TUESDAY TIPS - My Pink Planner

We all know what a life-changing thing a cancer diagnosis is. You hear the words "You've got cancer", and all kinds of questions start popping into your head: how will I get to my doctor appointments? How will I be able to take care of my kids? If I'm sick, who will make dinner?

I just stumbled across this incredible website that can help you with your cancer journey...MY PINK PLANNER


This website was created by a breast cancer survivor, Dolores Kitchin, in order to help her with her busy life during breast cancer. There are 3 things that My Pink Planner offers:

1. A planning calendar - click on a date on your personal calendar and add items: need help with dinner, Johnny needs a ride to school, Laundry needs to be done, need a ride to chemo appointment, etc.

2. Click to "Invite" friends and family to see your planner. That way, they can see what you need help with, and volunteer!

3. Your own personal blog - keep people up to date on your cancer journey.

What a GREAT website!!! I wish I had found this during my own cancer journey. Hope this will help someone out there. ;-)

Oh, and I forgot to tell you the best part - IT'S FREE!

TUESDAY TIPS - Skin Deept Cosmetics Database

I've got an interesting website for you to look up today...

www.ewg.org/skindeep/

Skin Deep contains information and online safety assessments for more than 65,000 products that we use on our skin. The products reviewed include sunscreens, tanning oils, all kinds of makeup, acne products, moisturizers, cleansers, soaps, anti-perspirants/deodorants, skin care treatments, hair products, eye drops, nail care products, fragrances, baby products, oral care, and MUCH MORE!

They use a rating system that is easy to understand, and you can also read everything about the rating of each product. That helps you to understand why it's a good or a bad product for your body.

You can also read several different articles about the safety of skin products.

An example of a question/answer from the website:

Are ingredients in personal care products harmful?

It depends. Some companies use ingredients that may cause cancer or that are associated with developmental problems. Many cosmetics ingredients penetrate the skin. People ingest those used on lips and hands and inhale sprays and powders. When risky and unstudied chemicals are used in cosmetics, the stakes are high.

I encourage you to check out the products you and your family are using right now. We definitely don't want to use any products that are harmful or can contribute to cancer.

One of the products that I'm interested in is "Naturally Fresh Deodorant".

I received a sample of the roll-on, and wondered if this is a good product. It makes the following claims: hypoallergenic, non-staining, Phthalate free, Paraben & PG free, No harmful aluminums, up to 24 hour protection. From the back of their brochure: "This deodorant is made of mineral salts, which are pure and natural, fragrance free, natural deodorants which kill odor-causing bacteria while permitting the pores to excrete toxins naturally. This is vital to maintain healthy, axillary lymph nodes located in the underarm area."

I went to the Skin Deep website to check this deodorant out. It has a rating of 0 - which means that it's a very low health concern. The ingredients that are listed are: Purified Water, Natural Mineral Salts, Xanthan Gum, Phytosphingosine, and Chamomile Extract.

I've used the same deodorant for YEARS - I love it. It's Secret Solid, Powder fresh fragrance. I just checked out the rating for it - it's rated as a 4 - a moderate health risk. After reading through the information, I've learned that many of the ingredients in this deodorant have organ system toxicity. The most surprising thing that I learned, though, is that the fragrance is a very high hazard - an 8! I'm sad about this, because I love this deodorant, but perhaps it's time to see what else is out there - and start using something that won't hurt me. I haven't tried the Naturally Fresh deodorant yet, but I plan to.

TUESDAY TIDINGS - A Basic Cancer Information Website...

I found a website today that has some very good basic information on Breast Cancer.
This website is Michigan State University's Breast Cancer Information.


Some of the topics covered are:

General: Cancer Facts, Ductal In Situ, Invasive

Diagnosis: Mammogram, Biopsy, Axillary Node Dissection

Treatment: Lumpectomy, Radiation Therapy, Mastectomy, Chemotherapy, Hormone, Bone Marrow Transplant

Recovery: Physical Recovery, Family Adjustment, Emotional Recovery, Long-term Follow-up

Each of these areas are discussed in depth, but the explanations are easy to understand, and very basic. I like that they also include personal experiences from breast cancer patients.

If you have any questions, or are confused or concerned about any part of your cancer diagnosis or treatment, this seems to be a good source of information. It was written in 1999, so some of the information might need to be updated. Of course, the best source of information is your own doctor - please make sure to ask him/her any questions you have during your cancer journey.

-Kara

TUESDAY TIPS - The Perfect Bra

Since my reconstruction, I've had a difficult time finding a bra that will fit my new shape. It's become a very frustrating problem. I don't really need the support of a bra now, but I do need something to cover up the reconstructed nipples, and also to even out the shape of my breasts, since there are some fairly deep scars that cause an uneven look.

I've tried everything I can get my hands on, and nothing works. The problem? My reconstructed breasts are flat and round - there is no cone shape, like a natural breast. So, I can't fill out the cone shape of a bra. If I wear a regular bra, there is wrinkling all across the front from the extra material. If I wear a bra that is padded and stiffer, the bra moves, but my breasts don't - which causes quite a problem if I turn around and look behind me! Plus, bras are just plain uncomfortable - I didn't wear one for a whole year while my expansion and reconstruction were done. I didn't really have to wear one until my nipple reconstruction. I'm just not comfortable with the "no bra" look.

I'm talking to you about my boobs for a good reason - I HAVE FOUND THE BRA!!!!

Someone told me about a bra that was super comfortable, that had no underwire, and that provided support (which I don't need). But they also told me that it looked like it might fit my new shape.

I was so excited, I googled it, and found the Genie Bra. I took advantage of their special offer - buy 3 and get 3 free - and I ordered them. I've now been wearing the Genie Bra for about 2 weeks, and I can say - IT FITS! I LOVE IT! I'm amazed at the shape, the wide straps, the wide ribbed band that goes around my chest, and the comfort. I hardly know it's there. There is a 60 day, money back guarantee, too.

There is one thing I don't like, and two things I wish were different:

1. I don't like the fact that the ribbed band that goes around my chest rolls. I drives me crazy sometimes. I'm thinking, though, that it's because my stomach isn't flat. If it was, the fabric wouldn't roll. I wish they could find a way to change that.

2. I wish that the bra wasn't a pull-over. I wish it had either a front closure or a back closure. It's kind of uncomfortable to try to pull the bra over your head - especially if your range of motion has been affected by surgery, or Lymphadema. Once it's on, it's fine. But, then you have to take it off. It's kind of hard.

3. I wish that I could get 6 white bras, instead of the offer they have of 2 white, 2 nude, and 2 black. I usually wear white. Nude is nice under lighter clothes, but I have no idea when I'll ever wear a black bra! I guess I can just use it to exercise in.

Even with these three complaints, I wouldn't trade this bra for all the tea in China! Overall, it's comfortable, lightweight, doesn't really ride up, has a small amount of support, and it's the right shape.

Here are the things you need to know:

1. Website: http://www.geniebra.com/
2. Buy 3, and get 3 FREE - just pay the extra shipping and handling.
3. Cost is $59.95 plus shipping and handling.
4. You get 3 colors - white, nude, and black.
5. I think the sizes run a little bit small. I got an extra large, and the arm holes sometimes feel a little bit tight - but that might be because of my Lymphadema.
6. Make sure you get the padding. If you don't, it's just a thin material - it doesn't really do the job. The padding is thin - 1/8" at the outside of the pad, and around 1/4" in the middle - but it helps to shape and cover things up. The pads are removable, too, so you can have it either way.
7. The bras are 96% Nylon and 4% Spandex. They are machine washable, and you can throw them in the dryer.
8. There is a size chart on the website - just look up your bust size, and then order the corresponding bra size. Sizes run from XS/S all the way up to 4X.
9. This is the most comfortable bra - you hardly know it's there.

I'll be bringing a few of these bras to our next support meeting - in September. If you are there, you are welcome to try one on and see how it fits.

TUESDAY TIPS - Cancer Shop USA

I got an email today from Happy Chemo. They were announcing that they have some new partners. One of those partners is called Cancer Shop USA. I went to Happy Chemo's website, and read all about Cancer Shop USA, and I was intrigued. This company was started by a doctor who went through breast cancer - bi-lateral mastectomy, reconstruction, chemo, and radiation. She knows first hand all of the problems and hardships associated with cancer. She then decided to open Cancer Shop USA and offers unique products, many of which are inspired and developed by cancer survivors, and reviewed for safety by doctors.

I went to the Cancer Shop USA's website, and looked around. I saw some interesting things there. There are 19 different categories, to help you find what you are looking for. Here are a few that sparked my interest...

Body Wrap

Filled with rice and a blend of herbs: eucalyptus, cinnamon, and clove. This works as either a warm wrap or a cool wrap. It is quite large, and can wrap around your neck and onto your shoulders. It's covered with beautiful fabric, that can be removed and washed. It weighs around 2 pounds, so it creates pressure, helping you to relax. I really want one of these! It's $38.

Horray for Brallywood Butta

This is a Luxe body butter. It helps restore stressed, fragile skin, and helps on scarring. This will helps with skin irritations due to chemotherapy and radiation. The ingredients include: Organic Sunflower Seed Oil, Yucca Root, Tangerine Oil, Lemon Oil, Organic Sesame Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Aloe, Rosehips Seed Oil, and Vitamin E. It smells like lemon meringue pie. It is 100% natural, mineral oil free, phthalates free, and paraben free.

Shower Shirt

This item is meant to be worn in the shower, post mastectomy. It is water proof, and it has pockets for drains, and Velcro loops for drain tubing. This was invented by a cancer patient after her doctor told her she couldn't shower until after the drains came out. We all know how long that takes - 2-3 weeks! She couldn't find anything like it, so she invented one. Boy, do I wish I would have had one of these! After 10 surgeries, I know how hard it is to not be able to shower.

One of my favorite things I found on the website is the Cancer Kits for Kids.

I know breast cancer patients might not be interested in this, but I just thought it was so great. These kits come with: Nausea reducing lollipops, nausea reducing crackers with ginger, protein rich snacks, moisturizer/lotion/cream, pre-moistened dental swabs, oral rinse, mouth moisturizer spray, chapstick, aromatherapy stuffed animal wrap, inspirational children's cancer book, journal and pen, and flashlight and toy. This combination of products was chosen by pediatric oncology nurses and children. What a wonderful gift for a child undergoing chemotherapy. This also gave me lots of idea and items I could put into chemo kits for breast cancer patients, as well.

Well, those are just a few of the interesting products I found on Cancer Shop USA. Thanks to Happy Chemo for bringing this website/company to our attention. Also, if you'd like to order something from Cancer Shop USA, you can received free shipping! Just go to Happy Chemo and sign up as a member to find out how.

I've added Cancer Shop USA to our website lists (on the right sidebar). If you try any of these products, please let us know if you like them!

-Kara

MONDAY MENTIONABLES - A Restorative Retreat

Why is it important to talk with other breast cancer survivors? Well, I've learned over the past year that there are times when I just simply need to talk things over with women who have been through what I've been through. And I've had that opportunity several times.

The most recent opportunity I had happened this past weekend. I was invited to go on a breast cancer retreat, put on by a wonderful non-profit group here is Utah, called Image Reborn. (Even though it is head-quartered here in Utah, I believe their retreats are open to anyone - check out the information on their website: imagerebornfoundation.org)

This particular retreat was for young survivors - those 45 years of age and younger. I just barely slipped in there at age 45 (and counting). I'm glad I was able to attend and talk to younger women - I can relate a little bit more with the issues in this age group.

Let me tell you how we were pampered this weekend...

The setting was lovely - a beautiful home in the mountains near Park City. The weather was perfect - warm and sunny during the day, with those cool Utah nights. Each morning, we woke to see hot air balloons in the sky.

We watched with fascination the family of deer in the back yard the first night. The home with just incredible.


The food was good - it was nice to not have to worry about cooking meals for 3 days! There was fruit, yogurt, and sweet breads for breakfast. Lunch in the restaurant at the clubhouse - we ate next to the beautiful pool!

Dinners included different veggie pizzas, and Chicken Tetrazzini (with green chili peppers - YUM!). We got super good deserts, and I had dark chocolate stashed in my room for late night cravings, of course. ;-)

The activities included 3 things I've never experienced before...

1. Facials. Yes, you read that right. I've never had a facial before. Now I'm completely hooked.

Having a facial is what I call being pampered. The feel, the smell, the relaxation! Oh my!

2. Art Journaling. I've always wanted to try this. I know the importance of journaling, especially through your cancer journey, and this is just an unusual (but fun) way of doing that.

I worked on just one page in my art journal. I focused on what I was thinking about at the time - that even though cancer changed me a lot, I'm still me. It was fun to decorate the page, using quotes, and images. I made a list of things I've lost and gain. This is what it said:
Kara... minus boobs, hair, nails, veins, lashes, brows, and stomach. Plus implants, rest, wrinkles, scars, and love. Eguals - ME. A few of the quotes I used:

To thine own self be true - Shakespeare
Dare to be remarkable - Jane Gentry
For a long time, she flew only when she thought no one else was watching - Brian Andreas
I am just too much - Bette Davis


3. Restorative Yoga. This is something I've always thought I should try, but I've been too scared to take a class. And I have no idea what I'm doing, so I didn't think I could do it at home. I'm so glad I learned this wonderful exercise.

It brought my body in tune with my spirit - it was just incredible. We learned how to breath deeply and slowly, how to focus on each part of our bodies. Some things were hard for me, but it was mostly just wonderful, and just what our teacher claimed it would be - restorative.

Those three things will change my life, I think. I'm glad I got to experience them.

The company was made up of survivors - there were six of us. I got to meet the most fabulous ladies.

Beth, Jeni, B-Jo, Tonya, and Marci. This is the main reason I think I went to the retreat. I wanted to meet other survivors, and just take time to talk about issues we all face. I learned so many things, and hopefully helped someone as well. It was good to network.


When I got home, there were some neighbors visiting my family. As I told them about the retreat, I tried to explain WHY I felt like I needed to attend. It's hard to pinpoint the exact reason. All I know is that I feel better physically, and emotionally. It was a good thing for me. Survivors are the most amazing people - I'm so glad I was able to meet these ladies. They helped me so much.

TUESDAY TIDINGS - Navigating Cancer

I found this information - from the Navigating Cancer website - to be very good. It's for newly diagnosed patients:

Tips to improving your care

Daily Health Journal - I really wish I would have had this tool during my treatments!

"This tool allows you to track your symptoms and side effects so you can communicate more effectively with your doctor about how you’re responding to treatment. You can record symptoms & side effects, keep track of medications you are taking, and add daily health notes to track and remember how you're feeling throughout your care."

Prepare for Doctor Visit - This makes it so easy to be prepared when you visit your doctor for each treatment.

"This simple 5-step tool helps you prepare questions for your doctor, including your notes, requests for prescription refills, and prints a summary of your Daily Health Journal."

Treatment Record Summary

"Keep track of your treatments so you have a complete Treatment Record Summary to share with your primary care doctor. It's easier to remember now while you are on therapy and only takes a few minutes."

Navigating Cancer is a wonderfully useful sight. I hope you'll take a minute to sign up (free), and start using these tools.

A Cleaning Solution...

My husband forwarded me this email. He thought it might help some of you in our group - or anyone else who reads our blog...

Cleaning for a Reason - For those going through chemo.

If you know any woman currently undergoing chemotherapy, please
pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning - once per month for 4 months while she is in treatment. All she has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment. Cleaning for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code area arrange for the service. This organization serves the entire USA and currently has 547 partners to help these women.

There are four locations that help in Utah:

Logan - Spotless of Utah
Spotless of Utah

Murray - 2 Local Gals Housekeeping
2 Local Gals Housekeeping

Ogden - Healthy Homes Housekeeping
Healthy Homes Housekeeping

Salt Lake City - Merry Maids of Salt Lake City

I just looked at the website, and they accept 50 applications per day. To read the "How To" on the applications, click on the website at the bottom of this post, and then click on the left tab - "Cancer Patients".

If you have finished chemo, but know someone who could use the help, please refer this website to her...

http://www.cleaningforareason.org/

THURSDAY THOUGHTS - Brenda Coffee's Blog Post - Holidays, Cancer, and Hope...

Finally back from the holiday bustle! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Today, I thought I'd share a blog post I read a few days ago on Brenda Coffee's blog. She is such a great writer, and said many things that resonated with me. The post was called "Holidays, Cancer, and Hope", and can be found on the home page of her blog - BREAST CANCER SISTERHOOD. This is a blog I read often, because I signed up for her newsletter. While you're visiting her blog, go ahead and sign up for the newsletter. You'll get an email whenever she posts something. It's really nice.

Tomorrow, I'll try to post some of the yummy recipes we enjoyed at our Sister Survivors Christmas party a few weeks ago.

Have a great day!

-Kara

TUESDAY TIDINGS - Hats off to Winter!

The snow is here! You better bundle up...

I had to have chemo during the winter, and it was a good time to wear hats. American Cancer Society's Tender Loving Care is a great place to shop for hats, scarves, wigs, and other head coverings.

My favorite "toppings" were the Cotton/Spandex turbans. They were comfortable, and I could jazz them up with beautiful scarves or braided twists...



I also had a favorite hat - the Cotton Knit Cloche.


And my favorite scarf was the Emma.



Each one of these coverings provided warmth during the cold winter months. If you'd like to shop online, go to www.tlcdirect.org. You can also call for a catalog, and to order: 1-800-850-9445.

Here's to a stylish winter!

TUESDAY TIDINGS - 15 Inspiring Breast Cancer Sites

Two things for today:

1. The first, and most important thing is... we've posted a NEW Sister Survivor Spotlight - on SALOTE BERNARD. Go to the right sidebar and click on the word, SPOTLIGHT. That will take you to the interview with Salote. Enjoy!!

2. Second thing... A few days ago, I got an email from Jennifer Lynch at Toponlinecolleges.com. She sent me a link to an article that was recently published on their blog. I thought I'd share the link with you here...
( http://www.toponlinecolleges.com/blog/2010/15-inspiring-breast-cancer-survivor-blogs/ )

The article is called "15 Inspiring Breast Cancer Sites".

I've checked out all of the blogs listed. They are all good blogs. Many have lots of information about breast cancer and research - most of them are personal blogs with personal stories - I found a few "friends" that I followed while writing my breast cancer blog.

Instead of giving you information about them here, I'll just leave it up to you to check them out if you want to. You know what you like, and what resonates with you. Following blogs is a very personal kind of thing, I know. There are a few on the list that I might add to our blog list here in the future.

-Kara

TUESDAY TIDINGS - An Breast Cancer Survivor... an Incredible Woman!

I thought I'd let you know about an interview I'm doing over on my Incredible Women blog this week...

Lynn is a 2 time Breast Cancer survivor - and someone I've waited a year to interview. She is quite a unique woman - just like each of you. A year ago, when the Incredible Women blog went PINK for the month of October, I sent out questions to a bunch of Breast Cancer survivors. Lynn was one of them. She had actually seen the blog, and contacted me earlier. That's when I was introduced to her and her cancer blog...

www.learningfromlynn.blogspot.com

Lynn has written almost 700 posts on her blog in the last 2 1/2 years! It is one of the most helpful, inspiring blogs I've ever read. I love it. One thing that Lynn includes at the end of her posts is quotes. I loved the quote from a post a few days ago - I've added it to our right sidebar - go have a look! Her cancer story is amazing, her blog is wonderful... what more can I say? If you have a few minutes each day this week, I encourage you to visit Incredible Women and read about Lynn - each day there are 2 questions/answers for the whole week. And, don't forget to visit her blog - Learning From Lynn. You really will learn lots.

BTW - I've added Lynn's blog to our Sister Survivor's blog list. Just look near the bottom of the left sidebar.

Have a great day!

-Kara

THURSDAY THOUGHTS - Breast Cancer Sisterhood...

Sorry this post is so late today. I recently found something interesting that I wanted to share with you in the Costco magazine, and then I accidently threw it away! Just found it, so here goes...

In the Member Connection area of the magazine, Coscto introduces Brenda Coffee - a breast cancer survivor. In November 2009, she launched the Breast Cancer Sisterhood - which is a resource all about breast cancer. The article goes on to say that it was originally set up as a non-profit, but she decided to make it something more. She started the Survivorship Media Network, LLC, for families of patients. She has also co-authored two guide books, one that provides patient advice, and the other for husbands who are caregivers. The website is http://breastcancersisterhood.com - they get 15,000 visitors a month! Included on the website are around 100 videos, FAXs, experts, an award-winning blog, Retail Therapy, and links to other cancer-related sites. Take a minute and go to the website - I hope you'll find something useful there. Have a great day!

TUESDAY TIPS - Ovation Hair Therapy...

My husband heard this advertised on the radio and told me about it - they said it's great for people who have had chemo and lost hair. Susan G. Komen endorses it.

It's called Ovation Cell Treatment. Here's the website: http://ovationhair.com/

If you try it, come back and comment and tell us what you think. I'm excited to try it myself!!!

TUESDAY TIDINGS - BreastCancer.org

Check out the site, breastcancer.org for tips on breast cancer. Go to "Day-to-day Matters" and you'll find a list of subjects - all designed to help you with questions about breast cancer....

Paying For Your Care

Breast Cancer and Your Job

Managing Your Medical Records

Staying on Track with Your Treatment

Talking to Your Family and Friends about Breast Cancer

Nutrition

Pain

Managing Fatigue

Bone Health

Arm Lymphedema

Managing Menopausal Symptoms

Sex and Intimacy

Hair, Skin, and Nails

Fertility, Pregnancy, Adoption

Understanding Your Immune System

Summertime Tips

We'll post a tip from this website every once in a while. After visiting the website, come back and comment to let us know if you found it helpful!