Congratulations to the Class of 2016!!

Grad cap red

I’ve been in a bit of a stupor the past few weeks as my youngest is getting ready to graduate from high school and preparing to leave home for college in the fall.  It alternates between rambling on and on about scholarships, financial aid, school choices, to just standing, staring off into space not able to speak because it’s a bit surreal that my baby girl is ready to make her place in the world.  Not to mention, the constant feeling of being on the edge of a very long, very ugly cry.

Given that my current situation is what’s weighing on my mind right now it seemed natural to ask graduates what they want their parent to know and how that might differ from what the parents want their student to know.   I posed this question to a group of college bound seniors who will graduate June 1, 2016.  Some answers were funny, some sweet and reassuring but all in all do address some of our concerns as parents.

What is the one thing that you would like to tell your parent to help ease their mind and assure them that you are prepared and ready to go to college? 

– Parker also assures his parents that “I’m not going to spend all my study hours playing video games! I promise!  God!”

-Terry knows that “Uber saves lives.”  Smart boy!

-J.J. says beer tastes gross and Parker adds that it goes through your system too quickly.

-Alexandria appreciates learning some basic life skills!  “Thanks for teaching me how to do laundry!”

-Zachary tells us that his parent already knows his future college roommate.  We’re assuming that is a positive statement.  

-Simply stated Eli says “I got this!”

-Anizia thanks her parent for helping her become a mature, independent adult capable of taking care of herself.

-Ashton acknowledges the hard work it takes to be a parent. “I appreciate all the hard work and endless nights towards making me become the successful young lady I am today and I will not underestimate my gift and knowledge to surpass all obstacles.

-Bailey affirms that her parents have taught her well and helped her make good decisions and now she knows how to make good decisions on her own.

-Jonathan shares this “It’s time to for me to grow up in a new and unknown world. You have prepared me for this since I was being held in your arms. But it’s now time to find who I truly am. I will make mistakes, I guarantee it. But it’s you who has taught me to learn from every experience. So thank you.”

-Maddie adds with a smile emoticon that she is ready for this time in her life and reminds her parents that she will always be their little girl.

There are conversations that we parents all want to have with our graduates but somehow don’t seem to be able to do so without coming off as overbearing, nagging, or simply more involved than we are desired to be at this point in our students lives.  So, graduating seniors, bear with your parents as we try to make sure we have taught you and told you everything that we feel like you need to know in the next few months before you leave home.

Your well-being and success in college is our only concern.  We just need to know that you are going to be okay.   We need to know that we did a good job raising you and that you are able to make good, intelligent, and safe choices.   We need to know that you understand that you are going to college for a purpose, not just a party.  Have fun but be smart and keep your studies your number one priority.  We need to know that you feel equipped to handle most of the things we have always done for you – kept your schedule posted on the fridge, given reminders of your commitments, emphasized the importance of your schoolwork, handled your finances, filled out your forms, washed your laundry.    We don’t want you to be scared of new experiences.  We want you to make lifelong friends and we want to be confident in your ability to do so.

Ultimately, we hope you come out of your college experience a happy, productive adult ready to embark on a career that is meaningful to you and allows you to support yourself in the manner that you desire.   That is all. – Gail

 

In Her Own Words: Patti Ehrlickman

Screen Shot 2015-12-01 at 9.33.19 AM

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction team is passionate about sharing stories of amazing people who devote themselves to the breast cancer cause.

Patti Ehrlickman, a nurse who saw the daily struggle breast cancer patients, had the idea to invent a device to make the quality of life after undergoing a mastectomy just a little bit easier.

The apron-like garment, Poucharoo, holds the multiple post-mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgical drains in place to eliminate the inconvenience of dangling drains and reduce the risk of injury.

Patti’s goal is to make the difficult recovery after break surgery more manageable and comfortable.

To see the impact she’s made on the recovery process for many patients, watch this video.

Poucharoo is a medical support device that is comprised of two pockets and three detachable belts. It comes with a Poucharoo tote bag, and is made of washable poly-cotton that is soft and breathable. This device is worn around the waist and supports 1-4 drains—without the use of safety pins.

Screen Shot 2015-12-01 at 9.34.04 AM

Not only does a portion of the profits go to FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), Patti also takes the time to send a personal email to each woman.

We’re proud to share her story, her product, and her passion for helping women with breast cancer. 

For more information about Poucharoo, visit the website.

In Her Words- I am back to “me”

image-for-thank-you-and-tes

At the time I came to your office, I was unsure that I would ever feel normal again.  I had undergone a bilateral mastectomy in 2013 and had expanders put in at the same time to plan for my implants.  After waiting for about a year and a half, the surgery for the implants was performed.  Within three months, one of my breast implants had to be removed since the skin would not hold due to the radiation I had received.  My plastic surgeon told me it was possible that I might have to live with only one breast.  He told me I was not handling things right and sent me for counseling.  My counselor said my feelings were normal.

I decided to do some research and found you on the internet.  I liked the fact that in your website you said you used my own tissue and muscle.  I think what was most important was that your website said that you understood and saw my situation as a unique individual.  You actually cared about my feelings and that was something I did not feel my plastic surgeon cared about.  

You accepted my insurance and an appointment was set.  From our first meeting I felt very comfortable with you and your staff.  I felt I had been guided to your hands. 

Now after two surgeries I am back to “me”.  I have my body and my life back thanks to Dr. Craigie and The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.  If I had known about you and your procedure in the first place I would have been there sooner and saved myself several surgeries and disappointments.  My husband and I would both like to thank you so much for being there for me.  

D.S. – Myrtle Beach, S.C.

In Her Words: Deidre Dixon

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is so proud to publish this moving essay from Deidre Dixon, survivor and a source of inspiration. Thank you Deidre for sharing your story with the world.

Today is the 1-year anniversary of the first in a series of 4 surgeries I underwent last year to reduce my risk of breast cancer and to be reconstructed using my own tissue. The (most likely) final surgery was December 6, although nothing compared to the initial one, which involved arterial grafting, lasted 12 1/2 hours and included a visit to ICU.

Now, one year out, with a risk level at 3% rather than 62, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible year that has just ended. When people spoke at Thanksgiving of the many things for which they were thankful, I realized there were many little things I previously took for granted which I had never considered as being worth the slightest attention. That has all changed.

I will never think of those think of these most basic things as being less than a blessing. And I feel that I should, in celebration of having reached this point, mention a few.
I am thankful for being able to:

1. Pull open a door on my own
2. Take a bath
3. Take a walk
4. Raise my arms above 45 degrees
5. Reach up or bend down to get something off the floor
6. Drive a car
7. Use my hands to support my weight
8. Do anything without being absolutely exhausted
9. Zip my own zipper when it is in the back, or
10. Pull anything over my head or spend an inordinate amount of time selecting my clothes based on whether I can actually put them on by myself

I hope I never forget what a gift that even the most basic things can be, when you suddenly are without them. And I hope I never forget what a blessing my friends are and have been throughout this experience.

You’re Not Alone: The Best of “In Her Words”

As we enter October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s more important than ever to make sure the message is clear: You are not alone.

Every day, walking among us, are women who just received their diagnosis, who just underwent their first biopsy or their first radiation treatment, who just met with a doctor they will see for many years as they fight for their lives, who just scheduled their first surgery or their reconstruction.

There is a saying, “A woman is like a tea bag…you never know how strong she is until she’s in hot water.”

That’s why we are so proud to present this archive of In Her Words guest blogs.

These women have gone through tremendous challenges to overcome cancer or stand up for those who are breast cancer survivors or current patients. We hope these stories give you comfort, inspire you, and show you that you are not alone. Feel free to share these with the loved ones in your life, too, and don’t hesitate to contact our Center if you are seeking breast reconstruction information or options.

From Our “In Her Words” Archive:

With love and support,

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

 

Gift of the Present: An Interview with Heidi Sermersheim

Heidi Sermersheim

Heidi Sermersheim is an absolute inspiration to our team at the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. Dr. James Craigie wrote a recommendation letter on behalf of Heidi for her Cancer for College scholarship application, and Heidi was selected as the recipient! She received funds to continue her education, and we are so proud of her! Take a few moments to read her inspiring interview, and feel free to share this story with the loved ones in your life.

Congrats on your recent scholarship! Tell us a little about your award and what it means to you personally.

Thank you!

In April  I received a generous regional ‘Carolina’ scholarship of a one-time $1000 donation through Cancer For College for the 2013-2014 academic year.  I am significantly humbled to receive this honorable scholarship award, and deeply appreciative for the financial support.  I plan to use this scholarship to help cover the additional expenses beyond the initial tuition costs, while continuing my education in Human Services at Southern Wesleyan University. Without the generosity of scholarship patrons like this, there would be many students, much like myself, struggling to meet various educational expenses. 

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

There were five children in our family, four girls and a boy. By birth order, Gail was second to the oldest and I was the youngest. Despite the age difference of 14 years, we were connected genetically, shared a spiritual bond, and had become the best of friends.

In 2004 Gail was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time, she was forty-eight years old. Gail was a nurse, so she began to strongly encourage the women in her life to obtain a mammogram. Her persistent encouragement inspired me, and I, reluctantly, scheduled my first and consequently the last mammogram of my life. Two weeks later the results of my mammogram revealed suspicious spots in need of biopsy. Within three months further tests had revealed that I too, had the most aggressive form of what is classified as ‘triple negative’ (high grade – ER/PR-negative, HER2Neu negative) infiltrating ductile carcinoma breast cancer.

I found myself following behind my sister, stepping carefully in her footprints, mapping out my own cancer treatment and surgery. Soon, Gail and I were side-by-side in our journey, as our bi-weekly chemotherapy appointments were only offset by one week of each other. After six months of treatment, we were blessed to have 2 years of remission.

Unfortunately, her cancer returned with a vengeance in 2006 and sadly, Gail passed away. Gail’s compassion for life, desire to mentor, and willingness to share her experiences provided me with a heightened appreciation for the “gift of the present.”

Did you have breast reconstruction surgery? If so, what type of breast reconstruction did you have? Would you recommend it to other women who might be contemplating natural breast reconstruction?

Yes, after my diagnosis and meeting with multiple physicians, oncologist and plastic surgeons along with a significant amount of research; I chose to have bi-lateral skin-sparing mastectomies, with immediate DIEP reconstruction. I was blessed to discover Dr. Craigie and Dr. Kline of the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. Their office staff graciously coordinated the details of my surgery. The overall attention to detail, kindness and care which I received from Dr. Craigie and his professional staff was absolutely priceless. I simply cannot express the impact this has made on my life, during treatment and my recovery. Not only would I recommend this procedure to other women, I have recommended it and will continue to do so.

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

First and foremost, aggressive breast cancer among young women is on the rise in America. One of the best ways for detection of breast cancer is through a mammogram, in my case, my first and last mammogram saved my life!

Upon receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, become your own best advocate by asking questions (remember there are no ‘dumb’ questions) and seeking out answers. Knowing all the surgical and reconstruction options is very important in making an informed decision.

I must add that, during this journey, I became significantly aware of the importance in human compassion during cancer diagnosis and treatment. When diagnosed with breast cancer, women often experience a feeling of their womanliness being robbed by breast cancer surgery and treatment. Flap reconstruction procedures are better than former surgical reconstruction options. However, in my opinion DIEP is the gold standard of reconstruction because it provides the least problems, offers a faster return to normal activities, and has a better long term surgical outcome than most other reconstruction options available.

 

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

Surviving the diagnosis of breast cancer has helped to clarify my personal worldview and pinpoint my calling in life to serve others. In doing so, I am currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree human services program, with aspirations to complete a graduate degree in social work, counselor education or youth development leadership. I plan to combine my degree with my life experience, in order to advocate, mentor, and assist people by teaching and helping with navigating higher education and oncology healthcare systems. By obtaining a bachelor’s degree in higher learning, I believe that my life will be enriched and I will be better prepared to fulfill this mission.

The journey of life and learning continue to propel us forward and provides opportunities to examine our mirrors of reflection introspectively and reflectively. All-the-while, our heart’s motive is revealed to us and becomes better illuminated and more transparent with time. I am forever grateful to live on my sister’s coattail, because my cancer diagnosis helped me blaze my life’s pathway. It is through her death and my battle with breast cancer that I have grown into a better person with an intimate knowledge of God’s grace, love and mercy. Overall, the ‘gift’ of breast cancer has bestowed upon me a ‘bucket list’ of goals, higher aspirations, and provided multiple opportunities to give back. Indeed, I am blessed.

For more information about me, please feel free to explore my website: www.heidiwalkersermersheim.webnode.com

 

How One Woman Took Action Against Breast Cancer

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?

 

Perseverance: The Valuable Lesson Breast Cancer Taught One Survivor

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!

 

 

 

A Journey of Power and Purpose

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.

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

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.