If you are about to or have recently undergone a mastectomy, you may be wondering about the foundation garment situation. Your doctor or nurse may give you requirements or ideas…but they may not. After all, with so much after-care information, a bra may be the last thing on their minds. But it’s certainly not for…
The U.S. effectively shut down in March of 2020. Not only were schools switched to virtual and millions began working remotely, but hospital space was at a premium. This meant many surgeries and procedures were put off as ORs were converted for COVID-19 patient care. But breast cancer didn’t stop. It didn’t yield to the…
Having your silhouette surgically altered in order to potentially save your life is an overwhelming undertaking. And while it is a good thing to kick cancer to the curb, what you’re left with may feel unfamiliar – even alien – and be difficult to adjust to. If you have undergone a lumpectomy or mastectomy, there…
Every woman wants to feel pretty. And while that definition may vary from woman to woman, the fundamental truth holds. Experiencing cancer, undergoing a lumpectomy or mastectomy, or enduring treatments that change the outward appearance and the inward perception of self are extremely daunting. As if many women don’t already deal with esteem issues by…
When you hear the word “cancer,” you immediately start to consider what your treatment options may be. Two of the most common treatments are chemotherapy and radiation, also called radiotherapy, radiation therapy or radiation treatment. You’ve heard these terms. You’ve probably even asked people diagnosed with cancer if they’re undergoing these treatments. Or you’ve asked…
Lymphedema can occur in women and in men when lymph nodes are damaged, blocked or removed. This can occur because of illness, injury or as a result of certain cancers or other life-threatening diseases. When the lymphatic system is compromised, lymph fluid builds up, causing uncomfortable swelling, pain and stiffness––primarily in the arms and legs.…
Chemotherapy and radiation are over. The reconstruction is complete. No more surgeries or doctor appointments are on the books. Even your hair has begun to fill in and regrow. It would be really nice and easy to assume your body is fully recovered and nothing cancer-related is going to rear its ugly head again. And…
You have fought the battle of your life and won! Your oncologist and a team of dedicated nurses, dietitians, and other clinicians have become like family, partnering with you on a hard journey leading to remission. Now what? Everything just falls back to your normal pre-cancer life, right? Probably not. Understanding the need for follow-up…
“We found a lump.” Four of the scariest words a woman can hear. Whether a lump is discovered during a monthly self-exam, during a mammogram, or at a doctor’s visit, it can be very daunting, to say the least. Give yourself a chance to process the words, then educate yourself. You are the only one…
Lumpectomies, sometimes also called breast-conserving surgeries (BCS) are intended to remove a cancerous mass from breast tissue while saving as much natural breast tissue as safely possible. Lumpectomies usually have a shorter recovery time than a total mastectomy, as well as preserving sensation. (Your doctor will recommend the appropriate surgery for your specific case.) After…