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Thuggizzle Cares not only brings breast cancer awareness to women and men, but is now officially a 501C(3) holder. Donations will go to funding and hosting breast health events, spreading breast cancer awareness, as well as providing mammograms for those who have no insurance benefits. You can make a contribution by simply clicking the Donate button below. Your support is appreciated!
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We Can Spread Awareness Faster Than Cancer Spreads Just Use Ya Voice.......Thuggizzle
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Why do we need to tell children that a parent has cancer?
Some parents are afraid their children will worry more if they are told the facts about what’s happening. It’s important to keep in mind that parents and children have very different life experiences. This makes it unlikely that a child will react to a problem the same way an adult would.
Cancer is an impossible secret to keep. You’ve probably already noticed that children tend to overhear adults talking about subjects not meant for them. This happens even when the child looks busy with other things and doesn’t seem to be listening. If they think something is being kept from them, some kids will even look for ways to listen without being noticed. When children hear these conversations, they often pick up on the anxiety and worry of their parents. Even if they don’t overhear anything, they can see that others are acting differently and usually sense that something is wrong. Kids tend to be afraid and believe the worst if they haven’t been given complete information. The effort it takes to keep such secrets may rob the parent of precious energy, too.
If children hear about their parent’s cancer from someone else, like a curious neighbor or a classmate, it can destroy the trust that parents have worked to build. If children think their parents are being vague on purpose or are trying to hide something from them, they might find it hard to know when they are being told the truth. It’s better that parents learn how to share this information truthfully, and in a way that allows the child to understand and take part in the discussion.
Another problem in keeping cancer a secret is that the child may assume that whatever is happening is too terrible to talk about. This might make them feel isolated or shut out from the family, because no one will talk about their biggest concern. This means that the natural desire parents have to protect their kids sometimes only makes things harder for the child. Parents know that it’s impossible to shield children from all of the stressful parts of life, and that part of their job is to teach their children how to manage these challenges.
Once treatment starts, the child may see side effects like tiredness, weight changes, hair loss, or vomiting. They see that the parent is sick, and might assume that the parent is going to die. They may think that others in the family will get the same illness. They may think that life as they know it will end. Not knowing what’s going on or how to cope with it can be terrifying to a child. To avoid this, children need to be told about the illness. They should know in advance the kinds of side effects that cancer treatment might cause.
Cancer is an impossible secret to keep. You’ve probably already noticed that children tend to overhear adults talking about subjects not meant for them. This happens even when the child looks busy with other things and doesn’t seem to be listening. If they think something is being kept from them, some kids will even look for ways to listen without being noticed. When children hear these conversations, they often pick up on the anxiety and worry of their parents. Even if they don’t overhear anything, they can see that others are acting differently and usually sense that something is wrong. Kids tend to be afraid and believe the worst if they haven’t been given complete information. The effort it takes to keep such secrets may rob the parent of precious energy, too.
If children hear about their parent’s cancer from someone else, like a curious neighbor or a classmate, it can destroy the trust that parents have worked to build. If children think their parents are being vague on purpose or are trying to hide something from them, they might find it hard to know when they are being told the truth. It’s better that parents learn how to share this information truthfully, and in a way that allows the child to understand and take part in the discussion.
Another problem in keeping cancer a secret is that the child may assume that whatever is happening is too terrible to talk about. This might make them feel isolated or shut out from the family, because no one will talk about their biggest concern. This means that the natural desire parents have to protect their kids sometimes only makes things harder for the child. Parents know that it’s impossible to shield children from all of the stressful parts of life, and that part of their job is to teach their children how to manage these challenges.
Once treatment starts, the child may see side effects like tiredness, weight changes, hair loss, or vomiting. They see that the parent is sick, and might assume that the parent is going to die. They may think that others in the family will get the same illness. They may think that life as they know it will end. Not knowing what’s going on or how to cope with it can be terrifying to a child. To avoid this, children need to be told about the illness. They should know in advance the kinds of side effects that cancer treatment might cause.
Karen Martinez
FOX San Antonio anchor Karen Martinez Passed Away Last Night 2-18-13 After Her Long Battle With Breast Cancer. Karen Was 37. Karen Loved Each And Every One Of Her FOX San Antonio Viewers. Her Courage Was An Inspiration To Us All And She Will Be Missed. Please Send Prayer's Out To The Martinez Family.
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Let's Help Save Our Women From This Cancer By Talking About It More, Men Can Also Be Affected Lets Get Educated.
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While your genetics play a role in both developing diabetes and obesity, these problems are due to an unhealthy diet and lifestyle in many people: too much sugar and too many simple carbohydrates, combined with not enough exercise. No matter your age, one of the best ways to avoid both obesity and diabetes AND help keep your breast cancer risk as low as it can be is to have a healthy diet and lifestyle:
*eat a diet low in added sugar and other sweeteners and rich in fruits and vegetables
*maintain a healthy weight
*exercise regularly at a moderate intensity
*avoid alcohol
*don't smoke
*eat a diet low in added sugar and other sweeteners and rich in fruits and vegetables
*maintain a healthy weight
*exercise regularly at a moderate intensity
*avoid alcohol
*don't smoke
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Cancer is LimitedCancer is so limited...
It cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot eat away peace. It cannot destroy confidence. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot shut out memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot reduce eternal life. It cannot quench the Spirit. |
Here are some interesting facts and statistics about Breast Cancer:
*The United States has the most cases of breast cancer in the world. *30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week can cut cancer risk by 20%. *About 1 in 8 women in the U.S will develop invasive breast cancer within their lifetime. *In the U.S., an average of 112 women die of breast cancer every day, or one every 15 minutes. but most importantly... *There are currently over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States. Lets keep this number growing! |
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Carolyn Laycock Marchant
In October 1996, I was a single working mom of three kids and six grand kids. One night as I was showering I discovered a lump in my left breast. I knew as soon as I felt it, I had cancer. After talking to my family doctor, a surgeon, a plastic surgeon and an oncologist, I decided to have a mastectomy on my left breast with an implant. And a breast reduction on my right breast all at the same time. I was eventually diagnosed with a low stage 2 breast cancer. I had one lymph node and part of another involved.my oncologist treated it aggressively so, I had seven rounds of chemotherapy. Of course I lost my hair and I gained about 40 pounds from all the steroids. My body really felt like it would explode. Also when I went for my first fill on my implant , I woke the next morning ans all the saline was under my left arm. My implant had ruptured. I had it removed but not replaced. My daughter Sheryl ook care of me because she lived with me. My other two kids Michael and Leslie visited often and brought my grand kids to visit and cheer me up. I kept a sense of humor and my grand kids would tell me I looked like Captain Hook with a bald head, which I did. I believe I survived because of God and prayer and the love and support of family and friends. On march 4, 2011 I took my beautiful daughter Sheryl to the emergency room. She was being treated for a bladder infection. As tests were performed, they discovered that she had a tumor the size of a honey dew melon. She was diagnosed with endometrial cancer which she never knew she had because she passed away on March 13, 2011. Just nine days later. I will never understand why I survived cancer and she did not.My family and I have a huge part of our family missing. And we will never be the same. I know my heart will never heal. Today I am 70 years old and I have a beautiful great grand daughter who has brought great joy to our lives. I just hope and pray that someday there will be a cure for cancer because it is a sneaky and deadly disease that ruins people's lives. Everyone count your blessings and God bless.
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Underarm Pain
You know how the lymph nodes in your neck and throat can feel sore when you have the flu? The same thing happens to the lymph nodes in your armpit, because that's where breast cancer spreads first, by way of lymphatic fluid that drains from the breast. Affected lymph nodes may feel swollen or tender or develop a lump before a tumor is big enough to be felt in the breast itself. Any pain in the armpit area is a sign to check the area carefully with your fingers. A lump under the armpit is likely to be hard and attached to surrounding tissues, so it doesn't move when you touch it. Or tissue may feel thickened and dense compared with the armpit on the other side.
Why it happens: The lymph nodes in the armpit are the closest ones to the breast and can therefore be affected by lymphatic fluid that drains from the area. As breast cancer spreads, this is the first place it's like to metastasize, which is why breast cancer is staged according to whether it's lymph-node positive or negative.
Why it happens: The lymph nodes in the armpit are the closest ones to the breast and can therefore be affected by lymphatic fluid that drains from the area. As breast cancer spreads, this is the first place it's like to metastasize, which is why breast cancer is staged according to whether it's lymph-node positive or negative.
PATSY CARVER
Patsy is a boutique owner and has 25 years of combined experience as a licensed nurse and esthetician. Patsy has been a surgical nurse for many years, who made a career change to esthetics in 1999 and is a cancer survivor. Patsy loves serving people and has a hometown girl personality one never forgets. Her entrepreneurial spirit, personal style and gift for building a strong team all play a part in the huge success of her Skin and Wigs Etc Boutique. Patsy has designed her store with semi-private rooms to meet the needs of her customers. Services range from wig, bra & breast form fitting, hair styling and coloring, to facial services and makeup applications. Skin&Wigs Ect. Health & Beauty Boutique is located at 6812 West Avenue in San Antonio, TX for more info or to set an appointment visit www.skinandwigsetc.com
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Aleisha Hunter
No one is immune to Breast Cancer. A four-year-old girl, Aleisha Hunter, is reported to be the youngest Breast Cancer survivor in the world. She is also the youngest to ever have a mastectomy.
At the age of two her mother found a lump in her daughter's breast and the doctors confirmed that it was a very rare form of breast cancer. According to an article, less than five percent of women will have to have invasive breast cancer surgery before the age of 40.
Luckily, this type of cancer was very slow moving and slow growing. So, she was able to be treated without chemotherapy and harsh radiation that would have harmed her developing immune system.
At the age of two her mother found a lump in her daughter's breast and the doctors confirmed that it was a very rare form of breast cancer. According to an article, less than five percent of women will have to have invasive breast cancer surgery before the age of 40.
Luckily, this type of cancer was very slow moving and slow growing. So, she was able to be treated without chemotherapy and harsh radiation that would have harmed her developing immune system.
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Dont be afraid to...ask a cancer victim or their family member how they are feeling or how their treatments are going. Some people think they shouldn't approach the subject because they don't know if it's the right time, there is no such thing as the right time. just ask. if they don't want to discuss it they will tell you that. On the other hand, they might need to vent so ask only if you truly care and want to hear their response no matter how lengthy it might be.
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Someone Asked..."how do I support a loved one who just found out she has breast cancer?"
Be their warrior... A diagnosis of breast cancer is devastating not only for the individual, but also for family and friends. Sometimes, friends and family find it easier to stay away than to get close. It can be challenging to know what to say. A feeling of powerlessness may prevail. Supporting someone who is fighting breast cancer requires the tenacity of a warrior and the gentleness of a friend. |
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A little history
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Women are not alone
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Coqueace KoCo Powell
This is Coqueace KoCo Powell in mid Jan 2012. She had a double mastectomy, Stage 3b cancer, and a 50/50 chance of survival. Today, this is her with the big smile, implants, and a second chance of living. You ask her can she stand the rain?? Yes..and floods, hurricanes, tsunamis, and any other storm! U heard me?!! ...Thank you Lord for strength of super heroes to fight. Thank you Jesus for another year of her life Thank you everyone for your support! --Coqueace Koco Powell co founder of Sexy after 30.
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Rebekah Froese
Its funny how iv been a part of this group for a couple years and at 27 years old im here looking for questions I cannot answer I have finally got the ball rolling and have been informed of a tumor in my right breast so tomorrow I go in to see for ultrasound to see how big this mass is. I fear answers because I know im experiencing pain and so much fatigue all that is left is hope and will to survive. This awareness group is great for support. I can only hope I have caught it in time keep fighting for this cause!
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Stay Healthy
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Stages Of Breast Cancer
There Are Many Stages Of Breast Cancer, stage 0 has three different types itself.
Stage 0
Stage 1
Stage 1 Breast Cancer is divided into stages 1A and 1B. In stage 1A, the tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller and has not spread outside the breast. In stage 1B, no tumor is found in the breast or the tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller. Small clusters of cancer cells (larger than 0.2 millimeter but not larger than 2 millimeters) are found in the lymph nodes.
Stage 2
Stage 2 is divided into stages 2A and 2B.
Stage 3
Stage 3 is broken down into 3 different types.
Stage 4
In stage IV, cancer has spread to other organs of the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver, or brain.
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Breast Cancer Survivors
Are you a breast cancer survivor?
Would you like to share your photo and or story?
Click contact and fill out your information and a Thuggizzle Cares Representative will be in contact with you.
Would you like to share your photo and or story?
Click contact and fill out your information and a Thuggizzle Cares Representative will be in contact with you.
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Sandra's Story
My life will never be the same....I had just had a new baby, my mother had passed 2 years prior, and my dad passed about 8 months prior. Then here comes cancer…wow!
I was taking and shower a felt a lump in my left breast I didn't have cancer on my mind, not at all. I thought that maybe the lump was from my milk ducts, because I had just had a baby; at least that's what my sister said. The lump began to get sore as I would press it trying squeeze milk from it, but nothing happened. But one day I bought a breast pump and started to pump my breast still no milk.
I believe it was the next day when I would have to place tissue inside of my bra to keep the blood that was coming from my nipple from coming through my bra. I then decided that I would make a trip to my OB/GYN. She tried to drain the lump but nothing came threw the needle, which totally frightened me. My OB/GYN told me that this happens often, but I was still scared.
As I proceeded with test after test, needle after, the report finally came early one morning when no one but me and my 3 month old daughter were home. The phone ring and I knew when they told me to come into the office and bring 2 people along. I insisted that she tell me over the phone and she complied, saying, "Mrs. McKenzie you have breast cancer." Oh my God, I am going to die? Who will take care of my daughter? Why? What happened? etc.
I had stage 3 breast cancer and my tumor 5 centimeters had grown to almost 6 centimeters within about 2 weeks, with 4+ lymphnodes. I went through chemo, radiation, surgery (double mastectomy) stomach infection, skin break out, you name it.
But it was all worth it because God spared my life and I am still here to do what He has called me to do, along with raising my now 2-year-old daughter. Thank you God.
This year in Sept. I'll have my reconstruction surgery. I encourage all to stay positive and be strong. You can do it because I did it… with a 3 month old.
I was taking and shower a felt a lump in my left breast I didn't have cancer on my mind, not at all. I thought that maybe the lump was from my milk ducts, because I had just had a baby; at least that's what my sister said. The lump began to get sore as I would press it trying squeeze milk from it, but nothing happened. But one day I bought a breast pump and started to pump my breast still no milk.
I believe it was the next day when I would have to place tissue inside of my bra to keep the blood that was coming from my nipple from coming through my bra. I then decided that I would make a trip to my OB/GYN. She tried to drain the lump but nothing came threw the needle, which totally frightened me. My OB/GYN told me that this happens often, but I was still scared.
As I proceeded with test after test, needle after, the report finally came early one morning when no one but me and my 3 month old daughter were home. The phone ring and I knew when they told me to come into the office and bring 2 people along. I insisted that she tell me over the phone and she complied, saying, "Mrs. McKenzie you have breast cancer." Oh my God, I am going to die? Who will take care of my daughter? Why? What happened? etc.
I had stage 3 breast cancer and my tumor 5 centimeters had grown to almost 6 centimeters within about 2 weeks, with 4+ lymphnodes. I went through chemo, radiation, surgery (double mastectomy) stomach infection, skin break out, you name it.
But it was all worth it because God spared my life and I am still here to do what He has called me to do, along with raising my now 2-year-old daughter. Thank you God.
This year in Sept. I'll have my reconstruction surgery. I encourage all to stay positive and be strong. You can do it because I did it… with a 3 month old.
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Nelda Alvarado
I'm Asking Everybody To Pray For The Alvarado Family As Nelda Alvarado Has Passed Away Tuesday From Breast Cancer. Here Are Her Funeral Arrangements Rosary & Visitation:
Friday August 31, 2012
Holy Name Catholic Church
3814 Nash Blvd San Antonio, Texas 78223
Funeral & Mass- Saturday September 1st Mass-Holy Name Catholic Church Precession Leaves To Church Room Mission Park South @ 9:30am
Friday August 31, 2012
Holy Name Catholic Church
3814 Nash Blvd San Antonio, Texas 78223
Funeral & Mass- Saturday September 1st Mass-Holy Name Catholic Church Precession Leaves To Church Room Mission Park South @ 9:30am
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Pamela Blackwell
My aunt who is like a mother to me was told she had breast cancer, and only had a few months to live. That was right around the time the state awarded her custody of me, my sister and brothers. But my aunt was not going to let the doctors make that call. She prayed and we prayed. She said "Lord I have these 5 kids who lost there mother. And been through a lot already. I need to stay around for these kids." She went through surgery and procedures. I was 12 at the time, I am 27 now. God is good and has the last say so, only God knows when its our time. Thank God for keeping my auntie around & her to be able to be with all her grand kids. God has been so good to me. My aunts name is Pamela Blackwell, she had 2 kids of her own. When she took us in she was also caring for her sick mother and father who lived in the home as well. -Brandi Smith
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Imagine
Imagine there's no cancer,
It's easy if you try,
No pain or suffering,
Or waiting just to die.
Imagine all the people,
Living worry free,
Without that ticking time bomb,
That no one else can see.
You may say I'm a dreamer,
But I'm not the only one,
That hopes the world will be cancer-free,
So we can live as one.
It's easy if you try,
No pain or suffering,
Or waiting just to die.
Imagine all the people,
Living worry free,
Without that ticking time bomb,
That no one else can see.
You may say I'm a dreamer,
But I'm not the only one,
That hopes the world will be cancer-free,
So we can live as one.
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Too Young For Cancer Jessica's Story
I was 26. I had just moved back to my home town to pursue a Masters in Education. As I lay in bed ready to fall asleep, I rested my hand on my chest, almost like I was about to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. I suddenly felt a small marble-like lump on my left breast. I quickly checked the right breast to see if it felt the same, it didn't! That night, I fell asleep praying to God for my health. The next day, I discussed my new discovery with my family, friends and of course my family doctor.
Soon, I was getting a mammogram. As I sat in the waiting room, 2 other women were waiting as well. I thought to myself, according to statistics, one of us sitting here may have breast cancer, and let's face it, it probably won't be me. I'm too young. A couple days later, I was scheduled for a biopsy to remove the tumor. A week later, I was going to get my results. I knew it was nothing. I was happy that morning; I got to miss a day of work, and was planning on coming home and relaxing! Little did I know that morning, my life would change forever.
I cried until I couldn't cry anymore.
A week later, I had a lumpectomy and the surgeon removed 3 lymph nodes. I quickly made an appointment to see an oncologist at the cancer center in Houston, a six hour drive from my hometown. We discussed my options, treatments, and recovery plans. When my oncologist told me I would lose my hair in 3 weeks after my first chemotherapy treatment, I decided to treat myself to a great haircut. I cut it shoulder length; I couldn't go any shorter, although in a couple of weeks it was going to be non-existent. I cried again. I know it's just hair, but it was my hair!
Sure enough, like clockwork, within those 3 weeks, it began to fall in chunks, the chemotherapy had taken its toll. Six rounds! Six rounds of chemotherapy, traveling to and from Houston. Now I know I'm stronger than I thought!
My family and friends were very supportive. I got showered with get well cards, flowers, books, pajamas, socks, and my favorite… blankets/throws. There is something about a blanket that makes you feel safe, comforted…. loved. My friends threw me a scarf/hat party. They were to bring me a new hat or scarf, this way I wouldn't have to buy my own. Following the chemotherapy, I had radiation treatment: six weeks, five times a week.
It has been 2 years, and I wish I could say it's behind me, but in reality, I'm terrified that the cancer will come back.
Soon, I was getting a mammogram. As I sat in the waiting room, 2 other women were waiting as well. I thought to myself, according to statistics, one of us sitting here may have breast cancer, and let's face it, it probably won't be me. I'm too young. A couple days later, I was scheduled for a biopsy to remove the tumor. A week later, I was going to get my results. I knew it was nothing. I was happy that morning; I got to miss a day of work, and was planning on coming home and relaxing! Little did I know that morning, my life would change forever.
I cried until I couldn't cry anymore.
A week later, I had a lumpectomy and the surgeon removed 3 lymph nodes. I quickly made an appointment to see an oncologist at the cancer center in Houston, a six hour drive from my hometown. We discussed my options, treatments, and recovery plans. When my oncologist told me I would lose my hair in 3 weeks after my first chemotherapy treatment, I decided to treat myself to a great haircut. I cut it shoulder length; I couldn't go any shorter, although in a couple of weeks it was going to be non-existent. I cried again. I know it's just hair, but it was my hair!
Sure enough, like clockwork, within those 3 weeks, it began to fall in chunks, the chemotherapy had taken its toll. Six rounds! Six rounds of chemotherapy, traveling to and from Houston. Now I know I'm stronger than I thought!
My family and friends were very supportive. I got showered with get well cards, flowers, books, pajamas, socks, and my favorite… blankets/throws. There is something about a blanket that makes you feel safe, comforted…. loved. My friends threw me a scarf/hat party. They were to bring me a new hat or scarf, this way I wouldn't have to buy my own. Following the chemotherapy, I had radiation treatment: six weeks, five times a week.
It has been 2 years, and I wish I could say it's behind me, but in reality, I'm terrified that the cancer will come back.
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Can breast implants raise your cancer risk?
The answer is women with breast implants are at no greater risk of getting breast cancer, according to research. Standard mammograms don't always work as well on these women, however, so additional X-rays are sometimes needed to more fully examine breast tissue.
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Tips To Help Cope
The person with the breast cancer is not the only one affected. Family members and friends are also influenced by health changes of a loved one.
Here are some tips to help family and friends cope with a loved one's diagnosis:
*Feel free to ask the doctor questions if you accompany your loved one to appointments. Write your questions down so you don't forget them.
*Be prepared for changes in your loved one's behavior and mood. Medications, discomforts, and stress may cause your loved one to become depressed, angry, or fatigued.
*Encourage your loved one to be active and independent, as much as possible, to help her regain a sense of self-reliance and confidence.
*Be realistic about your own needs. Be sure you are sleeping enough, eating properly, and taking some time off for yourself. It is hard to offer much help when you are exhausted. If you take care of your needs, it may be easier to meet the needs of your loved one.
Here are some tips to help family and friends cope with a loved one's diagnosis:
*Feel free to ask the doctor questions if you accompany your loved one to appointments. Write your questions down so you don't forget them.
*Be prepared for changes in your loved one's behavior and mood. Medications, discomforts, and stress may cause your loved one to become depressed, angry, or fatigued.
*Encourage your loved one to be active and independent, as much as possible, to help her regain a sense of self-reliance and confidence.
*Be realistic about your own needs. Be sure you are sleeping enough, eating properly, and taking some time off for yourself. It is hard to offer much help when you are exhausted. If you take care of your needs, it may be easier to meet the needs of your loved one.
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Myths Busted
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More Myths
Saccharin, drinking fluoridated water and using deodorant have all been cited as possible cancer causes. These myths about cancer can be harmful or misleading. Sometimes reports or articles link certain products and other activities to cancer when, in fact, there is limited evidence-based research to support the claims. Consumers need accurate information to make informed choices about the way they live and play and what they eat and drink. False information can steer them away from healthy lifestyle choices. In addition, the Internet can confuse matters more as anyone can post their theories without explanation or evidence.
Some common cancer myths include:
Some common cancer myths include:
Conversely, some information about cancer causing agents is true.
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Jennifer's Story
Diagnosed at 24
It is important that you read my story because not all breast cancer can be found in the form of lumps…
I had just turned 24 years old on June 1, 2008 and my mother had just been diagnosed with DCIS stage 0 breast cancer and needed to have a lumpectomy with radiation to follow. The night she told my brother and I the news, I started hysterically crying. She said that the doctors said she would be fine. I was very upset about this news; however I was more upset because I knew I would be diagnosed with it too. That night I said to my family, I am going to get it. I just had a really bad feeling. Now I know to pay attention to bad feelings.
Two weeks later, my right nipple started to discharge blood. I freaked out. The next day I went to my gynecologist immediately. I had been on birth control pills for 6 years so my breasts were naturally denser. Therefore, I did not think anything could be wrong. She said that although it is rare for young women to experience serious problems with their breasts, I should go have a sonogram done that day. Discharging blood was definitely something to be concerned with.
I went to have a sonogram which showed tons of calcium deposits, which sonograms are not supposed to show. I had so many that the radiologist thought it would be a good idea to have a biopsy done that day so they could figure out if I am in real danger. The biopsy showed precancerous cells throughout my milk ducts but they did not know how widespread the cells were. The next week I had a mammogram, an MRI, another biopsy, and a lymph node biopsy, which showed that my right breast had precancerous cells throughout the linings of my milk ducts but it was not invasive. There were no lumps at all. This was not something that could be felt. On July 23, 2008 I was diagnosed with DCIS stage 0 breast cancer and I would need to have a right breast mastectomy.
What I learned from this experience is that no matter how afraid you are, when something does not feel right to you, you need to go to the doctor. Your health is too valuable, and although the doctor might tell you something you don't want to hear, it is better to hear it now before it's too late to do something about it.
It is important that you read my story because not all breast cancer can be found in the form of lumps…
I had just turned 24 years old on June 1, 2008 and my mother had just been diagnosed with DCIS stage 0 breast cancer and needed to have a lumpectomy with radiation to follow. The night she told my brother and I the news, I started hysterically crying. She said that the doctors said she would be fine. I was very upset about this news; however I was more upset because I knew I would be diagnosed with it too. That night I said to my family, I am going to get it. I just had a really bad feeling. Now I know to pay attention to bad feelings.
Two weeks later, my right nipple started to discharge blood. I freaked out. The next day I went to my gynecologist immediately. I had been on birth control pills for 6 years so my breasts were naturally denser. Therefore, I did not think anything could be wrong. She said that although it is rare for young women to experience serious problems with their breasts, I should go have a sonogram done that day. Discharging blood was definitely something to be concerned with.
I went to have a sonogram which showed tons of calcium deposits, which sonograms are not supposed to show. I had so many that the radiologist thought it would be a good idea to have a biopsy done that day so they could figure out if I am in real danger. The biopsy showed precancerous cells throughout my milk ducts but they did not know how widespread the cells were. The next week I had a mammogram, an MRI, another biopsy, and a lymph node biopsy, which showed that my right breast had precancerous cells throughout the linings of my milk ducts but it was not invasive. There were no lumps at all. This was not something that could be felt. On July 23, 2008 I was diagnosed with DCIS stage 0 breast cancer and I would need to have a right breast mastectomy.
What I learned from this experience is that no matter how afraid you are, when something does not feel right to you, you need to go to the doctor. Your health is too valuable, and although the doctor might tell you something you don't want to hear, it is better to hear it now before it's too late to do something about it.
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Laura Martin Diagnosed At 19
Why do we have to face the unexpected, unknown and unwanted events in life? I have gone through every imaginable emotion the past 2 months-anger, fear, shock, denial. It seems like a lifetime ago I was having a biopsy done on a lump I had found in my breast. Let me start from the beginning: I found the lump doing a BSE in April. I went to my gynecologist who told me not to worry about it, to cut back on my caffeine intake, and that it should go away after my period that month. Well 2 periods came and went, and the lump only seemed to be growing. My mom insisted that I go back, but I didn't think that there was any reason to - it wasn't cancer because I was too young, right? I discussed this with my boyfriend (now ex boyfriend), and he made me call right then and make another appointment. Even though he is since gone from my life, I'm so thankful that he was so insistent and made me realize that I needed to have this lump checked out. I went back to my gyno, who sent me to have a sonogram and mammogram done. I received word from him a few days later that the results showed no malignancies and that it appeared to be a fibroadenoma. He gave me the decision of leaving it in and having a needle biopsy done or having it removed and biopsied. For my own peace of mind - and the fact that I couldn't see leaving something in my body that didn't belong - I decided to have it removed. I remember being afraid before I went into surgery, but at the same time I kept telling myself that it was nothing. Nineteen year olds don't get breast cancer, especially not me.
Sitting in the recovery room after the biopsy was complete, I heard the words that I never expected to hear. On Sept 4, I was told I had cancer. I remember my mom was tearful and said, "Laura we need to tell you something. The tumor was malignant." I don't even remember how I reacted or what I said after that. My best friend later told me that I sat there crying, looked up confused and said, "So what? Does this mean I have cancer?" For the first few days, I couldn't say it. I would say instead "I had a malignant tumor." For some reason, this was easier than, "I have breast cancer." I was told that I had a rare type of breast cancer....a malignant phylloides tumor, or cystosarcoma. It appears similar to a fibroadenoma, which is why they didn't detect it with the sonogram and mammogram. While the research showed that it wasn't a type that metastized very rapidly which was encouraging, it also showed that there was not much evidence that told what was the best way to treat it. I was told by both doctors I saw, that a total mastectomy needed to be done to ensure that the cancer didn't locally recur. Both doctors told me that chemotherapy wasn't going to be necesarry in my case. I was told that with the type I had, there was nothing showing that it even responds to chemo if it had indeed already spread (which I know now, it hadn't spread). All that kept running through my mind was, "If it has spread, and it doesn't respond to chemo, what does that mean?" I was terrified that this thing was going to overtake me and I wasn't going to be able to beat it. I never thought at the age of 19, I would seriously wonder if I was going to live. I had my mastectomy and had a tissue expander inserted on October 9. I don't have many more fills left and I absolutely can't wait until my next surgery and get the expander out and have my right breast augmented so that I can be symmetrical and have normal looking breasts again!! My high school basketball coach (who is like my older sister) said to me the other day, "I don't think 3 years ago you would have been strong enough to handle this. Now you're a survivor, a cancer survivor, Laura. Can you believe it?" No, I really can't believe it, and I thank God for the strength He has given me to get me through this so that I am able to say it: I AM A SURVIVOR!!!
Sitting in the recovery room after the biopsy was complete, I heard the words that I never expected to hear. On Sept 4, I was told I had cancer. I remember my mom was tearful and said, "Laura we need to tell you something. The tumor was malignant." I don't even remember how I reacted or what I said after that. My best friend later told me that I sat there crying, looked up confused and said, "So what? Does this mean I have cancer?" For the first few days, I couldn't say it. I would say instead "I had a malignant tumor." For some reason, this was easier than, "I have breast cancer." I was told that I had a rare type of breast cancer....a malignant phylloides tumor, or cystosarcoma. It appears similar to a fibroadenoma, which is why they didn't detect it with the sonogram and mammogram. While the research showed that it wasn't a type that metastized very rapidly which was encouraging, it also showed that there was not much evidence that told what was the best way to treat it. I was told by both doctors I saw, that a total mastectomy needed to be done to ensure that the cancer didn't locally recur. Both doctors told me that chemotherapy wasn't going to be necesarry in my case. I was told that with the type I had, there was nothing showing that it even responds to chemo if it had indeed already spread (which I know now, it hadn't spread). All that kept running through my mind was, "If it has spread, and it doesn't respond to chemo, what does that mean?" I was terrified that this thing was going to overtake me and I wasn't going to be able to beat it. I never thought at the age of 19, I would seriously wonder if I was going to live. I had my mastectomy and had a tissue expander inserted on October 9. I don't have many more fills left and I absolutely can't wait until my next surgery and get the expander out and have my right breast augmented so that I can be symmetrical and have normal looking breasts again!! My high school basketball coach (who is like my older sister) said to me the other day, "I don't think 3 years ago you would have been strong enough to handle this. Now you're a survivor, a cancer survivor, Laura. Can you believe it?" No, I really can't believe it, and I thank God for the strength He has given me to get me through this so that I am able to say it: I AM A SURVIVOR!!!
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Ashley 1515 year old girl named Ashley gets a double mastectomy to battle her breast cancer. This is rare for someone her age, but this is not the only tragedy she's faced this year .
Ladies stay aware of any changes in your breast and let you doctor know about them, even if you feel like it is something small that will go away on it own. |
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According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer occurs about once in every 3,000 pregnancies.When you're pregnant, finding out that you also have breast cancer can be overwhelming. At the same time that you're hoping to bring a new life into the world, you enter into a fight to protect your own life. You may be concerned that the treatment you need could harm your baby. Or you may worry that treatment won't be as effective if you're pregnant.
Pregnancy causes your breasts to swell and become tender as milk ducts grow and stretch to prepare for breastfeeding. Because of the swelling, it may be more difficult to detect small lumps. For this reason, women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy tend to have more advanced cancers at diagnosis than other women with breast cancer. Still, most studies show that pregnant women respond to treatment as well as other women of the same age and with the same stage and type of breast cancer. It's important for you to do everything you can to treat the breast cancer so you can mother your baby for many years to come.
Pregnancy causes your breasts to swell and become tender as milk ducts grow and stretch to prepare for breastfeeding. Because of the swelling, it may be more difficult to detect small lumps. For this reason, women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy tend to have more advanced cancers at diagnosis than other women with breast cancer. Still, most studies show that pregnant women respond to treatment as well as other women of the same age and with the same stage and type of breast cancer. It's important for you to do everything you can to treat the breast cancer so you can mother your baby for many years to come.
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5 Shockingly Simple Breast Cancer Prevention Tips:
If you're a woman, breast cancer is probably right up there on your list of fears. It's either the most common or second-most common cancer to affect women, depending on whose numbers you use. Since one out of every eight women will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in her life, most of us probably know someone who has faced the disease.
That's the bad news. The good news? There are some very simple things you can do right now that will reduce your risk of breast cancer or improve your chances of survival if you do develop it.
1. Do monthly self-exams
2. Limit alcohol consumption
3. Control your weight
4. Exercise
5. Know your family history
That's the bad news. The good news? There are some very simple things you can do right now that will reduce your risk of breast cancer or improve your chances of survival if you do develop it.
1. Do monthly self-exams
2. Limit alcohol consumption
3. Control your weight
4. Exercise
5. Know your family history
Brenda Coffee
I Met Brenda At The 2013 Breast Health For Life Expo, A Breast Cancer Survivor Who Started A Blog To Help Women And Family Members Cope With Being Diagnosed. Brenda's Blog Has Been Nominated For 2012 Breast Cancer Activist Award, Voted Top Health Blogger In The Breast Cancer Community, An Has Been Awarded Top 10 Breast Cancer Blog By Blogs.com
www.breastcancersisterhood.com
www.breastcancersisterhood.com
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Thuggizzle Cares SupportersIf you would like a Thuggizzle Cares Shirt please see merchandise tab above. All Proceeds go to helping those in the community. We will be hosting breast health events, spreading breast cancer awareness, and help provide mammograms to those who have no insurance!
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