Breast Cancer Awareness 2013 Painting North Mississippi pink Annual Race for Cure unites region against breast cancer
BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL
T
housands of runners, walkers and breast cancer survivors from around North Mississippi will turn downtown Tupelo pink on Oct. 26. The 16th Annual Susan G. Komen North Mississippi Race for the Cure will bring people together across the region. The race has always attracted runners from around the region, and the money has benefited people in 15 counties through mammograms for the medically underserved and community education programs. For the third year, the annual 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run will start in front of the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Tupelo and wind through downtown neighborhoods before returning to the finish line at Fairpark.
REGIONAL FOCUS
But this year, the organizers have made a concerted effort with registration events in Tupelo, Columbus, Corinth and Oxford to bring In 2012, about 3,800 runners and walkers turned out for the annual Komen North Mississippi Race for the Cure, turning Tupelo’s main street more people into the pink. This year, race organizers are hoping to bring out more than 4,000 participants to help in the fight against breast cancer. pink. The Pink Heals Tour will bring the pink fire truck to the Crossroads Arena in Corinth from 3 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17. will recognize those who posals to provide mam“We’re spreading the go above and beyond mograms for medically reach of the race,” said their race entry fee and underserved women and Rachel Wood, 2013 race raise money for Susan G. community education chairwoman. “We want Komen. The top 100 and awareness propeople to get involved.” fundraisers will get a grams. In the past, grants ONLINE REGISTRATION at The money raised durspecial gift and the top have been awarded to ww.komennorthms.org ing the race has beneindividual will be recog- Sisters Network Tupelo • Through Oct. 18, registration is fited programs in Alcorn, nized at the race. Chapter, Antone Tan$20 or $25 for chip timing online Calhoun, Chickasaw, “For those who want to nehill Good Samaritan • Teams must register by Oct. 14. Clay, Itawamba, do more, there’s opporFree Clinic, NMMC Lafayette, Lee, Lowndes, tunities,” Wood said. Breast Care Center and WALK-UP registration/packet pick Monroe, Pontotoc, PrenMore money means Baptist Memorial Hospiup tiss, Oktibbeha, more mammograms and tals in North Mississippi. • Noon-7 p.m. Oct. 23-25 at the Tishomingo, Tippah and more community proIn addition to the Tupelo Convention Visitors BuUnion counties. grams as well as more re- $190,000 in grants the afreau. Registration will be $30 or This year, Panola search at the national filiate awarded in April, $35 for chip timing. County is joining the level. the board set aside • Oct. 26 Race Day. Onsite regisNorth Mississippi affili“Seventy-five percent money to provide miniDAILY JOURNAL I FILE of the money stays here,” grants for organizations tration will be $35 from 6:30 to ate family. Cancer survivor Norma Derring leaves her mark as part Wood said, with the re7:30 a.m.; no electronic scoring who want to tackle small available. Cash recommended. SPECIAL RECOGNITION of the festivities during the 2012 Race for the Cure. maining 25 percent projects to advance the Even with more friends funding the well-refight against breast canjoining the race, a special bration of survivors,” reach the most people. spected Komen research cer. The affiliate is taking group will be in the pink said Cindy Edwards, who At the survivors’ tent, program. applications for those spotlight. chairs survivor activities they will be treated to a The money raised grants – which can be as “Komen Race for the for the race. light breakfast, carnival- from the race is distribmuch as $2,000 – until Cure always has two foThis year, the surthemed games and hap- uted through a grant Jan. 1. cuses – education about vivors’ activities will all pies. process. Non-profit orbreast cancer and celecenter around the race to This year, the race also ganizations send in promichaela.morris@journalinc.com
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A supplement to the Daily Journal | October 2, 2013 | Section D
2D
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
DAILY JOURNAL
BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL
Getting a regular mammogram is a life saver. “Since 1990, breast cancer mortality has been reduced by at least 30 percent,” said Tupelo radiologist Dr. Susan Shamburger said. “A big reason is early diagnosis because of screening.” Women diagnosed at stage 0 have a 93 percent, five-year overall survival rate, and at stage 1 an 88 percent five-year-overall survival rate. Digital mammography is making it easier for radiologists to compare years of mammograms easily
‘You need to know what your lumps and bumps feel like.’ Dr. Susan Shamburger Tupelo radiologist
and share their findings, said Tupelo radiologist Dr. Mike Currie. “The key is to look for subtle changes,” Currie said. There’s no debate about the benefit of mammography for women 50 to 69. Regular screening mammograms clearly reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer, but there
have been differing recommendations for women 40 to 49 and the frequency of the screening. In 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force changed its recommendation for screening mammograms to start at 50 and repeat every other year. Women 40 to 49 should consult with their physi-
cian about their individual risk to make a decision. The American College of Radiology, American Cancer Society and Komen for the Cure Foundation have continued to recommend women have annual mammograms starting at age 40. Women ages 40 to 49 are less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women over 50, Shamburger said. However, in the 40 to 49 group, the cancers that are diagnosed tend to be more aggressive. Shamburger also still recommends monthly self-breast exams, which the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force doesn’t
PINKING THE STREETS
advocate. “You need to know what your lumps and bumps feel like,” Shamburger said. Shamburger said she feels the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which used a meta analysis of several existing studies – overemphasizes problems with false positives and doesn’t recognize quality of life issues for women under 50. Most physicians are sticking with the older recommendations until they see more clear evidence that women can safely wait for mammograms. “Continue with the older recommendations
until there’s solid evidence,” Currie said. Under the American College of Radiology guidelines, some women should begin screening before age 40. Women who test positive for BRCA-1 or -2 mutations should start being screened around age 30. Women with strong family histories of breast cancer or those who received chest radiation to treat Hodgkin’s Lymphoma also should begin screenings earlier than 40, but no earlier than 25. Women who’ve had any breast or ovarian cancer should be screened for the rest of their lives, too, she said.
Support groups CANCER SURVIVOR 101 SUPPORT GROUP for newly diagnosed patients actively undergoing treatment will meet at 2 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the NMMC Cancer Center in Tupelo. Call Cindy Edwards at (662) 377-4049 or (800) 8433375.
ADAM ROBISON | DAILY JOURNAL
Girl Scouts like Diamond Sharpe, from left, Cheyenne Guidry, Alayna Kay and Ariel Lawrence, are helping the Komen North Mississippi Race for the Cure pink the streets ahead of the annual Race for the Cure. Yard signs and tree/door ribbons will be sold to anyone who wishes to decorate for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Signs are $25, and ribbons are $15; Oct. 11 is the deadline to order. For an order form, visit www.komennorthms.org or call (662) 350-6041 or (662) 210-0773. In addition to helping with ribbons and signs, the Girl Scouts have collected snacks and general care items to give to patients undergoing treatment at the NMMC Cancer Center.
women, but is open to assisting anyone without health care resources with screening mammograms as funding allows.
I CAN COPE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meets at noon the second Friday of the month at Bridgepoint on South Gloster Street. Guest speakers. SISTERS NETWORK, TUPELO Lunch provided for cancer surCHAPTER of the Africanvivors and caregivers. SponAmerican breast cancer sursored by the American Cancer vivor’s support group, meets at Society. Call coordinator 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of Donna Kingsley at (662) 213the month at the Link Centre 8478. in Tupelo. Call Norma Derring at (662) 842-3440. The chap- OXFORD REACH TO RECOVter makes resources available ERY BREAST CANCER SUPto for mammograms available PORT GROUP meets at 6 p.m. to the medically underserved the first Monday of February, and organizes community April, June, August, November events. Although the group tar- and December at Azalea Gargets the African American dens in Oxford.
WOMEN WITH CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS are sponsored by Women First Resource Center. Groups meet in: • Amory: Call (662) 325-0721. • Tupelo: 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at Women First Resource Center. Call (662) 842-5725. WOMEN FIRST RESOURCE CENTER: The center also offers comfort measures for breast cancer patients including under arm cushions and aprons to hold drainage tubes, wig boutique for those who lose hair during chemotherapy and casserole club at its Services are free and supported grants, memorials, gift basket sales and United Way allocations. The 215 N. Gloster Street center is open 26 hours a week.
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Mammograms making a difference
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
DAILY JOURNAL
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
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3D
BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL
One size of breast cancer reconstruction doesn’t fit all. In many cases, women can choose between implants and tissue flap procedures that use fat and muscle from other parts of the body to recreate the breast shape after a mastectomy. They can decide how quickly they want to proceed with reconstruction. It’s a good idea to talk to a plastic surgeon before breast cancer surgery, but final decisions on reconstruction don’t have to be made immediately. “We go through the options,” said Tupelo plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Craig. “We’re just part of the team that deals with breast cancer.” Although immediate reconstruction can be done in many cases, Craig counsels his patients to take their time and proceed when they are comfortable with their options. In the aftermath of a breast cancer diagnosis, so many decisions have to be made about treatment. Reconstruction can wait. “I think sometimes it gets to be a little over-
whelming,” Craig said. Not every women has every option. Those who need radiation treatment after surgery will need to postpone reconstruction, Craig said. Because of the increased risk of surgical complications, smokers have to be willing to quit. But they all have time to decide. The 1998 federal law mandates insurance companies cover reconstruction after breast cancer surgeries. There’s no limited window of opportunity that is lost because a woman wants to wait. “I have people come back four to five years later,” Craig said. Women choose reconstruction because they want to permanently regain the shape of their breasts. “They want to feel more comfortable, more confident,” Craig said. Reconstruction is a process. Whether women opt to use their own tissue to create the breast shape or implants filled with silicon or saline, the process typically requires two to three surgeries over several months. “This is not a small endeavor,” Craig said. “They need to decide to do it for themselves.”
American Cancer Society connects survivors, resources with newly diagnosed The American Cancer Society has active Reach to Recovery programs based in Tupelo and Oxford to help the newly diagnosed find their way forward. Breast cancer survivors reach out to newly diagnosed women and share their first-hand perspective on coping with the disease through the program. The Reach to Recovery program gets referrals from health care professionals like surgeons and the NMMC Breast Care Center. New breast cancer survivors also can contact the American Cancer Society directly to request a visit or call from a survivor. Breast cancer survivors who have passed their first anniversary and completed their
IMPLANTS
Many women choose implants filled with silicone or saline. In most cases, it’s a matter of patient preference. Silicone has a softer more natural appearance, Craig said. The newest silicon implants have shaped forms that hold a natural shape. Saline – sterile salt water – gives the surgeons more flexibility – because they
treatment are eligible to become Reach to Recovery volunteers. They are required to complete a training session initially and recertify every two years. Breast cancer survivors also can benefit from a number of American Cancer The American Cancer Society has extensive data and support resources through its cancer.org website. Locally, the American Cancer Society hosts the monthly I Can Cope support group, which is open to all cancer survivors and their caregivers and Look Good … Feel Better programs, offered periodically to help any cancer survivors adjust to changes in their skin and hair during treatment.
have control over the final size of the implant, which is especially important for larger women. Implants typically require at least two surgeries. The surgeon places tissue expanders under the skin. They are slowly released to stretch the skin. This usually takes two to three months. “You fill the volume to what the skin can accom-
modate,” Craig said. “It seems to give you a better long-term result.” A second surgery is used to place the permanent implant. Follow-up surgery would be used for nipple reconstruction.
TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION
Tissue flap procedures involve taking tissue most commonly from the tummy and back, but it
also can come from the buttocks and thighs. The TRAM flap is among the most popular since it pulls skin, fat and muscle from the lower abdomen and results in kind of a tummy tuck. Because it’s your body’s own tissue, the flap procedures can have very natural-looking results without concerns about rupture or replacement. For the tissue flap procedures to be successful, they need not only volume, but a good blood supply, Craig said. Without adequate blood supply, the tissue can die when it’s transplanted and create a hard area within the flap. Women who choose a flap option need to be prepared for two or three procedures. “There’s often a tweak,” after the first operation because it’s hard for the surgeon to know exactly how the transplanted tissue will settle, Craig said. Once the breast shape is finalized, another procedure is need to reconstruct the nipple. “You don’t want to put the nipple on until you see how the tissue behaves,” Craig said. michaela.morris@journalinc.com
Leading the Fight Against Cancer For Over 35 Years!
Hematology and Oncology Associates at Bridgepoint was established in 1979. We are conveniently located in a 51,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility with 4 spacious waiting areas, research facility, 17 private patient rooms and 42 chemotherapy bays – all overlooking a relaxing, open-air courtyard. A vital part of the medical community, it’s a haven of comfort and hope, dedicated to providing patient care like no other. Drs. Charles Montgomery, Julian Hill, Andrew Kellum, Christopher Croot and their newest physician, Dr. Jiahuai Tan, strive to provide the latest cancer care to patients in Tupelo and the surrounding areas as well as from Tennessee and Alabama. The Doctors’ desire to accommo-
date their patients lead to the opening of a satellite clinic in Starkville. Hematology and Oncology Associates were chosen to be one of the top 45 Community Clinical Oncology Programs in the nation. Front line research done in this clinic has helped patients receive the latest opportunities available in cancer and hematologic care. The doctors as well as their staff strive daily to improve patient’s lives, treatment opportunities and long term survival by providing cutting-edge cancer care. The ultimate mission has always been commitment to provide patients with outstanding and personalized care.
Office hours by appointment referral
JULIAN HILL, M.D. FACP CHARLES MONTGOMERY, M.D. CHRISTOPHER CROOT, M.D. ANDREW KELLUM, M.D. FACP JIAHUAI TAN, M.D.
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Reconstruction offers variety of options
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
Research continues to drive breast cancer breakthroughs “One of the biggest steps has DAILY JOURNAL been a shift toward personalized medicine,” Portteus said. Gains in breast cancer reThe expanding knowledge base search have dramatically imis allowing oncologists to stratify a proved the outcomes for breast patient’s risk of reoccurrence of cancer survivors. breast cancer and determine the “Now we know that breast canbest course of treatment, Kellum cer is really a family of diseases,” said. said Chandini Portteus, chief misOne promising new treatment sion officer for piggybacks on the success of treatSusan G. Komen. ing HER-2 positive breast cancer. The results of Researchers are using Kadcyla to that research treat the aggressive form of breast yielded treatments cancer. for estrogen posi“It’s HER-2 (protein) with a tive breast cancer chemo bomb,” Kellum said. “The and HER-2 posichemo drug would be too toxic to Kellum tive breast cancer administer otherwise” with a nonthat changed the targeted delivery system. game for many women. It gives oncologists another proThose underlying differences in tocol to try if HER-2 patients see biology explained why some their disease progress while taking women responded to treatment Herceptin, which was the drug differently. that initially changed the game for “It looks the same, but it’s not HER-2 positive cancers. going to behave the same way,” Triple negative breast cancer – said Tupelo oncologist Dr. Andrew where the cancer doesn’t test posiKellum. tive for the known receptors – conNow women diagnosed with lo- tinues to be the focus of much calized breast cancer have a 98.6 research. percent five-year survival rate, ac“We don’t have any receptors to cording to the National Institute of target,” Portteus said. That means Cancer. doctors have to use systemic To get those results and keep chemotherapy and can’t hit the pushing for better treatments cancer as hard because they have takes an incredible investment. to balance the damage to the rest The National Cancer Institute of the body. puts more than $600 million into One current line of research is breast cancer research annually. looking closely at PARP inhibitors The American Cancer Society infor both triple negative and canvests more of its 130 million ancers driven by the BRCA mutanual research budget in breast tions. cancer than any other cancer. “It does appear to have a profile Over the past three decades, similar to BRCA tumors on a geSusan G. Komen has invested netic level,” Kellum said. more than $800 million in breast The initial studies showed no cancer research. benefit, but work is continuing to “We currently have $300 million find a more efficient system of dein active research,” Portteus said. livering the targeted chemotherapies. TREATMENTS “You want to find the proteins Much of the current research that are driving those tumors,” Kelcontinues to focus on targeted lum said. treatments to allow them to hit the cancer where it lives and spare FAMILY HISTORY healthy tissue. Although the majority of BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS
women who are diagnosed with breast cancer will have no family history, researchers are looking closely at genetic ties to breast cancer because of the increased risk those women face. The Sister Study, which looks at the sisters of women who developed breast cancer but who are not BRCA positive, is developing an incredible DNA library, Kellum said. Because sisters share many of the same environmental exposures early in life, the study may identify other factors for study as well. “We can see if we can find other causes for breast cancer,” Kellum said. BRCA gene mutations continue to be the focus of a great deal of research, especially for preventive measures. “For women with BRCA gene, that could be as high as 80 percent,” as opposed to the baseline lifetime risk of 12 percent of all American women, Kellum said. Current recommendations for those BRCA-positive women include the preventive removal of the breasts and the ovaries. “The risk drops by 90 percent,” Kellum said. “It’s very, very effective treatment.”
PREVENTION
Outside of the BRCA genes, researchers haven’t found smoking guns that directly cause breast cancer. Tobacco use and being overweight do increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer, as does alcohol use. Breastfeeding seems to slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer. Researchers are trying to drill down to find out how vitamin D deficiency raises a woman’s risk of breast cancer. They also are looking closely at radiation – both in exposure from medical imaging over a person’s lifetime and the every day exposures, Portteus said. “Women should know their risks,” Portteus said.
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DAILY JOURNAL
Fulton breast cancer luncheon set for Oct. 22 BY ADAM ARMOUR ITAWAMBA COUNTY TIMES
If the adage “there’s strength in numbers” holds true, those who have faced breast cancer must be a strong lot. Romona Edge, co-founder of Fulton’s annual “Do You Know What the Color Pink Means?” Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon, believes survivors and their families draw strength from hearing the stories of each others’ experiences. It’s what she believes makes the annual program, now in its 16th year, so important. “People enjoy hearing from someone who’s had a personal experience, who has overcome breast cancer,” she said. “And survivors want to share their stories with others to help either make them more aware of what they might go through when facing breast cancer themselves or to help prevent it in the first place.” People need to learn from one another, she said. This year’s luncheon is scheduled for Oct. 22, at the First Baptist Church in Fulton. The program starts at noon, is free to anyone who attends and lunch will be provided. The event will end with drawings for door prizes. Those who attend the event are encouraged to wear pink to show their support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The guest speaker will be Liz Dawson, director of Community Health for North Mississippi Medical Center and breast cancer survivor. Dawson, a two-year breast cancer survivor, said she plans to emphasize the importance of early detection while also telling her personal story of facing breast cancer. “I’m going to talk about my journey and my experiences … what I’ve been through,” Dawson said. Because Dawson has both personal experience with breast cancer and with community medical research, Edge
Liz Dawson The NMMC Director of Community Health will be the guest speaker. thought she would make both an informative and emotionally engaging speaker. The annual event is usually attended by more than 100 people. Edge believes the ongoing popularity is not only tied to the prevalence of the disease, but to the width of its reach. “I really believe that most women either know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, or have been affected themselves,” Edge said. “It’s an experience so many of us can relate to.” Perhaps the most surprising thing about the annual luncheon is its somewhat lighthearted atmosphere. It isn’t dour at all; quite the opposite, in fact. While plenty of tears are spilled each year, most survivors’ stories carry a message of hope, optimism and even a bit of humor. “Sometimes it’s tearful; sometimes it’s humorous,” Edge said. “Each individual has a story. Because of that story, I believe that any woman who’s listening can take something away with her.” The overall goal of the program is prevention … making sure women are aware of just how important early detection is to increasing the chances of survival. It’s a goal Edge likes to think the program has met more than once in its 16-year history. “I want to think that it’s helped people; I have to think it has,” she said. “I believe it has helped women be more aware of how important self-exams are.” If there’s one other thing she hopes attendees leave the program knowing, it’s that when faced with breast cancer, no one is ever alone.
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4D
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
Finding the fit
5D
Help for the fight
Mastectomy bras fill the gap left by surgery BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL
M
astectomy bras do more than restore a woman’s appearance after breast cancer surgery. “A lot of people don’t realize their balance is thrown off,” said Gina Petty, owner of Fitting Concepts in Tupelo, which provides certified mastectomy bra fitting service. It doesn’t seem like Petty the breasts would weigh enough to make a difference, but it does make a difference. In some cases, it can cause neck and back pain, too. For women who have a single mastectomy, a good fitting prothesis also ensures their bra can properly support their remaining breast. “It’s extremely important to have the weight to balance the spine and shoulder out,” Petty said. Beyond the balance issues, the breast forms do impact how a woman looks in her clothes and can restore the appearance they want to project. “It’s amazing to us when someone comes in and they don’t know what to expect,” Petty said. “Watching them walk out with their shoulders back and a smile” is gratifying. Insurance covers much of the cost of a breast prothesis, although the rules for what is covered and how frequently women can replace the prothesis can vary.
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Through the Breast and Cervical Cancer program, the Mississippi State Department of Health offers access to breast screening and treatment programs for the medically underserved. The Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act, which went into effect in 2001, offers access to screening for women between 50 and 64 who do not have credible health insurance coverage. Women screened through CDC breast and cervical cancer early detection program and need treatment for breast or cervical cancer can access treatment through Medicaid. The program is funded
through federal grants and state matching funds. Younger women who are medically underserved can access breast cancer screening as funding is available from the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In addition to screening and diagnostic mammograms, the program provides ultrasound and fine needle biopsy when indicated, follow up and referral for abnormal results and educational programs for professionals and the public. For more information on the cervical cancer screening programs as well as the breast cancer programs, visit healthyms.com or call (800) 721-7222.
Calendar of events OCT. 7
ADAM ROBISON
Mastectomy bras are created with pockets to hold silicon breast forms that restore appearance and balance after breast cancer surgery. breast form. “They may need a partial breast form to help smooth out their bra,” Petty said, noting that the Gina Petty partial protheses are also covered by insurance. owner of Fitting Concepts in Tupelo The silicon forms are For some women, an ex- ted with a temporary easy to care for, Petty said. ternal breast form is a prothesis made of foam They need to be washed in short-term measure as they with a front-clasp leisure a mild soap and rinsed in wait for reconstruction bra. Many women also use warm water to be resurgery. For others, it’s a this prothesis for swimfreshed. long-term solution. ming, Petty said. Just as with regular bras, Immediately after sur“About six weeks out mastectomy bras can get gery, women can use a from surgery, most stretched and worn out. camisole with fiber-filled women are ready for a Insurance usually covers fluff. final fit,” Petty said. replacements at regular “It gives them a little The first step is to be intervals. shape after surgery,” Petty properly fitted in a sup“It’s extremely imporsaid. portive, pocketed bra. The tant to renew your bras to Once the surgical type of surgery and the make sure there is adedrainage tubes are reshape of the chest will dic- quate support for the moved, women can be fit- tate the shape of the form,” Petty said.
‘About six weeks out from surgery, most women are ready for a final fit.’
PRETTY IN PINK PAMPERING will begin at 1 p.m. Oct. 7 at A+ Barber Shop in Tupelo. The Sisters Network event will offer free pedicures, manicures, facials and hair styling for breast cancer survivors. Call (662) 842-3440 or (662)2134216 to register and receive an appointment time.
gist and hematologist Dr. Chris Croot will be the speaker. Advanced registration required; lunch provided for $5 for those who register before Oct. 9. Call (800) 843-3375.
OCT. 22
ITAWAMBA COUNTY’S BREAST CANCER AWARENESS LUNCHEON will begin at noon Oct. 22 at First BapOCT. 12 tist Church in Fulton. Call BREAST CANCER LUNthe Itawamba-Mississippi CHEON will be held at noon State University Extension Oct. 10 at In Bloom in New Office for more information Albany. Radiologist Dr. at (662) 862-3201. Justin Lohmeier and breast OCT. 26 cancer survivor Janet KOMEN NORTH MISSISWilder will be the guest SIPPI RACE for the Cure speakers. Free, pre-regiswill begin at 8 a.m. Oct. 26 tration required; callCrystal at Fairpark in downtown McBrayer at (662) 538Tupelo. Advance registra2613. tion is $20 a person for the OCT. 15 fun run and phantom run“INHEREITED BREAST ners and $25 for the 5K CANCER” will be the topic with chip timing until Oct. of the NMMC Woman’s 22. Online registration at Place Lunchtime Learning www.komennorthms.org. program at noon, Oct. 15, Call (662) 377-4903 or at First Baptist Church fel- (800) 843-3375 for inforlowship hall. Tupelo oncolo- mation.
Breast cancer has affected so many people at Wesson & Mothershed Eye Center. We've experienced the hardship of our mothers, daughters, friends and patients. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will donate a portion of all optical sales to the American Cancer Society for breast cancer research to help find a cure. So when you purchase frames and lenses, you'll be fighting with us.
Employees and their family and friends affected by breast cancer are front row from left: April Lewis (cousin); Sondra Byrd (aunt); Stacey Cooper (aunt); Wendy Martin (aunt/uncle); Pam Scruggs (sister); Caydie George (friend); Ashley Evans (mother); Dee Ann Hogue (aunt); Dallas Blankenship (cousin). Back row: Regan Trawick (mother/aunts); Beth Sheffield (friend); Dr. Fred Mothershed (sister-in-law); Dr. Matt Wesson (friend); Dr. Dax Eckard (friend); Dr. Sonya Miles (friend); Wendy Williams (aunt/cousin); Bethany Roy (friend). Not pictured are Kelly Payne (grandmothers); Ben Curtis (wife's grandmother); Marilyn McAnally (aunt/cousin); Kayla Williams (aunt); Anita Vaughn (sister-in-law/cousins); and Sarah Grace Golden (mother-in-law).
WESSON & MOTHERSHED EYE CENTER 3353 North Gloster • Tupelo, Mississippi 844-3555 or 1-800-280-7372 • www.wandmeyes.com
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DAILY JOURNAL
| OCTOBER 2, 2013
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAILY JOURNAL DAILY JOURNAL
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS OCTOBER 2, 2013 |
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
DAILY JOURNAL
Survivor stresses importance of knowing family medical history Weighing Your Risks
SOUTHERN SENTINEL
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American Cancer Society screening suggestions • Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health. • Clinical breast exams are recommended about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s. • Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care provider. Breast self-exam is an option for women starting in their 20s. • The American Cancer Society recommends that some women – because of their family history, a genetic tendency or certain other factors – be screened with MRI in addition to mammograms. The number of women who fall into this category is small – less than 2 percent of all the women in the United States. Risk Factors • Being a woman. Men can develop breast cancer, but it is more common in women.
that’s what got her through the hard times. “I knew it was in God’s hands and he would get me through it. I always kept the faith.” After a few months, the cancer went into remission, where it has stayed for 10 years. “Going into remission felt wonderful,” Crawford said. “My surgeon told me that within two years it would come back even worse. To be in remission for 10 years without a reoccurance is a wonderful thing. I believe God has a reason for me to still be here.”
• Family history of breast cancer. Having one first-degree relative – mother, sister, daughter – with breast cancer roughly doubles the risk. Having two increases the risk fivefold. • Genetics. BRCA and BRCA2, and several other genetic mutations can increase the risk. • Personal history. If you’ve had breast cancer in one breast, you have a three- to four-fold increased risk of developing a new breast cancer. • Race. White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer; but AfricanAmerican women are more likely to die, in part because they tend to have more aggressive tumors. • Dense breast tissue has more glandular tissue and less fatty tissue and a higher risk of developing breast cancer. • Menstrual periods. Women who started periods early – before 12 – or went through menopause late – after age 55 – have a slightly increased risk for breast cancer. • Previous chest radiation.
Now, Crawford spends her time reaching out to breast cancer patients and survivors through Facebook. She wants to serve as a source of encouragement, as well as get the message out about breast cancer awareness. “I don’t wish this on anybody,” she said. “Having cancer has made me appreciate life, and I want to make women aware of breast cancer and encourage them to get tested for it, especially if they have a family history of it.” Crawford found out only a few weeks ago that
Women who received chest radiation as children or young adults to treat cancer have significantly increased risk for breast cancer. It doesn’t appear to increase the risk for those treated after 40. • DES. Exposure to DES – given from the 1940s to 1960s – as an expectant mother or a unborn child may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. • Childbearing. Not having children or having first child after age 30 seems to slightly raise the risk of breast cancer. Pregnancy reduces the total number of lifetime menstrual cycles, which may be the reason for this effect. • Recent oral contraceptive use. Women using birth control pills have a slightly greater risk of breast cancer than those who never used them. The risk seems to decline to normal over time once the pills are stopped. • Post-menopause hormone therapy. Use of combined hormone therapy has been found to increase the risk of getting
breast cancer runs in her family. Her mother was just diagnosed with a progressed stage and will have to soon have both breasts removed. “Women need to make sure that they tell their doctor if they have a family history of any kind of cancer. If I had known I had a family history of breast cancer, I would have told the doctors,” Crawford said. “Telling doctors your medical history could mean life or death in some cases.” Crawford encourages all women – even those
breast cancer. The risk seems to return to normal within five years of stopping. Short-term use of estrogen-only hormone therapy – less than 10 years – does not seem to increase the of developing breast cancer. • Not breastfeeding. Some studies suggest breastfeeding may lower risk. • Alcohol use. Alcohol is clearly linked to increase risk of developing breast cancer. Risk increases with the amount consumed. Women who consume one alcoholic drink a day have a very small increase. Women who have two to five drinks a day have 11⁄2 times the risk of women who drink no alcohol. • Being overweight or obese. Fat cells can produce estrogen even after your ovaries stop. Excess weight in the waist area may effect risk more than extra weight in the thighs and hips. • Lack of physical activity. It’s not clear exactly how much exercise is needed, but evidence that exercise reduces breast cancer risk is growing. Source: American Cancer Society
under 40 – to have a mammogram regularly. “I’ve met women in their 20s who have breast cancer,” she said. “Mammograms are so important. And if you notice anything different around your breasts, tell a doctor immediately. It could save your life.” If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, Crawford has some advice. “”Keep the faith,” she said. “Know that the Lord will get you through it. Cling to your family and friends because they’ll help you. Lean on them for support.”
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cancer was estrogen fed, she underwent a hysterectomy. ALKNER – When “It took a lot of prayer to Sherry Crawford of help me cope,” she said. Falkner was diag“That and leaning on my nosed with stage 3 family and friends for supbreast cancer in May 2003, port. They were a blessing.” she was shocked. Crawford’s husband, Only 36 at the time, she Timmy, had been through was unaware of any family the cancer ordeal before. history of breast cancer. He lost his first wife to “I couldn’t believe it,” ovarian cancer. “He had she said. “I didn’t have a already been through the family history of it, and I cancer process with her,” had always heard to get Crawford said. “So he was mammograms after age a wonderful help to me. By 40. Finding out I had can- the time doctors caught cer was absolutely terrihis first wife’s cancer, it ble.” had already progressed Crawtoo far,” Crawford said. ford’s dis“He and I met a year later.” covery of Timmy was a truck breast can- driver, and while he was cer was on the road, Crawford’s somewhat two sons, Matthew and coinciden- Douglas, helped their Crawford tal. mom. “The boys were “A friend small at the time, but they of mine, who was the did what they could. Both same age as I was, was di- of my kids were there for agnosed with breast canme, as was the rest of my cer right before family and my friends.” Christmas,” she said. “So I Crawford received a rethought, well, maybe I search chemotherapy that need to start examining she believes helped her sigmyself.” nificantly. She and a few Shortly after, Crawford other women received the noticed a difference in her treatment at the same time, left breast. and she and one other “I told my friend about it woman are alive today. and she told me that I Crawford said the chemo needed to see a doctor,” was difficult, but it wasn’t as Crawford said. “I kept put- bad for her as it is for some ting it off, but finally I went people. “I didn’t stay sick to a nurse practitioner, like a lot of people do,” she and she sent me to Tusaid. The smell of cleaning pelo.” chemicals made her nauseAn ultrasound revealed ated and she stayed thirsty the cancer had already a lot. Crawford had a couprogressed into stage 3, ple of rounds of illness and meaning it had spread be- she ended up losing all of yond the tumor and inher hair. vaded nearby lymph “I tried not to let it all get nodes and muscles. But to me,” she said. “I’ve alfortunately, Crawford had ways enjoyed country treatment options. music, and it was like ther“I had surgery, eight apy to me. My son and I rounds of chemo and 30 would go to concerts regurounds of radiation,” she larly, and that helped me a said. lot.” Crawford had one breast Crawford said she kept a removed and because her positive attitude, and BY BETH THOMAS HARMON
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
DAILY JOURNAL
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
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Hamilton Post Office does its part in stamping out breast cancer BY RAY VAN DUSEN MONROE JOURNAL
RAY VAN DUSEN/MONROE JOURNAL
Hamilton Postmaster Twanda Tate stands beside a poster depicting the U.S. Post Office’s breast cancer stamp. The Hamilton Post Office has organized a communitywide event for Saturday to spread awareness of the disease.
‘Since 1998, the sale of breast cancer stamps has raised more than $76.2 million nationally for breast cancer research by choosing this stamp. That’s why the breast cancer stamp is known as “the stamp that makes a difference.”’ Twanda Tate
Hamilton Postmaster “Even though we put more emphasis on the breast cancer stamps in October, we sell the stamps throughout the year. We would love for people to
come and purchase them from Hamilton Post Office. We also ask businesses and individuals who use the meter machines to give them a break and pur-
chase the breast cancer stamps from us. “Since 1998, the sale of breast cancer stamps has raised more than $76.2 million nationally for breast cancer research by choosing this stamp. That’s why the breast cancer stamp is known as ‘the stamp that makes a difference,’” Tate said. “Just hearing the testimonies from survivors at these events has been the most touching part,” she said. “You’re getting first-hand stories and it makes the whole event a relatable reality.” One of her former employees at the Prairie Post Office even
shared her early detection and the importance of mammograms at a previous event. “We’re expecting a large turnout for this event. Breast cancer has become an all too common occurrence among women and men throughout the world. Each of us knows someone who has been affected by this terrible disease. We’re anticipating bigger and better things for our future breast cancer events in Hamilton,” Tate said. For more information, call (662) 343-5532, 435-1127 or 436-4672. ray.vandusen@journalinc.com
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AMILTON – Already known as a tight-knit community, Hamilton will be given the opportunity by the Hamilton Post Office to pull together even closer Oct. 5 to comfort and support breast cancer survivors while spreading awareness of the disease. The event is carried over from the Prairie Post Office’s Breast Cancer Stamp Kickoff, an event held twice by Postmaster Twanda Tate before she transferred to Hamilton. “From a personal standpoint, my sister, who is 44, is battling breast cancer for the second time within five years. This community event is a good way to promote breast cancer research and to educate the community about this dreadful disease,” Tate said. The event begins with a free motorcycle ride at 12:30 p.m. and more events start at 2 p.m., including entertainment by Keith and Margie, Swing Shift and Deborah Harmon of Legacy Hospice of the South as Mistress of Ceremony and registered nurse and breast cancer survivor Patsy Shannon and breast cancer information from Pioneer Hospital and other participating health providers. Shannon will also be a guest speaker, along with Monroe County District 3 Supervisor Carol Crawford and Sheriff Cecil Cantrell. Food vendors will also be on-hand selling catfish, pulled pork, turkey legs, chicken wings, Polish sausage and snowcones, among other concessions. “When we held it in Prairie, it was comforting to the other survivors, and it’s good to know we can bond together when everyone feels each other’s pain. We’re all in it together to stamp out cancer,” Tate said. Each person at the event is asked to purchase one or more sheets of breast cancer stamps.
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
DAILY JOURNAL
REGINA BUTLER PONTOTOC PROGRESS
A very special chapter dedicated to the support, healing and love of those who battling and surviving cancer has been established in Pontotoc. The Pink Heals Pontotoc North Mississippi Chapter was chartered in January 2013. And it has made history by being the first Mississippi Pink Heals chapter. Pink Heals is a group of firefighters who travel the nation with big pink fire trucks allowing people to sign them as a visible sign of hope. Dave Graybill, the founder of Pink Heals, is a retired firefighter from Glendale, Ariz., and is passionate about raising awareness for all cancers. The Pink Heals Tour consists of a group of dedicated firefighters who commit up to 18 days away from their families for free to drive pink fire trucks and law enforcement vehicles across America. These guys are called “Guardians of the Ribbon,” and they bring a mission of love and hope for millions who have fought cancer or those who are fighting cancer. They mostly put women and children first because “she” has always been there for her family. The inception of Pontotoc’s chapter came about because of the love and efforts of Barry and Adam Carnes along with Adam’s wife, Ali, and the volunteer firefighters and local residents They wanted to establish the chapter because of the cancer battle Barry’s wife Marsha has waged. Marsha related why the special men in her life
DAVID HELMS | PONTOTOC PROGRESS
Pink Heals Pontotoc Chapter members Marsha Carnes, left, Larae White and Stephanie White show the T-shirts that are on sale. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts ($20), key chains ($5) and pompoms ($2) will support those in Pontotoc County who are battling cancer. Mark your calendars for October 18, when the Pink Heals Tour will be stopping in Pontotoc. Everyone is urged to wear pink and paint the town pink that day. Anyone wishing to purchase T-shirts for their employees for the October 18 event should call Lance Martin at (662) 489-7805, Marsha Carnes at (662) 4885377 or Adam Carnes at (662) 419-1286. have worked non-stop since 2011 to establish the Pink Heals Chapter. “In 2011, we were in Or-
ange Beach, Ala., and, as always, made our stop at the fire station to pick up T-shirts,” said Marsha.
“One of the firemen ask me if I had seen the Pink Fire Truck, and I said ‘no.’ With a smile on his face,
he said ‘wait right here.’” Before long a sight that sent chill bumps down her arms came around the corner. “He rounded the corner of the fire station in a Pink Fire Truck with the name Cindy on the front of it. “It made chills run down mine and Amelia’s [her daughter] arms. She said ‘look mother a Pink Fire truck, and to think that someone would do that for women with cancer.’” That particular fire truck was painted pink and named after the captain’s wife who had recently lost her battle with breast cancer. “He then handed me a marker and told me to sign the truck and the date I was cancer free,” Marsha said. “That was such a great feeling.” It was there she learned of The Pink Fire Truck Tour and Dave Graybill. Back in Pontotoc, Marsha shared with Barry and Adam and his wife about the experience. “We all starting looking it up on the Internet. At this time Amelia was thinking about graduation and senior pictures, and she said she would love to have some of her senior pictures made with the Pink Fire Truck,” said Marsha. Marsha burst her bubble right away by saying, “there is no way.” However, she underestimated the will and persistence of Adam and his wife Ali. “We finally got in touch with Dave and when I told him what I wanted and that I was a breast cancer survivor and that my husband and son were firemen, he asked ‘Where and when?’” said Marsha. She could not believe her ears. But her eyes told
her something different in October 2011. “They made their way to Pontotoc and when they pulled into the fire station and got out of their trucks with big smiles, pink fire gear and those great big hugs it was amazing. It’s a night I will never forget,” Marsha said. And to top the night off, her daughter, Amelia, was able to make her senior pictures with the big pink fire truck. “Needless to say, they are a very special group of dedicated men to our family,” Marsha said. The Pontotoc chapter is busy raising money to help those in need in this area by selling T-shirts. The chapter is also looking for a fire truck to paint pink so they can begin gathering signatures in this area of those who wish to remember someone who is fighting cancer or in memory of one who has died with cancer. And to help raise awareness that national group of men in their pink fire trucks are going to be back in Pontotoc with a second Pink Heals Tour. The fundraiser will be 5 until 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at the Off the Square Market. The tour, along with local firefighters will be doing some school and home visits during the day beginning at 10 a.m. In the afternoon starting at 5 p.m., the tour will be stationed at the Off the Square Market with live entertainment, provided by The Cody Riddle Band and Hannah Roye. Fish and chicken plates will be sold for $10 catered by Cravin’ Catfish. So dig out your pink Tshirt and paint the town pink that day.
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Pontotoc charters state’s first Pink Heals Chapter
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
DAILY JOURNAL
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2013
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BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
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