A supplement to The Virginia Gazette, the Daily Press, and the Tidewater Review
October 2015
Mary- “I never thought breast cancer would happen to me. Everyone at Plastic Surgery Specialists is so warm and wonderful. They treat me like family. Dr. Emory took care of me. Life is good, cherished and I’m cancer free.”
Sharon“Since my surgery, I have more of a quality of life. I exercise, go to yoga classes. I feel strong and happy.”
Dr. Emory is Mayo Clinic trained. Caring for women with breast cancer for over 25 years. Offering services in the following locations: Williamsburg • Gloucester Newport News
Rebecca- “A hard journey made easier through the skill and compassion of Dr. Emory’s office.”
Dawn- “After undergoing reconstructive surgery, I regained normalcy and confidence. Dr. Emory and staff are very caring and compassionate.”
Not only did we SURVIVE, We are THRIVING! Thanks to 757.345.5599 plsurgery.com
Plastic Surgery Specialists Roger E. Emory, MD 260 McLaws Circle (former AAA Building) Williamsburg, VA
Dear Fabulous Virginia Gazette, Daily Press & Tidewater Review Readers,
O
ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but at Beyond Boobs! it is the kickoff to “Breast Health Action” year! After all who isn’t aware of breast cancer? But early detection and knowing and managing your risks require A-C-T-I-O-N year ’round. So decide this October to take charge of your breast health and to adopt some new healthy lifestyle behaviors. Our breast health guide loving tucked inside Beyond Boobs! A Calendar to Live By 2016 is all you need to get started.
Here are just a few of the things you’ll learn from the guide: FACT 1 • 1 in 8 women in their lifetime in the United States will develop breast cancer, and, though rare, men can develop breast cancer too. But that means 7 out of 8 won’t! FACT 2 • Breast cancer is no respecter of race or age. Even young women can develop it. Caucasian women have the highest rate of breast cancer (followed by African-Americans), but the trend is reversed in women under 35. FACT 3 • Never dismiss a concern just because someone, including your doctor, tells you “you’re too young to have breast cancer,” “breast cancer doesn’t cause pain,” or “don’t worry, you have no family history of breast cancer.” These are NOT good reasons to postpone checking out your concern. Why, 85% of breast cancers occur in women with no family history! Request (insist if necessary) a screening method that will medically validate or disprove your concern, especially if you have dense breasts.
WHY DO WE CARE? • We are two survivors diagnosed before menopause who were privileged to start this women’s health nonprofit, not to finance finding a cure (plenty others are doing that), but to meet the unique needs of young women dealing with breast cancer now and to make this taboo subject comfortable to talk about rather than super scary. Today through in-person support systems in 15 communities in four states, Beyond Boobs! is helping restore young women diagnosed with breast cancer to health - mind, body, and spirit, and showing them how to live life with an exclamation point (!) instead of a period. We have just added Pink-Link, a virtual community of support, to expand the reach of our unique brand of support to women online as well. Also today more women are doing what they need to manage risk and take charge of their health because we have changed the discussion around breast cancer through speaking engagements, A Calendar to Live by, Good Health Fairies, and a rolling 18 wheeler billboard named Ma’am O’Gram. As you notice all the pink this month, we hope you will pause and think of the more than 220,000 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, the nearly three million survivors in this country, and the many lives that have been lost to this devastating disease. Then embrace the women you know who are fighting it now with grace and courage. With big, healthy hugs,
René Bowditch and Mary Beth Gibson
FACT 4 • Don’t let fear, denial, or being “too busy” keep you from taking the steps necessary to monitor your breast health. Ignoring the possibility you may develop breast cancer does not prevent you from getting it, but may prevent you from catching it in its earliest stages when the survival rate is highest.
BOTTOM LINE • Because EARLY DETECTION IS OUR “BREAST” PROTECTION, you need to become familiar with your own body and know what is normal for YOU. That way you’ll be alert to any changes in your breasts. Breast cancer can take many forms from lumps to swelling to skin changes, so see a medical professional promptly if you notice any changes (but don’t panic – 8 out of 10 lumps are not cancer!). visit www.beyondboobs.org to donate or learn more
Mary Beth Gibson and René Bowditch
FACT 5 • Get annual mammograms, clinical breast exams, and other screening methods appropriate for your age and risk level. For women under 40, health insurance typically won’t cover mammograms, and clinical exams are recommended only every three years. Because these screening techniques are not always available or foolproof, it is critical to monitor your own breast health, whatever your age.
Co-founders, Beyond Boobs! Inc.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 3
A Calendar to Live By
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18
non-profits
silhouettes
contents
strength of the community
Tonia Gardinier
giv
ing and thanks
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BREAST CANCER Awareness OCTOBER 2015
Produced annually by Daily Press Media Group | THE Virginia Gazette 216 Ironbound Road • Williamsburg, VA 23188 Phone 757.345.2334 www.vagazette.com Fax 757.220.1766 Layout & Design | Kathy Sturgeon Design Support | Patrice Byrd • Peter Dewey • Cathy Wall • Sandy Xander
st health brea ess • action t ren mind • bo a dy • spiri aw
24 28 three strikes
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chachas There are 99 ways to describe them. Breast cancer shouldn’t be one. Schedule your mammogram today. Early detection saves lives. Call 757-989-8830, Opt. 2 or Text MAMMOGRAM to 78234
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This is a snapshot of Brittany, Jennifer, and Mary. Congratulations! You have each been chosen to represent the successful fight against breast cancer in A Calendar to Live By, 2016. Thank you for your bravery, courage, and commitment to share your experience with others fighting this disease. In many ways your stories are different. But they are unified in extending hope to those that follow you.
W
Brittany Pronia
hen Brittany Pronia felt a lump and pain in her right breast in September 2014, her primary care physician ordered an ultrasound that was performed on her 29th birthday. “I was totally shocked when the results came back as abnormal. There was no family history of breast cancer. All indications had been that I was too young to have cancer and this was just a cyst.” But the diagnosis on October 1, 2014 was for Stage 1A, triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma with spots of ductal carcinoma throughout her right breast. Since the triple negative invasive cancer is particularly aggressive, Brittany had surgery right away on October 9. She was still in shock, but was determined as a Mom with a young 4 year old daughter to make sure her young life was as normal as possible. “My determination was strengthened as I talked with friends and my family in Alabama. I did not want to end up not meeting this challenge. Also, I remembered reading about Beyond Boobs! in the packet of information my doctor gave me. I just knew I had to win this battle. It sounded like they could help me. So I attended my first Beyond Boobs! meeting in early November. This meeting brought great comfort in seeing that there was the help of survivors to support me in the fight through treatment and reconstruction.” Brittany is still in the reconstruction phase of her journey. She has enjoyed an active summer with her family and is well on her way to regaining her full health. Brittany is committed to helping others through Beyond Boobs! The message she would share with a woman newly diagnosed with breast cancer: “I am sorry you have to face this challenge. Other women are going through this every day and being successful. You have a lot of people around you who will help you fight it. Be sure to reach out to them to get support and strength from them.”
8 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 9
Jennifer Cherry
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J
ennifer Cherry already knew about Beyond Boobs! when she received her diagnosis of Stage 2B ductal carcinoma in situ in late January 2013. She had an autographed copy of the 2013 calendar. But she was hardly prepared for the scary roller coaster ride that started when she received a phone call that Friday to come back in after her mammogram for more images to be taken. “I knew this was not good news. I worried all through that long Martin Luther King Day weekend. My fears were centered on a friend who had died six months after her diagnosis. I accepted that God has a plan for everyone. I felt that the message for me from my friend’s experience was that I needed to keep a positive outlook to stay alive for my 14 year old daughter.” 10 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
Jennifer did not give in to her fears. “I told my daughter about my fears and the challenges I anticipated ahead. I did not hide anything from her. In the days ahead, she walked with me every step of the way. She is my real blessing.” Once the biopsy results were in and she had a plan to deal with the diagnosis, Jennifer told her parents and her siblings that she would have a bilateral mastectomy. She consulted with her doctor about the treatment plan, but was very clear in her insistence to have a bi-lateral mastectomy, in order to preclude having to return for additional surgery. Jennifer attended her first Beyond Boob! Meeting within two weeks of her diagnosis. Since she was joining such a loving, dedicated group of Boobers!, it was only fitting that her first meeting took place
on Valentine’s Day. Through her experience with this group, Jennifer has concluded that everyone must know their own body. This is true for both women and men. When something does not feel right, consult with your doctor. Be your own advocate with him/her. But realize that the final decision about treatment is yours, not your doctor’s or your family’s. Jennifer’s counsel to a woman newly diagnosed with breast cancer: “You must find a support group so you can talk and relate to people who’ve had a similar experience as you. They have gone through the same emotions and fears. They can demonstrate that people do survive and thrive. They can help you take control over things you can control and accept other things where there is no control. Treat every day as a birthday – a gift!” visit www.beyondboobs.org
CONTINUED P 12
to donate or learn more
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 11
M
ary Ashby belongs to a string of “Marys.” Her mother Mary is a breast cancer survivor. Her 17-year-old daughter Mary stands to benefit from the experiences of her mother and grandmother.
MARY ASHBY
Mary Ashby had been experiencing pains in her shoulder and under her arm for several months in 2013. No one could find the cause of the pain or how to treat it. Mary did not mess around when she felt a golf-ball-sized lump in her breast during a shower. She hurried to the Emergency Room and was told “You’re young. Don’t worry.” But Mary and her primary care physician were worried enough for Mary to have a mammogram, which led to a biopsy, which led to a diagnosis: Stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma. Her treatment started with a round of chemo therapy. Her surgery was in August 2013, followed by radiation and another year of chemo therapy, which ended in June 2015. Mary is now on maintenance, getting physical therapy to increase her range of motion, treating her anemia and prediabetic symptoms. “Actually, the diagnosis was a big relief,” says Mary. “The guessing game was over. Knowing that my mother Mary had successfully survived her breast cancer, I could lean on her experience. Knowing that my cancer was not genetic, focused my attention on finding how I could protect my daughter.” “With my new diagnosis, I turned to my church,” she continues. “They prayed with me and laid hands on me. They assured me this was not a death sentence. They kept me focused on God’s plan and his healing power.” “Before my surgery, my surgeon mentioned Beyond Boobs!. My reaction was to think: Sure, sure, I’ll think about it and maybe join eventually. One of my friends who knows Beyond Boobs! took the action of telling Mary Beth Gibson, the co-founder of Beyond Boobs!. Mary Beth called me and it took just a minute for us to connect. Getting involved in Beyond Boobs! is one of the best things I’ve done!” Mary’s message to a newly diagnosed woman is formed by her experience at her church and in Beyond Boobs!: “Your diagnosis is not a death sentence. You must remain positive and just believe that you’ll get better. You will get credible and extensive help in staying positive by participating with Beyond Boobs!. Your attitude is more than half the battle!”
12 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org to donate or learn more
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 13
JANAE JOHNSON, M.D.
CONTINUED FROM P 13
Yes! Take it from Brittany, Jennifer, and Mary (and a small army of others) that Attitude is Everything and the best way to sustain a positive attitude in the fight against breast cancer is to Get Involved with Beyond Boobs!, where the experience of other women can calm your fears and help you sustain a positive attitude.
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14 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org to donate or learn more
BREAST CANCER STRIKES 1 IN 8 WOMEN IF YOU’RE 40 OR OVER, a mammogram could be the most important test you’ll ever take. In the United States alone, more than 220,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. An estimated 40,000 cases are fatal. But with early detection – due to better screenings and increased awareness – mortality rates have dropped by 1/3 since 1990. Which is why it’s imperative for women to begin regular mammograms starting at age 40.
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 17
A
m m o C A
n O l y s A I s S y t t rong i n u
s t i f o r P n o N s t I s
o By Karen R
gers
L
ove your community,” Michelle Brumfield advises. “Support the community that supports you.” “Follow your passion,” Charlie Marcotte encourages. “Build a better business by adopting a more philanthropic business model.” “Be involved in your community,” Stephanie Wise took the instructions from the owner of her business to heart. Brumfield’s business, Bedcrafters by Michelle, Marcotte’s business, American Pride Automotive, and Stephanie Wise’s business, Sticks Kebob Shop, are all partners with Beyond Boobs!, as well as several other non-profit organizations. Their activism supports the belief that a community is only as strong as its non-profits. Brumfield didn’t simply open a mattress store, she learned to build a mattress by hand, from start to finish. She didn’t simply write a check for Beyond Boobs!, she got involved. When a special friend returned home following her final cancer treatment, Beyond Boobs!! was there . . .and so was Brumfield. Beyond Boobs! members and neighbors brought in food, siblings provided support and care, and the patient found that a totally refurbished bedroom and study had been prepared. The paint, TV, headboard and new mattress set were gifts from Bedcrafters by Michelle, and Brumfield had even had the carpet stretched and added a comfortable chaise longue in the study.
The Beyond Boobs! Good Health Fairy, aka René Bowditch, aboard American Pride Automotive’s vintage fire truck, Big Mack.
profits,” Brumfield reflects quietly, “but I believe I have to give from my abundance.” On Beyond Boobs! behalf, she has contributed many mattress sets for multiple fundraising auctions and sponsored the “Breast” Ball Golf Tournament for five years Beyond Boobs! isn’t Brumfield’s only interest. In fact, she gives abundantly from her abundance to Avalon: A Center for Women and Children, Hospice House of Williamsburg, Dreamcatchers, March of Dimes, Heritage Humane Society, Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Meals on Wheels, and the Ronald McDonald House. She serves on the boards of March of Dimes and Meals on Wheels.
“Don’t make this about me,” Brumfield pleads, but she does want other businesses to realize the importance of giving back to one’s community.
Brumfield believes her giving comes back to her in both success and personal satisfaction. Providing to non-profits and, through them, the community, makes the equation win + win.
“I was told I couldn’t afford to spend the 15% to 20% of the Bedcrafters by Michelle gross profits for community non-
Charlie Marcotte didn’t see success – three business locations – in his future when he began washing and waxing cars, then
18 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org
changing the oil, before graduating to car repair in a 10' x 20' rented storage shed. Out of a job and with a family, he had to find a way to make a living, so he did what he knew. American Pride Automotive was the eventual result. Starting in Yorktown, a location was added in Williamsburg then another in Toano. American Pride Automotive is noted for two aspects of the business: quality, honest service and giving back to the community. “We are in a constant mode to give to nonprofits,” Marcotte says. “We constantly receive requests from organizations, but we have to look at what they are and decide which inspire our passion.” American Pride Automotive chooses a Community Star organization and donates $5 from each $16 vehicle inspection for a period of time. “Even at the full $16, I lose money, but I figure 8.8% of drivers require an inspection each month, and the knowledge that we give back – as well as our excellent service
–- brings them back. We give people an option to choose us for their automotive service while supporting the community.” For a three-month period, Beyond Boobs! was the Community Star, and received the $5 per inspection. The donation eventually tallied up to the tidy sum of $6,912. Marcotte strongly believes that working with non-profits is profitable. “Giving a hand up helps people and strengthens business. “We are only open Monday through Friday, because we think it is important for our employees to have weekends and holidays off, so it is sometimes a little inconvenient for our customers,” Marcotte notes, “we try to make it worth their effort by supporting causes such as Beyond Boobs!.” The energy and helpfulness of Beyond Boobs! members impressed and inspired Marcotte. “They took a taboo subject and CONTINUED P 20
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customers,” Wise explains, “we are even
CONTINUED FROM P 18
allowed to decide what we do. “Beyond Boobs! and SHIP (School Health Initiative Partnership) are two special nonprofits to me. Beyond Boobs! is about breast cancer, of course, which affects virtually every person, because almost everyone has a family member or friend who has experienced it. Besides, the people in that group are not only hard-working but really fun. “SHIP works in conjunction with Williamsburg Community Health Foundation to get kids out of the house and into physical activities. It also encourages healthy eating.” Sticks Kebob Shop has a great respect for the volunteers that make organizations work.
American Pride Automotive donated $5 from each vehicle inspection conducted in a three-month period to Beyond Boobs!.
They provide them with Ambassador Cards that are good for meals and can be used at their leisure. “Volunteers deserve some
made it acceptable, even fun.” He chuckles. “They call themselves ‘Boobers’ and husbands are ‘Supporters.’ Who hasn’t been affected by breast cancer? Everyone knows at least one person, a friend or family member, that has experienced it.” Since 2009, about once per quarter, American Pride Automotive celebrates a Family Service Day. “It’s an event, not a charity,” Marcotte stresses. “Some of the guys volunteer to come in, and we change oil and do minor services. We educate and enable, because being unable to take care of a car is a major problem for people with limited funds. Big Mack, the vintage fire truck, is part of the fun.” A National Day of Service in all 50 states by 2016 is the goal of Advanced Auto Parts, with whom American Pride Automotive has partnered since 2013. The 7,000 shops in the network aid whatever group(s) in their area needs their help. “It’s a passion driven program,” Marcotte explains. Besides Beyond Boobs!, American Pride Automotive’s passions are single-parent 20 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
households, Operation Homefront, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Operation Revolution.
credit, so we found a way to show them our
He is proud of Operation Revolution which encourages youth to get outside and ride bikes. “One of the boys is now competing nationally, and I wouldn’t be surprised to be watching him in a future Tour de France.
signature Beyond Boobs! events, providing
“Seven years ago, we committed to giving $320,000 within 10 years,” Marcotte notes. “By using a structured, organized approach to build the business, we are actually ahead of goal and building a great business in a great community.”
benefits,” Wise adds. “They often ask us to
Sticks Kebob Shop is another local business that consistently shows their support for Beyond Boobs!. Manager Stephanie Wise is proud of the company for which she works, because the owners not only are avid philanthropists, but they let managers choose the organizations to support and how they donate. “We are told to be involved in our community, develop relationships with organizations and
gratitude.” Sticks Kebob Shop also takes part in free samples of their delicious food. The shop is set to “Go Pink with Beyond Boobs!” with a scheduled fall fundraiser in the store. “We meet people from other non-profits at participate in their fundraising. The Hare and Tortoise, WISC’s benefit for CDR – these are two we have helped. And we plan to help more groups in our community!” Great food and community service have become the hallmarks of Sticks Kebob Shop. Like Bedcrafters by Michelle and American Pride Automotive, Sticks Kebob Shop believes working with non-profits benefits everyone. As they all do, Marcotte stresses the importance of giving back. “Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.” visit www.beyondboobs.org to donate or learn more
TOGETHER: A BETTER WAY TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At Virginia Oncology Associates, we know that each cancer is unique and so is every patient we treat. Our team of experienced physicians and staff is dedicated to providing advanced care, innovative technology and personalized treatment options. Virginia Oncology Associates is an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, one of the largest cancer treatment and research networks in the country. This affiliation enables us to bring the expertise of nearly 1,000 physicians nationwide to the delivery of our patients’ care.
PENINSULA (757) 873-9400 Hampton Newport News Williamsburg
VirginiaCancer.com The US Oncology Network is supported by McKesson Specialty Health. © 2015 McKesson Specialty Health. All rights reserved.
SOUTHSIDE (757) 466-8683 Chesapeake Franklin Norfolk Suffolk Virginia Beach
NORTH CAROLINA Elizabeth City (252) 331-2044 Kitty Hawk (252) 255-6122
a e W
g r d ateful... n o y e b re ... to the following individuals and businesses who have committed to ‘Go Pink with BB!’ this Fall and throughout the end of this year with their own fundraiser to benefit Beyond Boobs! We love you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us support young women with breast cancer and promote healthy communities.
American Family Fitness Zumbathon for BB!
Fall Car Show
The Pizza Shop
Tidewater Browns Backers Fan Club
Eye Center of Virginia
TPMG strive Treadmillathon
ARTys by Vic Paint it Pink Night
Hard Candy Male Dance Revue
Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads
Bubbles For Hair
I Am Beautyfull
Salon of Paradise International
The Virginia Gazette
Body and Sol Tanning
Kina’s Celebration of Life
School Crossing
Waller Mill Elementary School
Changing Lives Martial Arts Studio
Kiskiack Golf Tournament for BB!
Silk Salon Goes Pink
Williamsburg Hornets
The Daily Press
Langley Federal Credit Union
Smithfield Foods, Inc.
Football and Cheerleading League
Donatos Pizza
Moore Laughing Comedy Show
Sticks Kebob Shop
Williamsburg James City County Schools
European Cars of Williamsburg
Off the Vine Market
Studio East Salon Spa
Xtreme Aeropix
Th
a
s nk
to
gene e h t
Tripbound
rosity of supporters like you...
...Beyond Boobs! serves 500+ women in fifteen geographic localities across four states and educates women everywhere with innovative and memorable educational methods. Over 72% of the money raised for Beyond Boobs! funds these program services and the remainder is used for administrative and funding expenses. All donations are tax deductible. Beyond Boobs! is a 501(c) (3) organization and our Tax ID Number is #26-0606190.
Mail donations to Beyond Boobs! Inc. 1309 Jamestown Road, Suite 204 Williamsburg VA 23185
22 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
Or go to www.beyondboobs.org/sponsor-donate/donate-to-beyond-boobs/
Beyond Boobs! appreciates your support. visit www.beyondboobs.org to donate or learn more
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Sanford B. Wanner Stadium • 4725 Stadium Drive • Williamsburg, VA 23188 FOR MORE INFORMATION OR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, CONTACT VICKI VAWTER • (757) 645-2649 • VICKI@BEYONDBOOBS.ORG
(Address is not GPS compatible; next to Warhill High School)
A
e? r a w a u o y e r
O
Fom Beyond Boobs!
ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You’re aware of that, right? But, are you also aware that breast health action is year ‘round. And, it’s for you!
Breast cancer does not discriminate! Young and old, women and men, every race and ethnic group – there are over 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.: All Women. A woman living in the U.S. has a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. About 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history. Only 5-10 percent have been linked to an inheritable, identified gene mutation such as BRCA1.
Silk Salon Presents the 4th Annual
Silk Goes
PINK
Go all in at our Charity Vegas Casino Night to support BEYOND BOOBS!*
Hors d’oeuvres! Alcoholic beverages! $1,000 gambling money! Raffle auctions! Live music! Friday, October 30, 2015 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Admission
Early Bird: $50 Standard (after October 18): $65 Breast Cancer Survivors: $45 High Roller Special: Early Bird RESERVED TABLE for eight — only $450!
Hit the jackpot in blackjack, craps, Texas Hold’em and roulette to win TOP PRIZES:
- 1 year Merry Maids home cleaning service - 1 week Wyndham vacation - $250 cash
Let’s make it a full house for a fantastic cause! RSVP early and save by calling Silk Salon at 757-345-2905. (www.mysilksalon.com)
(doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
* Proceeds benefit BEYOND BOOBS!, a non-profit dedicated to healing and saving lives by supporting young women diagnosed with breast cancer while providing breast health education for all.
Legacy Hall (New Town) 4301 New Town Ave., Williamsburg, VA 23188
Sponsored by:
24 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org
Young Women. 11 percent of new breast cancer diagnoses will be in women under the age of 45. Though less common in young women, the death rate is higher. All Men. Yes, men can get it too – approximately 1 percent of all diagnoses. Sound trivial? Not to the 2,000+ men diagnosed each year.
T
n ! o i t c a e k a t n e h
All Races. Caucasian women have the highest incidence of breast cancer, followed by African-American women, but this reverses for women under age 35. Incidence and death rates are lower for other racial groups, yet it is the number one cause of cancer deaths in Hispanic women. Breast cancer comes in many types: ductal carcinoma, lobular carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, Paget’s disease – multiple diseases with varied symptoms, stages, and treatments.
You have the power to learn your risk factors, know your family history, keep your immune system strong, do the actions for early detection, and take charge of your breast health. CONTINUED P 26
Treated Lumber Outlet Treated Lumber Outlet
5604 City Line Road Hampton,VA
757-245-9241
Introducing the
REVOLUTIONARY
Outperforms, outresists, outlasts…basically
OUTDECKS ALL OTHERS to donate or learn more
Only at TLO! Trex Decking is in stock and available in ten different color selections. Trex Transcend Railing is in stock and available in seven different color choices. Mon–Fri 7AM–5PM Sat 7AM–12PM We deliver to all of HamptonRoads www.treatedlumberoutlet.com BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 25
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a n a M
B r r e u a s o t Y Health g n i g
d n i M
n d a , Spirit y d o B ,
M
ake your soul smile and your heart sing! Music, art, reading, dance, prayer, pets, friends – make the things that lift your spirit a part of your day, every day. Breathe. Even brief periods of deep breathing, meditation, and/or light stretching can help renew you. Move. Find your favorite activities, grab a friend to sweat with you, and aim for four to seven hours of moderate to intense exercise per week. Repair and rebuild. Sleep is critical for all aspects of health. Most of us need seven to nine hours per night. Eat. Good nutrition is essential to fuel the body and helps you maintain a proper weight. Unprocessed foods such as veggies, fruit, whole grains, beans, and lean meats are best. Oh, and a little dark chocolate too! Drink. Drink lots of water, and limit alcohol. Research shows that even one alcoholic drink a day slightly increases a woman’s risk of certain types of breast cancer; two to five drinks per day increases risk up to 50 percent. Be merry. Research proves that “laughter is the best medicine,” so learn a new joke and share with your friends, watch a comedy, or read a funny book. Life’s too short to be serious all the time. Go green-er. We are all exposed to potentially harmful chemicals every day. Go to breastcancerfund.org and ewg.org for tips on reducing exposure to environmental factors linked to breast cancer.
26 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org
w t bu
o r e m ... s ’ e r e h t ait, Befriend your breasts. Routine breast self-exams let you know what’s normal for you so you will know when something isn’t normal. As we like to say, “if you’re old enough to have ‘em, you’re old enough to check ‘em.” So get in touch with yourself, and alert your medical professional to any changes. Don’t wait! Early Detection Saves Lives! Be your own “breast” advocate. Discuss your risk factors with your medical professional to create the best schedule for your clinical exams and mammograms and to determine if you would benefit from additional screening methods, such as ultrasound or MRI.
WE ARE A PROUD SPONSOR OF BEYOND BOOBS
Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads 5424 A Discovery Park Blvd, Wmbg, VA 23188 895 City Center Blvd., Suite 300, Newport News, VA 23606
www.pschr.com 757 873-3500
to donate or learn more
Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads staff & families sporting their “BIG OR SMALL – SAVE THEM ALL!” t- shirts at the 2014 run. Come join us at this year’s event on October 17 and visit our Booth! Our long-standing relationship with Beyond Boobs has given us the opportunity to provide reconstructive services to an inspiring group of women. We are proud to offer our patients over 75 years of combined surgical experience. BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 27
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e e r h
d n a I ’ , m s e I n k ! i r t S Are you surprised that a guy named Pat is appearing in support of Beyond Boobs!? Actually, he has unwillingly become an advocate because of three cancer events. Most of us think of “three strikes and you’re out!” But Pat would say “three strikes and I’m in!”
By Warren Spence
Strike One! Pat Garvey fell in love with his first wife, Chris, while he attended the
After 26 years of loving companionship, Pat found himself a single dad with 3 young
Air Force Academy in Colorado in 1970. It was a blind date, and Pat was
adult children.
impressed by her smile and how comfortable he felt talking with her. They
To deal with his grief, Pat kept pondering how to honor Chris’ memory. He focused on
were married just a few days after he graduated from the Academy in 1972.
how Chris’ face lit up with excitement and pride when Kyle scored a spectacular soccer
He was stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas to pursue his Air Force career,
goal in a tournament a few months before her passing. This led to the decision to start
while Chris worked as a nurse. They had three children: Kate, Maura, and Kyle. While Pat was traveling for work in 1997, Chris felt a lump in her left breast during a self-exam. She kept this discovery to herself and did not mention the lump until after he returned from his travels. “She tried to spare me the worry and concern,” says Pat, “but I was a little upset and frustrated that she had not told me right away.”
the Christine Garvey Memorial Soccer Tournament. It has been bringing Hampton Roads teams together for 16 years now and proceeds are donated to Beyond Boobs! and Edmarc Hospice for Children. Pat’s continued involvement with the soccer tournament and a friend in Kiwanis led to an introduction to Mary Beth Gibson, executive director and co-founder of Beyond Boobs! Please read on to discover how Pat’s appreciation of Beyond Boobs! has grown.
Chris’ doctor did a biopsy, diagnosed a malignancy and ordered treatment
r the Goa l Go fo
by lumpectomy. With part of her breast removed, Chris underwent chemo and radiation therapy. She lost all her hair and was given an additional chemotherapy drug (Adriamycin). Her doctors were not proactively treating her for loss of white blood cells, as is now standard practice, leaving her with a concern about any illness she might contract. Pat describes his attitude as: “We’re gonna lick this by finding a way to solve the problem.” He admits he was worried and nervous the night Chris was rushed to the ER with a fever. In March 1998, Chris discovered a lump under one of her arms. Her cancer had metastasized and Pat noticed the doctor seemed very worried. She received additional cancer treatments which provided only a little relief. She considered having a stem cell transplant, but became sick again. Then on December 11, 1998, Pat took his son Kyle to his NCAA soccer semi-final match. Chris was at home with their daughter Kate and Chris’
Christine Garvey Memorial Soccer Tournament
brother, David. Pat and Kyle had not been gone long when Kate called to tell them that Chris had passed away. Pat was devastated. “It took us only 15 to 20 minutes to get home, but it felt like forever.” 28 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
visit www.beyondboobs.org
Strike Two! The mother of a friend of Pat’s daughter, Maura, invited Pat to a dinner party in 2000. There, Pat met Jane. This was really another important blind date. On his second date with Jane the very next week, Pat found himself totally absorbed in conversation with her. He appreciated that Jane understood what he had been through in losing Chris, because she had experienced the loss of her husband to renal cancer. Three weeks into their relationship, Pat asked Jane to marry him. “We had both been part of strong marriages, and we both knew we wanted to be with each other,” Pat explained. “I found myself blurting out the invitation to marry me.” Jane said “yes.” Then, in a surprise repeat of bad news, Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, after detecting a lump. “The news floored me,” says Pat. “There’s no way I wanted to deal with this again. I pulled away a little to work through my emotions. I wondered why I had to have this experience twice.” Fortunately, Jane’s chemo and radiation treatments have been successful. She is a survivor and passes all her regular check-ups. Jane and Pat Garvey
CONTINUED P 30
FALL 2015 Why would you want to buy blended grass seed?
We Support the Cause
nutrients and water in the ground. It’s certified to contain no noxious weeds. TITAN RX Tall fescue will give you a lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Want more information on buying, planting, and maintaining TITAN RX Tall fescue grass seed? Stop in and talk to the staff at Peninsula Hardwood Mulch.
They say it’s “blended for our area”- but look at the tag carefully. Blends are composed of several kinds of seeds and it’s possible that as much as 1/3 of the product is “blended” for a condition which doesn’t Density, Disease Resistance, Color & Quality TITAN RX provides high spring density, helps reduce weed apply to your yard. For instance, if you’re planting in the shade, you hardly need 1/3 of the seed which is selected to grow in the sun and infestations and promotes upright attractive turf. Improved disease resistance, including brown patch also ensures attractive turf, even vice versa. That means that as much as 1/3 of your money is being wasted and, in today’s economy, who wants to waste 1/3 of the money when conditions are extra challenging. –TITAN RX’S attractive medium-dark green color begins with good you’re spending to improve your lawn? Peninsula Hardwood Mulch spring green-up. offers TITAN RX Tall fescue, a pure grade seed which thrives in this area, is green year-round and can be grown in sun or shade. It’s a fine blade, dark green grass with a deep root system that can search out Call (757) 898-3302 or visit www.vamulch.com
VA Tech Tall Fescue Recommended List.
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FILL IN THE BLANKS Over time all lawns experience some sort of damage, leaving bare spots. Maybe damage is caused from a pet, a piece of lawn furniture, or adverse weather. It happens to every lawn. While most tall fescue varieties have only a limited ability to fill in these blank spots, titan Rx has been specially selected to produce rhizomes (for underground shoots) quickly, enabling it to provide increased density and fill in bare spots with new plants.
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Thanks for voting us as “Best Garden Center” in the Daily Press Choice Awards again in 2014.
28 Years Serving you our Valued Customers
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POQUOSON
412 Wythe Creek Rd
898-3302
to donate or learn more
715 Lakeside Drive 898-3302
YORKTOWN
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7800-A Richmond Rd
566-1699
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015 • 29
LIVE your life. Let
CONTINUED FROM P 29
US fight your cancer.
Celebrate our Breast Cancer Survivors
Jane and Pat Garvey
Strike Three! This is the final strike that is traditionally the one to put you “OUT.” In
Mamie Corey Breast Cancer Survivor Newport News, VA
Pat’s story, this one puts him “IN.” It is remarkable that the 38-year-old daughter (Kate) of Pat and his first wife Chris went for her mammogram check-up in October 2014. She was diagnosed with breast cancer. Pat relates “It is so terribly hard to watch my child go through this. I hurt for her and I wish there was something more I could do for her. I know she is scared, having seen everything her Mom went through.” When Pat learned of Kate’s diagnosis, his first call was to Mary Beth Gibson at Beyond Boobs! He was at a loss to know what to say to his daughter and he wanted Mary Beth to speak with her. On Christmas Eve 2014 Kate had a bilateral mastectomy and underwent her first reconstructive surgery. In February, she started chemotherapy and radiation. Kate’s recovery has been successful, with reconstruction to be complete in December, and a return to her teaching position. Kate’s cancer diagnosis was similar to Jane’s. Both were treated by the
Janet Weymouth-German Breast Cancer Survivor Newport News, VA
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experience with breast cancer is bringing the family closer together. In addition, Pat’s repeat experience with cancer has demonstrated that having a trustworthy person to speak to is a wonderful resource to ease breast cancer and her family. And especially for a dad who felt helpless because he couldn’t fix the problem for his dear daughter. He says with confidence “The women at Beyond Boobs! can give advice that others can’t. The support they give is invaluable.”
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Pat is so thankful that Jane has been a blessing to Kate. The repeat
the worry, fear, and helplessness, both for the woman diagnosed with
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Having been used to treat cancer since 1990, proton therapy is part of the standard of care for many cancer types, is FDA-approved and covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance providers.
This is why, after three strikes with cancer, Pat is not “out.” He is “in” the Beyond Boobs! cheerleading section as he continues to raise and donate money from the soccer tournament honoring his first wife. 30 • BREAST CANCER AWARENESS • OCTOBER 2015
East End Physicians 1033 28th Street Newport News, VA // 757.952.2160
Stoneybrook Physicians 15425-H Warwick Boulevard Newport News, VA // 757.874.8400
Main Street Physicians 157 N. Main Street, Suite A Suffolk, VA // 757.925.1866
48th Street Physicians 4714 Marshall Avenue Newport News, VA // 757.380.8790
Victoria Boulevard Physicians 3130 Victoria Boulevard Hampton, VA // 757.952.0180
Town Center Physicians 10980 Buckley Hall Road, #5 Mathews, VA // 804.725.9191
Virginia Beach Family Medical Center 940 General Booth Boulevard, Suite A Virginia Beach, VA // 757.425.3610
Chesapeake Community Health Center 490 Liberty Street Chesapeake, VA // 757.228.1288
www.sevhs.org 757.380.8709
Here’s another reason many Peninsula residents are deciding to...
SWITCH TO SENTARA For 3D Mammography.
On the Peninsula, 3D mammography is available from Sentara. This advanced technology for early detection of breast cancer finds 35% more cancers sooner* - when treatment is most effective. Making the switch is easy. Call us today at 1-800-SENTARA or visit switchtosentara.com and discover more reasons why Peninsula residents are making the switch — to Sentara. And you can too! *June 2013 issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology (AJR)
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SENTARA ON THE PENINSULA 3D Mammography at these locations: Dorothy G. Hoefer Comprehensive Breast Center (Sentara Port Warwick in Newport News) Sentara Williamsburg Comprehensive Breast Center (Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center)