Amoena4Life 2022 - UK by Amoena

amoena 4 life Issue 2022

LIKE A PART OF ME Barbara talks about her second breast cancer diagnosis, her reasons for having a mastectomy, and finding a naturally lightweight breast form

COMPANION & COACH In conversation with Barbara Conrad about why working with a personal trainer could help you recover faster

AMOENA & ME Two of our customers share their product recommendations

www.amoena.co.uk

Selbstvertrauen unterstützen

EDITORIAL Dear Reader, For many years, it has been our goal to provide women with the best possible support after breast cancer. Our ambition is to constantly develop new products that meet your needs. In this issue, our survivor model Barbara tells us about her journey through the disease and the decision against breast reconstruction. She describes her experience with our most innovative breast form, the Adapt Air, with which we have set an even higher standard through the integrated Air Chamber Technology. You can read more about this on pages 6 to 8. To regain your self-confidence, it can help to seek professional support. Some physiotherapists and personal trainers have turned their focus to individual support after breast cancer therapy. With conviction, they take the approach that exercise has positive effects on your wellbeing and makes it easier to return to daily life. You can find out more on pages 12, 14 and 15. Since our mission is to be the number one contact when it comes to boosting women’s self-confidence, we work closely with women who have had breast cancer. This is the only way we can specifically address their needs. We are grateful for any form of feedback and would like to share the testimonials with you as well. Take a look at pages 16 and 17, where two of our customers share their experiences with Amoena products. This is just a brief overview of this year’s issue ‒with many more exciting topics to come! We hope you will enjoy the various articles and look forward in continuing our support to you on your individual journey. Yours sincerely, Sonja Leppelmann Global Head of Product Management & RnD

VALLETTA TOP

For further information visit our website at www.amoena.co.uk

Available in white, black and nude.

IN THIS ISSUE

EDITORIAL

LIKE A PART OF ME Barbara talks about her second breast cancer diagnosis, her reasons for having a mastectomy, and finding a naturally lightweight breast form.

PATIENT JOURNEY Here for you through your breast cancer journey from diagnosis to getting back on track.

HEALTHY, BUT STILL OVERWHELMED

Family members are also affected by the diagnosis of breast cancer. How do you manage to get through this difficult time together?

JUMP-START INTO EVERYDAY LIFE Expert advice on physical therapies and a closer look at lymphatic drainage.

WORDS OF WISDOM Motivational quotes that give courage.

18 RECIPE

Be inspired by a new recipe.

SUDOKU Challenge yourself with our Sudoku puzzle.

HELP THAT GIVES STRENGTH Why it's important to turn to professionals for help after a breast cancer diagnosis.

COMPANION AND COACH In conversation with Barbara Conrad about why working with a personal trainer could help you recover faster.

AMOENA & ME Two of our customers share their product recommendations.

PATIENT JOURNEY Every woman and every breast cancer case is unique. We understand the challenges you face and are here to support you every step of the way from diagnosis and treatment, through recovery and beyond. Wherever you are on your breast cancer journey, our products are designed to provide the comfort, support and confidence you need.

DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT PRIMARY SURGERY OPTIONS

THERAPY

·· Breast conserving surgery ·· Mastectomy ·· Primary reconstruction

·· Endocrine therapy ·· Chemotherapy ·· Radiotherapy

WHERE HEALING BEGINS RECOVERY CARE

CURASUPPORT COMPRESSION

CURASCAR SILICONES

CURASUPPORT COMFORT

CURASCAR GARMENTS

SECONDARY SURGERY OPTIONS ·· Reconstruction using implants ·· Reconstruction with autologous transplant

RECOVERY

WHERE CONFIDENCE GROWS BREAST FORMS AND SHAPERS

CUSTOM-MADE BREAST FORMS

ADAPT AIR

CONTACT

ENERGY

NATURA

ESSENTIAL

WHERE EVERYDAY LIFE CONTINUES LIVING

BREAST CARE APPAREL

LINGERIE

ACTIVE

BREAST FORMS & SHAPERS

THE AMOENA SOLUTION RECOVERY CARE PRODUCTS

BREAST CARE APPAREL

WELLNESS

SWIMWEAR

Happy r e h t e g to

Supporting Confidence

Spring /Summer

h 2022 available as of Marc

Autumn/ Winter

ember 2022 available as of Sept

SUNRISE

TIMELESS CHIC

INFINITY POOL

ASIAN GARDEN

One-Piece Bandeau

Sarong

ONE PIECE

FULL BODICE

“FEELS LIKE A PART OF ME” Barbara, Breast Cancer Survivor Model

BREAST FORMS & SHAPERS

FEMININE AND LIGHT– THIS SUITS ME! “I want to feel comfortable and enjoy wearing it,” says Barbara, describing the requirements for her breast form. “The fact that a small co-payment may be required on top of the usual coverage, didn’t matter to me.”

Barbara’s decision against breast reconstruction When Barbara was diagnosed with breast cancer again after 14 years, she was shocked. She eventually had to have both breasts removed. Breast reconstruction was an option, but after careful thought and consideration, she decided against it. Barbara realised that she was fighting for her survival and that it was not about beauty. The fear of letting go of her breasts ran deep. She remembers thinking: “They won’t grow back like hair after chemo!” The breast reconstruction would not have been without complications, as the skin on the right hand side had already been irradiated and the remaining skin layer was very thin. Having started and then cancelled expander therapy, she was able to judge from her own experience how strange it felt to have something unfamiliar added in her breast. It was easy for her to say no. Her motto in life became “Get healthy and stay healthy”. Looking back on her decision, she is relieved. Lots of sport and exercise have boosted her self-confidence. “I really feel good in my body once again. Yoga has particularly strengthened a healthy body image. I can lie on my stomach without complaints and work as a yoga teacher, which makes me very happy. The idea of breast reconstruction is now out of the question.”

Alternatives for breast replacement The day after the procedure is still very clear in her mind. “I remember when I looked down, it was a weird feeling. What I saw was just flat.” Still in the hospital, Barbara was fitted with initial fabric forms and a bra from the medical supply store. At the time, Barbara didn’t know which products were available and her concern was that she wouldn’t find anything appealing for herself. “My breasts were an important part of my identity at that point and I thought to myself, oh God, do I have to put up with such horrible bras now?” she openly admits. During her rehab, Barbara researched extensively via the internet and that's how she came across Amoena. She discovered that there are stylish bras in many colours, as well as breast forms in different shapes and weight options, self-adhesive or with a ventilationenhancing back. Customised according to the woman’s

need and liking. “I was so relieved and happy with the selection; combining the medical aspect with beauty. I’m still excited about the many options and am sure that everyone will find something pleasing here.”

I do not save on my wellbeing Barbara knew exactly how her ideal breast replacement should perform. “I have to feel comfortable with it and enjoy wearing it.” A breast form that didn’t come close to meeting her wishes was out of the question. The costs are generally covered by health insurance. For premium products that have special features for greater wearing comfort, a co-payment may be necessary. Price was not an issue for Barbara. Her biggest concern was feeling alive and comfortable. “I knew that I wasn’t going to skimp on my wellbeing because I am worth it.”

My natural silhouette During her research, Barbara discovered the Adapt Air breast form. “I am very happy with my breast form. It can be finely adjusted, is pleasingly light to wear and doesn’t feel like a foreign body, but like a part of me,” Barbara recounts. The breast form can be adjusted individually by means of an integrated air chamber. By adding air, the back gently nestles to the uneven scar tissue and the chest wall. The volume in the cup is balanced and the breast form sits close to the body, giving a symmetrically natural silhouette, providing a unique feeling of security, especially with a bilateral mastectomy. It is the gold standard in breast care and has won multiple awards. “The Adapt Air feels incredibly natural and looks unbelievably natural. No one unfamiliar with my history would guess that I wear a breast form. I’ve been able to experience that several times,” reports the survivor model. Barbara is happy with the breast form and Amoena’s support. “It’s great what Amoena is doing for us! I’ve been breastless for one and a half years now and am doing so well with it in a way I never thought possible.”

CONFIDENT AND SECURE WITH THE ADAPT AIR

2. The Adapt Air is a multi-award winning breast form that is very light and flexible in its handling. Air is added to or released from the air chamber until an optimal fit is achieved. The functionality is simple, with the help of a specially designed pump.

3. After fitting, the breast form is carefully inserted into the integrated pocket of the bra. “My silhouette always looks natural. The Adapt Air fits perfectly to my body. I hardly notice it when I wear it,” Barbara reports.

1 1. With its flexible and temperature regulating back, the Adapt Air sits comfortably close to the body. Due to its individual adjustment option, it is ideal for women with an uneven scar area or weight fluctuations, for example due to medication.

“With the Adapt Air you can’t see any difference to before. Therefore, I am grateful that I can often forget that I am now wearing a breast form and feel totally safe!” Sandra, Breast Cancer Survivor Model

“I always had the desire to share my experience and started writing a book. Then I discovered the model call on the Amoena website and thought, why not? This way I could show other women that life goes on and to try to give them courage. For me personally, a childhood dream has come true.” Barbara, Breast Cancer Survivor Model

Awards that recognise our innovation:

ADAPT AIR BREAST FORM BACK TO LIGHTNESS Exclusively for Breast Cancer Month in October, the Adapt Air breast form is available with a decorative heart imprint. For further information visit our website at www.amoena.co.uk and search for 'Adapt Air October Special Edition'.

HEALTHY, BUT STILL OVERWHELMED A diagnosis of breast cancer is a huge shock for every woman and turns her whole life upside down. But it can also take its toll on her partner and other family members. After all, they are in the front line, often providing the most emotional and practical support. Help is out there, however, and it’s important to know where to look.

“When my wife was diagnosed, it felt as if the rug had been pulled out from under our feet,” says Stephen. “We didn’t know what would happen next, what were her chances of survival, and what our future would look like. Everything was clouded by uncertainty. I was afraid for my wife, of course, but I also worried that I wouldn’t be able to carry the emotional and practical weight of supporting her, accompanying her on her journey and meeting her needs.” We're in this together

diagnosed, everyone will benefit – she will feel a deeper level of support and acceptance, while they will be able to discuss their fears and better understand what she is going through. It's also important for partners and relatives to take time out. If you’re completely exhausted from prolonged distress, not to mention the physical impact of caring for someone with cancer, you might not be able to help as effectively as you’d like. It’s best to try and continue with hobbies and keep seeing your friends – they are your safety net and pressure valve.

With a diagnosis of cancer, the emotional impact on partners or family members can be just as serious as on the woman herself. They feel the same fear, the same helplessness, have the same worries. Studies have confirmed that this is particularly true for a partner or spouse. Most men, for example, suffer from stress symptoms such as headaches, sleep disorders and feelings of restlessness, often going on to develop anxiety or depression.

It's also vital for couples to maintain an honest dialogue. Asking the other person how they feel and being open to exploring those feelings helps create a sense of standing together against the disease. One study that took place in Canada found that couples who talk about each other’s feelings experienced a deepening of their relationship during the illness which helped them face big decisions and major milestones more easily.

Fortunately, many organisations that offer counselling for cancer patients have now recognised this, with some extending support for the people close to them too. If couples and families understand more about the challenges a cancer sufferer faces as soon as she is

Talk to your GP or your breast care team to find out what emotional support is available for you, your partner and family members. Charities like Macmillan Cancer Support, Breast Cancer Now and Cancer Research UK also have useful information and tips.

Feel inspired by these motivational quotes. Cut out your favourite quote and hang it up in a place where you can take a look at it every day.

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away." Maya Angelou

Women are like teabags. We don’t know our true strength until we are in hot water. Eleanor Roosevelt

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." Oscar Wilde

"A girl should be two things: who and what she wants." Coco Chanel

"Don’t let them get you down. Be cheeky. And wild. And wonderful." Astrid Lindgren

I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and I believe in miracles. Audrey Hepburn

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. Maya Angelou

JUMP-START INTO EVERYDAY LIFE With shorter inpatient stays after breast surgery, it is a challenge for physiotherapists in the Breast Centre to provide optimal education, exercise guidance and recovery support. A subsequent outpatient physiotherapy is therefore advisable in all cases and a valuable jump-start back into everyday life.

“My goal is to provide therapeutic support for women after their inpatient stay, so they once again can cope independently with everyday life, without pain or restrictions.” Physiotherapist Sophia Oberprieler specialises in the treatment of women who have undergone breast surgery. With her Bachelor’s thesis in Physical Therapy, she intensely studied physiotherapeutic care options for women after breast cancer. “What impresses me most is the knowledge and individual goals of these women, which they often are able to define very clearly,” she describes. “They know where problems occur in their daily lives, what they need to be able to do to return to work, or what sportspecific movement skills they want to regain. That always challenges me and my therapeutic knowledge.”

Wide range of treatment options Every woman has her individual medical history, from minimal, invasive procedures to mastectomy, possibly in combination with radiation or chemotherapy. All of these aspects together hold a wide scope of responses. “Many women are unsettled after surgery and tend to put themselves in a protective posture. Others, on the other hand, have to be mindful in their activity,” the physiotherapist explains. Through manual therapy and therapeutic exercises, she enhances their ability to regain their security and mobility. All exercises are performed slowly and gently, and are also carefully increased, to build up strength. The treatment of scars around the chest, abdomen, legs or back – depending on the type of therapy – is important to improve discomfort, pain and appearance. If problems occur with the lymphatic flow, they can be helped with manual lymphatic drainage (see interview with Mr. Hemm). Physical therapy or hydrotherapy are also applied if necessary.

Consultation included “I also see myself as a mentor and try to find sensible therapy measures, even for side effects of chemotherapy. For example, I recommend Tai Chi and Qi Gong for depressive moods, fatigue or anxiety,” says Sophia. “Regular appointments, tips for everyday life and exercises as homework, help the women to stay on track and ensure progress in their treatment.” She also provides advice and support on assistive devices. For up to 6 weeks after surgery, she recommends a light compression bra to help in wound healing and support the lymphatic drainage. After the acute phase, a wellfitted everyday bra, as well as a matching sports bra, is especially important. For many of her patients, Sophia remains a valuable contact and source beyond outpatient aftercare.

EXPERT INTERVIEW

THE PROBLEM WITH THE LYMPH Interview with Mr. Hemm, Managing Director of Lymphologic Medizinische Weiterbildung GmbH, one of the leading continued education companies in lymphology in Germany.

What is lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is an accumulation of fluid in the tissues. It occurs due to damage to the pathways (lymphatic vascular system), as a result of which the normal amount of fluid cannot be removed as required. Such damage occurs, for example, during breast cancer surgery or radiation. How often does lymphoedema develop after breast cancer surgery? Where and when does it develop? There are no exact figures on the frequency. Due to modern therapy methods, breast cancer can often be operated on in a way that is gentle on the lymphatic vessels. Arm lymphoedema occurs rarely (in 5-7% of cases). However, due to the anatomy of the lymphatic vessels, lymphoedema of the breast and chest is very common. Post-operative oedema may develop immediately after surgery and fades away after a few days. Lymphoedema usually does not appear for weeks or months. Most patients describe the initial symptoms within the first two years. How does a woman know if she has lymphoedema? The first signs are a sense of tension combined with a slight swelling in the corresponding part of the body. Increased and deepened bra impressions are also symptoms. This is the right time to inform your doctor and discuss further procedures with them.

How does lymphatic drainage work and how long does the effect last? Manual lymphatic drainage improves lymphatic vessel function and the absorption and removal of tissue fluid. It shifts fluids to neighbouring areas of the body that are not edematized. Hardened connective tissue is loosened. After the therapy, these effects will slowly decrease again. Thus, lymphatic drainage is only one component in the complex physical decongestive therapy for the treatment of lymphoedema, in addition to appropriate compression therapy, skin care, exercise in compression and the patient’s daily active cooperation. What tools are available and where do women get them? In the case of breast lymphoedema, specially developed bras provide compression therapy. In combination with balance shapers or breast forms, they can be prescribed by any general practitioner and fitted in a specialised medical supply store. The most important thing is that patients can cope with the tools and that they are individually tailored to their needs. Can you prevent an oedema? Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a one hundred percent reliable prevention. According to current studies, the development of lymphoedema depends on many different factors. However, physical activity, i.e. adapted sports such as medical training therapy, water sports or Nordic walking, play an important role in therapy and also in prevention. The therapist can show some basic instructions which can be performed by the patient independently. Wearing the aids is an equally important factor along with self-management.

PHYSICALLY FIT, MENTALLY STRONG Personal training is only for Hollywood stars, right? Wrong! Tailored support from a personal trainer can help women with breast cancer get back on their feet faster.

Barbara Conrad, 65, worked as a personal trainer and mental health coach before she developed breast cancer. During her own treatment, she was able to observe how difficult it is for many women to come to terms with the disease – let alone get into an exercise regime. “Being diagnosed with breast cancer is always a shock. It was like that for me,” says Barbara. “Because of this, it’s difficult to think clearly about getting back to normal life – particularly when it comes to sports or exercise.” As a personal trainer, she finds she often provides both psychological and physical support. “I don’t want my clients to feel inhibited,” she says. “With me, they have someone at their side who will accompany them through all the ups and downs. It helps that I’ve been there myself.” Barbara explains that the persistence of the ‘victim’ role and a loss of trust in one’s own body can be key reasons not to take up or resume exercise after breast cancer. It’s easy to find reasons why you can’t do something. The energy to get active seems to have vanished. “Tears often flow in the first session,” she says. “Many women find it difficult to simply let go.”

Holistic approach Relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness training or yoga help with sleep disorders and can promote a feeling of serenity and inner balance. Usually women improve fast, which inspires them to focus on the future again. “On a mental level, I help women recognise their own potential and use it to develop their future perspectives and goals,” says Barbara.

“Always look ahead, be mindful and define new goals. Pick out the beautiful things in life and enjoy them.” Barbara Conrad, Personal Trainer and Mental Health Coach

Personalised and flexible “The biggest benefit of my job from my client’s perspective is the one-to-one support,” she explains. “Women can feel lost at the end of their therapy schedule, not knowing what’s next or how to go from day to day. I help them develop a sense of what they can do with their bodies. No matter what shape they are in on any given day, there are always ways I can support them.” This one-to-one focus creates a level of trust that can provide a crucial emotional outlet. Training sessions take place either at the client’s home or in Barbara’s studio. She has also accompanied women into hospital. Her advice on when to start her programme is the sooner the better, so that physical strength can be maintained during chemotherapy and beyond. Even one appointment per week provides valuable support. The personal trainer and coach should have their focus on the client’s individual needs, bringing his or her own life experience to the relationship. It can take time to find the right trainer, so getting help on a physical and mental level is worth researching as a way of finding your way back to everyday life after breast cancer.

COMPANION Barbara Conrad (65) worked as a personal trainer AND COACH and mental health coach before she developed breast cancer. During her own therapy, she was able to observe how difficult it is for many women to come to terms with the disease.

GOOD TO KNOW

SPORT WITH BREAST CANCER

One thing scientists agree on is that sport and fitness activities have positive effects on the wellbeing of cancer patients and can help them actively fight the disease. But women who are going through breast cancer treatment often lack the energy to follow an exercise programme regularly. Many are also unsure about just how energetic they should be. This is where a personal trainer comes in, acting as an expert guide who both advises and motivates.

Studies have proved that exercise therapy helps cancer patients from the day of diagnosis – not just after chemotherapy or surgery. Oncologists at the Rechts der Isar Clinic at the Technical University of Munich have even claimed that sport is as important as medication in the treatment of cancer.

AMOENA & ME

ACCEPT THE BODY AS IT IS NOW Viktoria Lass (50) has made peace with herself and her body. The Amoena Balance Shaper gives her the security that her breast looks “normal” in everyday life. Why do you wear a breast shaoer? So that my breasts look even. Unlike the surgeon, I was not satisfied with the result at the beginning. When did you notice that your breasts were different sizes? I was operated on five times; in 2006 I had a breastpreserving operation with implant. Three years later, after a recurrence, the entire breast tissue was removed and an implant was inserted again. After this operation, it was immediately apparent that the breast needed additional adjustment. Did you know before the procedure that you may need a breast shaper? At that time, I was not aware that the operated breast would be much smaller. When the bandage was removed after the last operation, I was caught by surprise. I did not anticipate this outcome.

How did you find out about the shaper? At the hospital, the employee of a medical supply store informed me. After I was discharged, I immediately started looking. But it took some time before I found the medical supply store I trusted and the right shaper, the Amoena Essential MD. Now, I feel like I am in good hands. What does the shaper offer you in everyday life? It offers me comfort and the security that my breasts look symmetrical. At first I was very insecure. Sometimes, I used to wear the shaper at night, which I no longer do. But the more confident I have become, the better I can cope with my changed body. Is there anything else you would like to share with Amoena4Life readers? The most important thing for me is to be able to accept my body as it is, with satisfaction and gratitude. The serenity I have today is something I would wish for all affected women.

THE PERFECT BALANCE

Your feedback: readers review and rate Amoena products We would like to thank Viktoria and Antje who feature in this issue.

“ASYMMETRICAL? JUST THE HAIRCUT” In May 2019, the diagnosis of breast cancer hit Antje Reich, then 43, out of the blue. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, she underwent breast-conserving surgery. Reconstruction was neither planned nor necessary for the breast, which was now a third smaller. Nevertheless, she felt her “misalignment” physically as well as psychologically. Did you know before surgery that you might need a shaper? Even before the cancer, my breasts were unequal in size. The result of the breast-conserving surgery was visually quite successful, but there was a lot missing on the “outside left”. This seriously increased my natural volume imbalance, which was visible even in a winter sweater. But at first it didn’t seem to matter to me, the main thing was to be cancer-free. In the clinic, the lady from the medical supply store informed me that I could wear a balance shaper at a late date - a health insurance benefit and, compared to another operation, a flexible solution. But I should still wait because of possible changes in the operated breast, especially by radiation which would follow. How did you find out about the shaper? As part of my follow-up treatment, I had an appointment in the “lingerie room” before discharge. I was given an Amoena balance shaper together with a new “comfort bra” and immediately had the feeling of being complete again.

Amoena’s Balance product line offers a wide variety of different shapers that adhere directly to the skin or are inserted into the bra. They are available in different shapes, sizes, volumes and weight options to individually compensate for breast asymmetry. Their thin tapered edges create a particularly natural transition to the body and are invisible under clothing. Most shapers have temperature-equalising Comfort+

What shaper are you currently wearing? I never want to give up the Balance Adapt Air Varia. Its cool AirChamber Technology helps me adjust my symmetry in the bra according to my needs. Thanks to the anti-hormone therapy, I am constantly struggling with weight fluctuations which can be seen in the cup. Plus, I still have a few favourite bras in my closet from before surgery, so I make them “fit” with the Balance Adapt Air. What is different in comparison to before? What does the shaper offer you? I am a “head person”. The shaper gives me the feeling “I am not unequal now”. Not only does it help my confidence, but it also helps with my neck pain. I wear the shaper directly against my skin and really don’t feel it at all. It literally snuggles up and even adjusts to my body temperature. I can feel my posture is more upright. My ‘non-surgical balance helper’ is just the right solution for me now and a real alternative to the proposed reduction surgery‒probably for life. Follow Antje on Instagram: @ant.je11

material on the back, which reduces unpleasant heat build-up and perspiration under the shaper and guarantees optimal wearing comfort. The Balance Adapt Air shaper with innovative AirChamber Technology, offers a particularly snug fit. This allows you to adjust the volume yourself, whether to even out breast tissue or to wear your favourite bra. For further information go to: www.amoena.co.uk/shapers

HELP THAT GIVES STRENGTH Anyone diagnosed with breast cancer will need help and support. Family members and friends are a valuable source, but professional help shouldn’t be ignored. The right input at the right time can support both treatment and recovery, making it easier to return to normal life.

“I couldn’t have done it without my best friend/husband/neighbour.” Many women diagnosed with breast cancer will tell you how important their loved ones were during their treatment and recovery. Without a doubt, people close to you help give you the courage you need to deal with the illness and overcome it. But it’s important to remember that cancer drains a lot of strength – not just from the sufferer but from those around them. Their partner, children and friends have to process and deal with the impact of the diagnosis on them too. Daily life has to continue: household chores, shopping, the school run, children’s hobbies and homework, these still need to be organised and someone has to make sure they’re done. Understandably, though, many women find it difficult to ask for help. Dealing with the disease is hard enough – they are afraid of being a burden on others, particularly if they’ve always been independent and in control up to this point.

It's OK to be supported Yet now, more than ever, it’s important to admit to yourself that it’s sensible, even vital, and completely OK to be supported – and to accept that this help is gladly given. It’s also crucial to know when to call on external help. In the UK there are many organisations that offer practical support to people going through breast cancer. These range from professional carers to charities like Macmillan Cancer Support and Breast Cancer Now, to your district nurse, local support groups and neighbourhood groups run by churches and local hospitals.

There’s a wide range of assistance on offer, from help with budgeting or applying for financial support or care services, to self-help and support groups, to information about courses, classes and de-stressing treatments or therapies. It’s definitely worth getting a complete picture of the options available, to find out which might be best for you. Ask your breast care nurse or the patient liaison team at your hospital, join an online chat room or Facebook group, or Google the type of support you’re looking for to see what’s available in your area. If there’s a breast cancer support group you can join, online or in person, it’s worth exploring this – you’ll be sharing your concerns and questions with other women who are facing similar issues and will be only too pleased to tell you what they know.

BUTTERMILK ASPARAGUS SALAD

An easily prepared salad with fresh asparagus and buttermilk. The combination is not only super easy to prepare, but also healthy and delicious. Suitable as a side dish or main course. Bon appétit.

Preparation 1. For the dressing, combine the garlic and salt on a cutting board. Mash it to a paste with the flat side of the knife. 2. Pour into a medium bowl or jar, then add buttermilk and vinegar. Whisk to combine, then gradually whisk in the olive oil. Let this stand while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Here’s how it works: A Sudoku consists of rows, columns and 9 squares, each of which consists of 3x3 small boxes. Each row, each column and each square must be filled with the numbers 1-9. But be careful: The numbers must not repeat within the row, column or square.

SOLUTION 1 5 7

4 6

7 2

3 8 9

1 8 1 7 5 3

9 5 4 8 1

2 4 5 6 7

5 1 4 7 6 8 9 3 2

2 9 5 4 1 3 6 7 8

8 7 1 2 5 6 3 9 4

6 4 3 8 7 9 1 2 5

SUDOKU PUZZLE ENJOYMENT

4. Just before serving the salad, combine the asparagus, beans, cilantro and sprouts in a large bowl. Generously coat with a drizzle of the buttermilk dressing and toss well before serving.

Ingredients for 4-6 people garlic fine-grained sea salt buttermilk white wine vinegar virgin olive oil asparagus cooked beans of your choice chopped cilantro sprouts

1 1 pinch 240ml 60ml 60ml 1 bunch 1 handful 1 handful 1 handful

3. You can sauté or steam the asparagus. Start with a cold pan. Add 60 ml of water, a splash of olive oil and a big pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and steam until the asparagus is just tender. When draining, transfer to a cold water bath to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Supporting Confidence

My a r b e t i r u o v fa TIAN

NON

-W I

RED

A BRA

INA K A RWOIRLE D B R A

NON-

ELIZA

N O N -W IR

ED BRA

ID-9901-05/22

imprint Amoena4Life 2022, amoena.de | Publisher: Amoena Medizin-Orthopädie-Technik GmbH, Kapellenweg 36, 83064 Raubling | Editor: Antonia Sprengel | Featuring: Andrea Becher, Nadine Wiesner, Johanna Sjöblom, Franziska Schlag | Text: Antal Adam p.7, p.11 and p.16, Claudia Reichl p.14-15 and p.18-21, Cosima Konhäuser p.2, Anna Hirte p.9-10 | Design: Anna Shepherd | Photography: Fotografie Torsten Hönig title, p.3, p.5, p.8 and p.17, Michael Goldenbaum p.6 and p.10, Maximilian Greiner p.14, Frank Lothar Lange p.19, Stefanie Schanzel p.21, Anna Hirte p.3 and p.23, Shutterstock p.3, p.6-7 and p.11 | Recipe: 101cookbooks.com | Print: Vorarlberger Verlagsanstalt GmbH - Dornbirn, Austria | Contact: info.de@amoena.com | All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of the content in any form is strictly prohibited without the prior written permission of the publisher. The customer magazine Amoena4Life is published once a year online.. Amoena assumes no liability for pictorial or typographical errors. Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any use made of or reliance on the accuracy of this information. None of the information is a substitute for professional care, nor is it intended to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. If you have or suspect you have a health problem, you should consult your doctor. No liability for unsolicited manuscripts. The editors reserve the right to edit and shorten letters to the editor.

Breast Forms, Shapers, Recovery Care Garments, Silicone Patches, Pocketed Bras und pocketed Swimwear Amoena is an ISO 9001 / 13485 / 14001 certified company. Amoena is a registered trademark of Amoena Medizin-Orthopädie-Technik GmbH. © 2022 All rights reserved Amoena Medizin-Orthopädie-Technik GmbH, 83064 Raubling, Germany

Amoena UK Ltd 1 Eagle Close, Chandlers Ford Eastleigh, Hampshire SO53 4NF www.amoena.com/uk-en Selbstvertrauen unterstützen