Ms JUNE 8, 2014
ISSUE NO. 103
Coping with Cancer page
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Black & Bewitching
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inside fashion smashion —
Argan oil — nature’s elixir
domestic goddess —
The perfect burger recipe
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Section In-Charge: Sarah Munir Sub-Editor: Amna Hashmi
Freiha Altaf — Queen of the fashion world
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the buzz
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
Coping with Cancer by Asma Siddiqui
Ms T explores what goes on in the mind of a cancer patient “One cannot begin to imagine the pain and hardship she went through during the process of chemotherapy,” says 29-year-old Mohsin* of his mother Mahnoor’s recent bout with cancer. “After some time, she became so fragile that she could barely walk. Her body temperature would fluctuate drastically. She lost weight, hair and eyebrows and could barely chew properly because her teeth hurt. As her son, it was a terrible sight.” The troubling time lasted about six to eight months, after which Mahnoor fortunately emerged completely cancer-free. “Her chemo was followed by radiation and surgery but she truly beat all odds,” adds Mohsin. “All the rest of us could possibly do was being there for her as family.” Mahnoor’s experience is typical of a cancerpatient undergoing chemotherapy. The process of chemotherapy, one of the main remedies of cancer, involves injecting of combination drugs to remove or prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the body. The process is individualised in that the drugs are administered depending on the situation of each recipient. Unfortunately, while chemotherapy can indeed work wonders, there is no way of keeping the healthy, non-cancerous cells from coming under its fire, increasing the risk of severe side effects. Most commonly, the drugs damage the immune system by reducing the white blood cells in the body, rendering the patient vulnerable to infections. Similarly, a low count of red blood cells causes anaemia and fatigue, chest pain and other complications. At times, chemotherapy leaves long-term side effects that can take months or even years to go away, including damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys and reproductive organs, etc.
Emotional stress, chronic depression and insomnia are major problems. There was a time I went into complete isolation from friends and family because of the pity in their eyes. They looked at me like I was a dead man Stomach cancer survivor Qazi Saad
The medication is such that it reduces your thinking skills — your sense of reasoning is handicapped. I started to forget things, lose my temper and have regular ‘chemo meltdowns’ Breast cancer survivor Samreen Faruqi However, while the physical disadvantages of cancer and chemotherapy are well-known, little is said of the emotional and psychological baggage that comes with it. In many cases, there is a lot more damage done to the soul than the body. Dr Adeel Ahmed, fellow of oncology at the Aga Khan University Hospital, sheds some light on the typical stages a patient passes through upon diagnosis. “Almost every patient goes into shock and denial when they are first told of their illness,” he says. “This is followed by anger at the situation they are in. Gradually, after some time, they begin to accept it.” Dr Adeel also shares the process by which he and his team deliver unfavourable news. “In Pakistan, there is a culture of informing the patient’s family before the patient himself which, in my opinion, only adds to the psychological trauma for the patient,” he claims. “I find it better to tell the patient directly. We offer them a thorough explanation of the problem, and counselling, support and motivation.” 25-year old Ambreen* recalls her mother’s reaction the day of her first dose of chemotherapy. “My mother literally lost all her hair in one day, can you imagine that?” shares Ambreen. “I remember she just stood there, weeping uncontrollably as large chunks of her hair fell out.” “Out of all the side-effects of chemotherapy, loss of hair is the most noticeable and so, feels the worst,” says 33-year-old Yasser Khan who has been battling cancer for over nine years. “When you are young with your whole life, career, marriage and childrem before you, news of cancer lands like an explosion. But eventually, you make
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THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
peace with it. You accept that you have a battle to fight and guts come naturally as there is no other way out.” Despite over 60 chemotherapy sessions, a bone marrow transplant and immunotherapy, Yasser remains as steadfast as ever. “I never wanted to be or look like a victim of cancer so I had my head shaved naturally before chemo. My passion for my work strengthened my resolve and I continued working throughout my treatment — even if I felt weak. It is a game of mind over matter.” For breast-cancer survivor Samreen Faruqi*, however, hair loss was the least of her concerns. “Yes, losing hair and the weight fluctuations can be traumatic but for me, the idea of losing one half of my feminity was the worst,” confesses Samreen. “You see, one kind of accepts the different side effects of chemo upon diagnosis — they are inevitable. What felt completely surreal to me was having to let go off the affected part of my body and what I would look and feel like after. I even opted for reconstructive surgery to maintain my appearance.” As a single-mother of a toddler and owner of her own baking business, Samreen was under immense stress during her entire treatment. She recalls an incident wherein she smashed a cake she had been working on all day, just because she had forgotten to add one of the ingredients. “I would try to prepare my daughter and everyone else around us but I myself couldn’t handle the effects of chemo,” she admits. “The nature of the medication is such that it reduces your thinking skills — your sense of reasoning is handicapped. I started to forget things, lose my temper and have regular ‘chemo meltdowns’.” Nonetheless, Samreen had no choice but to pull through for her daughter. “Everything seems like the end of the world while the chemo stays in your system,” she explains. “Cancer alters your personality and temperament and there is no escaping that. But as with everything else, you need to try your best to remain calm, if not for yourself then your loved ones.” Qazi Saad, who was diagnosed with stomach cancer a few years back, agrees with Samreen. “The physical aspects, like vomiting, infections or pains, etc, can all be dealt with but the psychological imbalance really throws one off,” he shares. “Emotional stress, chronic depression and insomnia
Almost every patient goes into shock and denial when they are first told of their illness Dr Adeel Ahmed, fellow of oncology at Aga Khan University Hospital are major problems. There was a time I went into complete isolation from friends and family because of the pity in their eyes. They looked at me like I was a dead man.” It wasn’t until the first signs of improvement came along that Saad reconnected with his loved ones. “They say an idle mind is a devil’s workshop. I would say that during my treatment, the devil was working overtime,” recalls Saad. “Any serious illness gives you a good reality check — an analysis of your life thus far. Regrets, worry, financial strain drive you insane. Staying motivated can help but real perseverance comes from within.” For Mohsin and his family, the easiest way to cope with his mother’s illness was by being as normal as possible. “I think the right way to help is to talk to them casually, make them feel relaxed and divert their mind with other things,” he says and Dr Adeel agrees. “Unfortunately, there are no proper support groups here that a patient can turn to here. Visiting a psychologist or psychiatrist is still a social taboo,” he says. “There are few outlets to relieve stress. While one person falling sick is indeed a trauma for the whole family, the healthy ones must try and keep life as normal as possible. It is also important for them to learn about and comprehend the side effects their loved one is experiencing.
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en vogue
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
Black is Back Kuki Concepts showcases its futuristic new western wear
Photography & styling: Deevees by Rizwan Baig & Munazza Wardrobe: KUKI Concepts Location: Deevees Studios PR by Pitch Media Inc. Model: Annie Khalid
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
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fashion smashion
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
ARGAN OIL – The Liquid Gold Indulge in the world’s best kept beauty secret Argan oil — A brief history A rare and precious commodity, Argan oil has been one of the best kept beauty secrets of Moroccan women for centuries. Although awareness and demand for Argan oil and its many benefits has been on the rise, the industry still remains small and operated by local Moroccan women using traditional methods to extract the oil. Sourced from the fruit of Argan trees found in the semi-desert region of south-west Morocco, this beautiful golden oil is rich in nutrients like Vitamin A and E, antioxidants and fatty acids that boost health, both within and without. The process includes peeling off the outer layer of the fruit and pounding its inner nut with rocks to retrieve tiny kernels from which the oil is derived. There are two main varieties of Argan oil; one for culinary purposes and the other for cosmetic use, both of which are equally beneficial. As a result, many cosmetic giants like L’oreal are introducing large quantities of Argan oil into everyday products like skin creams and hair serums. However, according to Dr Neelofur Wajahat, a beauty expert and salon-owner, “The finest results are reaped by using 100% pure and sulphur-free oil as opposed to combining it with other materials. Argan oil is all natural so it produces the best outcomes unadulterated, without any side effects. ” Argan oil for skin Argan oil possesses strong anti-ageing properties due to a high concentration of Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Saponins that soften skin. The nutrients restore the water layer in the skin, thereby keeping it hydrated, wrinkle-free and less prone to inflammation. The antioxidants found in the liquid combat skin impurities and thereby, prevent acne. “Not only does it give a non-sticky, moisturised radiance, it also acts as a natural remedy for dry skin, acne, burns, psoriasis and eczema,” explains Dr Wajahat. “I recommend it to clients who suffer from similar skin conditions and it almost always works.” With 200% more Vitamin E than any other oil, this elixir of beauty can even eradicate stretch marks with just a few drops. Argan oil is now a recurring ingredient in personal care products like creams, lotions and make-up.This includes sun-screen treatments as Argan oil provides a natural shield against UV rays and heat. It can fix cracked heels and cuticles, tone the complexion and adding just a drop or two to your foundation can give you an instant glow. Most importantly, however, the oil is completely safe from external chemicals that can cause skin irritations. Argan oil for hair “Argan oil is a one-stop solution for those with dry and frizz-prone hair,”
by Iram Moazzam
says Lahore-based beautician and makeup artist Eram Rasheed. “The oil is light and non-sticky which makes it great for summers and it keeps the scalp safe from sun-scorching and dehydration.” There are three main ways in which Argan oil can be used on hair, the first one being as a leave-in conditioner. “After a shower, apply a few drops of Argan oil to your ends and scalp and see the difference,” says Anum Naveed, a fan of the liquid. “It is especially advantageous to those who heat-style their hair regularly.” Moreover, a few drops of Argan oil can add shine and calm frizz in just seconds, eliminating the need for chemical hair products. One can also apply the oil over the head and leave it on overnight for a deep conditioning treatment. “I would advise wrapping your hair in a warm towel and going to bed. In the morning, wash it off and enjoy soft and luminous hair,” suggests Anum. Dr Wajahat agrees, saying that, “Argan oil is the best natural conditioner.” Argan oil for health When Argan oil is being used in cuisine, the kernels derived from the fruit are roasted prior to grinding which affords a delicious, nutty flavour to the oil. Roasted kernels offer a larger quantity of oil than unroasted ones which explains why culinary Argan oil is less expensive than its cosmetic counterpart. Preliminary studies indicate that Argan oil may offer cardiac benefits much like those of olive oil. For example, Dr Charrouf at Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco, conducted a study which showed lower cholesterol levels in 152 subjects that ingested five teaspoons of Argan oil daily. Another study from the Journal of Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases 2005, examined 60 males who were fed Argan oil during breakfast for three weeks. It found an increase in enzymes that prevent oxidative damage that leads to heart diseases. Nonetheless, studies remain inconclusive thus far. Regardless, Argan oil can be a delicious add on to any salad or pasta and since it is completely pure, there can be no possible side effects of consuming it. The nutty flavour will only boost the taste. However, it must be noted that the healthy properties might be lost due to heating so it is best drizzled over your plate after it. Argan oil in Pakistan Since Argan trees are specific to Morocco, Argan oil must be imported by most countries if they wish to acquire it. In Pakistan, it is available at most specialist cosmetic stores, starting at a price of roughly Rs 1,500 for a 30ml bottle.
Fact: It takes approximately 20 hours of labour and 20 kilograms of Argan fruit to produce one litre of Argan oil through traditional extraction methods.
domestic goddess 7
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
Recipe
Herbed Zinger Burger Hungry for some fast food? This homemade zinger burger is the answer to your prayers!
Method Huba Akbar is currently pursuing a Bachelors degree in Mass Communication and Journalism. In her free time, she likes to write, design clothes and cook.
For the sauce: • Mix garlic mayonnaise, sesame seeds, ketchup and soy sauce together, stirring throughout. For the patty: • Mix the rice flour, corn flour and baking powder and put aside. • Slice the chicken breast and apply salt, black pepper, white pepper, oregano and the rest of the herbs to each slice, covering both sides. • Dip the chicken in egg yolk and coat it in flour. Repeat the process twice to achieve double coating. • In a large frying pan, heat oil and deep fry the chicken on medium heat. Keep the pan covered while frying so that the patty is cooked thoroughly. • Apply butter and coconut cream on each side of the burger buns. • Place the fried burger patties in between the buns, garnishing it with the sesame seeds, soy sauce and garlic mayonnaise sauce. Your homemade herbed zinger burger is now ready.
Ingredients: For the sauce:
For the patty:
Garlic mayonnaise Toasted sesame ½1/2 cup seeds 1 tsp
Tomato ketchup 1 tsp
Fresh chives Fresh thyme Baking powder (chopped) 1/2 tsp (chopped) ½1/2 tsp 2 tbsp
Corn flour 1/2 cup
Rice flour 1/2 cup
Oregano 1 tsp
Soy sauce 1 tsp
Fresh basil Chicken breasts (chopped) 1/2 tsp (sliced) 2
Egg 1
Coconut cream 1 tbsp
Flour 1/2 cup
Black pepper 1 tsp
White pepper 1 tsp
Burger buns
woman of the week 8
THE EXPRESS TRIBUNE, JUNE 8, 2014
ith W om ym m d an eh sh re Pa With my son,T urhan
Diaries With frien ds