstacles almost every day, but we just have to work through them. I think maybe that fighting cancer taught me a lesson in this. Every day brought it’s obstacles,  but I had no choice but to keep moving forward.

Click here to see where you can pick up Buffa’s Cheese Biscuits near you or place your order online!

 

 

 

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A Journey of Power and Purpose

June 20, 2012 by

We are so happy to share with you another In Her Words post, this time with Blaire Holloway, a breast cancer survivor and reconstruction success story!

Blaire was a patient of ours at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction and shared her inspirational journey in last month’s issue of Lowcountry Health & Wellness Magazine and we would like to share this article with our readers!

See below for Blaire’s Story (*Don’t forget to grab a downloadable copy of Low Country Health & Wellness Magazine at their website)

Click the article below to be taken to the full online version.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you downloaded the June issue of Lowcountry Health & Wellness Magazine? If not, click here.

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One Woman’s Journey to DO Something About Her BRCA Status

May 2, 2012 by
Julie Moon
We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction are delighted to share this In her Words post featuring Julie Moon, who is a 34 year old BRCA 1 positive breast cancer previvor. Julie wants other women to be educated, which is why she began the blog  Say it Anyway, where she shares her unique story and journey.

See below for our interview with Julie.

What type of reconstruction surgery did you have and how do you feel about the results?

I had a bilateral nipple sparing mastectomy and immediate SGAP reconstruction.  I am so excited about having natural looking breasts made from my own body that will be with me for the rest of my life and never have to be replaced.   I am so grateful to have found Dr. Craigie and his staff.  I knew as soon as I met them that I was in good hands.

Breast cancer runs in your family at what point did you decide to undergo preventative breast surgery?

I found out in 2007 that I was BRCA 1 positive.  I decided then that I would go ahead and have my third child and breastfeed her as long as she needed. I participated in the Atlanta Susan G Komen 3Day For The Cure in 2011 and I was moved over that weekend to DO something about my BRCA status.  I met with Dr. Craigie in December and had my surgery Feb 1, 2012.

What advice would you give to women who have undergone a mastectomy or double mastectomy and are unsure about natural breast reconstruction?

I would recommend that women look at lots of pictures.  I would recommend that they ask specific questions to other women who have undergone the procedure.  I found so much great information from the women at the FORCE.  I would also encourage them to not be afraid to travel to another city to get the procedure that they really desire.  I have three children and a very busy entrepreneur husband.  It was A LOT of work to organize all the friends, family and babysitters needed to care for my family while I was out of town for my surgery.  It was all so very worth it.

In what ways has breast cancer both negatively and positively affected your life?

I feel very blessed to be one of the women who actually knows what cancer was coming after me and be able to eliminate that risk before it knocked on my door.  My grandmother was a breast cancer survivor.  She was not lucky enough to be able to have had natural breast reconstruction and now as a grown woman I am able to see how that must have affected her life so dramatically.  My aunt died from complications of her chemotherapy that was treating her breast cancer.  My mom was smart enough to have a bilateral and reconstruction before they found cancer but ironically she already had it growing in her breast undetected.  My BRCA status has taught me how to face something ugly in the face and not be afraid of it but battle it with the best army I could find.

Have questions for Julie? Submit them here! Be sure to check out her blog for tons of educational resources.
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How One Survivor Refuses to Let Cancer or Life Slow Her Down

March 28, 2012 by

Our team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is honored to share with you an In Her Words post written by a dear friend and breast cancer survivor, Sharon Hawkins.

You are the founder of Grace in the Wilderness: A ministry for Today’s Business Woman, tell us a little bit about your organization and what lead you to create this inspirational place for women?

Grace In The Wilderness is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is an out-reach ministry whose mission is to encourage women of all ages:

  • To look upward to God as they discover Him in a new and deeper way,
  • To look inward as they discover who they are in Christ, and
  • To look outward as they discover God’s plan for their lives.

We sponsor 5 conferences a year–Valentine’s Tea for Widows (Feb.), Women’s Conference (2 days, last weekend of Feb.), Conference for Moms of Special Needs Children (June), Teen Conf (Oct.) and a Christmas Brunch for Moms Who Have Lost Children (Dec.).

We also issue a bi-monthly Women’s Newsletter (GITW) and a quarterly newsletter for Teen Girls called “Gracie’s Way”.  We welcome our readers to also share their stories. These are free email newsletters, subscriptions at our website: www.wildernessgrace.org.

In March of 2008, my mother passed away after battles with breast cancer and colon cancer. During her 3-year illness, my plate was so full–I helped care for her through cancer and for my dad with Parkinson’s, ran a very busy business with 10 employees, all the while being a wife and a mother to a teenage son and a special needs younger son.  After Mom’s death, I was so weary and I prayed and asked God to please take something off my plate.  His answer shocked me–He called me to start a ministry for today’s busy women and He didn’t take anything away.  Later, when I was seeking answers about why He wanted me to juggle all these things, God revealed to me simply that if I was going to minister to busy women, I had to be one.  Wow, why didn’t I think of that?

What did you hope to accomplish through founding Grace in the Wilderness, what is your vision for the future?

I hope to help other busy women find the help, love, support, forgiveness and grace that I have found from my relationship with Jesus Christ.  Life is hard with God.  In my opinion, it’s impossible without Him!

Grace In The Wilderness has grown.  I added a Partner, my friend Marie Pritchett, right after starting the ministry and now there are many volunteers who make up “Team Grace”. God has given us a special focus and compassion to also reach those in the very difficult situations of life, those “impossible” situations we refer to as “wildernesses”.  Our vision for the future is to expand to reach out to other special groups, such as single moms, teen moms, abused women, and other groups who are hurting and need encouragement and support.  We hope to add a conference for cancer patients and their families as our next step.

I see you host quite a variety of events, can any women’s organization hold an event with you?

We don’t exactly hold events for other women’s organizations.  But we are always open to working in conjunction with and supporting groups who help women as long as it allows us to stay true to our mission.

What impact has Grace in the Wilderness had on your own life?

I really thought Grace In The Wilderness was about our helping others through their wildernesses. Again, what was I thinking?!?  It seems that, once again, if I’m going to minister to this group of women, those in hard places, God wants me to know what that’s like.

In June 2011, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  In July 2011, I had double mastectomies.  In August 2011, I had silicone implant surgery.  After several months of my body rejecting those implants, in November 2011, I had DIEP Flap breast reconstruction with Drs. Kline and Craigie in Mt. Pleasant, SC.  (The Drs. and Chris are the best and East Cooper is a wonderful hospital.)

Also in November of 2011 just before my third surgery, I was diagnosed with melanoma and I had to have an out-patient procedure for that.

In the midst of this six months of chaos, my employee, who was my best friend (notice I said “was”), was sent to federal prison for embezzling more than $600,000 from me and my business. What?!?  Yes, unbelievable, I know.

But what’s more unbelievable is that I sit here now 100% cancer free.  I was diagnosed with two cancers within five months and the doctors were able to remove them both completely-no chemo, no radiation.  Through my own wilderness experiences, I’ve found that God’s provisions are endless and through serving others, I’ve learned that you simply can’t outgive God.  That’s God’s amazing grace in the wilderness and that’s what our ministry is all about.

About Sharon

Sharon Hawkins wants others to know that she is totally in love with Jesus. In 2008, she answered God’s calling to begin a
Ministry called Grace in The Wilderness.. Sharon’s the wife of her best friend, Scott, and the mother of two very special boys, Taylor (16), and Bradley (10), that she and Scott adopted from Ukraine as a toddler. As a businesswoman, she owns Benefit Resources where she works with 12 amazing women who together seek to put God first in the business. She loves fun, mission trips, reading, camping and spending time with her family and friends.

 

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How One Breast Cancer Survivor Found Hope by Making Informed and Proactive Decisions

January 11, 2012 by

breast reconstructionThe team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is honored to share with you an In Her Words post written by a recent patient of ours, Linda Burkholder. She is an inspiration to all women who are facing breast cancer or who are at risk for hereditary breast cancer.

See below for Linda’s story:

Breast cancer—you can’t say I didn’t see it coming, but being the eternal optimist, I hoped I would dodge the bullet.  Several members of my family have died from breast cancer, including my grandmother, mother, aunt, and sister. After my sister died in 2006, I began to seriously consider prophylactic surgery. I quickly learned that there is little support in the medical community or among friends for this procedure.

After a benign biopsy two years ago I found F.O.R.C.E. (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) on the Internet.  F.O.R.C.E. is a support group for those with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. They posted an application for a scholarship to their annual conference. I applied and much to my surprise I was granted an expense paid trip to the conference in Orlando in 2010. I can’t tell you how that changed my life. I learned so much about everything I wanted to know about breast cancer and I met several plastic surgeons who stood out to me, especially Dr. Kline from The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. I made a mental note to keep him in mind and took home a beach towel with his phone number splashed across it.

During the next year I struggled with my decision to have prophylactic surgery. Intellectually, I knew what to do, but emotionally I was really struggling. I joined a local F.O.R.C.E. group and kept learning and thinking and meeting cancer survivors, assuming I would have surgery when I felt more comfortable with the idea. Fast forward to June 2011. It was time for my annual mammogram. I told my family doctor I also wanted an MRI, to which she reluctantly agreed. To make a long story short, the mammogram came back normal, but the MRI showed a 1.2 cm questionable spot—a spot, I was told, because of its location, would never have been seen on any mammogram. It was a Stage 1 cancer.

This was almost 2 years to the date from my previous benign lumpectomy. In July, 2011 I had a second lumpectomy performed by one of the most respected surgeons in my area. Without consulting me she automatically scheduled me for radiation. I refused the radiation because I felt that all treatment was my decision and I wanted to consult with an oncologist first. Also, I had learned at the F.O.R.C.E. convention that radiated tissue is harder to reconstruct and I already knew I ultimately wanted mastectomies with natural breast reconstruction, not implants.

When I told the surgeon I didn’t want implants, she hit the ceiling. Clearly, no one had ever before challenged her standard treatment plan. Thanks to F.O.R.C.E., I was empowered. The next convention was two weeks away and I knew this would be where I would make my final decision, and it was. I talked with EVERY plastic surgeon at the conference. I spoke with Kathy Steligo, author of The Breast Reconstruction Guidebook, for 45 minutes at the round table breakfast. I had read her book for the third time on the plane to Orlando two days before. After the conference I came back to my hometown and started chemotherapy. I also scheduled my surgery for November at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

After consulting with my oncologist, I elected to have bilateral mastectomies with autologous reconstruction. In September my husband and I made a trip to South Carolina to meet with Dr. Kline and Dr. Baron, the general surgeon. I wanted my husband to meet my doctors. I wanted to make sure I had his full support and I wanted to make sure any lingering questions by either of us were answered.

After that meeting I was sure I wanted to go forward with the DIEP procedure. I felt very confident that everything would be alright. On November 30, 2011 I had the procedure. It was an 8-hour surgery, and everything went very well. I was in East Cooper Medical Center for four days. My nurses were great, especially Angela. I thought of her as my special angel since she was able to anticipate what was needed before being asked and was especially kind. She really took good care of me.

After my discharge from the hospital my husband and I stayed in Charleston another 10 days. I got a handicapped room at a local long-stay hotel. There was a handicapped shower and a recliner in the room. I really appreciated that recliner and I slept in it most nights. It helped to keep my feet elevated.  Every day, at least one time, I took a short, slow walk up and down the hall for exercise. I saw Dr. Kline 3 times during the next 10 days and he assured me everything was fine and my breasts looked “beautiful”—although at that time I didn’t think they looked so beautiful. Now, 5 weeks later, I can see how nicely everything is shaping up and I don’t think I will require a lot of revision at the Stage 2 procedure. I am glad I chose the DIEP procedure. The recovery is long, but it is worth it.

Did I ever seriously consider implants? The answer is yes, because implants represented the path of least resistance. I could have had the surgery done locally and I wouldn’t have had the additional expense of the trip from Indiana to South Carolina. Also, I would have had my entire support system around me. In making my decision I talked to many women who had implants and it seemed to me that they either loved them or hated them. Those that loved them seemed to love them only after 2-3 additional procedures due to complications. Everyone complained about the fills being painful and some found the implants to be cold or uncomfortable. Also there was the risk of capsular contracture and the necessity of replacing the implants every 10-15 years. I also talked with many women I met through F.O.R.C.E. who had flap procedures. I saw their results and they were fabulous. Short of a few fading scars, you could not tell that their breasts were not original. All of them seemed quite pleased with their new breasts.

Yes, recovery is a bit prolonged with DIEP. You definitely need someone very devoted to you to help out those first few weeks. I needed help getting up and down, showering, dressing, and emptying my surgical drains. My husband helped me with everything, dispensed my medications and gave me a blood thinning shot daily. I could do very little without his assistance the first 10 days following surgery, and I slept much of the time. Still, I was able to get around slowly and even went out to local restaurants my two weeks in Charleston. I also had pain medication, which made life bearable.

As the weeks have progressed, I feel my strength slowly returning. I am not yet 100% but I am planning to return to my job part-time on January 9th, with hopes of returning fulltime the following week. For anyone considering a flap procedure but fearful of the recovery, I would advise them that it is doable. It’s not as bad as you think. A certain amount of fear is normal if, like me, you have never had a major surgery. But for me, everything went fine, even though I am 59 years of age, older than any one I have met who had DIEP. So, I think if I can do it, anyone can.

My only regret is that I didn’t come to my decision for prophylactic surgery before I got cancer. Time ran out to make that decision but I am thankful my cancer was found early and I am thankful for my husband of 29 years, Larry, was by my side supporting me every step of the way. I would advise anyone facing cancer to not panic, do your homework, and be very proactive in your treatment. Learn everything about breast cancer that you can so you can understand your options. Choose your doctors carefully. Get second opinions and do what YOU think is best for you. You have many options; don’t let anyone take any of them away from you. Make your own decisions.

Having cancer has changed my view of life. It seems much more precious and much more vulnerable than before. I am thankful for a second chance and thankful that I had so many options that my mother and grandmother did not have. My mother had radical mastectomies, which are very disfiguring. I am glad that I still look much like I did before. I had nipple-sparing surgery and when I look at my breasts I still see me in there. I can’t wait to see the results following my final revisions. I am very grateful for Dr. Kline, Chris Murakami, RN and Clinical Coordinator, and all the staff at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction for a very positive reconstructive experience.

About Linda Burkholder

My name is Linda Burkholder and I have lived in Kokomo, Indiana the past 22 years. I am the proud mother of two adult children, a daughter 23 years-old and a son age 21. I have been married to my husband, Larry, for 29 years. I work fulltime at Indiana University as an Administrative Secretary to the Dean of the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. I love animals and have two Pembroke Welsh Corgis and four cats. In my spare time I enjoy reading and knitting.

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