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Word of The Month: Triple Negative Breast Cancer Who gets triple negative breast cancer? About 15-20 percent of all breast cancers in the U.S. are TNBC. Anyone can get this type of breast cancer. But, research shows that it occurs more often in: • Younger women • African American women • Women who have BRCA1 mutations
What makes triple negative cancer unique? TNBC is less likely to be found on a mammogram. It is also aggressive. Compared to other breast cancers, it tends to grow faster. It can be treated, but it may recur (come back) early and spread to other parts of the body. Part of the reason is due to the lack of targeted treatments. TNBC has a poorer outcome (at least for the first five years after diagnosis) than estrogen receptor-positive tumors. Still, if breast cancer hasn’t recurred within five years, the chance of survival is higher. This is good news for five-year survivors. Breast cancer is often referred to as a single disease. But, there are many types of breast cancer. It can even be called a family of diseases. All breast cancers start in the breast. So, they are the same in some ways, but differ in others. The type of breast cancer affects prognosis (outcome) and treatment options. All breast cancer cells are tested for certain proteins (receptors). These tests look for estrogen and progesterone hormones and HER2/neu. If the cells test “positive,” this means there are many receptors. If the cells test “negative,” there are few or none. There are many treatment options for cells that test “positive,” but fewer options for those that don’t. The result of these tests helps guide treatment.
What is triple negative breast cancer? Triple negative breast cancers (TNBC) are: • Estrogen receptor-negative (ER-); • Progesterone receptor-negative (PR-); and • HER2/neu-negative (HER2-). So, TNBC does not have any of these receptors that are targets for treatment we have today.
The above list of resources is only a suggested resource and is not a complete listing of breast cancer materials or information. The information contained herein is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or to replace the services of a medical professional. Komen does not endorse, recommend or make any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, quality or noninfringement of any of the materials, products or information provided by the organizations referenced herein. The Running Ribbon is a registered trademark of Susan G. Komen®.
Related fact sheets in this series: • Clinical Trials • Current Research on Drugs and Treatments • Genetics and Breast Cancer • How Hormones Affect Breast Cancer • Prognostic Factors • Racial and Ethnic Differences • Young Women and Breast Cancer
Treatment options TNBC is treated with a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Because it tests negative for the three receptors mentioned above, it isn’t treated with hormone or targeted therapy. Chemotherapy works well in TNBC. It may work even better for TNBC than for other types of breast cancer. Sometimes chemotherapy is given before surgery. This is called neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This may shrink a tumor enough so that a lumpectomy becomes an option. The response to this treatment may also give information on prognosis. If TNBC responds well, the chance of survival is higher.
Research Clinical trials are looking for new targets in TNBC. There are also trials testing new treatments. Research is ongoing.
Resources BreastCancerTrials.org 415-476-5777 Living Beyond Breast Cancer 1-888-753-5222 www.lbbc.org National Cancer Institute 1-800-4-CANCER www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation 1-877-880-TNBC (8622) www.tnbcfoundation.org ©2013 Susan G. Komen® Item No. KOMEED079100 10/13
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left breast) at the beginning of the year of 2013 along with radiation treatments. I am now "Cancer Free."
y name is Donna Michelle Kittrell and owner of DMochelle Fashions, my passion is to help heal the wounds of hurting people inward as well as their outward appearance. My background in Retail with ten years of Management experience working for Victoria Secret and Nordstrom as a Bra Specialist Fitter. This amazing experience with taking time with clients who had Mastectomy surgery has given me the understanding of their needs. It is a delightful feeling when they would walk out of my presence feeling great with smiles after the tears and embarrassed. I also worked for New York Presbyterian Hospital in the Breast Clinic. I wanted to bring sunshine to their faces. There has been very close family and friends who have passed away from Breast Cancer.
M
In the 2012, I started writing my vision on DMochelle Fashions (one's physical attractiveness, especially with regard to the use of cosmetics and other methods of enhancing their lives). By the end of that year, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer as Stage 0 Cancer (thank God I had a mammogram early) and had surgery (two lymph nodes were removed and tissue removed from the
DMochelle Fashion Means: A beautiful women, her reputation as great beauty and the combination of qualities that make something pleasing and impressive to look at, listen to and great smiles. Her personal and physical attractiveness, especially with regard to the use of cosmetics and other methods of enhancing her goodness.
" Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53: 4-5
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Cherish your children Her children arise and call her blessed. Proverb 31:28 One of the greatest blessings we can give our children is a strong sense of family identity. That's the reason two of the most powerful words in any child's vocabulary are "we always." It means they have a sense of family identity. Example:
A Granddaughters' Story
Dymond and I, we always have so much to talk about from the age 2 years old to now. I would come and get her on weekends, we would do things together like for instance: go to beauty salon and we would all get our hair and nails done, baking some goodies, going shopping and have fun. She has a love for school from the time she started kindergarten an even today. She also talked about being a teacher. Dymond is a honor roll student from the time she started going to school. Around bed time, we had many conversations and one of them was about God. she has grown so nicely. I am very proud of my one and only granddaughter. She has given me joy since the time she was born and I cherish every moment with her.
By Dymond Franklin Nanna: Donna M, Franklin My Nanna is a breast cancer survivor. I felt sad when I found out my Nanna had breast cancer and now since it’s all gone and over, and God took care of it I feel relieved. I am not worried as much as before , because I really Love my Nanna more than anything except for God, because he kept her here.
When she found out I had breast cancer, it made her worry. But I taught her that a pure heart God always listens too. So I said to her, if you pray for me that God will remove the cancer and heal your Nanna and I will live on in this life. He would heal me of cancer and he did it. Dymond is Nanna personal stylists. She puts my makeup on, eye lashes, and makes sure my colors are coordinated, she love to wear my shoes. What will I do without my Dymond because she is a diamond that shines so bright. Nanna love her to life.
By Donna Michelle Kittrell
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Origins of the Pink Ribbon These days ribbons are worn for many different causes. Red signifies AIDS awareness. A yellow ribbon has long represented support for armed forces. However, one of the most prominent ribbon colors is pink, which aims to raise awareness of and support for breast cancer. Pink is a color that is uniquely feminine, and it also represents a person full of health and vibrancy; think of little babies pink with life. Pink is also a color that seems the complete antithesis of cancer, and thusly inspires hope for renewed health and survival. There is some controversy surrounding the origins of the breast cancer mascot... the pink ribbon. There are also suggestions that the ribbon was intended to be peach and not pink. In 1992, just about every organization started using ribbons to raise awareness. The New York Times actually dubbed 1992 "The Year of the Ribbon." Alexandra Penney, the then-editor of Self magazine, wanted to create a ribbon for the publication's second annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month issue. The previous year she had worked with cosmetics giant Estee Lauder. Evelyn Lauder, the senior corporate vice president, was herself a breast cancer survivor. Penney thought a collaboration between the magazine and Lauder could see a ribbon on cosmetic counters across the nation, and help sell a few magazines in the process.
The trouble was Penney had read a story about a 68year-old woman, Charlotte Haley, who was producing handmade ribbons in her home. Haley had a number of people in her immediate family who had battled breast cancer and her handmade "peach" ribbons intended to raise awareness about the limited government funds being used for breast cancer research. Haley's message was spreading by word of mouth. Penney and Lauder contacted Haley and wanted to further collaborate on the peach ribbon theme. However, Haley didn't want to be involved, saying the effort would be too commercial. She refused to turn over rights to the use of the peach ribbon. As a result, Penney consulted with attorneys who said to come up with another color, and pink was eventually chosen. Pink had already been associated with breast cancer in the past. Just a few years earlier, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation had given out pink visors to its "Race for the Cure" participants. It had also created a pink ribbon. The pink ribbon quickly took off by leaps and bounds. Millions were distributed by Estee Lauder. There are many philanthropic and commercial businesses who now use the pink ribbon in their breast cancer marketing plans. Every October, women are urged to don pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One can find the pink ribbon adorning everything from cereal boxes to cans of cleanser. Many embrace the pink ribbon as a symbol of hope, one that has done its share of work toward spreading the word about the need for more breast cancer awareness and research.
Researched and provided by Pamela Henderson (20 years Cancer Survivor)
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Model: Stacey Greene Design by DMochelle Fashions 8
Model: Pamela Henderson Design by DMochelle Fashions 9
Model: Pamela Henderson Design by DMochelle Fashions 10
Model: Alizah Saladin Design by DMochelle Fashions
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Model: Mia Querida Design by DMochelle Fashions 12
Model: Pamela Henderson Design by DMochelle Fashions 13
Submitted by Pamela Henderson (20 year cancer survivor) Good for cleaning blood Ingredients 1 pound sorrel 1/2 gallon water Sugar 2-4 oz. ginger Pimento (allspice) grains- a few (optional) Preparation Wash sorrel thoroughly, drain and place in bowl. Peel and grate ginger and add to sorrel. Add pimento berries. Boil water and pour over sorrel. Allow to stand for at least 4-6 hours. Strain, then sweeten and add rum to taste. Serve chill.
More Healthily Choices: Amaranth greens – same as Callaloo, a variety of Spinach Avocado Asparagus Bell Peppers Burro Banana Chayote (Mexican Squash) Cucumber Dandelion greens Garbanzo beans (chick peas)-optional Izote – cactus flower/ cactus leaf- grows naturally in California Jicama Kale Lettuce (all, except Iceberg) Mushrooms (all, except Shitake)
Mustard greens Nopales – Mexican Cactus Okra Olives (and olive oil) Onions Poke salad -greens Sea Vegetables (wakame/dulse/arame/hijiki/nori) Squash Spinach (use sparingly) String beans Tomato – cherry and plum only Tomatillo Turnip greens Zucchini
Nutritional Guide | Fruits No canned fruits or Seedless fruits Apples Bananas – the smallest one or the Burro/mid-size (original banana) Berries – all varieties- Elderberries in any form – no cranberries Cantaloupe Cherries Currants Dates Figs Grapes -seeded Limes (key limes preferred with seeds) Mango Melons -seeded Orange (Seville or sour preferred, difficult to find ) Papayas Peaches Pears Plums Prunes Raisins -seeded Soft Jelly Coconuts (and coconut oil) Soursops –Latin or West Indian markets) Sugar apples (chermoya) 14
Nutritional Guide | Nuts & Seeds (Includes nut & seed butters) Raw Almonds and Almond butter Raw Brazil Nuts (I added this item) Raw Sesame Seeds Raw Sesame “Tahini” Butter Walnuts/Hazelnut
Nutritional Guide | Spices – Seasonings Achiote Basil Bay leaf Cayenne Cilantro Coriander Cumin Dill Garlic (I added this item) Marjoram Onion Powder Oregano Powdered Granulated Seaweed (Kelp/Dulce/Nori – has “sea taste”) Pure Sea Salt Sage Sweet Basil Tarragon Thyme
Nutritional Guide | Sugars 100% Pure Agave Syrup – (from cactus) Date “Sugar” (from dried dates) 100% Pure Maple Syrup – Grade B recommended Maple “Sugar” (from dried maple syrup)
Nutritional Guide | Alkaline Grains Amaranth Black Rice Kamut Quinoa Rye Spelt Tef Wild Rice
Nutritional Guide | All Natural Herbal Teas
Alvaca Anise Chamomile Cloves Fennel Ginger Lemon grass Red Raspberry Sea Moss Tea
Organ Cleansing Herbs Along with following the above Nutritional Guide, I also take the following herbs to clean and revitalize my organs: Burdock Root – blood and liver cleanser, diuretic, Bladderwrack (seaweed) – vitamin, and mineral supplement Black Walnut (I added this item) – kills parasites Bromelain & Papain (I added this item) – dissolves proteins in the small intestines Chia Seed (I added this item) – increase energy, antiinflammatory, colon cleanser, high in essential fatty acids, protein and mineral source Chlorella (algae) (I added this item) – protein, vitamin, and mineral supplement, detoxifier Curcumin (I added this item) – antioxidant, supports brain, cardiovascular, and joint health Dandelion – blood and liver cleanser Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) – strengthens the body against colds Flax Seed (I added this item) – fights against heart disease, cancers, diabetes, high essential fatty acids Irish Moss (seaweed) – vitamin, and mineral supplement Kelp (seaweed) (I added this item) – vitamin, and mineral supplement Milk Thistle (I added this item) – liver cleanser and rejuvenator Mullein (I added this item) – removes mucus in the small intestines Oil of Oregano (I added this item) – antiviral Sarsaparilla – blood purifier, diuretic, antibacterial, antiinflammatory Spirulina (algae) (I added this item) – protein, vitamin, and mineral supplement St. John's Wort (I added this item) – antidepressant, antiviral Wormwood Leaf (I added this item) – kills parasites References: Dr. Sebi Nutritional Guide
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Breast Cancer: 4 Foods to Avoid Today, we list some dietary habits to avoid, as they may increase the risk of breast cancer.
The Skinny Blast
2 handful spinach 1 banana 1/8 cup pumpkin seeds 1 orange (peeled) 1 carrot 1-2 tbsp hemp seeds
1. Eating too much fat. Keep your dietary fat content moderate - below 25 percent of your daily calories is ideal. 2. Consuming polyunsaturated omega-6 fats (including many vegetable oils), and hydrogenated oils (margarines and vegetable shortenings) can all increase cancer risks. Minimize consumption of all. 3. Drinking alcohol. Even in modest amounts, alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. 4. A daily intake of conventionally raised meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. These may contain hormone residues that influence estrogen metabolism. Replace with organic, hormone-free versions.
Cholesterol Crusher Blast
2 handfuls kale 1 cup blueberries ½ banana ⅓ cup cooked oatmeal 10 almonds 2 tbs raw cacao
The Hormone Helper
¼ small raw beet 10 red seedless grapes 2 small broccoli florets 10 raspberries 1 tbsp goji berries ½ small avocado (pitted and peeled) 1 tsp olive oil
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Happy Thanksgiving to all the families
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: Psalm 63: 3-5
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20 Year Cancer Survivor: Pamela Henderson, her Story and her designs: Born and raised in Brooklyn King’s County on January 26, 1960, At the age of 34, I was working, raising my children two boys. I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had no energy at all. So I went to the doctor, he said he would take some test because of my complains. I then notice that under my arm the auxiliary there was a little lump that I felt. I didn’t think too much about it, and so I told my doctor about it. He said you’re too young to get breast cancer. So when home and few days later the lump began to give me pain and the area became red. I went back to the doctor’s office, I was given a mammogram and some other test. All my test results they found nothing. My physician said I had Bursitis and gave me shots for it for 6 months. I took these shots and the pain did not subside and I continue to have pain. My mother said you need a second opinion. I went for a second opinion and that’s when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I was in shock when I got a call that my biopsy came back positive. It was malignant. I was 34 years old and asked how could this be happen to me. I have 2 sons that need me. I fell to the floor and screamed
loud as I could, I was in shock and out of control. I was with my son and my son said to me mom it’s going to be okay. My dad came and consoles me and told me I was going to make it thought this. DMochelle: Stated Pam I know this had to be very hard to swallow and to take in. I know that when I was diagnose as well I walked out of the hospital in totally shock. I start talking to God and ask him why me lord ? I hear his voice said you have to be touch by this to understand what it feels like to go thought it. I was designing dresses for breast cancer women that had gone thru a double mastectomy. So that was a bomb drop in my chest and it was heavy to bear and understand what just happen. Thank God for family. I called my two sisters who are twins and as I was walking home they were so helpful to clam my fears. Family and friends are the most important people to call on when you receive bad news like this. And I believe that everyone takes bad news different than others. Pam: And to have a been tested once and then had to go be tested again is unexcitable. Also to say your too young to have breast cancer. Well now its not 40 or 50, its 20 and plus. Everyone should be tested and test yourself for lumps. And if you had family members that tested positive for breast cancer get tested early, it could save your life. 18
Pam: My Doctor told me I was at stage 2. I had to have eleven limp nodes removed. My treatment was radiation and chemotherapy. As I went through my treatments I had hair loss all over my body and face. I had some wigs to fit my face, and for makeup I penciled in my eyebrows. I began to crochet hats to wear on my head because I had no hair. The hats were very stylist to wear and people loved my look but I still felt ugly and not pretty. From 1994 to 2014, it’s now different because there are so many ways of looking good now. The program Look good feel better, support groups. I embrace what I look like. I began to crochet dresses, hats, gloves, scarf and ponchos and much more. Chemo was the worst part of my journey. I had it for two weeks, I was in bed all the time. My mother may she RIP has gone home from cancer this year and I miss her so much. She would make me oatmeal smoothie. Which was the only thing that gave me strength to get out of my bed. She would take oatmeal and honey and carnation milk and blend it. And with being nauseous, those smoothie help keep it down. I weigh 140lbs and went down to 120lbs. I recover well with stage 2 cancer I no longer had the cancer in my body. DMochelle :
battling of breast cancer. You are a walking testimony. Pam with your strong believe in God and prayer and encouraging others and counseling women that were in your stage. You was so sick and you still got up and help others going thru to be strong. Pam: Yes five years later, I had pain under the breast rib cage area. I did a mammogram with an Ultrasound and the biopsy and I was again diagnosed with cancer once again. DMochelle: What was the pain like? Pam: Pinching constantly with pain as a needle. So now I had to have a mastectomy and a tram flap tissue remove from my belly and cover the nipple area. In 2009, it came back in the left breast, it was very aggressive so I had to have a mastectomy. Now I have triple Negative Breast Cancer which I have my bad days and good day. There is no cure but with the grace of God gives my strength every day I wake up with new mercy that god gives me and happy to be alive and well. I will continue to support other breast cancer women. I speak at many conferences to encourage women to have faith and there is hope.
I so sorry that you lost your mother and thank you for do this interview with me and inform many people that are going thought their Journey and 19
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Male Breast Cancer Story by Ambrose Kirkland
On November 01, 2001 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This condition may not raise eyebrows unless it happened to you and you happened to be a woman. In my case, breast cancer raised more than a few eyebrows since I am a man. Believe, me I was shocked and surprised. Nevertheless, I went through a mental experience that few men ever stop and think about, even in their wildest dreams. I guess you could say I found this lump many years ago. I just didn’t pay too much attention to it. I knew I had problems with my breast size, but always thought that it was due to the fact that I was heavy. Guys who are fat usually have a lot of fatty tissue, so that’s what I thought it was. I’m sure people noticed that I had larger breasts then most men, but I didn’t know that it would turn out to be cancer. I was on a mission to suppress them. I would wear small tee-shirts, sometimes wearing them two sizes too small. I would even go so far as getting an ace bandage and wrap it around my breast. The best thing that worked for me is when I wore a medium to large tee-shirt, this of course is after I had sewn up the
sides to compress the breast area. This tactic seems to work for me for seven or eight years. As a matter of fact, I kept up the deception until October 2001. Keeping my breast under wrap was not an easy job as you can see. Before the biopsy I did not or would not say anything to anyone because I just thought it was a twinge of pain here and there. When I did discover the lump, it was April 2001. Ignoring it , until the late August 2001, when I started noticing little spots of blood on my tight white tees. Now I am thinking, what in the hell is going on now? A lot of things went through my mind, but a discharge from my nipple? This was the furthest thing from my mind. The spots started getting larger and larger and when woke up I would see more and more blood. The months of September and October were spent going back and forth to the doctors and taking what seemed like an endless battery of tests. I don’t see how women can get a mammogram every year., but I actually had to get a mammogram. Next I was seen by Dr. Sieloff who said it was probably a cyst. They found some calcifications from the mammogram and the doctors just wanted to make sure that was all it was. So I had a biopsy done on that Monday October, 30, 2001. Since I had my biopsy, I still wore my tee-shirts sewn up the sides, not to hide my breast but to support them. Waited all week for the results. On Friday, Dr. Sieloff called at 4:45pm and told us that it was malignant. I had breast cancer. And so it begins…. My mama and I were on separate phones when the doctor called. When Dr. Sieloff said the word “malignant” Mama and I locked eyes at that instant. Not only did I see the pain in her eyes, but I saw my life from my birth up to that moment. It was a look that I will probably never see again, a mother's love for her child. I saw something that I 21
have never seen before in my life, in just a split second. I will always remember this look as long as I live. We were told I had to have a radical double mastectomy. I was interviewed by Julie M of the local television station. I needed to tell my family and close friends. I called Rick K, he told me not to worry about anything. I went and had my surgery on December 13, 2001. Even though both breasts have been completely removed, I still actually feel something going on inside of me. I had a somewhat semi conversation with my sister Angie. I can’t consider it a brain-buster; to me it was just so-so. We talked about God and that maybe he gave me this cancer because I was stronger. If a woman in the family had developed cancer, like maybe Mama or Reba, I was probably a bit stronger than they were; but then I don’t think so.
cancer; it was right during the time of the World Trade Center 9 /11 crises, when the attack on America happened. I told Mama that the reason God didn’t listen to my prayers was that he’s too busy with the people up in New York. He’s too busy with their lives, so maybe that’s why he’s really not listening to my prayers. With everything that’s going on up there, maybe he doesn’t have the time to listen to what I have to say. From June 2002 through July 2002 I endured ten and a half weeks of radiation at The Northeast Cancer Center of Florida. I was told I couldn’t have chemotherapy because of the estrogen in it would make me even sicker. The cancer has come back only once, but I’m in remission now. I continue to fight every day for all persons with breast cancer, especially men. Sadly on October 19 2013 my biggest supporter, my mama Lora Kirkland passed, but I continue to fight on with her spirit beside me.
I try to help people to understand that I hate having it. I wish I didn’t have it. So that’s how the conversation went. Mostly, she tried to make me understand God’s point of view on the reason why I have this terrible disease. I felt that when God needed me to find him or understand him, I wouldn’t. So now that I need to feel and understand him he’s not available to me. I’ve believed all my life, since my childhood that he existed. There have been some times when I probably doubted him. I’ll admit that. But even though I did doubt him, in the back of that doubt, in the back of that cloud, I knew that he really did exist. But it’s like right now, I know he’s there, but I feel as though he really doesn’t have time for me because there are poorer people in the world. Funny thing was when I first found out that I had 22
Do You Have a Pencil? You Might Want to Write this Down.
pace to get through that test. I was nervous and had reason to feel that way. I knew the ultrasound had shown three other tumors in my left breast along with the one that was biopsied. Sure enough, my ugly tumor wanted friends. All 4 tumors were
By: Diana Snow
cancerous. I was now considered multi-focal. We
Do you have a pencil? You might want to write this
did have a good laugh over the fact that they were
down. These are the words I heard on July 21, 2014.
lined up from the biggest to the smallest, which is
I knew immediately that the news I had been
so typical of my OCD personality.
waiting for was not what I wanted to hear. I had Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. My navigator nurse told me many other things on the phone that afternoon. I wrote down her words but didn’t understand many of them. I was to shell shocked to ask questions. I did look at my notes later and found
It was now a given that I would have a mastectomy of my left breast. I contemplated taking off the right breast and decided not to. I question this decision many times, but in the end was confident that I did not want to remove my right breast.
there was good news within the bad. The tumor was
Surgery was scheduled for August 25, 2014. The
slow growing. A few days later I found out my
thought of losing a breast was devastating. I cried
Her2 status was negative and my hormone receptors
for 2 hours the Sunday before surgery. This was
were positive, all good news in the quagmire of this
part of my womanhood. This was part of my body
difficult circumstance.
that would never be the same even if we were
The following days were like a blur. I felt like I was living someone else’s life, it was all so surreal. The doctors’ appointments, the testing, the waiting were all so overwhelming at times. Especially the waiting, I am not good at waiting. I like to know
starting reconstruction right away. I was also very concerned that the cancer would be in my lymph nodes. I wanted this to be an easy fix. I did not want chemotherapy the thought of that scared me to death.
what is around the corner and with this, I could not
I was nervous the morning of the surgery. All I
see around the corner of this journey. This was the
could do when they were wheeling me in was
hardest part for me, the unknown. My anxiety level
whisper the words, “Trust in Jesus”. When I woke
was through the roof.
up from surgery I knew they must have found
The MRI! I had a breast MRI on July 23, 2014. I was so nervous and breathing so hard that they had to start over because the pictures were not going to be clear. I had to mentally take myself to another
cancer in a lymph node, the clock on the wall told me that it was much later than it should have been. Sure enough, cancer was found in one lymph node during the sentinel biopsy, so more nodes were
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taken. More waiting for results, this would take a
being cancerous due to shape and blood flow. I was
couple of days.
relieved beyond belief to hear this news. I just have
The surgery itself was not difficult and with the exception of the first few days I had very little pain and I recovered quickly. The drain tubes were what I disliked the most. One stayed in for three weeks
to trust that there is no cancer in those nodes. I think the decision was God’s way of saying the nodes were fine. I gave this up to Him and trusted that he helped the doctors with this decision.
and I was thrilled when it was gone. That extra
My first medical oncology visit was not a pleasant
appendage hanging from my side was annoying. I
experience. Although, the doctor was very capable,
considered it a small victory to have it removed.
I did not care for the way he presented my treatment
From that day on that is how I started looking at
plan. We were still waiting on the results of the
things, small victories. It is how I could move down
Oncotype test, which would show my chance of
this road and deal with things. I now had the
reoccurrence and if chemotherapy was going to be
mindset of one day, one appointment, one test, one
the best choice. He was convinced that it would not
result, and one treatment at time. This was a major
come back low. He offered me one option, 4
turning point for me. I had finally let go of needing
Adriamycin/Cytoxan treatments and 12 rounds of
to see around the corner. It felt good to move on
Taxol. I thought this was too aggressive and
with life this way. I was learning and I was joyful
immediately asked for a second opinion. Never be
about this change in attitude.
afraid to ask for a second opinion, it will set your
The initial lymph node had cancer, but they only found micrometasis in one other node. Now I had to have a PET scan to see if everything else was in the clear. The results were great with the exception of lymph node lighting up in my neck. I did have a little relapse of anxiety during this time. They thought this was probably just reactionary and were not super concerned. I was then scheduled for an ultrasound of my neck. Of course, not only did it show one but two lymph nodes that were enlarged; GREAT, more oddities about my cancer. What to do next? This was the big decision. The tumor board at the hospital reviewed my case. It was
heart at ease. I saw the new oncologist the following week and we had the Oncotype score, it was 10. I was praising Jesus for such a low score. The new oncologist still presented me with a chemotherapy plan. He actually offered me 3 options; it was nice to have options. He said I was in charge and it was my choice. He showed me data on the treatment plans. This was my kind of doctor, evidence, choices, and caring. I switched oncologist on that day. I chose to do 4 to 6 treatments of Cytoxan and Taxotere. I prefer only 4,but we will see how my body tolerates the treatments and how I do with side effects.
decided they could not biopsy the nodes. They were
I had my first treatment of October 8, 2014. My
not large enough and they did not show signs of
precious mom went with me. Having my mom hold
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my hand makes all the bad things disappear. I am
day after chemo. It was time for me and my hair to
lucky she lives close and can be with me. The first
part ways. I have the kindest hair stylist in the
treatment went well. I had very few side effects. I
world. I would not have wanted anyone else to
had absolutely no nausea the first round. My biggest
shave my head for me. Surprisingly, I did not cry
complaint was fatigue and bone pain from the
when I saw my head with just fuzz. I told myself it
Neulasta shot. Well, at least until ten days after the
was part of the process and that it would come back.
treatment when my face broke out. I looked like a
I purchased some great wigs and hats and will be
teenager of a proactive commercial. My cheeks
having fun with different looks while my hair is on
were red, blotchy and bumpy. I have had very mild
hiatus.
rosacea for years but this was the worst flare I had ever had. I think this upset me more than the fact that my hair was starting to fall out. I can cover my head with hats and wigs, my face is another story. Even with makeup it looked bad or at least it looked awful to me. I did not want to be bald and have bad skin. Sometimes I just stop and laugh at the absurdity of all the complication that chemo can cause. I pray someday there is a treatment that is better than this.
My journey is far from over. I have 3 to 5 more chemo treatments which will be followed by 35 radiations treatments. If all goes well I will be finished by the end of March. I will continue to drive down this road knowing that I will reach my final destination and be healthy and whole once again. I may have tough days ahead but I am stronger than cancer. I will triumph over this disease and hopefully help others along the way. My attitude and trust in God is what I can control
God has given me the best support system in the
during this journey and I plan on my final
world. I have numerous people who pray for me
destination to be happiness and peace on this trip.
daily. I consider myself incredibly lucky in many ways. I have a good job with over 100 sick days built up. I have great insurance and an extra caner policy. My husband and family are there for me every day through this journey. I thank God for these blessings. The school where I work all wore pink on my first day of chemotherapy. It was the only time I cried during my first day of treatment. I was overwhelmed by this show of support. Saying goodbye to my hair was difficult. It was falling out in pretty good chunks on the thirteenth
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Cashmere Nicole
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Every Wednesday of the month, we will be highlighting the stories of those who have had their lives affected by breast cancer. These are just 5 stories of 5 exceptional people in a
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sea of millions. About 1 in 8 U.S. women and roughly 1 in 1,000 U.S. men will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of his/her lifetime; this is one of their stories. Name: Cashmere Nicole Age: 30 As the CEO and founder of cosmetics line Beauty Bakerie, Cashmere, a makeup artist and mother, was at the brink of beginning her life as a young professional when Breast Cancer reared its head. After removing lumps, undergoing reconstructive surgery, and slowly gaining her life back, Cashmere was recently informed her cancer returned.
Her Story: The first lump I found was barely palpable. I remember it giving me so much pain and thinking, ‘how is something so small causing so much discomfort.’ Being a nurse, assessments and self diagnosis had become commonplace to me but quickly assuming I had breast cancer when I found this lump in my right breast seemed to be a bit far fetched. I immediately dismissed that thought with my own reasoning that seemed to bring me immediate peace, ‘why would you have breast cancer silly.’ I went about my life barely noticing that the hardly palpable lump was becoming more prominent. I was outside playing soccer with my daughter when I noticed my bra seemed to not fit properly. Once we finished up our game I was going to shower. Standing in front of the mirror, I noticed that my bra was misplaced on the right. At first, I thought it was a malfunction of the bra. Then I noticed the lump that had barely been a lump had grown noticeably to about one inch long and 1/2 an inch wide. I also got these sensations that felt like the tip of
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cigarette burning me. I made an appointment with a breast care center. The doctor said it was nothing to worry about but would remove it to keep me comfortable. He told me it would likely grow back. That was Fall 2010. By Spring 2011, as promised, it had grown back. It wasn’t until January 2012 that I had decided to have it removed again thinking nothing of it, because he said it was nothing to worry about. I was living in a new state with a new job and a new doctor. The new doctor wouldn’t see me without my medical records. I ordered those and fell apart at the mailbox when I read my own records. Just like my new doctor wondered, “why weren’t you watched like a hawk?” At this point there were lumps were throughout both breasts. My boyfriend said, “Your boob is broken.” I said yes. That was the easiest way for us to think about it. Aside from small talk, there were so many thoughts in my mind. He decided to do a lumpectomy on the big lump and one of the other ones since they were the most painful and prominent. We waited for a long while on the pathology report—The wait was terrible. When the results finally came back he said I had ‘intermediate cancer’ and that he wanted to remove both breasts because watching and monitoring each lump would be hell. For weeks, I couldn’t say how I really felt. I was living with my boyfriend and I wondered what he felt about me, how he felt about the fact I was going to have implants, that I wouldn’t be able to breast feed if we decided to have children or that he wouldn’t be able to have that same intimacy with me. I wondered if it didn’t work with him, how I would even begin explaining this to someone else. For months following my surgery, I was in a state of fear. They’d removed my ‘broken boobs’ but I was left in the aftermath. There were people that tried reaching out, but I retreated. A depression followed. One night, however, God came to me and it felt so good to hear from him for certain. He spoke so loudly and boldly that night. I knew for certain it was Him and understood more than ever what I needed to do. I fought hard to spread the word. I continued to reach out and help more people, homeless, helpless, cancer stricken, all the while taking out loans to keep my company running. When I found new lumps this year I was upset. I cried, but that fire in me was reignited and I remembered whom I was really fighting for. I am on the Lord’s battlefield. I am sitting here with drains hanging out of me, with pill bottles all over my bathroom concealed from my 11year-old daughter, with 10 pillows to prop me up in bed to receive the emails and calls from several doctors. My surgery this past week was much harder than the first for some reason and yesterday felt like death…but today I am so much better. My spirit knows all too well what it feels like to hear from the Lord and I know all too well that giving up is not an option. My friends all say that I am beautiful but my breasts are gone and I am supposed to be happy with new ones? Everyone is wearing pink but do they know why? Do they really understand do they really check their breasts? We spend so much time trying to teach those who don’t even care to check-let’s focus this time on the woman whose life must go on despite her diagnosis. Pledge a Pink Lippie Before I named Beauty Bakerie, I began it knowing one thing only—we would always give back even if we had absolutely nothing.
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People will pledge a pink lipstick to be given to a breast cancer patient as we shift our efforts from awareness to caring for those who are on the front line with breast cancer. We are providing a small token to cheer them up to give them a hope and something to smile about. Let’s make it cool to still love and show support because we never know when we will need it. This month, we have teamed up with Cedars Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles for ‘Pledge a Pink Lippie’ 2014. Breast Cancer Patients will receive the PINK lippies YOU have purchased for them. It’s a reminder to them that they are beautiful, loved and certainly not fighting alone! Purchase your link lippie here. Posted On: October 1st, 2014
The Foundation For Living Beauty October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Every Wednesday of the month, we will be highlighting the stories of those who have had their lives affected by breast cancer. These are just 5 stories of 5 exceptional people and/or foundations in a sea of millions. About 1 in 8 U.S. women and roughly 1 in 1,000 U.S. men will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of his/her lifetime. This is the story of one foundation that works to make their lives a little easier.
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Name: The Foundation For Living Beauty Mission: Founded in 2005, The Foundation For Living Beauty, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is a social service and health care organization dedicated to Educating, Uplifting and Empowering women in their fight against cancer. Our mission is to empower women to increase their physical and emotional stability, while coping with the taxing effects of cancer and chemotherapy. Amie Satchu, Founder and Board Chair: “Those who have met my mother know what a kind and outrageously beautiful soul she is. Through her 8-year cancer journey, she inspired us all by transforming her pain and suffering into hope. She inspired a community of women to let light filter in through the cracks of the darkness of a cancer diagnosis. The Foundation for Living Beauty took shape by responding to her need and longing for quality of life in the physically and emotionally exhausting cancer journey. With the advancement of cancer treatments, more women are left struggling to understand how to live with the taxing effects long term. I have great pride that my mother’s legacy is the guiding light that allows Living Beauty to educate, uplift and inspire these women to thrive and heal along their cancer journey. It is also this guiding light that leads our Living Beauties out of the emotional isolation of cancer and into each other’s supportive and nurturing arms. Mommy, thank you for the gift you have left us. Your spirit will always shine on as our eternal Living Beauty.
An Inspirational Story (Click on link below)
http://www.beyonce.com/the-foundationfor-living-beauty/
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In Deep Thought
Ja'Dee Murhpy
uestions: I ask of myself, when I examine my character. Did I take more than I give and if for granted? Did I respect that was so freely given to me, did I express and demonstrate gratitude, did I make an offer, did I acknowledge others before myself, did I contribute to the cause as well as others, did I come with empty hands expecting more, did I shame another to make me look good, did I exaggerate to impress others and to get attention. Did I use someone barely for my own personal gain, did I look in the mirror to see how good I looked or to see who I really am. Who are you, if you don`t know who you are? I find judging myself is a lot more exciting than judging someone else, it definitely keeps me focused. It's so cool. Love you Be Amazing, because you are Ja'Dee
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Making Stride Against Breast Cancer Walk, October 19, 2014 Team "DMochelle Fashions" Team DMochelle Fashions walked to bring awareness to Breast Cancer and support survivors.
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www.floempireradio.com
DMochelle was interviewed on Keri’s Korner to promote Breast Cancer Awareness and her October Issue of DMochelle Fashions Magazine
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OCKTOBERFEST 2014 Team would like to first reach out to you to say “Thank you for your support." This event will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Passionately Pink Team #Breast Cancer Awareness.
Pamela Henderson, Rah Digga and DMochelle-Fashions Kittrell at Ocktoberfest 2014
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Pamela Henderson and DMochelle
Susanna Paliotta and daughter and DMochelle
Keri D. Singleton of Keri's Korner and DMochelle
Jay G of MTV's Real World and DMochelle
Pamela Henderson, Ruh Digga and DMochelle
John Blassingame and DMochelle
DMochelle and William F. Mckay
DMochelle and Kesha Nichols of VH1 of Basketball Wives
Dara Lemite and DMochelle
DMochelle, Bronz Blazed, Akaq Morice and Tashera Simmons
Pamela Henderson, Victor Seltzer and DMochelle
DMochelle and Siren Phoenix Osceola-PlusModel
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Ocktoberfest 2014 Event Organizer Anthony Jones with the Original Spindarella (Salt & Pepper) and designer DMochelle-Fashions Kittrell of DMochelle Fashions.
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Donna Michelle Kittrell is honored for bringing Awareness to Breast Cancer and for launching her clothing line for Women who have had a mastectomy at Elberta Restaurant & Bar October 21, 2014.
Event organizer Stephanie Hammond-Tillett (far right) also walked on Team DMochelle Fashions during the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk-Central Park on Sunday October 19, 2014.
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Breast Cancer Awareness Fashion Show at the
October 4, 2014.
All Art work done by Evan Bishop of 360-Body-Art. http://www.evanbishopart.com/320-body-art/
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Event Organizer Catherine Schuller "The RUNWAYFOR REAL" and Designer DMochelleFashions Kittrell of DMochelle Fashions at the Yotel
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DONNIE McCLURKIN
Duets
Click on Link to Listen to a Sample of Donnie McClurkin Duets
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Hezekiah Walker New Video "Every Praise" Click on link to watch video
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DMochelle Fashions utilize Strike-A-Pose Studios for rehearsals as she debut her Clothing Line for Breast Cancer Women on May 31, 2014. website: www.dmochelle.com
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Brother-Michael Katlow Cox 1-347-495-8811 Facebook: katlow257 / Memorie4lifephotography Twitter: @katlow257 / @memorie4life Instagram: katlow257 LinkedIn: Brother-Michael Katlow Cox http://www.memorie4life.com
WELCOME From Brother-Michael Capturing moments also captures a Life Time Of Memories and with "Memorie 4 Life Photography" those moments are captured. Our Motto is "One Picture, One Word, Beautiful." Brother-Michael "Katlow" Cox looks forward to helping you capture your moments for a Life Time.
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DMochelle-Fashions Kittrell Editor-In-Chief DMochelle Fashions Magazine Designer - DMochelle Fashions
Brother-Michael Katlow Cox Publishing Editor Photographer DMochelle Fashions Magazine President of Memorie 4 Life Photography
Pamela Henderson Director Of Research (20 year cancer survivor)
Mark Anthony Jenkins Director Of Marketing DMochelle Fashions Magazine CEO & President of New York Black Expo
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