Finding the Right Mastectomy Bra for the Occasion

Posted on January 31, 2012 by barbaracv

Finding a regular bra, without the issue of having had a mastectomy, can be a challenge for some. So imagine finding the right bra when you have had a mastectomy.

First, the mastectomy bra does need to be functional. Comfort comes up at the top of the list. No side seams, soft fabric, proper band around the bottom to keep the bra in place, and pockets for the prosthesis.

However, functional does not always need to appear functional. Looking and feeling feminine are important for one’s self-esteem and self-image. Losing a breast to cancer may be necessary for your health and life. Losing your sense of being a woman does not have to follow. We are who we are inside. That is what counts.

So have a look for the mastectomy bra that suits you and your lifestyle. There may be several looks you want to have in your wardrobe.

What About a Wig During Chemotherapy?

Posted on January 30, 2012 by barbaracv

Losing one’s hair is one of the side effects of chemotherapy. Where you live – warm or cold climate – factors into your decision of what to wear on your head. Could be protection from the sun or warmth for a bald head.

Many women choose chemo hats and scarves as an everyday solution. However, chemo hats and scarves definitely send the message ‘I am going through cancer’. This brings up the issue of wigs for cancer patients. Wilshire Wigs have an excellent selection for special occasions, those times when you don’t want to broadcast your health situation, and when you need that boost of self-confidence to carry the day.

There are many beautiful wigs available these days at different price points. They can be synthetic or real hair or a mix of both. Some women opt for a totally different look – a look they’ve always wanted to have but it didn’t suit their hair. Other women like to match their regular style as close as possible. You can do either.

Here are a few tips:

Make sure that the wig is comfortable. The inside should be smooth and not scratchy as the underside of the wig will be directly on top of your skin – no protection.
If you live in a warmer climate, there are wigs that are also breathable making them cooler to wear.
If you haven’t lost your hair just yet, now is a good time to match the color.

Looking good while going through treatment helps keep your spirits up. This is for you. When you look in the mirror, it will reflect back the person you know yourself to be. Give yourself a hug and boost even on the days when it is difficult. Every little action counts.

Music to Heal the Soul During Cancer

Posted on January 28, 2012 by barbaracv

As a dancer, music was and is a huge part of my life.

Life was busy when I was young – dance classes, singing lessons, school & homework, teaching dance classes, being in productions – and when I had time, a social life. Overwhelm used to hit me often so to relax and de-stress, I used to head to our basement rec room, put on a stack of classical records and lie down. An hour later, the world looked right again.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, healing music and meditation once again became a key element of my healing journey. I’d don earphones and transport myself to another plane on the waves of healing music during chemotherapy. In the dark of night when my fears and uncertainties slipped out, I would put on my earphones and listen to calm my soul.

There is much research into the healing benefits of music and/or sound. Have you ever had chills run up your spine when you listened to music that you loved. That’s energy – healing energy. It is a physical reaction that will also stir emotional responses in your body which in turn facilitates healing.

Music for Healingand meditation make a wonderful addition to your books resources for cancer patients – and can be a special gift that will make someone’s day. When I was going through treatment, friends and family would frequently send me CD’s of music they knew would lift my spirit. They were special treasures!

What to Gift Someone Going Through Cancer

Posted on January 27, 2012 by barbaracv

This question often comes up when I speak with those who have a family member or friend going through cancer. They just aren’t sure what will be helpful at this time. Where the person is on the cancer journey also matters. What is appropriate?

Consider a gift basket with inspirational gifts for cancer patients. These healing baskets save you the work of trying to figure out what would be helpful, have different themes, are focused for gender, age and/or specific issue, etc..

And, if you live distant from the person you want to support, what a wonderful way to say ‘I Care’, ‘I’m Here For You’.

Healing Baskets provides gifts to comfort and support the broken hearted. From sympathy, and loss to cancer, get well, divorce and caregiving. Our gifts encourage, comfort and inspire.

Skin Care During and After Cancer Treatments

Posted on January 26, 2012 by barbaracv

Skin is a barometer of how we are feeling, what we are or are not eating, is susceptible to climate changes, and often erupts with rashes, itching, etc. due to drug interactions. Going through radiation and chemotherapy treatments for cancer definitely affects our skin.

It is so important to find Organic Skin and Hair Care Products to use during this time. Our skin is more sensitive to harmful and harsh ingredients while going through treatment and needs to be pampered with safe and natural skin care. Perfume and/or scent is often not tolerated. Our Wellspring cancer center has signs up asking members to please not wear perfume. For many, this is an issue no matter what their situation – certainly is for me.

Be aware, read the list of ingredients, choose skin care products that have few if any chemicals and watch your skin benefit. I’ve had to do this for years as I have sensitive skin which was complicated by all the heavy makeup I wore when I was in the theatre. Going through chemotherapy and radiation made me doubly aware of what I put on my body.

Be kind to yourself and your skin. It pays to not only eat right and radiate from the inside out, but to also make sure you are protecting your skin from the outside in.

Interesting Read for Those With Cancer

Posted on January 25, 2012 by barbaracv

I wanted to share a book with you that has made a significant difference to my life. And in sharing it with others, they have also noted positive changes in their lives. This book is The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted And the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss, And Long-term Health by T. Colin Campbell.

My main reason for making the change was to eliminate a nagging stomach problem that seemed to be escaping diagnosis by scoping and probing. Nothing showed up, but I knew I had a problem. Once I switched to this way of eating, the stomach issue cleared up and only returns if I slide off the suggested protocols.

It was a bit tricky at first to change the way I thought about food, especially what I would eat for a main meal. The rest I had pretty much figured out. I am purposely not sharing all the details because I really want you to read the book and decide for yourself whether it makes sense to you.

Other benefits, besides a happy stomach, are a return to my ideal weight, improved vision, more energy, less bloating, and an overall sense of well-being. Now that I have been eating this way for a bit, I really have come to enjoy the foods. It has become an adventure – a healthy adventure.

So, I invite you to check it out for yourself. Love to hear your thoughts and/or changes if you do decide to follow this path.

Don’t Risk Lymphedema During Air Travel

Posted on January 24, 2012 by barbaracv

The issue of lymphedema as a risk resulting from cancer surgery is still not always discussed. Since my cancer diagnosis in 1990, you would think this would have improved. It has to a small degree, but still there is much that is not shared.

One of these concerns is the risk of lymphedema due to the pressurization of the plane cabin when flying. Since winter heralds flocks of snowbirds and those of us tired of snow and sleet to warmer climates, I wanted to make sure you were aware and knew what to do.

Please invest in a lower compression (preventive) lymphedema sleeve. Wear it on the flight and make sure you also get a gauntlet (glove) with it. Some lymphedema sleeves have the gauntlet as part of the garment. Not only will the sleeve moderate the pressure on your arm, but will also remind you to be mindful when lifting your luggage as heavy lifting is also a risk factor.

Prevention is key. Once you are diagnosed with lymphedema, it will be a lifelong commitment of maintenance. Better to prevent if at all possible – at least reduce the risk by being aware.

Tea – Green Teas – Great Benefits

Posted on January 23, 2012 by barbaracv

Taste buds change when going through cancer treatment. Also, nutrition becomes a key factor when making healing choices. At the top of the list for nutiritional beverages is Green Tea. I know for myself, coffee just didn’t taste right anymore, so I did gravitate to teas for taste, but more importantly for health reasons. One of my favorites is Macha Tea.

Research has indicated that the health benefits of drinking green tea are:

reduced risk of esophageal cancer
inhibited growth of cancer cells as a result of a compound in green tea
lowered total cholesterol levels, as well as improved ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

For those who still want their caffeine fix without the coffee, green tea is an ideal option. It provides the caffeine, although at a much lower dose than coffee, while one reaps the health benefits listed above.

So, slow down and enjoy a wonderful cup of green tea.

A Camisole with Chic Plus Comfort

Posted on January 21, 2012 by barbaracv

For women who undergo a mastectomy, it involves changing how you wear your clothes, especially bras. For some, there is scarring on the chest from either surgery or radiation. These scars are visible when wearing some necklines, especially if they gape at the neckline when you bend over.

Also finding something for those dressier occasions can be a challenge. These women want something a little special. Something with pizazz.

I found just the item - beautiful mastectony camisole tops which are made of stretch lace, hug the body and are worn over a bra, come up high enough in the front and also under the arm to hide all scars, and look fabulous.

In fact, what woman wouldn’t want one of these. They are so versatile – and comfortable.

What to Get Someone Going Through Cancer

Posted on January 20, 2012 by barbaracv

This is always a question I’m asked by family and friends of those going through cancer. What do they need? What would be helpful?

Here are a few ideas for inspirational gifts for cancer patients that will tickle your imagination:

1. Stainless Steel Water Bottle – most people carry one with them to treatment or wherever they go. Find one with an inspirational message to help lift their spirits.

2. Journal – place to thoughts, notes, ideas, emotions, etc. Get a beautiful pen to go with it.

3. Tote Bag – to carry a book, water bottle, journal, etc. to while away the time spent in doctor’s offices, waiting rooms, etc.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Watch for upcoming blogs with more ideas.

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Monthly Archives: January 2012