Upcoming Breast Cancer Events in Charleston

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The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is so proud to be a part of the Charleston, SC, community, which continues to support local women and breast cancer awareness with amazing events and fundraisers.

We encourage you to show your support at these upcoming events in our area for a cause that is dear to our hearts.

April 8—Pink Out Night for The Cure!

Show your support and pink out the stadium at the Family Circle Cup. This fun event raises funds for the Susan G. Komen Lowcountry organization. Wear your best pink attire, and $1 will be donated to help find a cure. Any survivor sporting their 2014 Race for the Cure t-shirt will receive a free general admission!

The gates open at 5 p.m. and play starts at 7 p.m.

For more information, visit the website.

April 11-12—Women living with metastatic breast cancer

Living Beyond Cancer is hosting their annual conference for women living with metastatic breast cancer. This 2-day event provides support, resources, and information to help those with stage IV breast cancer.

The doctors, researchers, nurses, and mental health providers all provide the most cutting-edge information. This is a great opportunity to meet others and be in the company of those who truly understand the struggles of living with metastatic breast cancer.

For more information, visit the website.

May 23—Rock Pink 5k 

This evening race is TONS of fun! From the pink glow necklaces, to the 80s rock band and outfits, to the body paint—this is the place to be! This 5k run/walk embodies the spirit of the cause.  All proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen Lowcountry organization.

For registration information, visit the website. 

Please share this information with your friends on social media!

The Charleston Cinderella Project

girl in her purple prom dressThe Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction wants to share some information about one of our favorite events of the year, The Charleston Cinderella Project. The organization collects formal dresses, gowns, purses, jewelry, shawls, shoes, and accessories, and provide those items to financially challenged high school ladies free of cost.

This year’s event will be hosted at John Wesley United Methodist Church March 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations are still being accepted, at the locations on their website,

through March 11.  If you’re interested in helping to set up March 13, please sign up online. We appreciate everyone’s support to help these young women look gorgeous for their big day!

Alissa Collins Lietzow, Project Chair for the Charleston Cinderella Project, tells us what this event means to her: 

Tell us how you became involved with The Cinderella Project?

I became involved back in 2004, when I was a Freshman at College of Charleston. I was volunteering at St. Matthew’s after school program when I started to see dresses being donated in the early months. After learning more about the Cinderella Project, I jumped in! I started chairing the project the next year.

How many young ladies attend the event each year? 

The project has really grown since its inception. The first year I volunteered, we maybe had 20/25 girls come and about 100 dresses. Over the last several years, we’ve really grown the event, adding in accessories, dressing rooms, and fabulous door prizes to make the entire experience feel like a day of shopping. We’re hoping for several hundred girls to attend March 14.

racks of the prom dresses

What is the one “made my day” moment that you have experienced while working on this project?

I have several of those “made my day” moments throughout the years. The hugs from moms and grandmamas that come shopping with the girls are always heartwarming. Some of the e-mails asking for assistance are quite touching. I also remember a young lady who reached out and wanted to donate her dress back to the event because she had such a wonderful time, she wanted to give another young lady that same opportunity.  The project takes months of planning, but it’s always worth it.

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How can people contact you if they want to help or donate?

For more information, e-mail  CinderellaProjectCharleston@gmail.com, visit their website www.cinderellaprojectcharleston.com, or find them on social media

October 15: BRA Day USA

BRA day usa ribbon

BRA DAY USA
Closing the Loop on Breast Cancer

It’s a fact: many women eligible for breast reconstruction following cancer surgery are not being properly informed of their options.

The Breast Reconstruction Awareness Campaign–a collaborative effort between the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Plastic Surgery Foundation, plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction, nurse navigators, corporate partners, and breast cancer support groups–hopes to change this.

Statistics show:

  • Eighty-nine percent of women want to see successful breast reconstruction surgery results before undergoing cancer treatment.
  • Less than a quarter (23 percent) of women know the wide range of breast reconstruction options available.
  • Only 22 percent of women are familiar with the quality of outcomes that can be expected.
  • Only 19 percent of women understand that the timing of their treatment for breast cancer and the timing of their decision to undergo reconstruction greatly impacts their options and results.

 

Breast cancer does not discriminate, and while every journey is unique, all breast cancer patients have the right to know their reconstruction options. Click here to meet our team and learn more about our practice, success stories, and natural reconstruction surgery.

Events to Raise Awareness

Whew!  Breast Cancer Awareness month is off to a running start here in Charleston!  Just a few events we’re going to mention where we’ve lent our support – there are so many that I hope you can find your way to one of them to show your support of our sisters (and brothers) who have been affected by breast cancer.

 

warriors pink approved-signed

 

 

 

Tonight! October 8, 2014 – 2nd Annual Warriors Wear Pink Event at ALOFT Charleston Hotel & Convention Center from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.   Click the event flyer thumbnail for more details.

 

October 15, 2014BRA Day USA!!  Learn more……

October 18, 2014 Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure –  Family Circle Cup Stadium – Daniel Island, S.C.

Shana Brown Event Flyer

October 19, 2014A Tickled Pink Reception:  T-shirts & Stillettos –  Presented by the Folly Road Church of Christ.  3:30 p.m.  Experience a fun filled afternoon celebrating breast cancer survivors.  Click the event flyer for more details.

 

 

 

Columbia Friends – SC FORCE Support Group GatheringOctober 26, 2014, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Richland country Main Library – Irwin Kahn Conference Room – 1431 Assembly Street – Columbia, S.C. 29201.   Do you have a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer?  Have you tested positive for a BRCA mutation or are you considering genetic testing?  You are not alone and we invite you to join us to find out more.  http://www.facingourrisk.org/get-support/local-groups/south-carolina.php

Worship in Pink – Worship in Pink is a breast health education initiative for the Affiliate’s faith-based communities in an effort to reduce disparities seen in African-American, Hispanic and rural communities.  The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is thrilled to be the Promise Partner for the Komen Lowcountry initiative again this year.   Find out more….

What events do you plan to attend?  We’d love to feature them on our next “Upcoming Events” or “All Things Charleston”  post.

Join Us for BRA Day USA

bra dayCome celebrate our first BRA Day USA on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 aboard the dockside Carolina Belle on 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC ! We’re happy to promote Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day, or BRA Day, which is an initiative designed to increase education, awareness, and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction.

Created to inform women of their choices and options for breast reconstruction, the campaign also strives to make reconstructive education and services available to all women, regardless of age, financial status, or race. Studies show that 7 out of 10 women are never informed about post-mastectomy reconstructive surgery, and the statistics are even lower for minorities. However, with BRA Day events appearing all over the world, hopefully those numbers will soon be a thing of the past.

Though BRA Day initially launched in Canada, it quickly became an international campaign and grassroots collaboration between plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery, nurse navigators, medical device industry representatives, breast cancer patients and families, and breast cancer support groups. Together, these participants coordinate BRA Day events that include question and answer sessions, lectures, flash mobs, fundraising parties, advertising campaigns, and community events.

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction team couldn’t be prouder to host our own BRA Day event for the first time this year, or to raise awareness of a cause we so firmly believe in. Help spread the word about reconstruction options, and join us for a little retail therapy, some great food, and outstanding prizes. Admission is free but limited to the venue capacity of 250.

To secure your spot, be sure to RSVP to info@naturalbreastreconstruction.com. We’ll see you on the Carolina Belle Wednesday, October 17th!

Shop Local and Support Breast Reconstruction Awareness!

As you might already know, the month of October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! And our team couldn’t be prouder to reside in Charleston, where compassion and community-support is never in short supply.

All over our historic city, local businesses have donated raffle items for BRADayUSA, an event happening  designed to promote education, awareness, and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. The proceeds from the event will go to the East Cooper Hospital Volunteers to assemble post-op care bags for all breast reconstruction patients upon discharge from East Cooper Medical Center.

Check out these local shops, boutiques, and businesses next time you go out for a little retail therapy! Shopping locally supports your community’s economy, and when you patronize these businesses, you join their charitable efforts in the fight against breast cancer.

So grab your purse, and hit the town! Here is your guide to good karma and great local shopping by the location:

Downtown

LulaKate

Stella Nova

Finicky Filly

One Respe’ Wellness Center

 

West Ashley

Charleston Collections Gifts

Party&Paint Charleston

Paul Baron MD/Cancer Specialists of Charleston

Cynthia Sunde & Robin Hoffman – Premier Designs Jewelry – Independent Distributors

Summerville

Radberry Nails

Mount Pleasant

East Cooper Medical Center

Lowcountry OB/GYN – &  Lisa Henderson, Laser Technician

Chantilly Lingerie

 

Daniel Island

Paisley

 

James Island

Beba Luxe

 

Other:

The Little Black Book for Every Busy Woman

Yes Ma’am Tee

 

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is overwhelmed with gratitude for these sponsors and their commitment to making a difference in our community! For info on BRAdayUSA events happening across the country check out www.BRAdayUSA.org

To learn more about our BRADayUSA on Wednesday, October 17, 2012, visit our Facebook Event page here. Be sure to join us aboard the Carolina Belle to celebrate the event with delicious food and outstanding prizes! Just RSVP to info@naturalbreastreconstruction.com.

 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Where Will We Be?

Join The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction throughout the month of October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Our team will be attending all the collaborative events around Charleston that promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and promote treatment and reconstructive services.

Although many incredible strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. Become part of the national dialogue on breast cancer, and help women around the world get informed about breast health when you join us for these special events:

  • BRA Day USA: Come celebrate our first BRA Day USA on Wednesday, October 17, 2012 aboard the dockside Carolina Belle on 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC. BRA Day is an initiative designed to promote education, awareness, and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. BRA Day USA is a collaborative effort between The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery, nurse navigators, medical device industry representatives, breast cancer patients and families, and breast cancer support groups. Join us for a little retail therapy, some great food, and outstanding prizes. Admission is free but limited to the venue capacity of 250. To secure your spot, be sure to RSVP to info@naturalbreastreconstruction.com.
  • Komen Race: The largest sequence of 5K run / walks in the world, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®.  Series benefits education, research, and treatment programs for breast cancer. Three-fourths of the money raised by the Lowcountry Affiliate is invested into local projects, while the remainder supports national research programs. The 2012 Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure® takes place Saturday, October 20, 2012 at the Family Circle Tennis Center in Daniels Island, SC. Enjoy the option of running or walking—by yourself or with a team—or you can sleep in for the Cure. Registration fees are $25 for individuals, $20 for team members, and $35 for sleepers. The registration fee includes the official Komen Race for the Cure® t-shirt and bib. If you’re a breast cancer survivor, let the organizers know, and you’ll receive a pink survivors t-shirt, hat, and bib! Check out www.KomenLowcountry.org to register and be part of an extraordinary cause!
  • Annual FORCE Conference: From October 18–20, 2012, we’ll be in Orlando, Florida for FORCE’s Against Hereditary Cancer Conference, a forum on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Join us as well as cancer survivors, high-risk individuals, those with a BRCA gene mutation or family history of cancer, and health care providers who treat high-risk patients. The conference will feature keynote speakers, exhibits, receptions, support groups, health and well-being assessments, and even a pool party! Come join the fun and learn more here: http://www.facingourrisk.org/events/annual_conference/index.php.

Which of these events will you attend this month? Let us know in the comments section and we’ll see you there!

Post Op Pearls Webinar: Share and Tell

Post Op Pearls panel members: Debbie, Chris, Kim Gail and Shirley

We couldn’t be more thrilled with the success of our second webinar titled,  Post-Op Pearls: Recovery, Healing, and Healthful Insights from Past Patients and Specialistswhich happened on Thursday, August 28th. During the hour long webinar our panel, which included both past patients and specialists, shared information, personal tips and stories, and answered questions about breast reconstruction surgery. We’ve received an overwhelming amount of emails from women sharing their thoughts and feelings about this event and we’ve shared them with you below.

” The preparation and recovery tips were most helpful to me at this time since I am having surgery this November. I receive lots of information on reconstruction online, from you, FORCE, Johns Hopkins, and family members doing research or going through diagnoses/treatment.The only thing I do not have my head wrapped around yet is the multiple steps to completion.  I am only allowing myself to deal with step one right now.  I will figure the rest (nipple/no nipples, touch up procedures, etc) out later.

 THANK YOU ALL!”

” Just wanted to say how much my husband and I enjoyed the last webinar.  I liked hearing other patients comments on their recovery, it helps you know that your recovery is normal.  Thanks to all of you for all you do for us, the patients and our family. You make something that started out “bad” turn into a very pleasant experience.  I know that people here in Lexington get tired of hearing me talk about ya’ll but they have also been passing on my experience to their friends and have been recommending ya’ll to anyone they know that can benefit from the God given talent the Dr. Kline and Dr. Craigie share with their patients.

 Thanks again for everything “

” The topics that interest me the most are about the options available to those who do not have the option for DIEP reconstruction.  What are the remaining options, how many stages will it take to get to a finished “product”; what complications might happen; recovery assistance, return to work timeline, and so on. Initially, I got my reconstruction information from my breast cancer surgeon and then local plastic surgeons.  When I researched those options on the Internet I found there were more options available than what was locally available.  In my area, there are no plastic surgeons as well trained and as skilled as Dr. Kline and Dr. Craigie.  I have found the information provided by everyone at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction to be outstanding. The doctors and all of the staff are so willing to provide all the pros and cons of procedures and situations. They make recommendations that may or may not fit one’s situation but that information can be reviewed and let the individual make their own informed choice.  For me they have been the “light at the end of the tunnel. “

 I think the webinars are very helpful.  I only wish the person talking could be seen “live”.  The PowerPoint is helpful but would be so much more enhanced if one could see the actual speaker. I would like to learn more about the what is too much to expect from reconstruction surgery.  I was not eligible for a DIEP and had a I-GAP at one hospital and an S-GAP with Dr. Kline.  The S-GAP went so much better.  Now he is cleaning up all the mess from the I-GAP.  What type of breast volume, project, and shape is realistic under such circumstances?  I know each is unique to the individual, I’m throwing out this as a question on general terms. After bad experiences, I trolled the Internet to find doctors that could perform the type of reconstruction I wanted and needed.  I only found a couple of groups that fit my criteria. The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction fit my criteria.  What questions should a breast cancer patient list/ask and have answered when seeking someone to provide the most options for reconstruction? I love all of you.  

You are the best!!!  So is East Cooper Hospital!!!! “

Through webinars we are able to continue our mission to help hundreds of women understand their breast reconstruction options and make informed choices about the option that fits in their lives. Whether you joined us live, listened to the replay, or regrettably missed out, we encourage you to share feedback and let us know what aspects of breast reconstruction you want to know about so we can serve you better. We’re sure to be hosting another webinar in the near future so stay tuned, you don’t want to miss out!

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below or send our team an email today!

 

 

2013 Breast Cancer Wellness Thrivers Cruise

The team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is a huge fan of the seasonally published, Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine. In the current issue, the 2012 Thrivers Cruise is highlighted and with the Carnival Fantasy cruise ship now calling Charleston home, you bet cruising is becoming part of our culture here in the Lowcountry. Founded in 2007, the annual BCW Thrivers Cruise gathers women together to offer and foster encouragement, inspiration and fellowship.

Check out some of the fun below from the 2012 Thrivers Cruise. Click here to view the full magazine online.

Want to take part in the next Thrivers Cruise? You have two opportunities to join in on the fun in 2013!

7th Annual Thrivers Cruise

April 21-28, 2013 — “Destination – A New You” Caribbean 

Sailing out of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on the Princess Ruby™ to St Maarten, St Thomas, Princess Cays, Grand Turk

Workshops include:
•    Makeover Fashion Show
•    Breast Cancer Thriver Panel Discussions
•    Financial Empowerment after Breast Cancer
•    Beauty and Fashion on a Budget
•    The Thriving Caregiver™
•    Fun, Friends, Family, Food, Fellowship, Adventure

July 12-19, 2013 — “Exploration – Within” Alaska

Sailing from Seattle on the Celebrity Solstice to Alaska’s Inside Passage. (Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, British Columbia)

*For full details on the 2013 Thriver’s Cruise visit: www.Thriverscruise.com

Cruising from Charleston: Another perk the Lowcountry has to offer.

Did you know that the Carnival Fantasy is home-based in Charleston, SC and cruises year round to the Bahamas and the eastern Caribbean? Passengers depart from the Charleston cruise terminal in the heart of downtown Charleston and  can choose from a 5-night cruise to the Bahamas or  7-day eastern Caribbean cruise. Features and amenities aboard the ship include the  Serenity adults-only retreat, resort-style pool, Waterworks aquapark, Spa Carnival, and Camp Carnival for the kids. Visit Carnival’s website today to book your next cruise and set sail from historic Charleston.

Make sure to download your very own online copy of Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine today. 

 

 

Upcoming Webinar: Post-Op Pearls: Recovery, Healing, and Healthful Insights from Past Patients and Specialists

We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction are excited to announce our upcoming webinar, Post-Op Pearls: Recovery, Healing, and Healthful Insights from Past Patients and Specialists, happening Tuesday, August 28, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern / 4:00 p.m. Pacific.

We’ve created this event for anyone seeking answers, comfort, and information at any stage of the journey through breast cancer. The no-cost webinar features a panel of our past patients, nurses, and practitioners from The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction who will share their stories and valuable counsel on what to expect during recovery.

With the belief that every woman deserves to feel natural, healthy, and beautiful after her mastectomy, we offer this panel to help other women make an informed and confident decision when it comes to their treatment and breast reconstruction options.

During the hour-long event, the panel will explore…

  • Each woman’s journey, including her diagnosis, surgery, post-op recuperation, and a reflection on how her life has been affected by her treatments.
  • Advice for newly diagnosed women, from post-op clothing to the recovery process.
  • How to discuss your options and decisions with family and friends.
  • The secret to self-confidence post-diagnosis.
  • Any questions you have during our live Q & A session.

We’ll also open the phone lines for a live Q & A session with the panel so attendees can get answers to all their questions about treatment options, recovery, and natural breast reconstruction.

To join us for the webinar, register here.

Meet Our Panel:

Shirley Trainor-Thomas 

Her story: A senior vice-president at GuideStar Clinical Trials management, Shirley, was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2010 when she was 49 years old. After exploring all possible treatment options, she chose to have a double mastectomy and reconstruction in the same surgery with The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. Though the cancer was found in her left breast, the pathology showed overactive cells in both. Having been treated for Hodgkin’s lymphoma with radiation to her chest as a teenager, susceptibility motivated her preventative decision.
Debbie Roland 

Her story: At 58 years old, Debbie Roland is a mother of three, a grandmother with six grandchildren, and the director of the Calhoun County Museum and Cultural Center since 1983. Before she knew about The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, a cancer diagnosis led to the removal of her right breast only—even though she wanted both removed, she was discouraged against it. A miserable recovery slowly ensued. After years of feeling off-balance, she met Dr. Kline at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, and after her surgery in January 2012, life has never been happier.

Chris Murakami, RN, CNOR
 

and

Kimberly Kay, PA-C

Chris’ story: In addition to being a mother of three, Chris also has almost twenty years of nursing experience, mostly in the hospital setting. Her patients at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction are the most rewarding part of her job.
Kimberly’s story: A native of the Charleston area, Kimberly is a mother who graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina PA program. Having worked in family practice, OB/GYN, and urgent care, she is well suited to the special patients she meets at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. She’s found a true calling here where she can pursue her primary interest: women’s health.

 

Note: if you are busy on August 28, register today, and we’ll send you a link to the replay, which you can watch at your convenience.