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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Style 2015
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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PUBLISHER Lydia Dody | lydia@stylemedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Angeline Grenz angie@stylemedia.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Scott Prosser SENIOR DESIGNER Lisa Gould DIGITAL DIRECTOR / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Debra Davis (917) 334-6912 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 OFFICE MANAGER/ABOUT TOWN EDITOR Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com ACCOUNTING MANAGER Karla Vigil CIRCULATION MANAGER Trisha Milton PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus Edwards Photography CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Joe Coca, Bridget Eldridge CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Malini Bartels, Kyle Eustice, Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Kay Rios, Kelly K. Serrano, Brad Shannon, Michelle Venus AFFILIATIONS Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Loveland Chamber of Commerce
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2015 STYLE MAGAZINES January-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness February-Style March-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness April-Style May-Style June-Style July-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer Style October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November-Holiday Style December-Best Of & Winter Activities Style Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. Free magazines are available at more than 300 locations throughout Northern Colorado. For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 2266400, ext. 208. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: ina@StyleMedia.com ©2015 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
THANK YOUS
I want to extend a huge thank you to Lydia’s Style Magazine for the business profile of McCulley & Associates in the August 2015 issue. We are thrilled with the article. We have had many positive comments regarding the article. And, we love being part of Style! Caren L. Pendleton, Marketing Director McCulley & Associates CSU STADIUM – BALANCED PERSPECTIVE
The recent article about the new CSU "multi-purpose" stadium, as it has been rebadged, presented a balanced perspective (“New stadium will change face of CSU, Fort Collins,” Lydia’s Style Magazine, June 2015). The artist renditions are a little disingenuous, however, as precious few cars are visible. Where are these 40,000 fans to park? I suggest anyone unfamiliar with the site take a drive down W. Lake to get a sense of both the stadium enormity and the feeling of claustrophobia the area presents. Harland Ranney, Fort Collins RETURNING TO THE WORKFORCE RESOURCE
I was just going through the latest issue of Style at work and the “Break's Over” article (Lydia’s Style Magazine, August 2015) on pg. 50-52 caught my interest, particularly as the article began to delve into the need for people returning to the workforce to update their skills. There is a reference to the now-defunct Education and Life Training Center (ELTC) as a source for skills training on pg. 52. I wanted to make you aware of the fact that ELTC merged with The Matthews House in April this year and is now operating as a program under The Matthews House oversight. Our new name is the Education and Employment Center (EEC); our location remains the same as it was prior to the merge and we are maintaining the existing classes that were provided by ELTC. I started as the EEC director just shy of a month ago and am working to continue our transition with some new branding and outreach for the EEC. Thanks so much for your publication and the awareness you bring to the community with the information you provide through it. Heather Meyer, Education and Employment Center Director, The Matthews House
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It is no wonder why you and your magazine are so successful. You give the best service and care about your client—better than anyone I have worked with. You should teach classes on how you do it! Bob McCulley, McCulley & Associates
OOPS!
In the Business Profile of Couture Landscaping in our August 2015 edition of Lydia’s Style Magazine (“Couture Landscaping, Building Outdoor Dreamscapes”), we included the wrong website. To access Couture Landscaping’s skilled team of landscape professionals, please visit www. couturescapes.com or call (970) 672-6393. WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM READERS. SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS TO:
kelly@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Photos by: Eric's Imagery and Vertex Homes
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On the Cover: Diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer at 34, Laura Derry is thriving and celebrating life and the ‘angels’ who have helped her on her journey. Fashion courtesy of Dora Grace, Fort Collins. Cover photography by Marcus Edwards Photography.
Women’s Health & Breast Cancer FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
22 26 30 34 36 38 40 66 68 72
10 14 17 21 78 80
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« MINDFUL LIVING « GENETIC TESTING TO PREDICT HEREDITARY DISEASE « OPTING FOR A DOUBLE MASTECTOMY « THE MEDICAL QUESTIONS YOU’RE AFRAID TO ASK « CHAMPIONS OF HOPE « MEET THE MODELS « FASHION: SURVIVING, THRIVING, CELEBRATING « LOCAL MED SPAS PAMPER CANCER SURVIVORS « TREATMENT FOR DRY EYES « HELP FOR THOSE GRIEVING
« FROM OUR READERS
« PUBLISHER’S LETTER
« STYLE FILES: WHAT STYLE IS RAVING ABOUT THIS MONTH. « BUSINESS PROFILE: TITLE BOXING CLUB « TRAVEL: PAGOSA SPRINGS - A 5-STAR TOWN « ABOUT TOWN » » » » » » » » » » » »
JAZZ IN THE MCMORRIS’ GARDENS SWINGING “FORE” MIRACLES RELAY FOR LIFE OF WINDSOR REALITIES CUP 2015 THE MUSES WOMEN OF VISION KRISTI VISOCKY MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT PRAIRIE DOG CLASSIC OVER THE EDGE FC CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC SONGS IN SUMMER BOCCE BALL
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
A Sisterhood of Support This annual issue is near and dear to my heart as it celebrates survivors and thrivers in the sisterhood of women touched by breast cancer. Breast cancer is not discerning and not only strikes women in middle age, but increasingly is showing up in women in their 20s and 30s. Fortunately, though, the survival rate has never been higher, especially when diagnosed early! Our breast-cancer models shared a special sisterhood and immediate bond that day we gathered at my home to celebrate life. Seventeen beautiful women—some in treatment, some in remission, others longtime survivors—were pampered and felt beautiful as they were photographed for the pages of this issue. It was a day of celebration after generous salons and makeup artists pampered our survivors, clothing stores provided lovely fall fashions, and our volunteers made it a fun and memorable event. We all danced to the music and cheered each woman being photographed. We shared stories, supported each other, laughed, and offered hope and encouragement to those still in treatment. I am always in awe of the courage, strength, positive spirit and sense of humor these women demonstrate. As you read their stories they will touch you by the courage they show in dealing with their challenges. They each faced their fear, tackled their own individual treatment challenges, and have come out stronger and more resilient. Without exception, breast cancer has changed them. In fact, many of them write that they are better for the experience and appreciate life more than they did before their diagnosis. I deeply thank each of these inspiring women for sharing her very personal experience with her cancer journey. May their stories uplift, empower and encourage any newly diagnosed woman and
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give her courage and hope. With a a diagnosis of breast cancer, most women immediately face a whirlwind of appointments and the need to make numerous decisions about their treatment. Often they need to decide whether to get a mastectomy. Read “The Prophylactic Mastectomy Puzzle” to gain insight into this topic and help with the decision-making process. Another important question to consider after–or before, if one is concerned that it might run in the family–a diagnosis of breast cancer is to learn if a genetic predisposition caused the disease. Genetic testing is now much more comprehensive, giving us clues as to the probability of hereditary cancer of various kinds. Read “Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer” to learn about this new technology and how it can help you and other family members predict if not prevent disease. Since being personally diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2000, my heart’s work and passion has been to help other women in Northern Colorado battling this disease. In 2001 I launched the nonprofit Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center and am proud to say we have provided over 22,000 free services since then through the Complementary Care Program. It provides free holistic health and lifestyle support services to facilitate healing, relieve discomfort, and improve recovery and quality of life during treatment and for six months after. This nonprofit organization is the only one of its kind in the state to offer post-diagnosis holistic services such as free wigs, nutritional counseling, acupuncture, lymphedema massage and couples counseling. It also provides lifestyle-support services including house cleaning, errand assistance, meal preparation and many others. Insurance generally does not cover these services, but they are extremely important to support a woman’s healing and help her and her family during treatment. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and every year the annual Hope Lives! Gala brings together people from our communities to celebrate life and raise funds for this important cause. This year our 15th annual Gala is October 17 at the Embassy Suites in Loveland. Individual tickets and corporate table sponsorships are still available. I invite you to join us for this inspirational evening of celebration, gourmet dining, lively auctions and inspiring Celebration of Life fashion show of survivors. Log on to www.hopelives.org or call (970) 225-6200 for tickets to this fun and memorable event! And, if you can volunteer, sponsor or donate an auction item, please give me a call. This issue is full of interesting articles we hope you enjoy. Notice the fun behind-the-scenes photos at the breast-cancer models’ photo shoot on this page. Be sure to look at our website, stylemagazinecolorado.com, for additional articles, photos from area events and to vote for your choice of “Best Of!” Wishing each of you good health and abundance.
lydia@stylemedia.com Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Files don't miss Glimmer of Hope Suicide Education and Support Services (SESS) of North Front Range Behavioral Health will have its third-annual Twilight Walk and Balloon Release Saturday, Sept. 12, at Bittersweet Park in Greeley. Registration begins at 6 p.m., followed by the walk and dinner at 7 p.m. and a balloon release at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $15 for children/students, $35 for adults and $120 for a team of five. Proceeds will benefit SESS’s suicide prevention programs. For questions or to register, all Kimberly Pratt, (970) 313-1160, email Kimberly.pratt@northrange.org.
Wine, Women & Shoes CASA of Larimer County’s second Wine, Women & Shoes is set for 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at the Fort Collins Marriott, 350 E. Horsetooth Rd. The event includes a glamorous fashion show, an auction and savory dishes. General admission tickets are $100, while VIP tickets run $150. CASA provides a voice in court for abused and neglected children and a safe place in the community for conflict-free family interactions. For more information or tickets, call Sharon Gloss, (970) 488-1635, or email Sharon@casalarimer.com. 2015 Alpha Center Gala Celebrating 30 years, the Alpha Center will host its Gala 6-8:15 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, at Timberline Church, 2908 S. Timberline Rd. in Fort Collins. The crisis pregnancy center’s event features singer-songwriter Chris Muglia, the silent auction of a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted necklace and dinner. Dress is Colorado formal and cost to attend is free, but donations are accepted and appreciated. Visit thealphacenter.org/events to register. Style 2015
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
business profile
TITLE Boxing Club owner Matt Lopez, left, helps a member perfect her boxing skills.
One-Two Punch
TITLE Boxing Club Whips You Into Shape, Minus the Contact By Kyle Eustice
Stepping into TITLE Boxing Club, the first thing to grab you is the exposed brick, laminate flooring and overall modern look of the place. The rows and rows of heavy punching bags are enduring yet another round of pummeling while music pumps from the speakers and a certified instructor guides the class through rounds of jabs and kicks. It’s a far cry from TITLE’s former franchise model, one that lacked the “cool factor” it has today. At the helm is owner and Long Island native Matt Lopez, who relocated to Fort Collins in July 2011. Lopez has always been into sports, whether it’s hiking, skiing, baseball or football. Born into a family of entrepreneurs, he also knew he wanted to run his own business. Eventually he married the two when he found TITLE Boxing Club. “My buddy came across this kickboxing gym in Long Island and wanted me to try it,” Lopez recalls. “We kickboxed for three months. It was the most insane workout: engaging, motivating and just fun. I fell in love with it then from an exercise standpoint. I also knew that I wanted to go into business for myself. I wanted some support and mentors to speak to so I sat down with a franchise consultant. I came across TITLE Boxing Club in 2012. It was something I could get excited about.” Style 2015
Lopez signed up to develop three clubs in Northern Colorado. The Fort Collins location is the first to open its doors and has been in operation for a little over two years. Expansion, of course, is on the horizon. Founded in 2010 in Kansas City, TITLE Boxing Club is growing at an astonishing rate. There are now 150 clubs across the country and one in Cancun, Mexico. Open seven days a week, the Fort Collins club holds 33 classes every day and boasts over 350 members. However, getting people through the doors wasn’t easy at first. Many people have the misconception kickboxing and boxing classes are like a brutal MMA fight. Lopez learned rather quickly that informing the public was essential to its success. “We do a lot of in-club and community events, videos and Facebook posts,” he explains. “We constantly need to educate people about what
we do. We are a little intimidating by the nature of our business.” Lopez recommends jumping into a class to experience the full benefits. A single workout can burn up to 1,000 calories in an hour. All of the coaches are professional- or amateur-level fighters trained in Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, boxing or kickboxing. In fact, many have trained in Thailand. As scary as this may sound to people, their motto is: “We’ll get you fit without getting hit GUARANTEED.” “Seventy-five percent of the club’s members are women,” Lopez says. “It’s that boxer’s workout that’s going to give you that high-intensity training you’re looking for without punching anybody or getting punched.” Lopez is so confident in the training, not only is the first class free, but there is also a three-month money-back guarantee. It’s affordable, as well. “If you work out three times a week for three months and you’re not getting the results you want or you’re not happy, we have a no-questionsasked money-back guarantee,” he says. “We are membership-based. We have month-to-month, six-month and 12-month membership options. The most economical membership works out to less than $6 per class if you’re working out three times a week.” The success stories have been the best part of the job for Lopez. From 8-years-olds to 80-year-olds, he sees a gamut of people every week who are motivated to improve their health. One member has been attending the classes for seven months and has already dropped 60 pounds; another has dropped three pant sizes. “I love meeting my members, hearing their stories and really engaging with them,” he says. “We plan a bunch of different events throughout the year for our members. We try to foster a community environment. There is a crazy amount of people that came in that weren’t friends but developed friendships just through the classes. We also do fundraisers, barbecues, hikes, ladies night and weight-loss challenges and, our most popular, Boxing Bingo to keep people engaged.” Fort Collins resident Colleen McGuinness, 30, is hooked. The former New Yorker has been attending classes for two years and is still as enthusiastic about it as the first day she walked through the doors. “Not only is it an amazing workout, but it’s still like a new class every time,” she says. “I’m still drenched in sweat after I leave, even coming five days a week. It’s also a huge stress reliever. I want to be healthy and exercise, of course, but when you come in after a crappy or stressful day and beat up a bag, nothing else matters.” TITLE Boxing Club 4360 S. College Ave., Fort Collins (970) 658-1099 | (970) 449-0170 www.titleboxingclub.com Kyle Eustice relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spending four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she was eager to return to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Boulder Weekly Bandwagon Magazine, Ghettoblaster, and many others.
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Mindfulness:
Staying In the Moment for Whole-Body Health By Kelly K. Serrano
Fitness professionals advise their clients to focus on tightening their inner abdomen muscles while working out or whenever moving to strengthen the body’s core and improve balance. But to keep the mind and emotions balanced and strong—as well as prevent them from having a negative health impact on the body—medical and mentalhealth professionals advise patients to “focus on the moment.”
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
It’s a practice known as “mindfulness,” according to Abbie Miller, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist for Kaiser Permanente in Northern Colorado. “Mindfulness is about trying to stay in the present moment,” she says, noting that people often have regrets from the past that they can’t let go of and/or concerns about the future that distract them and cause anxiety in the present. Instead of living in a “mindless” state, in which someone finishes a meal or drives from home to work without remembering doing it because they are “stressing out in their heads,” mindfulness requires people to think about every bite while eating or focus on every detail in the act of driving, Dr. Miller explains. “If you’re driving, pay attention to what you see, feel your hands on the steering wheel, feel your bottom on the seat,” she says. By staying focused, people can reduce the risk or exacerbation of stress-caused issues such as anxiety and depression, which may manifest in physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches and muscle tension, she notes. “Mindfulness is very much about paying attention to our bodies,” Dr. Miller says. When people are more attuned to each moment, they notice things about their bodies that they don’t when they’re distracted, such as whether they’re dehydrated or their muscles are tight. People are also more likely to notice aches and pains and to seek medical care sooner when needed. The consistent practice of Mindfulness can help reduce the effects of health issues like chronic pain, heart conditions and psoriasis, she notes. “Our emotions will move right into the body and we will feel that,” Dr. Miller says. Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of MindfulnessBased Stress Reduction (MBSR), offers books and other media with meditation strategies to help people maintain mental and emotional balance and, indirectly, physical health. Based on Kabat-Zinn’s studies, Dr. Miller recommends people “create periods” where they can stay in the present moment each day. During those times they can: •
Do breathing exercises;
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Take walks in which they think about each step and closely examine nature;
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Practice progressive muscle-relaxation techniques;
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Do a body scan, a well-known technique in which people pay attention to how each part of their body feels, “from the top of their heads to the tip of their toes;”
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Do any of the above or other “mindful” exercises without any judgmental behaviors or self-criticism.
“If you find yourself drifting away, without judgment, pull yourself back to the present moment, because (loss of focus) will happen,” Dr. Miller says. “There are times when you need to think about the past or the future, but you need to ask yourself if this is helpful. If it is, stick with it. If it’s not, pull yourself back into a mindful state.” Dr. Michelle Glasgow, a family practitioner in Kaiser Permanente’s Fort Collins Medical Office Building, says she advises patients to focus on what brings joy and fulfillment to them. “It’s about being happy within yourself: what motivates you to get up, go to work, to be a family member—husband, wife, child— and to be happy and successful at it,” she says. “I’ve not met a patient yet who can’t tell me there’s something in their day that makes them happy,” whether that’s waking up to the sunrise, breathing in fresh air, reading a book for 30 minutes, playing a sport, walking the dog or getting a call or visit from someone. Dr. Glasgow also tells patients with depression not to watch the news or get on social media often. “We get caught up in too many of other people’s problems, and it’s nothing we can control. Crisis is thrown at us on a daily basis. We need to take 30 minutes just for ourselves,” she says. People can spend that half hour doing moderate exercise to improve the situation, their thoughts about it and their physical health, Dr. Glasgow says. A brisk walk, for instance, releases endorphins such as serotonin—hormones that make humans happy—and helps people maintain healthy hearts, battle depression, stave off strokes and lose weight. Getting plenty of sleep, about nine hours a night for adult, is also critical to staying mentally and physically healthy—even losing weight—but a good night’s sleep requires disconnecting electronically at least one hour before bedtime, Dr. Glasgow says. And taking a walk or a bath or reading a non-anxiety-provoking book are better alternatives to watching the news before bed, she adds. Dr. Miller says it’s not unusual for physicians to refer patients for counseling for unexplained headaches, fatigue, stomachaches and other issues, because the body often responds to stress and emotional distress with physical symptoms. When people are not taking care of their bodies, it could affect their emotional and mental health. “If you calm down the mind but the body is still revved up, (the problem) will shoot right back up (into the head),” Dr. Miller says. “We’re all vulnerable to it.”
Kelly K. Serrano is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.
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Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer By Malini Bartels
As the saying goes, “You can’t change who your parents are. The only thing you can change is how you choose to deal with them.” The same principle can be applied to the genetics parents have passed on to their children. It’s the luck of the draw. But, what if modern medicine could help individuals decide what to do? Genetic testing is quite possibly the crystal ball of modern medicine. It is the process of using medical tests to look for mutations in genes, specifically those related to cancer. Hundreds of different genetic tests are used today, and more are constantly being developed. Testing can help individuals make important decisions about their as well as their families’ health, particularly if their first-degree relatives (mother, father, sisters, brothers, children) have struggled with cancer. It allows people to gain a better understanding of their risk for a certain disease. Testing for abnormalities in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, known to cause hereditary breast cancer, are now accompanied with a myriad of tests for other newly discovered cancer-related genes. Not everyone who inherits a cancer-predisposing mutation is destined to get cancer, even though either a genetic mother or father can pass down mutated genes. It is also important to know that men can get breast cancer, although the percentage at risk is smaller than for women. Dr. Benjamin George, an oncologist/hematologist
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at the North Colorado Medical Center Cancer Institute, is also the director of the cancer risk assessment program for Banner Health of Northern Colorado. “Just because you think you should be tested does not mean you meet the criteria,” Dr. George says. “The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has very specific guidelines. These tests are costly and not all insurance companies cover them.” Testing consists of taking a blood sample and looking for certain mutations within the genes. “We can test around 20 genes in one panel,” says Dr. George. “We know so much more about the genes that cause genetic cancer. Modern technology and expanded testing guidelines have allowed us to test individuals in a preventative way. It’s very positive.” Certain medicines are known to help prevent hereditary cancers. “Tamoxifen is a very powerful drug we can prescribe to treat and prevent breast cancer in men and women who are at high risk because of family history and other factors,” Dr. George says. Tamoxifen works as a cancer preventative by blocking estrogen, which helps certain types of breast cancers grow. Potent yet controversial, tamoxifen is being used as a preventative drug when applicable, such as for high-risk men and
women with a family history of breast and ovarian cancers. Leslie Ross, a genetic counselor with the University of Colorado Health System and member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors, is a healthcare provider with expertise in medical genetics as well as the psychosocial aspects of how genetic diseases affect families. She acts as a mediator between the doctor and the laboratory technician who actually performs the tests. A cancer genetic counselor is a medical professional with expertise in genetics and heritable cancer syndromes as well as counseling. Cancer genetic counselors can use their unique training and specialized education to help patients translate complex genetic information into practical decision-making. “I help to analyze family histories,” says Ross. “I look at the diseases that are running in a family and help patients understand their options related to those diseases.” Oncology genetics evaluate the family history of cancer to help a patient determine whether genetic testing is appropriate. An abnormal genetic test result in a cancer-related gene indicates an increased risk for specific types of cancer. “I help a patient to understand the increased risk for cancer and guide their physicians in appropriately Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Jena, Dustin, and Magnolia Couture Style 2015
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managing the patient with the goal of detecting cancer earlier than it would otherwise be detected or preventing cancer all together,” Ross says. Ross is also insistent that once people find out they have mutated genes, they should talk to their family members as soon as possible and communicate the likelihood that the same genes are passed on to them. The primary roles of an oncology genetic counselor include: •
Help identify patients at-risk for a heritable cancer syndrome and discuss personalized surveillance and preventative options for those individuals.
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Determine the most appropriate genetic test(s) and the most informative approach to genetic testing for patients and their families.
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Identify the family member whose results would provide the most information (usually someone who has been diagnosed with cancer) to test.
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Interpret genetic test results.
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Help patients and their physicians understand and apply genetic test results to medical management decisions.
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Connect patients to supportive, informative and research-related resources.
So what happens when people are unsure of who their biological parents actually are? Individuals raised by adoptive families now have the good fortune of sophisticated genealogy sites, DNA testing and more thorough search records to help determine their genetic makeup. Once individuals have narrowed down their possibilities and feel they are still at high risk for carrying cancer-causing genes, a genetic counselor can step in and determine those who are good candidates for genetic testing. Movie star Angelina Jolie tested positive for a mutated BRCA1 gene. Knowing that she carried the faulty gene, Jolie took proactive measures and had a double mastectomy (the removal of both breasts) as preventative surgery. “Angelina Jolie is basically the poster child for prophylactic mastectomy,” Dr. George explains. “She really brought the preventative surgery to the forefront, giving people with family histories of genetic-related cancers a wake-up call.” Many say Jolie redefined femininity, placing the importance of a long and healthy life over physicality. “This is a very exciting time to be in the cancer field,” says Dr. George. “Technology is rapidly growing and more genes are constantly being identified. This allows us to be a step ahead and focus on prevention.”
Malini Bartels is a freelance writer, chef, mother, radio host and actress living the good life in Fort Collins.
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The Prophylactic Mastectomy Puzzle By Michelle Venus
Decades ago, mastectomy was the gold-standard treatment for breast cancer. Nearly all women diagnosed in the 1980s received the breastremoval surgery, even if their tumors were small and had not spread into surrounding lymph nodes. 30
Research studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute almost 25 years ago found that mastectomy didn’t offer increased survival rates over lumpectomy (the removal of the cancerous lesion) and radiation, with or without chemotherapy. Today, mastectomies account for fewer than 40 percent of procedures used to treat breast cancer. But recently, more women are opting in for the surgery—including removal of the healthy, unaffected breast (contralateral prophylactic mastectomy)—to stave off recurrence of the disease. A recently published study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Surgery presented findings from Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers. After examining a national surgery database of 1.2 million patients with early stage breast cancer, the researchers found that the percentage of women who opted for bilateral mastectomy over a lumpectomy increased from 34 percent to 38 percent between 2003 and 2011. The rates of women having double mastectomies when they only had disease in one breast jumped from 1.9 percent in 1998 to 11.2 percent in 2011. And younger women who
face a higher level of lifetime recurrence because they have more years ahead of them were most likely to have a bilateral mastectomy. The research looked at regional trends, examining information from across the United States to see if the shift was nationwide. What they discovered is that in the past 10 years, more women diagnosed with early stage breast cancer who were eligible for lumpectomy chose mastectomy or bilateral mastectomy followed by reconstruction. Typically, the healthy breast is removed due to an understandable fear that it would leave the patient vulnerable to a return of the disease, even though statistics show the chance for recurrence is less than 30 percent. Sarah (she asked that her last name remain confidential) made the decision to undergo bilateral mastectomy surgery after receiving a diagnosis in July of Stage II Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), three days before her 38th birthday. DCIS is the most common type of noninvasive breast cancer, living primarily in the milk ducts. However, Sarah’s cancer was invasive: it had spread into the surrounding breast tissue. “Right away my knee-jerk reaction was, ‘Get Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
them [her breasts] off,’” Sarah says. “I wanted nothing to do with them anymore. Get both of them off.” The Scotland native and mother of two young children, ages 4 and 8, cites her strongest motivation for opting into the surgery: “I’m only 38 years old. I want to be a mum to my children and I have a husband I want to grow old with.” After considering all the treatment options available to her, for Sarah, the end game was to decrease the chance of recurrence as much as possible. “Bilateral mastectomy was a no-brainer for me,” she explains. “Almost immediately I emotionally detached myself from my breasts. They weren’t a part of me anymore.” Even though she didn’t feel sick, Sarah said she knew the cancer was present and she felt that her breasts “were like a ticking time bomb.” Sarah is not alone in feeling that her breasts are a time bomb. According to a Wall Street Journal article, women diagnosed with breast cancer look upon their breasts as "the enemy" and bilateral mastectomy is the obvious choice in vanquishing the enemy. While, at one point, preserving the breasts was a primary goal for women with a breast-cancer diagnosis, today there is an increasing attitude that if removing the breasts will eradicate the cancer, then go for it. High-profile celebrities, such as actress Rita Wilson, comedian Wanda Sykes and E! talk show host Giuliana Rancic, have been passionately vocal about their decisions to undergo bilateral mastectomy followed by reconstructive surgery after diagnosis. In fact, the decision was dubbed the “Angelina Effect” after the actress Angelina Jolie revealed she had undergone an elective double mastectomy procedure upon discovering she carried the BRCA1 gene, putting the probability that she would develop breast cancer at a terrifying 87 percent. Dr. Benjamin George, an oncologist with North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) in Greeley concurs that genetically high-risk patients such as Jolie should be proactive in preventing breast cancer and bilateral mastectomy is the recommended approach. “Certainly for high-risk patients, those with the BRCA gene, bilateral mastectomy is indicated, simply because the risk of recurrence is so high,” he states. “Even prophylactic mastectomy [for these highest-risk women] before they have a cancer diagnosis is recommended. But that is one of the few times we would recommend a bilateral mastectomy.” Dr. Molly Decker, general surgeon at NCMC, agrees and adds that bilateral mastectomy is also recommended for women with a strong family history of breast cancer, even when the BRCA gene is not present. What about patients with a low-grade diagnosis? What do they need to know and understand before making life-altering decisions? How can they know if bilateral mastectomy is the right—or wrong—approach for them? Individuals should consider many factors before going down the bilateral mastectomy route, says Dr. Decker, the first being that the outcome will not necessarily be a better one. Even though a patient may feel that she has nipped the disease in the bud, statistics show that the less-invasive lumpectomy followed by radiation has a similar Style 2015
of the entire breast, including the breast tissue, areola, nipple and most of the underarm lymph nodes. This procedure may be recommended for large tumors or if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. •
Simple (total) mastectomy. A simple mastectomy involves removal of the entire breast, including the breast tissue, areola and nipple.
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Skin-sparing mastectomy. A skin-sparing mastectomy involves removal of all the breast tissue, nipple and areola, but not the breast skin. Breast reconstruction can be performed immediately after the mastectomy. Skin-sparing mastectomy may not be suitable for larger tumors.
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Nipple-sparing (subcutaneous) mastectomy. A nipple-sparing mastectomy involves removal of only breast tissue, sparing the skin, nipple and areola. A sentinel lymph node biopsy also may be done. Breast reconstruction is performed immediately afterward.
Dr. Molly Decker (left) and Dr. Benjamin George, a general surgeon and oncologist, respectively, with North Colorado Medical Center, advise breast cancer patients on getting a double mastectomy. efficacy. And removing both breasts increases surgical complications just by virtue of the fact that the scope of the procedure has doubled. “The hope is that the decision to go with bilateral mastectomy is multifactorial,” she says, meaning that the patient must weigh the risks and benefits of the procedure, which include lowering the risk of recurrence, recovery time and the esthetic outcome after reconstruction. “If you have no family history [of breast cancer], you’re above the age of 50, you’re not BRCA positive, then your risk of getting breast cancer in the healthy breast is less than 1 percent," she explains. Bilateral mastectomy is not recommended in these cases. Once a patient has chosen to have a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, assembling the right team—oncologist, general surgeon and plastic surgeon—is her first consideration. Each physician will bring his or her expertise to the procedures. After the oncological diagnosis, the general surgeon and plastic surgeon work with the patient and oncologist to determine the best approach for the patient so that they reach the desired outcome. One of those outcomes is cosmetic. Dr. Christopher Tsoi, a plastic surgeon with Northern Colorado Plastic and Hand Surgery in Fort Collins, points out the difficulty of building a new breast that matches the existing breast. “It’s very difficult, especially when the breasts are large, to create symmetry,” he explains. For many women choosing bilateral mastectomy, this factors highly into the final decision. It’s important to note that patients don’t walk into an operating room with diseased breasts and come out with new, perfect ones, although that is when the first steps of reconstruction take place. It can take many months of ongoing surgeries to get the desired results. “There are different types of mastectomy surgeries that chart the course, so to speak, of the appropriate reconstructive procedure,” Dr. Tsoi explains. Dr. Tsoi outlines the different mastectomy procedures: •
Modified radical mastectomy. A modified radical mastectomy involves removal
With immediate reconstruction, surgeons insert tissue expanders beneath the skin and chest muscle. A breast tissue expander is an inflatable breast implant designed to stretch the skin and muscle to make room for a future, more permanent implant. Through a tiny valve mechanism located inside the expander, a salt-water solution is injected to gradually fill the expander over several weeks or months. Once the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the expander comes out in a second operation and a permanent implant inserted. The nipple and the dark skin surrounding it, called the areola, are reconstructed in a subsequent procedure. Sometimes a patient will opt to postpone reconstructive surgery. In those cases, the expander is inserted during a later surgery, followed by saline injections and the final implant surgery. The risks immediately following bilateral mastectomy include bleeding or infection, fluid collection under the scar, delayed wound healing and scar formation. Long term, patients may experience a significant loss of sensation in the breast, which can have an impact on sexuality; inability to breastfeed from the affected breast(s); possible anxiety or depression about body image; and the possibility of recurrence. Sarah, the breast cancer patient who recently had a bilateral mastectomy, knew the risks before her surgery. She suffered from some skin necrosis (the death of skin tissue) at her surgical site, which delayed implantation of the expanders by a few weeks. “But this is my life,” she says emphatically. “This is the rest of my life and I expect to live for a long time.”
Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.
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‘Taboo’ topics
partner to take it slow, she advises. Desire-less Lack of libido is something Dr. Johns says she often has to bring up in a “laid-back, funny way to make people comfortable,” especially mothers in their 30s and 40s who may be on birth control or antidepressants. “Hormones change when you’ve had children; your body’s never quite the same after having kids,” she says, “but it’s still important to have that closeness and intimacy.” While the “Little Pink Pill” is touted as the Viagra for women, it reportedly increases the frequency of pleasurable experiences by only one or two a month, Dr. Johns says. Instead, women need to increase desire through a strong relationship with their partner, foreplay and introducing new elements into their intimacy.
What you need to know but are afraid to ask By Kelly K. Serrano
It’s difficult enough to walk into the doctor’s office with a lengthy list of health issues to discuss. It’s even worse for post-childbearing or middle-aged women who may be experiencing one or more health-related issues they find uncomfortable bringing up. “People often are embarrassed to bring up certain topics with physicians, often because they believe there is nothing that can be done for their concern or because they worry that their concern is too trivial to bring up with the doctor," says Dr. Stacie Johns, a Kaiser Permanente family physician in Fort Collins. “However, many of these concerns have a great impact on their quality of life.” Let’s talk about sex Sex remains a “taboo” subject for many women, especially those of the older generation who may mistakenly believe they shouldn’t be having much anyway, Dr. Johns says. The ability to have and enjoy sex changes after childbirth and as you get older, but that doesn’t mean women can’t do either and as often as they like. “One of the most common things in periand postmenopausal women is pain with intercourse and dryness,” she says. “It is a natural process but…there are so many great ways to fix it.” Remedies besides estrogen pills include:
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Estrogen cream;
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Estrogen rings;
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Coconut oil as an inter-vaginal suppository used nightly (it melts in the hand and will bring moisture and vitality back to the vagina);
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KEY-E suppositories with vitamin E and coconut oil;
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Olive oil as a lubricant, though it may interfere with the effectiveness of condoms as a birth control and protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
Women who have had full hysterectomies will experience changes in their sex life similar to those who have gone through menopause, but they can use many of the same aids to make it more comfortable and enjoyable, Dr. Johns says. All women who have had hysterectomies should give themselves six to eight weeks to recover, and then use lubricants and remind their
On the 'go' Bladder issues are common in women and they don’t like to talk about it, Dr. Johns says. Causes of bladder leaks, or incontinence, include trauma from childbirth that leads to weak pelvic floor muscles, and uterine prolapse, in which the pelvic weakens and the uterus starts to descend into the vagina, she says. Bladder leakage is common after menopause, as well. Special pelvic physical therapy can address leakage, though some women may need surgery, Dr. Johns says. For stress incontinence, which occurs when someone laughs or coughs, women can do the same exercises pregnant women do in preparation for childbirth (Kegel exercises), she notes. The best way to do these is by stopping the flow of urine by pulling up and tightening the entire pelvic floor and then releasing it. “Making sure you empty your bladder on a regular basis can also help,” as well as avoiding liquids such as caffeine and alcohol, she says. Kegel exercises also help with urge incontinence, when a woman is unable to make it to the bathroom in time once they feel the urge to go. A regular schedule for going to the restroom and some medications, such as oxybutynin, available over the counter can also help, she says. Pessaries, an intra-vaginal device that helps to lift the bladder and thus slow the flow out of it, and super absorbant tampons are additional options. Placing a super tampon intra-vaginally during exercise helps to support and give the bladder a little “lift,” providing an easy way to prevent leakage. Appearances can matter Skin changes with age and, while some are normal and difficult to avoid, others can be signs of something more serious. It’s not unusual for aging adults to develop angiomas, abnormal but common and harmless growths of red blood vessels on the skin, or seborrheic keratosis, scaly, bumpy moles that are also harmless and often fall off on their own, Johns says.
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
The increase in wrinkles also concerns patients but they may not mention it to avoid appearing vain, she says. To prevent or cut down on wrinkles, Dr. Johns recommends: •
Moisturizing;
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Using sunscreen or wearing clothing that covers much of their skin anytime they are in the sun;
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Obtaining a prescription for Retin-A cream;
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Using Aqua Glycolic creams and toners, available over the counter.
Other ‘taboo’ topics Female patients may have a number of other issues they find difficult to address with their doctors because of fear, embarrassment, potential test and treatment costs or feeling like a hypochondriac, Dr. Johns says. Those issues may include: • Depression: “I think sometimes women have a hard time bringing up depression and feeling overwhelmed with their lives—tired, grumpy, feeling unmotivated and down,” she says. “They feel like they shouldn’t feel that way because they’re expected to do all these things. It plays back into the desire piece, too. If your mood is really down, it affects your sex life.” •
Breast masses: “Many people avoid having masses checked because they are afraid they may be cancer. Finding breast cancer early is so important and greatly affects outcomes. I encourage all women to bring up any breast concerns with their physicians as soon as they have them.”
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Smoking: “Patients don’t want to tell their doctor because they’re ashamed and know that their doctor ‘will yell at me about it.’”
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Weight gain: The woman’s balance of muscle and fat changes sooner than a man’s, and the number of calories women need daily decreases with age. Many also aren’t ready for the hard lifestyle changes necessary to lose weight, Dr. Johns says.
Regardless of what concerns or questions someone may have, “I think it’s very important for patients to tell their doctors what they’re worried about,” Dr. Johns says. “If we don't know that you are worried about something, then we cannot address it and offer reassurance.” Kelly K. Serrano is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins. Style 2015
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Lydia’s Style Magazine salutes the recipients of Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center’s 2015 Champions of Hope Award. We celebrate these tireless individuals for their unceasing commitment and service to the mothers, daughters, wives and sisters of Northern Colorado who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thank you for your generous support of Hope Lives. Community Honoree Kathy Kerchal, Owner Curves “Hope Lives! has been an important part of the lives of many of my members at Curves who were diagnosed with breast cancer. They have told me of the many ways that Hope Lives! touched their lives by providing wigs, transportation to a massage or appointment, and the support they received upon getting their diagnosis. “My Aunt Mary Jane was 32 when she lost her battle with breast cancer. I never knew her as I was born several years later but I never forgot the sadness in my mother’s voice when she tells someone about losing her sister. “The sheer determination I hear in each and every story from a breast-cancer survivor has a common thread of the importance of connecting with others who have battled the disease. Through their journey it has made me realize that this is a community effort since it affects so many women. My business is about empowering women and so the efforts to battle this disease must be celebrated.”
Volunteer Honoree Michelle Warren City of Fort Collins, Utilities/Water Reclamation Division “In 2011 I was invited to be a model for the Hope Lives! breast cancer issue. Following that wonderful experience of the “Model Season,” I knew I wanted to be a part of this group in some fashion. One of the women that modeled that same year volunteered to be the 2012 model committee chairperson, and a few of us joined in to help her. During that time, Lydia and Melissa found the need for a new technical person to create and manage the PowerPoint presentations for the gala. That first year, another volunteer and I had a week to put it together. Since then I have participated in both capacities. I am working with some of the most amazing women and I love each of them (you know who you are). To share the laughs and the heartaches with these beautiful women is truly a great honor. “I am a two-time breast cancer survivor. I had a lumpectomy and radiation in 1994. Then had a new occurrence in late 2007, followed by a mastectomy with reconstruction on New Year’s Eve 2008, then chemo that started on Valentine’s Day and ended on Memorial Day. Through it all I had a great husband, two children, grandchildren, family, friends and the best work life family any one could ask for to give me support. Hope Lives! was there with massages, acupuncture and a great wig to wear throughout my treatments. Now I work to give back to this organization that gives so much to the women of Northern Colorado. “I am just so honored to work with all the survivors and fighters each year. We work closely for three or four months and form some lifelong friendships. Through all the good times and sad ones, we are a sisterhood (you don’t want to become a member of it, but once you do, you thank God that you are!). Had I not gone through this disease I would not have gotten to work with this amazing organization and meet these amazing, powerful, giving, loving women. Thank you, Lydia, each and every day for all you give to make Hope Lives! Breast Cancer Support Center what it is.”
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Champions
Hope of
2015
Honorees
Medical Honoree Ann L. Stroh, D.O. UCHealth North “It has been a privilege for me to associate with Hope Lives! As director of Breast Oncology for UCHealth North, I see so many women who have benefited from the services they provide, not only financial, but with self-image. I have seen women’s self-confidence improve during their journey with the services Hope Lives! provides. My 13-year-old daughter and I were able to participate in the first annual golf tournament last September, which was amazing! It gave my daughter her first chance to give back to the community and see the people it benefitted, starting a lifelong process of giving back. “Prior to these last two years, breast cancer had not touched my family until my aunt was diagnosed with triple negative disease. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. It was the first chance that I was able to see the day-to-day 'living with cancer' outside of the office and how it impacted her and her family’s lives. I am proud to say she now is in remission and cancer free, but it was sure eye-opening to see the other side. “The women with breast cancer in the community I have met have truly inspired me. To be able to continue to work, raise a family, take care of grandchildren–wherever they are at in life–shows me how strong women really are. It motivates me when life seems busy and hectic.”
Care Provider Honoree Linda Marriner, Owner, Licensed Massage Therapist, Esthetician Kindred Souls, Fort Collins “I learned about Hope Lives! through a friend who was also a provider and, honestly, I signed up to help build my business. After seeing my first ladies, I quickly realized how much more I gained. The opportunity to watch a woman go through what can be an almost barbaric treatment due to surgery, chemo and radiation, while remaining a wife, mother and working woman, is awe-inspiring. They have all my respect. Being able to provide an hour of respite and watch them have a bit of peace and relaxation remains my greatest reward. “I look forward to my continuing relationship with Hope Lives! and helping breast cancer patients with services as they walk the journey to recovery. I am very blessed that there is no history of breast cancer in my family and I have four sisters. My clients who have dealt with breast cancer have all touched my heart. “Working with women who recovered from breast cancer, there is always some who won’t survive, usually due to metastasis. For these ladies you just listen and comfort, hoping you can provide some measure of unconditional love and comfort in their final time.”
Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Style 2015
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Meet the
Models Katie Bone
Married to Ian for six years and the stay-at-home mom of Zoe, 1, Katie loves spending time outdoors, especially hiking with family and friends. “I felt like a pampered queen today! No detail was missed, from my beautifully styled hair all the way down to pink, sparkly shoes. It was amazing! When I looked at my photo proofs, I was like, ‘Wow, I can look that good?’ It definitely made me feel special and beautiful inside and out!”
Marsha Bonney
Marsha is a dietary aide who enjoys reading, knitting, TV, listening to classic radio and—her latest obsession—watching “Outlander” on Starz. “My hair turned out really nice. I put on my outfit and the real fun began: dancing and swinging. I normally am pretty reserved but found it pretty easy to do ‘my thing.’ I had a wonderful day! It was fun trying on different things and I found a really great outfit. I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate.”
Suzanne has been married to Matt for 11 years and is the mother of three children, Rachael Gonzales, 26, Marshall Fries, 25, and Ethan Switzer, 15. She is also a grandmother of three, courtesy of her daughter, Rachael, and her husband Tim, and enjoys spending time with all of her family and attending lots of baseball games. “Thank you Hope Lives! for such a special day! It felt great to be surrounded with high energy and fun ladies. The music, dancing and clothes encouraged me to come out of my comfort zone. What a treat! Cheers to Hope Lives! for making me feel beautiful again!”
Mia Girard
Mia and husband Mike are celebrating 20 years of marriage this month and have two children, Isabelle, 16, and Evan, 14. She is a pediatric occupational therapist and yoga teacher for children at the TLC Learning Center who enjoys spending time with family, yoga, gardening, anything creative, reading, paddle boarding and fishing. “Today was a special day. It felt good to feel pretty and have fun with this awesome group of women. Once the music started and everyone started dancing along and cheering, it wasn’t as daunting as I’d thought. Thank you to Lydia and all the dedicated women who made this day possible.”
Celia Buchanan
Amy Howe
Celia and her husband of 29 years, Ian, have two grown sons, Stuart, 25, and Craig, 23, as well as two grandchildren. She is the office manager at Werner Elementary School and enjoys reading, walking, attending Colorado State University football, volleyball and basketball games, and hanging out with her family. "It was so fun and I felt surrounded by love. I would like to thank everyone for this incredible experience, especially Mary Rutledge and Lisa Helme. Lydia, thank you for opening your home and heart to us all today. You are all awesome!”
Mother to 3-year-old Zeke and a teacher in the Poudre School District, Amy enjoys yoga, reading, spending time outdoors, sports (especially soccer), being around children, camping, drawing and music. “After I got into the groove, it was a blast! Pampered with drinks, food, laughs and smiles, it was a day to remember to be surrounded with such amazing, strong, beautiful women. It was so much fun picking out my clothes and feeing so beautiful. This experience has been amazing for me! Thank you to Lydia, Mary G. and Mary R. I have a special love for all of you!”
Laura Derry
Kris King
When Laura isn’t spending time with her husband of nine years, Marlon Dismuke, and her nieces, nephews and other family members, she is a bartender at McGraff’s American Grill in Loveland. She enjoys thrifting, doing others’ makeup and visiting comedy clubs. “I felt very special today. Everyone was so attentive and supportive. I felt very loved and made many new friends. Although I don’t usually dress up, it was fun to get out of my comfort zone and wear a pretty dress and heels. I appreciate your kindness and being a part of something much bigger than me. Knowing I’m not alone and many are in this together gives me much joy.”
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Suzanne Fries
Kris has been married to Shannon for 20 years and is a mother to David, 13, and Kevin, 12. A senior business analyst for State Farm, her hobbies include scrapbooking, baseball, number puzzles, fishing, camping and watching her boys play sports. “I feel so blessed to be a part of this group of strong and beautiful women! Today was a super-energizing and positive day. I really enjoyed dancing with my fellow models and laughing and cheering everyone on. This was an amazing opportunity to share my story of hope and life and I am so grateful!” Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Robyn King
Married to Darel for 29 years, Robyn is a clinical information nurse for the University of Colorado Health. She has two children, Carissa, 23 and Josh, 20, and enjoys reading, hiking, the outdoors and playing with her dogs, all the while spending time with her family. “Start to finish, this has been a surreal experience. The energy of all the other models has been incredible and the fun of wearing these beautiful clothes, dancing, laughing, cheering for each other and taking pictures is indescribable. I felt so blessed to be in the company of all the strong and inspirational women. Thank you for this opportunity!”
Kimberly Orrell
Mother to 12-year-old Bauer, Kimberly is a shop girl at My Sister Knits. She is an artist and a “maker,” knitting, sewing and embroidering. “Every person I worked with encouraged me to be me— healthy, energetic, beautiful. I am bonded to every woman I met–volunteer, survivor and staff. We shared stories, laughs, fears and hopes. I feel alive, like I’ve achieved something great and it’s because of this celebration. It’s so easy to minimize our cancer story. This was a great way to honor my journey and find solidarity.”
Karen Klingenberg
Beverly Schmitt Bacon
Debbie Martin
Suzanne Trautwein
Karen and her husband, Milt, have been married for 37 years and have a grown daughter, Kelsey Megan, 32. She is retired and spends her time baking, loving on her cat and dog, shopping at flea markets and antiquing, spending time with their daughter and her husband in Portland, reading and playing Scrabble on her Kindle. “I felt so pampered. There was such a diversity of ladies to interact with, yet we all had one large thing in common. I came to this with some hesitation and am leaving with none!”
A florist, author and speaker, Debbie and her husband of 30 years, Kevin, have two children, Krystle Schaneman, 28, and Warren Martin, 24, as well as one grandson. Debbie loves the outdoors and spending time with her family and friends. “It was amazing to be surrounded by inspiring women! It was so fun to be pampered like a super star. I appreciate all the volunteers, businesses and community members who support Hope Lives!, making a difference to women and survivors. It was so wonderful to see the beauty of life shine through scars and brokenness, transformed into moments celebrating the gift of life.”
A retired teacher, Beverly and her husband, Bob, have been married 15 years. She has three grown children and six grandchildren. Beverly enjoys being around friends as well as playing cards and other games, reading, and participating in the League of Women Voters, a walking group, a book club and a political salon. “I loved meeting and interacting with other survivors of cancer. Everyone was so positive and enthusiastic. Lots of laughter and support is contagious and good medicine for cancer victims. Here, no one feels like a victim; we’re all survivors! I was very apprehensive about modeling, but the women and photographer helped me relax.” Suzanne has spent 41 years married to Blair and is a mother to Mary, 32, and John, 28. She is retired and enjoys biking, doing Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi and reading. “It was so much fun! Thanks to Lydia and her staff (and a really good pair of Spanx), I felt great and looked pretty good. It was so much fun meeting all of the other models and watching their photo shoots. I think I tried on everything in the store and found the perfect outfit.”
Tawnie Martinez
A medical assistant at the Allergy/Asthma Center of the Rockies, Tawnie is also a mom to 5-year-old Kadence. She spends her free time reading, movies, hiking and walking. “I am happy I got to share my experiences and be a part of the magazine. I found my outfit right away and loved the clothes. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged and supported me. It was an amazing experience!”
Jeanne Milliken
Jeanne and her husband, Mike, have been married for 45 years and have two grown children, Ryan, 40, and Erin, 39. They are also grandparents to Brady, 10, Owen, 9, and Aiden, 7. She is spending her retirement volunteering, knitting, reading, gardening and spending time with her family. “This day was so magical. Lydia and her staff were so encouraging and supportive. Seeing all the Hope Lives! models getting dressed up and coming together, supporting one another, was an experience I will never forget. I feel so fortunate to be a part of this experience. Thank you for making me feel beautiful!”
Andrea Obester
Married to Michael for 11 years, Andrea keeps busy as a stay-at-home mom to Kellan, 7, and Bauer, 4. She is also stepmom to Patrick, 33. Andrea’s hobbies include attending sporting events, boating, biking, hiking and anything involving her young sons. She also enjoys testing her wine-tasting expertise. “The women were all so supportive and I was so honored to be a part of this event and bond with such amazing women. This experience has forever changed me and I am more grateful because of all of the awesome survivors I met. I love you all!” Style 2015
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Surviving, Thriving, Sisters Supporting Each Other in the Fight
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Celebrating
Photography Marcus Edwards Photography
Hair Design courtesy of: Buzz & Bliss A Salon and Spa Rochelle Boyce Shawna Edwards Kaelen Schocke Carly Weese
C & S Workshop Lauren Petaja Clayton Troxell Shauna Troxell
Gallipott
Nicolette Alderson Jacelyn Cody Samantha Gale Britt Namken Devin Williams
Style 2015
’Ohana Salon
Melany Beirne Stevie Becker Brittany Williams
Makeup courtesy of: Gallipott Samantha Gale
Mane Door Salon Nicole Quitadamo
Regency
Jillianne Gonzalez
Sephora
Sabin Hayward Amy Hobbs Lauren Silver
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Debbie Martin
At age 38, I was in the prime of my life, enjoying being a florist and working in custom hay farming with my husband Kevin, and loving my two children, Krystle and Warren. Two years before I found out I had cancer, I struggled with warts on my left wrist. We treated them, froze them and then burned them with acid, which gave me second-degree burns on my wrist. The warts persevered through the scar tissue. The dermatologist asked me point blank if I had cancer. I told her “no,” and she explained that warts are a virus and something more severe was going on somewhere else in my body. She warned me to be aware of any lumps, chronic headaches, abnormal bowel movements or anything out of the ordinary. Six months later, my husband noticed a small lump in my breast. I scheduled a mammogram; the nurses came in to take more pictures and said the doctor would call me soon. The biopsy was positive. I was diagnosed in August 2003, two days before leaving on a youth mission trip to San Diego with my daughter as the chaperone driver for our church. CONT. TO PG 56
Debbie dances to the music in a sheer floral asymmetrical hem top in shades of pink from the Travelers Collection, $99, topping a soft pink microfiber knit tank, $39, and slimming straight leg taupe spandex blend pant, $89. Long gunmetal chain necklace with coin insets, $55, hinged silver tone angular cuff, $45, and hinged rhinestone mesh bracelet, $35, add the perfect accents. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.
Andrea Obester
My entire world was turned upside down when I received a call telling me that I had breast cancer on March 6, 2013, at age 39. I was grocery shopping with my family, and I was terrified. I started crying uncontrollably, as I thought I was going to die. My husband and kiddos hugged me, and then I went into full panic mode. What do I do next? Who do I call? I remembered my obstetrician, Dr. King, had gone through breast cancer and I called her. She got me right in for an appointment and had other doctor appointments already scheduled for me, but she also calmed me in a way she probably doesn’t even know she did. She made me feel like I would live while still being honest about the process. I am forever grateful for her support and help at such a terrifying time. Although breast cancer is a devastating diagnosis, it has forever made me a better person. I love life more than ever and I am so thankful for everyday and all of the people who have supported me along the way. My husband and mother went to every single appointment with me. Having other people in the appointments is so helpful; they think of different questions to ask and hear information the patient forgets. They were my support team and took notes at every appointment. We interviewed so many different surgeons, plastic surgeons and CONT. TO PG 56
Andrea celebrates life in her hot pink, tie-front V-neck silk Mona blouse by Aum Couture, $178, over AG Hinge cotton poly stretch leggings, $189. A beautiful gold double chain by Sonya Renee adds a touch of shine, $118. Courtesy of MkLaren, Fort Collins.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Suzanne Trautwein
I’m the person you see at Whole Foods pushing a cartful of organic produce, sipping a green drink in exercise clothes because I just finished a workout at the nearby health club. People like me don’t get breast cancer, right? Wrong! Apparently, regardless of what the “experts” tell you, maintaining a healthy weight, working out everyday, eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, rarely drinking alcohol, blah, blah, blah, does not actually prevent breast cancer! Even though my sister was diagnosed at age 35 (while 7½ months pregnant, I might add), I was sure it was not going to happen to me because of my super healthy lifestyle. Guess I could have eaten more Oreos. In June 2014, my right breast started hurting for no reason so one day in the shower, I decided to check things out and found a small lump. I thought to myself, “This is swell. My daughter is getting married next month and I am in the final stages of planning a large wedding with family coming in from all over the country plus a whole bunch of people from my future son-in-law’s side that I have never met.” I called my primary care doctor right away and, of course, she was out of town, so I saw her partner who said, “I think it’s nothing but I would get a mammogram just to be sure.” I then called down to Rose Medical Center and scheduled a mammogram for the following week. As they say, the rest is history. Three weeks before my only daughter’s wedding and two weeks before our 40th wedding anniversary I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I decided not to tell anyone except my husband, daughter and her fiancé. I really wanted the focus at the wedding to be on the bride and groom and not meet a bunch of new people and have to say, “Yes, I’m the one with breast cancer.” Fortunately, I hired a wedding planner and she took care of everything (Cydney Johnson, of Stiletto Events, is the gal to call if you ever need a wedding planner), which was a good thing as I alternated between, “OK, I am going to focus on the wedding and forget everything else,” and “OMG, I am going to die, probably next week!” The wedding went off without a hitch and was CONT. TO PG 56
Smart and sophisticated, Suzanne sports her ArynK cobalt boyfriend blazer with contrast cuffs, $108, worn over navy and charcoal crosshatch shell from Darling, $58, and Dex super skinny high rise stretch navy pants, $59. Silver zipper necklace adds pizazz, $50. Courtesy of Magnolia Moon, Fort Collins. Style 2015
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Marsha Bonney
My diagnosis came at the end of October 2013. Initially it was stage 1 and radiation so I figured not so bad, I'll get through this—no problem—and move on from there. After listening to all of the stories about mastectomies, I chose a lumpectomy and figured I would avoid major surgery. My diagnosis was then changed to stage 2, with chemo and radiation. This was one of the two times I actually cried because I didn't want to lose my hair. I called my brother and his response was, “Don't worry about it, I lost mine and it’s no big deal.” HAHA! Humor is how I got through it all. My attitude is that whining and crying about it does not change the facts, so you face any challenge head on and eventually get to the end. Famous last words! In June 2014, after celebrating the end of chemo and radiation, I was diagnosed with appendix cancer and had abdominal surgery. So much for avoiding major surgery. Physically, the breast cancer has not impacted my life in any great way. My hair has grown back and, except for the divot in my left breast, it is just a memory. Emotionally, it was not a great toll. There is always the realization that it could reoccur at CONT. TO PG 58
Marsha feels playful in her cream vest with zippers by Marrakech Zanzabar, $140, over Free People Sunny Valley thermal dark burgundy shirt, $68, and Not Your Daughter’s Jeans blue denim, $124. Navajo sterling and turquoise necklace, $240, and sterling turquoise earrings, $42, add a western touch. Courtesy of Cloz to Home, Loveland.
Robyn King
In fall 2014 I almost didn’t schedule my mammogram. Like everyone else in the world I was busy. I had just started a new position at UCHealth, and the learning curve was steep. My mom had Alzheimer’s disease and we were working on moving her and my dad to an assisted-living apartment. But my sister-in-law, who works at the Breast Diagnostic Center, reminded me frequently that I was overdue, and I finally scheduled the appointment over a lunchtime break. When she called me to come back in for some magnified views, I wasn’t at all worried or surprised; I have fibrocystic breasts and often have to go back. Even when Dr. Paquelet called me into her office to show me the concerning areas in my right breast, I wasn’t worried and I appreciated her skilled eyes for finding such a small change. She recommended a biopsy and we discussed the 2 percent chance of malignancy. I still wasn’t worried. We were moving my parents that weekend and my mind was more focused on them than on me. I felt lucky when I requested the next possible appointment and it was only a couple of days away. Lucky became a word I would use often to describe my journey. Like so many nurses, I was not a good patient. I did not follow my post-biopsy instructions; CONT. TO PG 58
Robyn celebrates survivorship in her vibrant turquoise perforated blouse by Darling, $74, topping Dex super skinny mid-rise cotton spandex stretch jeans, $59. Black arrowhead and stone long necklace, $38, and drop earrings, $6, add pizazz. Courtesy of Magnolia Moon, Fort Collins.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Mia Girard
I was diagnosed this year on Monday, Feb. 2. I was home alone. I am guessing most people diagnosed with cancer remember the moment as vividly as I do. When I saw the call from my breast surgeon on caller ID, I knew…I heard his words over the phone, but while we were talking it was almost as if it were about someone else. Once we hung up, the weight of the information began to settle into my body. As it did, my mind seemed to process a huge spectrum of thoughts and feelings in a moment’s time. First, a big long list of nasty expletives, then rage toward my PCP who had misdiagnosed me for six months, a brief “why me” and “am I going to die,” and finally a reclamation of power—an “I’ve got this, I can do this, I am going to rock this and beat it in the same positive, determined and bad-ass way I approach the rest of my life.” Then I called my husband and asked him to come home. Cancer hangs a big, dark cloud overhead. Sometimes it is an angry storm CONT. TO PG 58
Mia feels the music in her Free People drape front brown moto swing jacket, $168, worn over her ivory Bali Babe by Free People cuffed thermal shirt, $78, and blue denim by Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, $110. Fun bead necklace, $35, shades of blue silk scarf, $72, and stylish Sbicca fringed brown bootie, $116, complete the look. Courtesy of Cloz to Home, Loveland.
Tawnie Martinez
I was diagnosed with breast cancer Jan. 13, 2015. The week before I had a biopsy and the doctor called me at work. In my heart I knew something was wrong. She told me to come to the office right away because she had received my biopsy report. It was 6 p.m. on a Tuesday and only her medical assistant was there with her. She gave me the news; everything after that I cannot honestly remember. I am 24 years old. My initial reaction was, “I am way too young to have breast cancer. This can’t be right.” I reviewed the pathology results with my mom, a registered nurse. I am a medical assistant, so we knew what was going to happen. I was basically in denial for about three days. Everyone around me lifted my spirits up and gave me strength. I started meeting with several specialists and found the right team. I knew treatment had to start so I had a talk with God and said, “Let’s do this.” I started treatment one week after diagnosis. I finish treatment in September after two surgeries, 16 rounds of chemotherapy and hormone therapy. My life will never go back to “normal.” The normal has changed and every day now I am thankful just to be alive. Breast cancer has affected every aspect of my life. I look in the mirror some days and I CONT. TO PG 60
Tawnie dances the salsa in her polyester two pocket jade swing top, $56, and curvy-fit black trousers, $45, both from Alfani Woman. Stunning hammered silver tone necklace, $35, and matching drop earrings, $19, by Style & Co. Anne Klein Sport black patent flats with green accents, $69. Courtesy of Macy’s, Centerra, Loveland. Style 2015
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Jeanne Milliken
2014 did not start out well. In January we lost a good friend to stomach cancer. In February we lost our 12-year-old, long-haired whippet, Charlotte. She was my best buddy. When March rolled in I got my annual letter in the mail from the Breast Diagnostic Center telling me it was time for my mammogram. I put it on my desk and thought, “I just can't do this right now and, besides, it is always normal.” As the month wore on, I decided maybe I should make that appointment after all. I am so very glad I did. I had my mammogram on March 27, 2014. I don’t know why, but I sensed something was different with the views the technician was taking. In the end, she told me the usual information about how I would get a letter in the mail or a call back if they wanted more views. Driving home I just knew I was going to get a call, not a letter, and I did the next morning. I had an ultrasound a week later and the following week a biopsy. On April 11, Dr. Bev Donnelley called and told me it was malignant. April was a whirlwind of doctor appointments. I met with my surgeon, plastic surgeon and CONT. TO PG 60
Jeanne looks sophisticated in her Travelers Collection applique animal print burn out jacket, $149, worn over a black spandex Lena shirttail knit tank, $35, and slim leg pull on rayon spandex blend pants, $89. Tassel gunmetal necklace with pendant, $49, animal print dangle earrings, $25, rhinestone hinged mesh bracelet, $35, and hammered stretch bracelets with rhinestones, $39, add the sizzle. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.
Karen Klingenberg
In late January of this year I began to feel an itch in my right breast. For several days I simply scratched it periodically thinking it was a bite of some kind. Finally I felt the area with a little more fervor and felt a lump. There was no lump on my left breast when I tested it for comparison. Since it was time for my annual mammogram anyway, I made an appointment sometime in early February. After arriving and meeting with the technologist I told her about the lump I had felt. She had me wait while immediately calling my physician. I was told we were to proceed with a diagnostic exam instead, and to make an appointment, which I did on Feb. 25. It was a call from Dr. Copple, my physician, asking me to come in that confirmed it was cancer. From here on I honestly cannot remember the total sequence of events. A biopsy revealed that it was just a small growth, just over 0.5 inch, early stage and no apparent lymph nodes involved. Dr. Copple's first recommendation was to make an appointment with Dr. Anne Stroh, oncologist, as soon as possible. In meeting with Dr. Stroh and her nurse navigators (all awesome), we were informed of CONT. TO PG 60
Karen rocks to the beat in her cobalt blue poly blend front tucked tunic with tank by Alfani Woman, $71, topping taupe tummy control capris, $40. Collections Eighteen watercolor floral acrylic scarf, $36, frames her face and turquoise flats complete the look. Courtesy of Macy’s, Centerra, Loveland.
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Amy Howe
I remember the morning clear as day. I was visiting my family in San Francisco for Thanksgiving. The morning of Thanksgiving I noticed that my right breast looked odd shaped and was tender. I had done monthly checks on myself and then realized a lump I had noticed was seemingly larger than last month. I immediately went into defense mode, expressing my concern to my brother, sister-in-law and cousin. As a positive family would, they responded, “Oh, Amy, don’t worry, you’re fine.” My intuition told me no, I wasn’t. When I returned home I had a teacher workday and made an appointment to have the lump looked at. My nerves were at an all-time high because I just knew that this wasn’t good: both of my maternal aunts are breast cancer survivors, so it runs in my family. The nurse’s face said it all. She made an emergency mammogram appointment for the following Monday. My mother, Alice, came with me. They knew right away I needed a biopsy done; luckily there was a cancellation for the next morning. It was so painful, yet I had no idea what “pain” I was really in store for in the later months. Jamie Porter, the breast cancer navigator, came out to speak with us, and I knew I would be seeing her again. The night of Dec. 8, 2014, I received the phone call. I dropped the phone and fell to the floor as the world around me froze. I had my beautiful son, Ezekiel, who was 2, my students at school and so many people who depended on me. I was 32 and in disbelief. How was a single mother supposed to get through something like this? After I cried a cry I have never experienced before, I called my parents. My mom and I cried on the phone together but we said, “We will beat this.” My best friend and brother, Chris, and his wife, Fe, immediately set up a fundraiser for me that evening. The response was overwhelming! However, the fear wouldn’t leave me. How was I going to tell my students and staff at work? How was I going to teach my firstgraders when I was so sick? My year had already been a trying one up to my diagnosis, but I knew there was strength that God would see me through. The night of my diagnosis I witnessed what love truly is. I had friends and strangers from all over reach out CONT. TO PG 62
Amy keeps time to the music in her swing Colletta Southwestern long vest, $80, topping black bamboo spandex blend tank by Orange, $69, and Colletta pebble trouser pants, $89. Multi-strand turquoise and bead necklace, $119, willow round wood earrings, $39, and clay bead bracelets, $9, add fun accents. Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Fort Collins. Style 2015
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Celia Buchanan
Breast cancer. We all know the statistics. We hear them all the time, especially in October, but I thought that’s not going to be me, despite the fact that my mum passed away eight years after her diagnosis. Our family had had their brush with this disease. Yes, I did know it increased our chances, but that wasn’t going to be us. For as long as I can remember I always had lumpy breasts, one of the millions with fibrocystic breasts. Made them more interesting, I always thought. I wasn’t so blasé that I wouldn’t do my monthly breast exams. I knew all my bumps and lumps intimately. I went faithfully for my annual mammogram from the age of 30. I was always happy when the results came back and confirmed what I thought I already knew…all clear. In May 2004 I had my “all clear” letter and went about life happily as usual. Then came Jan. 14, 2005. I woke with a pain shooting from just under my arm to my nipple. It wasn’t excruciating, but it got my attention. It was still happening after I got out of bed. I had a niggling feeling in my head. I did a breast exam, paying careful attention to the upper outer quadrant. Lying down I couldn’t feel anything different. But it still niggled; in the shower I tried again. This time I felt a pea-sized lump that wasn’t there the month before. It was a holiday weekend and I thought to myself, “OK, if it is still there on Tuesday I will call the doctor.” I said nothing to anyone. Of course it was still there Tuesday. I went to my doctor and, like me, he couldn’t feel it when I lay down but did when I sat up. He ordered a mammogram and ultrasound, just in case. At this point I told my husband, Ian, and reassured him that statistics show that over 80 percent of these turn out to be nothing. Still it niggled. The mammogram didn’t really show anything so I went for the ultrasound. My husband and I were shown into a room in the Breast Imaging Center and a doctor confirmed that there was a lump and the next step was a biopsy. She still reassured us that most of these lumps turn out to be benign cysts. I think I knew deep down it wasn’t. On Feb. 3, 2005 (my oldest son Stuart’s birthday), I had a previouslymade appointment for my annual physical. I vividly remember the look on my doctor’s face as he gently and kindly said, “I just got the result of your biopsy. I’m sorry. It’s cancer.” In a split second I ran a gamut of emotions. For a brief second I felt the world spinning away from me, then I kicked straight into survival mode. I was 49 years old. I had a 16-year-old and an almost 13-year-old son, Craig. I was not going to lose this battle. “OK, what will we do now?” I asked. I called my husband and clinically told him the news; he met me in the parking lot. That was the first time I cried. My world came crashing down as soon as I saw him. We went for CONT. TO PG 62
Celia sways to the music in her rich blue tie-dyed paneled swing cardigan by Good 2 Go, $79, topping Last Tango’s sleeveless spandex blend sky blue tank, $45, and Lysse black denim skinny ankle leggings, $82. Omar Design handcrafted necklace, $49, Tagua stretch bracelet, $24, and drop earrings, $19, add a playful touch. Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Fort Collins.
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Kimberly Orrell
Lying on the table as the tech and doctor reviewed my ultrasound, I remember thinking, “But my life just got good.” It wasn’t even a year ago that my partner and I had a commitment ceremony in the backyard with our dearest friends. I was finally getting my Bachelor’s in Fine Art, and my son and I were finally adjusted and living like a normal family after a terrible divorce five years before. But in April 2012, I was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer. It was invasive and fast-moving. I had three tumors. I thought of them as lima beans that lost their way, which was easier than calling them tumors. Because I was only 37, we decided on an aggressive treatment plan. My oncologist put together an all-female team, something that was important to me, and I started chemotherapy in May. I am so grateful I had support from friends, including acupuncture twice a week given to me by my generous friend, Nell Clark. I was tired, really tired, and bald, but I had love in my life. In November I had a unilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. After surgery my pathology report revealed I was not only estrogen and progesterone positive, but also Her2+. Before beginning radiation, I started more chemo to kick off the year of Herceptin treatments I needed. I finished radiation in April, a year after my diagnosis. Cancer not only cost me my right breast, but my relationship as well. During treatment I really had to stay in the moment. My only aspirations were eating, sleeping and breathing. When I was done with the hard stuff I was looking forward to getting back to my normal life, but my partner had had enough of hard. They say this journey is not only about fighting for your life, but the process of finding a new normal. Really, I think it is about finding your authentic self. Now I know what I’m made of. A friend recently asked me why I don’t wear a prosthetic. For me, that would be denying this experience that has been so pivotal in my life. I am not ashamed of my body. I am proud of the strength I have gained through my struggle with cancer, proud to reveal my authentic self, scars and all. Today, my life is better than ever, and I am so grateful to be here to experience it!
Kimberly celebrates in her colorful Apropos lotus brightly patterned sheath dress, $109, belted with a beaded stretch belt with wooden buckle, $34, and topped with a Zoe mesh short jacket, $89. Tagua handmade shark tooth stretch bracelet, $24, and abstract earrings, $19, add fun. Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Fort Collins. Style 2015
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Kris King
In late Nov. 2012 my annual mammogram showed a questionable area in my right breast. I had a similar “scare” in 2012 that turned out to be nothing. Maybe it was denial, or ignorance, or simply wanting to get through Christmas, but I chose to wait until the beginning of the New Year to continue with the suggested diagnostic tests. In hindsight, waiting a full month was not a smart move, but I was lucky that my form of cancer was not extremely aggressive. This was a blessing. On Jan. 3, 2013, I began the process of undergoing a number of tests necessary to either get a clean bill of breast health or a diagnosis of cancer. My fear grew with each test, but I did my best to remain calm and hopeful. An important distraction from reality and fear for me during these tests was a trip with my best friend, Lori Bates, of 40+ years to our college alma mater, West Texas State University, and an awesome George Strait concert with a big group of our Texas girlfriends. This “cowgirl” had things to do and a life to live! Another blessing. CONT. TO PG 64
Kris moves to the music in her Alfani Woman brush stroke crossover tunic topping Alfani Woman’s flattering black poly spandex fortune pleat skirt, $70. Gold toned necklace and earrings add polish. Bandolino B flexible open toe patent leather natural pumps, $59, add a touch of style. Courtesy of Macy’s, Centerra, Loveland.
Suzanne Fries
My crusade against cancer began when, by a quirk of fate, I felt a miniscule lump, smaller than the tip of a ballpoint pen, in my right breast. I had not done self-breast examinations on a regular basis and was completely surprised when I discovered it. I did not give it much consideration but my husband, Matt, instructed me to call my doctor the next day. And so it began in June 2014. Even after my first mammogram at age 41 indicated clear results, here I was eight months later with a diagnosis of breast cancer—the diagnostic mammogram, the biopsy and then the waiting. The expectation was a breast-cancer diagnosis, but the anticipation of just how severe it would be was grueling. Once I received my diagnosis and had a treatment plan, I began the challenging daily trek of mentally and emotionally pushing through each day. First, the bilateral mastectomy surgery, then five months of chemotherapy followed by six weeks of radiation as well as the hair loss, unexpected hospital stays, infections and additional reconstruction surgeries. The physical demands put on my body were very difficult, but more than that was the difficulty of keeping myself mentally, emotionally and CONT. TO PG 64
Suzanne looks stunning in her teal floral silk blend Nicole Miller dress with petal hem and side ruching, $448. Chan Luu sunflower seed bead sparkle drop earrings, $59, add a glamorous touch. Courtesy of MkLaren, Fort Collins.
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Beverly Schmitt Bacon
I had just had my 78th birthday and returned from a wonderful cruise. In the stacks of mail awaiting me was a reminder that it was time for the annual mammogram. I scheduled the appointment and proceeded confidently as these routine exams were always OK, and I had no reason to expect this would be different. I received a “call back” from the Breast Diagnostic Center and still I wasn’t too concerned. Much to my surprise, the second exam confirmed that something was suspicious in the left breast and more treatment was recommended. The biopsy revealed cancerous material and a lumpectomy followed. The surgeon reported that the mass he removed was suspect and my next doctor visit would be with an oncologist. On advice of my P.A., I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Medgyesy, and a good friend offered to go with me to take notes. While waiting in the office I picked up a brochure describing a new type of testing that looked interesting. Dr. Medgyesy noticed the brochure in my hand and asked me whether I was willing to do chemotherapy if the results called for that. I did not hesitate to say, "Sure,” not quite realizing what that would be like. We waited for the report and it came back inconclusive, so Dr. Medgyesy sent it back again and told me in the meantime to begin radiation treatments. This treatment seemed routine and I began meeting other cancer patients at the radiation center. We all encouraged one another and I remained positive. I liked the idea that I was doing something to help remove the cancer. The radiation center is well organized and easily managed. I appreciated the treatment and staff who called me by my first name and were eager to help, changing appointments when my schedule required. On the third attempt at diagnosing the kind of cancer, the results came back that my cancer would likely spread—not to another breast, but to other organs: bones, lungs, etc. I was disappointed, but not too depressed. My husband was always very supportive, and my friends and family did everything they could to help. I never went to chemo treatments alone; either my husband or close friends or family joined me during the four weeks of treatment. Someone was always there and brought games or positive words. The staff offered drinks of coffee, tea or water, and always a warm blanket if I wanted one. I met other patients and sometimes people who were undergoing treatment I knew from the past and never knew that they had cancer. When my hair began to fall out was the only time I cried. It is tough enough to grow older and realize that you cannot remember all that you would like and then, on top of that, look at oneself and see your hair remain on the pillow when you get up in the morning! Two friends said, “Let’s go look for wigs,” and we found one almost the same color as my hair. A former student also volunteered the wig that she no longer needed, so I had a wig with straight hair as well as curly. My hairstylist combed the wigs and helped me look more “normal.” Other friends made me cute “caps” and showed me how to tie headscarves to look stylish. All the support was remarkable. I cannot say enough good things about my family and friends and what that meant to me. It would be very tough to go through this alone, and I feel very fortunate. Hope lives in me because of supportive friends and family, competent and caring medical professionals, and because of research and organizations such as the new Cancer Center and Hope Lives! It is very comforting to be valued and pampered.
Beverly sways to the music in her geometric, diamond-patterned short sleeve banded top, $69, worn over feminine handkerchief lace hem poly spandex gored skirt, $89. Long corded Rosalynn silver tone shiny pendant, $39, matching pierced drop earrings, $20, and wide Yalina silver tone stretch cuff bracelet, $39, complete the look. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.
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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Laura Derry
My story begins like most women going about their lives—very little ill health and not thinking at 34 I would be diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a dear friend get diagnosed with cancer shortly before me and, after doing the yearly cancer walk to support her, I decided to give myself a breast exam. I felt an abnormal lump and thought it was just a fibrous mass that had previously ran in my family. After a few months, I checked again and noticed it was bigger. I had my mom, who is a nurse, check it and I thought she would be able to tell me from a medical point of view. She said go get it checked; better to be safe than sorry. Well, after seeing the doctor and being sent for testing, the final result was breast cancer. I was terrified and scared beyond anything I had ever felt in my life. The worst part was my husband’s face. We had only been married a month. It all felt like a dream. After seeing my oncologist and doing my pet scan, I finally got my results. It was stage 2 and curable. I felt like I’d won the lotto. It was going to be hard but I was going to live! Life CONT. TO PG 64
Laura looks stunning while dancing in her taffeta strapless sweetheart neckline magenta cocktail gown from Alfred Sung, $194. Courtesy of Dora Grace, Fort Collins.
Katie Bone
My daughter Zoe is my guardian angel. At 13 months old she often would crawl all over me, and every time she landed on my right breast in this one spot it always hurt. So I felt it one day and, sure enough, there was a lump. I wasn’t really concerned because I have no family history of breast cancer, and I figured since I had just stopped nursing two months prior it probably had something to do with that. We had just moved to Fort Collins about four months before this, so I found an OB-GYN and went in to have it checked out, just to be safe. The doctor agreed that she thought it was probably just hormonal but sent me for a mammogram and ultrasound to be safe. Since I’m 31 I had never had a mammogram and was afraid it might be painful—it was a breeze, basically just X-rays of the breasts—and then they called me back for an ultrasound. Like I said, I had never been through this process before so I didn’t realize it was out of the ordinary; therefore, I wasn’t scared and was just CONT. TO PG 64
Katie looks glamorous in her matte metallic sequin gown with ruched bodice and flowing skirt from Sorella Vita, $294. Rose gold rhinestone pendant, $55, and matching pearl drop earrings, $84, by Mariell. Courtesy of Dora Grace, Fort Collins.
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DEBBIE MARTIN, CONT. FROM PG 42
I told my family and went on the mission trip to San Diego, because what if this was my last trip? It was incredible how God encouraged me through the mission, the children and everyone around me. The following weekend, Kevin and I celebrated our 20th class reunion with dear friends and classmates before I had double mastectomy surgery. The right breast was radically removed, more than the left side. The doctor said the lump my husband felt was just a small tip and there was a large mass that was more on my chest wall, which could not be felt by physical touch, and was a struggle during the mammogram. A large number of positive lymph nodes were involved, so they were worried that it had spread to my bones and/ or metastasized to my main organs. I had a month of tests, decisions and strategic planning to get aggressive with chemo treatments. They found a spot on my kidney, but no sign on any bones yet. I started my first chemo treatment in October. I was so sick after chemo that a dear friend (a nurse) would come home with me from my chemo treatments with an open line in my port to keep fluids and anti-nausea medicine in me for the next 24 hours. It felt like if the cancer didn’t kill me, the chemo would. It was not easy, yet I survived. I was devastated after I lost my hair 12 days after my first chemo treatment. I hated the way I looked in the mirror but, more importantly, now I looked like I was sick with cancer and/ or dying to my family, and I could not live with that. I would not let my husband, children, family or friends see me without my hair. I always wore a wig, hat or a turban. I did not want them to lose faith in my healing. I had eight chemo treatments three weeks apart, and then six weeks of radiation. After all my cells and body returned to “normal,” I could proceed with reconstruction. The doctor was concerned the chemo might not work, as the cancer was advanced in my lymph node system. I told the doctor he was not alone and not to worry; I had many prayers going to the “Great Physician,” too. My doctor still reminds me that I’m a walking miracle. Today, I am cancer free. I thought the day I was diagnosed was the worst day of my life. Looking back, I am so blessed for all the changes in my life and the new perspective I have on living my life. I am so thankful for my Savior in Jesus and to all the family and friends who helped me every step of the way. I am truly blessed to be a part of a group of inspiring women survivors called Breast Friends Cancer Support Group Foundation in Windsor, helping support and giving hope to other women diagnosed with breast cancer. Today my “hope lives” on through Jesus Christ, and in witnessing my children graduate from high school and college: sharing in my daughter’s wedding; celebrating my 50th birthday this year, my 30th wedding anniversary and my son’s wedding last month; and sharing in a whole new experience and level
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of love with our first grandson. Through my cancer journey, I have been able to write and share in an Amazon Best Seller book “Flowers Whisper, what words can’t say….” And now I witness and share inspiring messages as a speaker, dropping love petals while traveling around the country. Yes, my life has changed and, yes, I survived. And now I want to live! I believe the best is yet to come! ANDREA OBESTER, CONT. FROM PG 42
oncologists, and I have a great medical team because of it. I also could not be more proud of my husband, Mike, and two boys Kellan, 7, and Bauer, 4. They were such a strength for me and our family has such a strong bond from going through this experience. We were very open with the boys about all the surgeries; it has taught them bad things happen in life and good things can come out of them. They are now seeing the good, especially with being involved in this issue of the magazine and helping others through their journey. The hardest part of being diagnosed with breast cancer was waiting a couple of weeks for the initial surgery to remove the cancer. That was the most grueling time, not knowing what I was up against and how far it had spread throughout my body. I was having anxiety and it was a terrible time. Then my husband asked me to meet him for lunch where I learned he had booked a surprise family vacation for the beach. I looked at him and said, “I cannot go. I have cancer.” He said, “Yes, you can and we need to do this,” and he was so right! Just because you are given a cancer diagnosis doesn’t mean you have to stay home. We came back and a couple days later I had my surgery. I am so grateful he did that for me and it took my mind off of breast cancer and took away so much of the anxiety. So, as we all know, being diagnosed with cancer is scary, yet it has brought a beauty to my life that I did not have before. It has taught me so much about myself. It has also given me so much love and respect for my husband and two little boys. I am unbelievably grateful for my family; they are awesome! I also have educated myself extensively on food and changed much of my diet. For me it is very important to do all I can to learn about how to help myself and how to help others who have been diagnosed. I found my lump during a self-exam and I cannot stress how important self-exams are. I am so thankful to be a part of this experience and the amazing women involved. They have all impacted my life in a way that will never be forgotten. I hope that someone will read my story and it will help them. If you know someone who has been diagnosed with cancer but do not know what to do, just do something even if it is a card in the mail. Going to my mailbox everyday and getting cards or gifts gave a light to each day. Thank you to all of you who did those things; it truly made a difference.
SUZANNE TRAUTWEIN, CONT. FROM PG 43
beautiful beyond belief! The day after my daughter (they weren’t leaving for the honeymoon until that evening), two close friends and my Aunt Fern went wig shopping with me in Denver. I did get a beautiful wig at a shop in Denver. I guess a lot of transgendered people and female impersonators shop there and boy, do they know good wigs! Let’s just say, my dear daughter had a very interesting first day of marriage! I then took Aunt Fern to the airport, my daughter and new husband left for Aruba, and I got a port installed the following week instead of going on a longawaited bicycle trip through the Loire Valley. Being in total shock and on emotional overload, I never thought to research doctors, treatment, etc. I started chemo in Denver on August 4—big mistake! The first chemo was miserable with lots of bad side effects and the second round put me in PVH for four fun-filled days over Labor Day. I kept asking to go home and they kept telling me that I was too sick to even consider it. Lucky for me, the hospital sent Dr. Regina Brown in to see me and we bonded! I fired the other doctor in Denver and Regina started me on a much gentler regimen administered once a week in smaller doses as opposed to a regimen that was way too strong for my body to handle. While chemo wasn’t fun, I got through it with a lot of help from friends and family. Three weeks after my last treatment I had a double mastectomy and the pathology report showed no evidence of disease anywhere. I chose not to have reconstruction—I personally have better things to do than go through more surgeries. I am back to doing workouts that kick my butt (in a good way)! I have added in more mellow workouts, such as Tai Chi and yoga, and have come to the realization that I can’t do four spinning classes a week like I used to, which may be a function of old age as opposed to having had cancer. I am supposed to say who and what inspires me and I would have to say first of all, it is my family, especially my daughter who flew out from Virginia to take care of me after surgery and my husband, son and two dogs, who put up with me during chemo. My sister was a great resource and inspiration as she went through chemo with a newborn, a 3-yearold and worked part time. Talk about Super Woman! I have to mention my wonderful Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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doctors: Regina Brown, Jackie Fields, Dr. Quaid plus my acupuncturist, Kristie Steinbach, and my massage therapist, Sue McShane. I also have to mention all of my wonderful friends who supported me in so many different ways—I am truly blessed to have you in my life. My takeaway is that I saw a lot of people up at the Cancer Center in a lot worse shape than me, so please be nice to people as you never know what someone else is facing in their life. Peace! MARSHA BONNEY, CONT. FROM PG 44
any time. But again, there is no point in dwelling on it. I had wonderful help and support from my friends and, of course, my brother. Spiritually, I believe God will always be with me whatever my challenge is. My church is an integral part of my life and I received unending love, help and support from my church family. I think my strength and inspiration comes from my mother. She had a great faith in God and she was a strong woman and a very important part of my life. I learned from her that whatever the challenge, you face it and get on with your life. My experience with breast cancer, overall, has indeed been an adventure. I have met many lovely people, such as Lydia Dody and the volunteers of her wonderful organization, Hope Lives! The opportunity to share my journey and be a “model” for Style Magazine is an experience I will never forget. I enjoyed a fun-filled and spiritually rewarding weekend at a retreat learning to fly fish through the organization Casting for Recovery. I always laugh and say that the many “perks” of having breast cancer almost make it worth it. In truth they make it tolerable, and the support you receive is beyond measure. But once you have been through it, you are forever changed, for good or ill. What you strive for is, as they say, your “new normal” and, God willing, that will be better than your “old normal.”
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"Cancer hangs a big dark cloud overhead. Sometimes it is an angry storm cloud drowning me in rain. Other times it retreats in the distance, allowing the warmth and radiance of the sun to shine on me …"
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- Mia Girard
ROBYN KING, CONT. FROM PG 44
instead I helped move my parents. By Monday I was in a lot of pain and had significant swelling. I made an appointment with the Breast Diagnostic Center nurse to check the site, and although I didn’t have any major complications, I received the news no one ever wants to hear. I will never forget how kind and compassionate Dr. Paquelet and the nurses were when they told me the news. I didn’t cry; I probably didn’t even look upset. I just wanted to figure out what was next. A friend of mine who is a uterine cancer survivor told me the worst thing about having cancer is the waiting, and she was right. I had my diagnosis; now I had to wait to see my new oncologist and surgeon. Thank goodness for my UCHealth nurse navigator who answered all of my questions in between appointments and gave me the resources I needed. Within a few weeks we had a plan—lumpectomy and lymph node dissection followed by several weeks of radiation. I felt good about this and never once felt like I didn’t have options or was pushed in any direction. My lumpectomy was scheduled for the end of October. Before my surgery one of my dearest friends had a housewarming party for her new home that she turned into a “Pink Boa” party for me. I felt so empowered, strong and, again, lucky. The news from the lumpectomy was excellent: clear margins and no sign of cancer in my lymph nodes. But the pathology report showed the tumor was positive for estrogen and progesterone receptors and an aggressive cell type. I also received my genetic testing results showing I have mutations to two genes known to cause both breast and ovarian cancers. I went back to my healthcare providers for their recommendations and requested a second review by the tumor board. In the meantime, an appointment opened up with my plastic surgeon the next day. In the waiting room was an amazing friend I hadn’t seen in years. A breast cancer survivor, her story in last September’s Style Magazine inspired many women. Her hug, smile and reassurance that I would be OK and the re-connection we made that day has carried me in this journey in ways I cannot describe. She has also been the one person I could ask for honest answers to any questions I had without embarrassment. Based on all of the information we now had, I was now working to minimize my risk for recurrence of breast cancer and of having ovarian cancer. I will never forget asking my long-time OB/ GYN if I was making the right decision. He looked me in the eyes and said, “Absolutely.” Suddenly I trusted my gut instincts again and knew I was doing what was right for me. We scheduled the removal of my one remaining ovary in January. My double mastectomy was scheduled for February. I could finally relax, knowing the cancer had been removed and was not spreading, I didn’t need chemotherapy and I would no longer need radiation. Time was a gift as it would ultimately be my family’s last holiday season with my mom. Again I felt lucky. February was not easy: surgery, drains, complications, anemia and home oxygen. All were challenges I never thought I would face. My friends and family gave me amazing gifts, sent inspiring cards, donated funds, meals, meal gift cards, and
visits with hugs and laughter. One friend came to my home to help with yoga poses when I complained that I couldn’t get comfortable enough to sleep. My colleagues wore pink on the day of my mastectomy. My husband’s work team supported him and our family, too. The most important person, though, has been my rock, my cheerleader, my caregiver and the most incredible husband anyone could ever ask for, Darel. He stepped up to care for me in ways I don’t think either of us could have ever imagined and, after being married for 29 years, I can honestly say I love him more today than ever. I’m also lucky to be the mom of two amazing children: Josh and Carissa have taught me more about unconditional love, support and perseverance than I ever thought possible. A month after my mastectomy my mom gave up her fight against Alzheimer’s disease. This was the most bittersweet time of my life. This devastating disease took her memory, but it never took her laugh, her smile or her loving disposition. I honestly believe she needed to know I was OK after my surgery before she would let go. Lucky is exactly how I feel: I was lucky to have an early diagnosis, lucky to have choices in my healthcare, lucky to have a remarkable team of healthcare providers. My hope is that no woman misses her screening mammogram (or breast self-exam, either). A mammogram literally saved my life, and can make a tremendous difference. My tumor was deep and I would not have felt a change for at least another year, so it really was my mammogram that made me the luckiest woman. A lunchtime appointment could save your life. MIA GIRARD, CONT. FROM PG 45
cloud drowning me in rain. Other times it retreats in the distance, allowing the warmth and radiance of the sun to shine on me. But it is always there, within sight, impacting plans and decisions. It creates a certain clarity, though, and has silver linings that I did not expect. For example, while I regularly referred to the adage “It takes a village,” I typically had been squarely within the giving and equally sharing part of the village. I had never before been the one in dire need. I am now keenly aware of the supportive village within which I exist. I am so thankful for it. I have extraordinarily caring friends, co-workers and family who have stepped up to help with meals, rides, gifts and time. While this diagnosis has been a huge stressor for my family, I am incredibly proud of my children and grateful for my parents and mother-in-law. Knowing that someone always has your back is a gift, and I have never been so appreciative of my strong and loving husband. I knew we were something special before, but I am now more certain. I am also graced with three incredible sisters, two by birth and one by marriage. My sisters have all been on parallel journeys of one kind or another, and I find their courage and strength a constant source of inspiration as we face our relative challenges in life together. Another silver lining exists on a spiritual level. I have always had faith in a connectedness Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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to something greater than mankind. When I was diagnosed, I found tremendous comfort in my spiritual practice. Somehow, given all that was and is going on, my intuition continues to tell me that I am going to be OK; all that is, is meant to be. An amazing number of signs and moments over the last year remind me of the strength of my spiritual beliefs. Early on in my cancer diagnosis I felt guided in finding my power, surrendering and releasing what I could, focusing on that which I hold dear, listening to my intuition and having truth and integrity in my actions along the way. As a result of my experience, I now find strength, reassurance and clarity in getting a second opinion—another silver lining. This is an option that we all have but most never utilize. Misguided by my prior PCP, I wasted six months seeking her help, time that may have made a difference in the staging and subsequent treatment of my aggressive fastgrowing cancer. I had Paget’s disease, a rare type of breast cancer that accounts for less than 5 percent of all breast cancers. It presents as a lesion on the breast. My symptoms started in June of last year. By my third PCP visit in December, I had a palpable lump. My PCP was not concerned and, in January, I scheduled myself a second opinion. Within 19 days I was diagnosed with cancer. I have a book by Judith Lasater that I bought online secondhand. It arrived inscribed, a message from Judith meant for someone else passed, by chance, along to me. She wrote, “May we live like the lotus—at home in the muddy water.” I look for synchronicities, signs and symbols, which typically have spiritual meanings for me. My time dealing with cancer has been full of these synchronicities, and they seem to arrive perfectly timed. I heard a woman who had breast cancer years ago recently say, “It was both the best and the worst of times.” I know I have the opportunity to make the best of this, and that is my goal—to be powerful, thankful and in radiant health. I look forward to repeating her sentiments years down the road. It is the best and worst of times. While the water is incredibly muddy, the lotus grows in this environment and is beautiful. Cancer is a most sobering and frightening thing to experience yet allows me to appreciate with greater clarity the simplest of life’s joys and wonders.
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“Humor, sick or otherwise, was something that got me through many of my scared days.”
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TAWNIE MARTINEZ, CONT. FROM PG 45
do not recognize myself. Treatment has affected me most physically. Some days are emotional and rough, other days I have no problems. Spiritually, I have become closer to my God. My life is forever changed due to this diagnosis. My daughter Kadence Elise has been my inspiration, and also my parents; since I am a single mother, they have been the biggest help. I continue to work and parent through my treatment, which hasn’t been easy. My strength is also from my co-workers. I work for a specialist in Fort Collins. Everyone around me has been there when I needed a shoulder to cry on, a good laugh or they would surprise me with gifts. My goal is to educate and teach young women about breast cancer, and spread awareness that it can happen to them, too. I also want to eventually work in oncology. JEANNE MILLIKEN, CONT. FROM PG 46
oncologist. After much contemplation, I decided on a double mastectomy with reconstruction. On May 19, I had my surgery and spent four days in the hospital. I returned home on May 22. To say I felt like a truck hit me is a major understatement. I learned that I had HER2+ breast cancer with no lymph node involvement and would have a year of Herceptin targeted treatment. The advances in targeted therapy for treating breast cancer are truly amazing. After returning home from the hospital, my husband took over. I couldn’t sleep in our bed as I was too uncomfortable and so I slept in a chair. He slept next to me on the floor for several days. He woke me at night to give me my pain meds, emptied my drains, etc. I can’t imagine going through this without his support. Many friends also came forward and helped. Jenny, a friend of mine who also is a breast cancer survivor, accompanied me to all of my infusion appointments. Friends brought dinner and many others sent me wonderful cards on a weekly basis. Two of my friends, who are nurses, were always there to answer questions and give me encouragement. I felt so loved and well cared for. I feel so fortunate to have had the doctors I did. Dr. Pettine was very reassuring and Dr. Boustred is such a skilled master of reconstruction. I appreciated Dr. Miho Scott’s knowledge and her great sense of humor. The nurses at the Cancer Infusion Center were wonderful. AnnMarie Cronin, my social worker, was so good at listening to me and validating how I was feeling. Hope Lives! allowed me to have acupuncture and massage. When Hope Lives asked me to be a model for this year’s magazine honoring breast cancer survivors, I said “yes” immediately. I have met some pretty amazing and strong women of all ages who have and are walking down the same path as I. They remind me I am not alone in this and that gives me great comfort. This journey has deepened many friendships and I have made many new ones. It has taught me to remember that major changes in your life can happen in a heartbeat, so enjoy each
day and tell your family and friends how much you love them. I am now retired from a job that I loved and am excited to begin a new phase in my life post-breast cancer treatment. KAREN KLINGENBERG, CONT. FROM PG 46
a national breast cancer ONCOTPYE research program in progress that I could participate in through PVH. In talking it over and in prayer, meeting with Jenny, the clinical research coordinator, it was decided we would most likely join at least Phase 1 of the study. We met with Dr. Steven Dubs, whom we had chosen, again with prayer, as my surgeon. After consultations with both Dr. Stroh and Dr. Dubs, I chose a lumpectomy only. Surgery was scheduled for April 8. The tissues extracted and tested during surgery detected a larger lump than the initial test revealed, as well as one lymph node affected, and that the cancer was actually Stage 2B. After further meeting with Dr. Stroh and Jenny, we agreed to have tissue sent in to the research program. Within two weeks we received word: my cancer had only a 9-11 percent chance of recurrence without chemo, but radiation only. Again prayerfully, and with help in our decision from many, we decided to forego Step 2 of the study, which might have required up to 50 percent of us with low recurrence to undergo chemo anyway, and proceeded with radiation only. The team Dr. Stroh recommended to me was Dr. Elizabeth Ceilley and her team at McKee Cancer Center. They are a terrific! And as I told them, they almost made it fun to come in and get ‘radiated.’ Seven weeks later I am feeling good and so grateful for the care, concern and prayers from so many. My physicians, their staff, my neighbors, friends (some from as far away as the East Coast), church friends and my wonderful, wonderful family—my husband, who is a far better caregiver than I ever could be, my precious daughter and son-in-law, my devoted sister and brother and their families—I love you. Thank you all. And thank you Lydia, Mary G. and Mary R. of Hope Lives! for the opportunity to be part of this group of beautiful, bold and brave ladies, many of whom have suffered far more than me. And I might add: because of the teams involved, and all of my "prayer warriors," I have had little or no fear amidst all of this! God bless you all.
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to me to help, support, pray—you name it. When I met my doctor and wonderful oncologist, Dr. Brown, she explained to my mother and I the urgency to start treatment as soon as possible because I was so young. I had my first chemotherapy infusion on Jan. 8, 2015. I had little reaction to the harsh “red cocktail,” as I called it, but my body had trouble for months from the Nulesta bone marrow shot. This caused me to make one of the hardest decisions of my life: to go on long-term disability and put my job as a teacher on hold. Through the next months, I was out for days on end from treatment, unable to eat, walk or function. A respiratory infection put me in the ER on my birthday, and moments of darkness came daily. I was so grateful for my many friends, family, and loving mom and dad who watched over Zeke and me during the months of treatment. You never know what happiness truly means for you until you are faced with an illness such as breast cancer. My second round of chemo was unsuccessful, which changed my treatment. Following my lumpectomy on April 7, I had a third round of chemo to finish. During this treatment, I encountered kidney stones and numerous ER visits to the hospital. I had to draw strength from places I never knew existed to get through those times. My son’s father and my best friend, CJ, family from all over and close friends kept my spirits up. I was drained. My hair had fallen out for the third time and I was overly emotional. I didn’t know how I was going to get by as anger crept into my mind. However, God knew to pull me out of the darkness and I kept fighting. July 7 was my last chemo infusion and what an amazing day it was. I had a rally of people there to support me, and, of course, the one person I dedicate my journey and survival to—my loving mother. I wouldn’t be as strong and positive if it weren’t for everything she has done and continues to do for me. My parents, Rodney and Alice, and brother, Chris, were and continue to be my solid foundation of support. I cannot thank the nurses and doctors at the Cancer Center of the Rockies for their undying help and support. To all of my family and aunts (Wilma and Phyllis) who supported me and guided me, my close friends and new friends (too many to name) who chose to walk with me on this journey, and especially my F U Cancer crew for the long nights of getting me rice packs, medicine, food, caring for Zeke, keeping my spirits up no matter how down I was—thank you! Thanks to my Putnam family at school (staff, parents, students) for the meals, cards, gifts, prayers and love. Most of all, thanks to God. He is the one who saw me through and still does. I am grateful for everyone who touched my heart and showed support, close and afar. This is for you! We journeyed along this dark road but came out on top. This September I will begin my radiation and hormonal treatment, hopefully entering remission. As a recipient of Raintree Athletic Club’s annual
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wellness scholarship, my future plans are to get back into yoga, exercise and healthy living. After a long seven months on medical disability, I will be returning to my classroom and kids. It is a bittersweet feeling but I am anxious to be an example of strength, perseverance and self-motivation to my school family and community. Love, hope and faith are powerful!
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“I am proud of the strength I have gained through my struggle with cancer …”
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AMY HOWE, CONT. FROM PG 47
- Kimberly Orrell
CELIA BUCHANAN, CONT. FROM PG 48
a long walk and decided that we would tell our children the following day. They were amazing. Yes, they were upset, but it turned out that my oldest son had been on the computer a couple of days previously and something about breast cancer popped up. I had been Googling it, looking for reasons for it not to be cancer, and unexplainably he looked at our search history. They did ask if I was going to die. That is the second time I cried. I told them no. I had a lot of damage to do in life and I had to get them through school, college and they weren’t getting rid of me that fast. I met with my surgeon, the oncologist and the radiologist, and developed my fight plan. I will always be eternally grateful to them all, especially Dr. Stephan Pettine and Dr. Diana Medgyesy. They will never know how much their positive attitude meant to me. I was given the choice of mastectomy or lumpectomy. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. We set a date and I told Dr. Pettine I would call with my decision. I met with a couple of women who had had mastectomies. One even let me feel her reconstructed breast. Ian and I talked in depth about it. Like me he wanted the cancer gone and would support me whatever the decision. It is probably one of the hardest choices I ever had to make. I called the doctor’s office and told them I was going to have a mastectomy. They said I could change my mind right up until the day of surgery. I was pretty sure I wasn’t going to change my mind. However, I walked into Macy’s and the first thing I saw was a mannequin wearing red lacy underwear. I don’t know why, but at that moment I knew mastectomy wasn’t the choice for me. I went home and told Ian. He was very supportive but surprised. I will never forget his face when he said, “But, Celia, you don’t wear red lacy underwear!”
Feb. 17 dawned—23 years to the day after my mum had her mastectomy and my dad died. Yes, I considered changing the date, but seeing my mixed emotions Ian said we could replace a day of sad memories with one of joy…the day I began the rest of my life. I decided to honor my parents’ memory by doing just that. I also heard my mum telling me, “What’s for you won’t go by you,” and, “You are never given more to shoulder than you can bear.” I knew that on this day more than any other they would be with me and I was going to be just fine. I did have to go back the following week as the margins weren’t clear, but I still didn’t regret my choice. It is one that every woman has to make for herself. I really believe you will know. The next year wasn’t the most pleasant of my life. Chemo isn’t something you do for fun. There are side effects that you think you are ready for but will hit like you like a ton of bricks. You are not weak; you are not a baby. You are fighting the fight of your life. It’s worth it. Everyone is different and has different side effects. Just know as you look down that tunnel that it will end and you will come through it a stronger person than you started, even if you think you are pretty strong now. Losing my hair was both horrifying and funny. It happened right after my first treatment. I work in an elementary school and I remember putting my hand in my hair to scratch an itch and coming away with a handful of hair. I wanted to cry but I couldn’t do that there. Humor, sick or otherwise, was something that got me through many of my scared days. For the remainder of the day, it was my evil party piece to pull handfuls of hair for anyone who crossed my path—except the children, of course! I called my hairdresser and friend, Stephanie, to ask her to shave my head. She came to my home and, with loving kindness I can never repay, shaved me bald as a coot. I already had a wig but it was so hot and itchy, I eventually ditched it for scarves. So many people helped me through this time. As I said, without Ian, Stuart and Craig I wouldn’t have made it. All of my friends and my school family (because that’s what they became since my own family is all back in Scotland) cooked meals, organized a house cleaner to help us all through this time and, more importantly, gave me their time and most of all their love. And for this I will be eternally grateful. Breast cancer survivors Melissa Bates, Kelly Thompson and Eileen Getches also helped me through this journey by sharing their stories and helping me make decisions and see that it didn’t have to be a death sentence. Sadly, Kelly passed away just over a year ago, but I don’t take that as a failure or that it could happen to me. She taught me how to fight and stay positive. She was fighter. I cried again writing this as I remembered all the emotions and wonderful people in my life, but mostly tears of joy that I am here with Ian, Stuart, Craig and Lauren to experience all that life will throw at us, good and bad, and to honor the memory of my parents who were at my shoulder not letting me give up, and all fighters who came before me and sadly, yet to come. This is really hard to understand but this is my story and it is one that I wouldn’t change. It’s me and who I am today. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
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Finally, on Jan. 25 I received a call at work with the diagnosis of invasive ductile carcinoma. Yes, it was cancer, and I couldn’t feel it because it wasn’t a “lump.” I remember the shock of the news and how scared I was because I had watched my mom battle and eventually lose her fight to breast cancer just 10 years earlier. I called my husband, Shannon, to tell him and I cried—a lot. I was in and out of tears for a couple of days before I decided that in order to battle this “thing,” I had to be hopeful and positive, I needed to trust God, and I needed a lot of prayers and support. Shannon and I decided it would be best to tell our boys, David and Kevin (age 11 and 10 at the time), so that they could ask questions and receive the support they would need during mom’s battle. I visited with their principal and homeroom teachers at Skyview Elementary, and they all responded with great care, concern and support for the boys and our family. More blessings. Due to my mom’s cancer, I had already made the decision years earlier that if I was ever faced with this disease, I would be as aggressive as possible. On Feb. 25, I had both breasts removed along with 19 lymph nodes. Only one of those nodes was positive, so I was in a Stage 2B. After recovering from surgery, I met Dr. Diana Medgyesy and her nurse practitioner, Amy Wing, from Front Range Cancer Specialists. These ladies, and the entire staff, were caring and patient and helped to explain things in terms we could understand. No question went unanswered and hugs were plentiful. I began chemo in late April and by Mother’s Day weekend my head and hair hurt so badly that I told my husband it was time to shave it off. That Sunday he shaved it for me, and I began wearing my new spring and summer “do”—taking the “bald is beautiful” saying to heart. My inspirations were a beautiful young woman named Leila (29 and fighting breast cancer with a smile and encouragement for everyone around her), and a 13-year-old named Andrew who was fighting to recover from a massive brain aneurism. I told myself daily, “If they can do it, so can I!” I finished chemo in early September and moved on to daily radiation treatments. I concluded my year by having two surgeries to finish my breast reconstruction. My fight against breast cancer definitely changed me, not only physically, but emotionally and in how I live and appreciate life. I see each birthday not as another year older, but as another day with my family and friends! I don’t let the little stuff get me “riled up” like I did in the past, and I appreciate things with a new lens and lease on life. I couldn’t have gotten through all of this without the help of God, my husband, my boys, my sisters, brothers and other family members, friends, my boss and coworkers, Shannon’s fellow teachers, the staff at Skyview, our pastor and his wife, our First Christian church family, Hope Lives!, Breast Friends Support Group,
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and the doctors, nurses and therapists. This army of people did many things to support us throughout the year including taking me to chemo, bringing us meals, visiting, sending cards, saying prayers, offering positive thoughts, helping with the boys, making blankets and prayer shawls…you name it, they were there! Bountiful blessings…. SUZANNE FRIES, CONT. FROM PG 50
spiritually tough. I was capable of dealing with the physical demands, but surrounded myself with family and friends to nurture me through the rest. I could not have persevered without the love, comfort and support of my best friend and husband, who has been to every appointment and treatment with me. He has been my pillar who has accepted my laughter and my tears. And the strength of my children—Rachael, Marshall and Ethan— who stepped up and did all that needed to be done. Rachael sacrificed so much of her time with her family to spend it with me, arranging for us all to be together during my last chemo treatment; Marshall, who was willing to join our company to ease our commitments at work; Ethan for the fancy hairstyle sporting the breast cancer ribbon engraved in his hair; Tim, my son-in-law, for shaving his head to be bald with me; and to my grandson, Rylan, who always made me smile and hopefully grows up to know that not all medicine makes your hair fall out. I am also grateful for all of the encouraging thoughts and prayers from my parents, family and friends. I would not be able to heal without them! Additionally, the exceptional care I received from the Fort Collins medical community was most beneficial. My oncologist did not hesitate to call and check on me or walk over to the doctor’s office next door to discuss any questions or concerns; my plastic surgeon, whose gentle guidance and encouragement did not go unnoticed; my radiation oncologist who took the time to have conversations to see how I was doing; the oncology floor at PVH for their great care and attention; and all of their assistants and staff who made each visit professional and tolerable. Also, the support and services that Hope Lives! provided were a blessing, including the personal wig consultation and reflexology treatments. Hope Lives! has given me a voice and the opportunity to have fun and feel beautiful again, even if just for a moment, during my treatment. It is my hope that women are encouraged to be advocates of their own bodies and to be diligent about self-examinations, understanding that mammograms are not the only source for discovering breast cancer. And finally, to those who are diligently working to find a cure, I encourage you to keep searching! I do and say all this in honor of and in loving memory of my sister, Kelli Lightsey, who lost her three-year battle with cancer in the midst of my crusade.
LAURA DERRY, CONT. FROM PG 54
suddenly came into perspective. Everything changed but what I'm most thankful for is all my angels—some I never even met, but most were dear friends. The love and support I had made it worth living. I'm grateful for so many things in my life, including being able to work through most of my treatment although I was told I wouldn’t be able to. Every moment was unknown but I decided to make my own story. Every person is different and with a little love and support I’m here and so thankful for it. I can’t begin to thank everyone for your love and support, but I can promise I’ll spend the rest of my life helping others in the same situation. I finally found my calling! Love and life, that’s all there is.
“
“”I see each birthday not as another year older, but as another day with my family and friends!” - Kris King
“
KRIS KING, CONT. FROM PG 50
KATIE BONE, CONT. FROM PG 54
naïvely doing what they asked. Sure enough, a radiologist came in and recommended a biopsy because she saw calcifications that looked suspicious. This was when she mentioned the word cancer. What? I might have cancer? Seriously? I called my husband in tears, and that was when the journey began. We got the results two days later on Good Friday, while we were visiting with some of our best friends in Austin, Texas, where we had resided for eight years before moving to Colorado. I will never forget that phone call home to my parents. I cried, “I have cancer. Dad, I’m so scared! I’m so scared!” But it was a relief to be with our friends who are like family to us during this crazy realization. I had Stage 0, Ductal Carcinoma In Situ, or DCIS. It was “non-invasive,” but emotionally it felt very invasive. When we got home, I started down the path of setting up doctor appointment after doctor appointment with many second and third opinions, since I am young and want to have more children and be able to breastfeed again. When we found out that the cancer was almost the length of my entire breast, the doctors recommended a mastectomy and Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
eventually I agreed. I wanted the cancer out for good! I had a right-side mastectomy and expander insertion about two months after being diagnosed. On Sept. 2 I will have a second small surgery to take out the expander and put in an implant. Every day I thank God that my awesome surgeon was able to get all the cancer out and that I have not had to endure radiation or chemo! I would not wish cancer on anyone and, surprisingly, through all the appointments, surgery, recovery and unknowns, the hardest part for me was the waiting: waiting to see what kind of cancer it was, waiting for a second opinion, waiting to see if I have the gene (whew, I didn’t!), waiting for a surgery date, waiting for the outcome…that was emotionally exhausting for me. One huge encouragement that put a smile on my face every time was my friends, family, moms’ group and hometown community sending care packages, texts, emails, cards, prayers, meals and well wishes each step of the way. I don’t think I could have endured the journey with such grace without this support. Of course, my loving husband and my mom were by my side; they were the icing on the cake! They are both my rock. Like my husband said when I was diagnosed, “We’ll just get through it like we get through everything else.” I am so grateful that he was right and that we are through it and on the other side!
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Survivors Receive Beauty Treatments Patient: Celia Buchanan Procedure: Dermablading Provider: Monique Orbegoso, Licensed Medical Aesthetician Dermablading is the process of gently scraping away dead skin cells and “peach fuzz” hairs to give skin a smoother, brighter complexion. This manual form of skin desurfacing is safe for all skin types, even if you have rosacea or are pregnant. Although the process uses a sterile blade to scrape away the dead skin cells and hair, the skin surface is not cut or compromised. Celia enjoyed this excellent treatment for smoothing her skin, softening lines and wrinkles, and giving her skin a nice, overall glow. Ideally a series of four to eight treatments, four to six weeks apart, gives the best results. “Everyone at the salon was very welcoming and friendly. Monique was wonderful, friendly and easy to talk to. She explained everything in detail and it was the most relaxing experience I have had in a long time. She massaged my neck and shoulders and even my hands and arms. I honestly felt as though I just had had a full body massage, I was so relaxed. My skin glowed after it was over. No more peach fuzz! To say this experience was great is an understatement. If someone had told me that I would feel this relaxed after, I would never have believed them. I have lovely clean, soft skin and it was a great stress reliever, too.” – Celia Buchanan
Patient: Karen Klingenberg Procedure: Microdermabrasion Provider: Monique Orbegoso, Licensed Medical Aesthetician Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive, superficial technique that involves using tiny crystals to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin. This layer of skin is responsible for the fine lines and wrinkles, minor blemishes, brown spots and age spots, and imperfections that come from sun damage. Microdermabrasion is ideal for all skin types and colors. During the process, a special instrument sprays tiny crystals that exfoliate skin. The exfoliation process is immediately followed by a vacuum action that removes the exfoliated skin cells and microcrystals, reducing blackheads, whiteheads and improving the evenness of the skin tone. Microdermabrasion made subtle changes to Karen’s skin surface. Believing the microdermabrasion process to be an injury, her body’s natural healing process stimulated the production of new collagen and elastin, leaving her skin feeling smoother. Karen did not have any downtime for healing; rather, her skin was slightly pink for about 24 hours. "I visited Allura in Johnstown—beautiful, quiet and Monique was a dear. The experience was phenomenal! Allura has a microdermabrasion technique specifically for 'oncology' patients. It was so peaceful and cleansing—an hour of pure relaxation. I left with softer skin that felt wonderful and I definitely know the ladies in my family are going to love a gift to Allura! What's more, upon leaving they insisted I take home some special lip balm (and a chocolate!). Thank you, Monique, and the staff at Allura!” – Karen Klingenberg
Patient: Kimberly Orrell Procedure: Hydrating Facial Provider: Monique Orbegoso, Licensed Medical Aesthetician This facial hydrates and detoxifies skin pores for a clean, bright complexion. First the skin is cleansed, then an exfoliating mask is applied. During this period, Kimberly enjoyed a relaxing neck and shoulder massage. Following the removal of the mask, needed extractions are performed and a mask for hydration and calming is applied. During this processing time, Kimberly relaxed with a hand and arm massage. The finishing touches to a hydrating facial are the application of SkinMedica hydrating eye cream, Ceramide for hydration and a tinted sunscreen. "I had been feeling a bit run down. Getting back to the fast-pace life of breadwinner and mother is hard, even though I have been out of treatment for over a year now. Winning the facial at the meet and greet was a treat for sure! My skin really needed the hydrating facial and I definitely felt pampered, as this kind of self-care is not something I can typically afford. What was surprising about all this was that I started to feel worthy. We go through treatment knowing that we need it; that no matter how hard it is it will make us well. Monique at Allura was gentle, nurturing and sympathetic. She chose treatments that would begin to repair the damage that chemotherapy and radiation had on my skin. She wanted me to feel healthy and beautiful, and made me feel that I deserved that." – Kimberly Orrell
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Spa services provided by:
Allura Skin, Laser & Wellness Clinic 4450 Union St #201, Johnstown, CO 80534 2032 Lowe St #103, Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 223-0193 | www.alluraclinic.com
Xanadu Med Spa 2244 E Harmony Rd Suite 100, Fort Collins, CO 80528 (970) 482-1889 | www.xanadumedspa.com
Patient: Kris King Procedure: Skin Healing Treatment Provider: Kami, Licensed Clinical Esthetician & Clinical Oncology Esthetician All Clinical Oncology Esthetic treatments use Tecniche skin care products, which were specifically created for clients during and following oncology treatments, while the skin is rebuilding itself. The Skin Healing Treatment at Xanadu can be customized for a facial or body treatment. The treatment begins with a gentle cleanse, with an enzyme or jojoba bead exfoliation, then vitamins, hydrating serums and nourishing balms are gently massaged into the skin. During the treatment, a hand and arm massage is performed, as well as neck and shoulder massage when appropriate for the individual. The treatment finishes with a cooling, soothing mask, moisturizing cream and sunblock. Each treatment is customized to the individual client. Depending on which stage of treatment the client is in and the sensitivity of their skin, Xanadu may or may not use steam for the facial or perform extractions. If lymph nodes have been removed, they are very careful to modify everything to meet individual needs at the time of service. “Kami at Xanadu Med Spa did a wonderful job of giving me a very refreshing facial and a super relaxing massage! Having been trained in treatment of cancer patients, Kami was careful to ask questions about my skin and any problems I may have from my cancer treatments. The products used and process of the facial felt amazing and left my skin looking renewed and hydrated. The neck, shoulder and back massage were perfect! A big thank you to Kami for donating her time and energy for this wonderful experience and to Xanadu Med Spa for the opportunity offered to the Hope Lives! models!” – Kris King
Patient: Marsha Bonney Procedure: Hand, Foot and Scalp Treatment Provider: Kami, Licensed Clinical Esthetician & Clinical Oncology Esthetician
Xanadu’s Hand, Foot and Scalp Treatment is designed for those undergoing more aggressive therapies where there is less ability to work on the body but who will still benefit from a relaxing, nourishing, healing touch. This is a gentle, soothing treatment to relieve pain and discomfort experienced in hands and feet. Xanadu uses a gentle exfoliant to remove dry, flaky skin and then gently massages nourishing, healing balms into the hands and feet. If the scalp is tender and sensitive then extra care must be taken to address follicular eruptions, dry and itchy scalp, and sensitivity to products. Xanadu addresses specific scalp issues on an individual basis to meet the needs of each client at the time of their visit. “Kami at Xanadu was really pleasant, and I enjoyed her immensely. She took me into a cozy room and I lay for an hour on a comfy bed while she proceeded to massage my feet and legs. Then she massaged my hands and arms. It was a very fun, pampering experience—restful in the extreme.” – Marsha Bonney
Patient: Mia Girard Procedure: Skin Healing Treatment Provider: Kami, Licensed Clinical Esthetician & Clinical Oncology Esthetician Mia was also a recipient of a Skin Healing Treatment at Xanadu, especially designed for oncology patients. The treatment begins with a gentle cleanse, with an enzyme or jojoba bead exfoliation, then vitamins, hydrating serums and nourishing balms are gently massaged into the skin. In addition to an oncology facial, Mia received extra massage in her neck, shoulder and upper back areas. Because Mia had a lot of tension in her right shoulder and upper back, she needed extra attention in those areas. The pressure was adjusted to provide relief from discomfort but not cause pain. Tecniche Unscented Massage Oil was used for this part of the treatment along with the hand and arm massage. “My first visit to Xanadu was lovely. The spa itself has a very tranquil and peaceful environment with an attentive and courteous staff. Kami, the clinical oncology esthetician, had prepared a room for my combination of a facial and massage. She was extremely nurturing and knowledgeable in her approach, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience as well as tips for me to use at home. I was thoroughly impressed with her skills and enjoyed her warm approach. I happily booked another appointment as well as bought a gift card for a facial for a loved one's birthday. I cannot wait to go back!” – Mia Girard
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Dr. Greg Vosseteig of 20/20 Vision Center checks for meibomian gland function.
New Opportunity for Dry Eyes
By Kay Rios
If you suffer from dry eyes, you’re not alone.
Millions today suffer from the irritation, but relief is available with an innovative new treatment offered in Northern Colorado.
Numbers given by TearScience®, a privately held medical device company, registers nearly 30 million people in the U.S. and over 300 million worldwide who have been diagnosed with dry eye. The National Eye Institute (NEI) reports that nearly 5 million Americans 50 years of age and older are estimated to have dry eye. Of these, more than 3 million are women and more than 1.5 million are men. Tens of millions more have less severe symptoms. NEI states that dry eye is more common after menopause and that, while elderly people frequently experience dryness
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of the eyes, it can occur at any age. It’s all about tears. Tears production is necessary for overall eye health and clear vision. They bathe the surface of the eye, keep it moist and wash away dust and debris as they help protect the eye from bacterial and other types of infections. Tears are composed of three major layers. The outer, oily lipid layer produced by the meibomian glands seals the tear film, helping to reduce evaporation of natural tears. The middle, watery lacrimal layer produced by the lacrimal glands lubricates the eye, washes
away particles and prevents infection. The inner, mucous or mucin layer is produced by goblet cells within a thin transparent layer over the white part of the eye and covers the inner surface of the eyelids. The mucin layer allows the watery layer to spread evenly over the eye’s surface, helping to keep the eye moist and lubricated. It also provides nourishment to the underlying cornea. Tears are produced as a response to emergencies, a particle in the eye, an infection or irritation or strong emotions. When the lacrimal glands fail to produce sufficient tears, dry eye can result. A number of things can cause dry eye: insufficient blinking, the environment, allergies, medications, gender and systemic disease all play a role. Dry eye can be a temporary or chronic condition. “There are two types of dry eyes,” says Dr. Greg Vosseteig, optometrist at 20/20 Vision Center. Aqueous tear-deficient dry eye is a disorder where the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough of tears’ watery component to maintain a healthy eye surface. Evaporative dry eye may result from inflammation of the meibomian glands located in the eyelids. These glands make the lipid or oily part of tears that slows evaporation and keeps tears stable. About 15 percent of dry eye cases are aqueous, Dr. Vosseteig says, with the other 85 percent falling under the evaporative category, known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Dr. Vosseteig says, “MGD occurs when there is compromise to the function and/ or structure of the meibomian glands in the eyelids that produce the protective oily layer of the tear film. This oil helps protect the ocular surface from disease and prevents the watery part of the tears from evaporating when your eyes are open. Without these oils, our eyes become more susceptible to the negative effects that dry climates, air conditioning, computer use, reading and other daily activities can have on the longterm health of our eyes. Left unchecked and untreated, with time and age, these meibomian glands become blocked and stop functioning, causing increasing symptoms over time, and eventual permanent loss of these glands.” While it may not always affect vision, he says that it can undermine patients’ quality of life. Dry eyes are becoming more of a problem, Dr. Vosseteig says. “We are now realizing that 20 to 40 percent of people have dry eyes. It’s getting worse and part of that is lifestyle, blinking for example. Today we don’t blink as much as a result of the computer and technology devices. We’ve become poor blinkers or partial blinkers.” Until recently, it’s been hard to determine clinically, he says. “We’ve had tests to check for dry eyes but they have been inconsistent at best and not definitive. It used to be that if dry eyes bothered you, it was a diagnosis of symptoms. Traditional dry eye treatments are costly, cumbersome, short-term, often Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
The Lipiview instrument determines the lipid layer thickness of the tears.
ineffective and they only treated the symptoms of the disease.” That’s changing, Dr. Vosseteig says. “There’s been a paradigm shift and we now have an ability to actually measure the thickness of the oily part of your tears.” He refers to LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation Treatment for Dry Eyes, a treatment developed by TearScience. While there are multiple choices available for treating dry eyes, he adds that LipiFlow is the only FDA-cleared device for removing gland blockages and restoring gland function in MGD cases. “It changes the way we practice,” he says. It begins with an assessment to see if the glands are releasing oil and whether partial blinking is contributing to the comfort of your eyes. Structure is observed with gland imaging, which can show if any structural damage or gland loss has occurred. The LipiView® ocular surface interferometer allows the physician to observe the tear film on the eye’s surface through the use of digital images. The image is captured during a non-invasive exam in about five minutes. Additional testing evaluates how well the meibomian glands are functioning, and additional imaging is performed to document the structure of these glands. Numerous other tests evaluate the status of the tears, and provide a computerized evaluation of the rate and quality of blinking. This is followed by treatment in which the LipiFlow system uses an activator that provides a controlled heat to the inner eyelid, encouraging the body to restart the natural production of lipids needed for healthy tears. Individually sealed activators are placed around the eyelids. A gentle massaging coupled with heat helps remove gland blockages and reactivate gland function. Style 2015
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The total treatment is roughly 12 minutes and both eyes can be done at the same time. The effects of LipiFlow depend on the gland health structure and the extent of MGD and results may vary with each patient. Some patients notice results within weeks, while for others, it may take up to 90 days to notice results as the glands naturally begin to generate and expel necessary oil levels needed to properly protect the tear film. While approximately 50 percent of patients see benefits lasting 40 or more months, the average time most patients notice relief is from 12 to18 months. Dr. Vosseteig, who obtained his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Illinois College of Optometry (ICO) in Chicago, completed his internship at the Illinois Eye Institute and an Externship at the Westside Veterans Administration Hospital in Chicago, invested in the equipment and technology. Along with that came more education. “I was trained by the best dry eye people in the country. It really elevated my understanding of what this is and how we can treat it.” 20/20 Vision is only one of two practices in the region offering the treatment (the other is in Boulder). “We’re very excited to be able to give people answers and options they have not had before,” Dr. Vosseteig says.
Kay Rios is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.
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Dr. Vossetieg inserts the Lipiflow activator.
To keep glands healthy and ward off MGD, try the following: •
Apply a warm compress for 10 minutes twice daily to help simulate oil flow.
• Nightly, before bed, clean upper and lower lids with a Q-tip soaked in mineral oil or artificial tears to keep glands clear. • Take Omega-3 (3,000-4,000 mg) every day. • Apply an eye gel lubricant into the pocket made by the lower lid each night. • Don’t have a ceiling fan or other fan blowing directly on you night or day. • Stay well-hydrated and drink 64 ounces of water daily and remember caffeine and alcohol can be dehydrating.
Savvy Social Security Planning Join us for this FREE Educational workshop and learn!
RSVP TODAY! • (970) 377-1705
Thursday, September 17 • 9:00 am – 10:30 am Fort Collins Senior Center • 1200 Raintree Dr.
Learn strategies to avoid common mistakes. • Timing is everything - filing too early or too late • Not coordinating with other income sources • Not planning for inflation (you’ll need twice as much income in 20 years) • How married couples miss out on substantial benefits
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Robert M. McCulley, CFP®, MAFM
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Masters Degree Accounting & Financial Management www.mcculleyassociates.com Securities and investment advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, MEMBER FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other entity.
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Center for Loss and Life Transition Loss of a loved one is never easy, and grieving can be a challenging, individual experience. Many of us don’t know how to deal with loss and grief in a healthy way, especially when it comes to supporting someone we know and love who has experienced a loss and is making their way through a fog of grief.
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By Brad Shannon
Just west of town, perched on the ridge overlooking Fort Collins, is The Center for Life and Loss Transition. The Center is the life’s work of Dr. Alan Wolfelt, who has been focused for more than 30 years on helping people grieve. Whether you wish to learn more about how to grieve your own loss, or you seek tools to support those in your life who have lost and are grieving, the resources Dr. Wolfelt and his Center offer are useful tools. Dr. Alan Wolfelt When Dr. Wolfelt was a teen, he experienced the death of a friend and a grandparent. “That’s when I discovered my calling,” he says. “I was struck by how people in our culture did not seem to know how to provide compassionate support to people in grief. So, I wrote a mission statement at 16 that I would have a center for loss where children, teens, adults and families would hopefully feel safe to mourn their life losses openly and honestly.” Dr. Wolfelt discovered that we live in what
Dr. Alan Wolfelt founded The Center for Life and Loss Transition to help others grieve.
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he terms in his writings a “mourning-avoidant” culture. He wrote his first book when he was 19 and began to speak around the country at the age of 21. He founded the center after completing doctoral work in clinical psychology at the Mayo Clinic and moving to Fort Collins in 1984. Now, he books workshops two years in advance and notes that he’s humbled that people read his books all over the world. As director of The Center for Loss and Life Transition, he splits his time between teaching workshops to mental health caregivers and bereaved families across North America; teaching trainings for caregivers hosted here in Fort Collins; writing books and articles about grief and loss; and providing supervision to bereavement caregivers. Through this practice, Dr. Wolfelt helps people “hopefully, in a variety of ways—my books and articles are intended to help professional mental health people learn about the art of ‘companioning,’ not ‘treating,’ people in grief. In addition, many of my books are written for laypeople who are seeking support related to the need to mourn in a culture that doesn’t always make that easy to do. My hope is that through my books and workshops that I am able to advocate that we as humans both need and deserve ‘safe places’ to authentically mourn our life losses. I always say—‘If you mourn well, you can go on to live well and love well!’” He finds the most rewarding part of his work to be “hopefully, that I’m helping my fellow human beings learn how to create heartcentered, companioning models of caregiving. I’m honored that more than 400 hospices use my book, "Understanding your Grief: Touchstones for Hope and Healing," as the resource for facilitating their support groups. My greatest joy is helping laypeople understand that they are not ‘going crazy,’ but that they are mourning and need safe people and safe places to do so.” He shares that some of his most memorable work helping people includes being consulted when there have been traumatic deaths, such as school shootings, airplane crashes and suicides. “I also have a passion for supporting parents that have experienced the death of their precious children. I was also honored to be consulted about elements of the funeral procession following the death of Princess Diana.” The Center The center is "dedicated to ‘companioning’ grieving people as they mourn transitions and losses that transform their lives. We help mourners, by walking with them in their unique life journeys, and both professional caregivers and laypeople, by serving as an educational resource and professional forum.” Through his organization, Dr. Wolfelt presents approximately 60 workshops a year across North America. He has presented throughout the world, including Ireland, Japan and, recently, Australia. The Center hosts a training for caregivers in Fort Collins once a month. Style 2015
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Dr. Alan Wolfelt, founder of The Center for Life and Loss Transition, has written numerous books on the subject of grief and dealing with loss. “Now that I have entered my 60s,” Wolfelt notes, “I limit my private practice to supervision and consultation surrounding ‘complicated’ mourning.” In three decades of study and teaching on the topic, Dr. Wolfelt and the center have produced a myraid of resources on loss and grieving. In addition to a number of books he has written on grieving in general and in specific circumstances, brochures offer advice on writing a eulogy and personalizing a funeral, grief myths, helping yourself, a friend, sibling, child, parent, grandparent, teen, man and more. Coping with Loss and Grief Dr. Wolfelt helps people cope, primarily, with death loss. “However, I write and teach that anytime we gain something new in life we are giving something else up; that life is a series of transitions. Over the years I have provided counsel to people across a variety of ‘rights of passage’ from birth to death, including divorce, health challenges, retirement, aging and death. I have a passionate interest in the value of meaningful funerals and advocate that ‘when words are inadequate, have ceremony.’ My most recent book, 'The Paradoxes of Mourning: Three Forgotten Truths,' speaks to the critical importance of ceremony in a culture that is de-ritualizing." When it comes to a grieving period, there is no typical term. “It is unique to the person and influenced by things like circumstances of the loss, unique personality, available support, etc. I point out that asking how long grief lasts is like asking ‘how high is up?’ While as North Americans we have what I term a ‘resolution wish,’ I use as my helping goal ‘reconciliation’—meaning, to make your life
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Join us for FORToberfest, on September 19th, a Fort Collins-style Oktoberfest street celebration with a twist: a celebration of outdoor patios, our vibrant music scene, the local brewing industry and the importance of sustainability to our City. Relish in live music, art/bike vendors, and delicious beer/food throughout the day.
www.DowntownFortCollins.com
Dr. Wolfet’s most recent publications, written in conjunction with Dr. Kirby J. Duvall, a physician, discuss dealing with one’s or a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. good again. Mourning never discreetly ends, it only erupts less frequently. As humans we will have ‘grief bursts’ the rest of our lives.” One of the more recent areas that he has written about and focused on is loss and grief related to cancer as a result of his own cancer diagnosis. He teamed up with a physician, Dr. Kirby J. Duvall, to write two books, one for those diagnosed with cancer, and one for those who have a friend or loved one diagnosed. Each offers 100 practical ideas to cope, survive and thrive, or provide compassion, comfort and care, respectively. He also wrote on the topic in the January/February 2015 issue of Coping magazine. When it comes to the most important piece of advice Dr. Wolfelt can offer, he says, “While it may sound simple, remember: ‘the only way to the other side is through.’ I attempt to help mourners befriend their grief and learn six essential needs I have identified that help them become active participants in their mourning.” He also notes that “It is never too late to mourn! One of my books, 'Living in the Shadow of the Ghosts of Grief,' outlines the fall-out consequences of what I refer to as ‘carried grief’ and how I assist people in doing ‘catch-up’ mourning.” Dr. Wolfelt has a Denver-based workshop for mental health caregivers on October 15 and a benefit for Pathways Hospice on November 10. For more information on these events and other available resources, visit www. centerforloss.com. Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland. Style 2015
Kathy Arents Mulberry | 222-1784
Georgena Arnett Loveland | 481-9801
Sheila Benshoof Harmony | 377-4957
Greg Bever Harmony | 377-4916
Cindy Blach Mulberry | 481-5821
Kathy Boeding Loveland | 231-9073
Brian Bogaard Harmony | 377-4954
Judy Bogaard Harmony | 377-4931
Jo Carney Mulberry | 310-1836
Kelli Couch Horsetooth | 310-8804
Joanne DĂŠLeon Harmony | 691-2501
Anna DiTorrice-Mull Horsetooth| 631-2649
Mary Doty Centerra | 396-3454
Jim Hauan Mulberry | 419-2303
Amy Hayden Centerra | 215-5950
Keith Huntsman Harmony | 377-4941
Nicole Huntsman Harmony | 402-0221
Brandi Garifi Harmony | 377-4917
Chris C. Hau Horsetooth | 377-6017
Shelly Hill Mulberry | 419-2348
Chuck Hoburg Harmony | 377-4903
Michelle Hubbard Harmony | 377-6077
Cindy Kurtz Centerra | 679-1545
Ali Lofquist Centerra | 744-8490
Bob Loner Horsetooth | 231-2222
Diana Luthi Loveland| 481-2692
Alycia Martinez Centerra | 679-1657
Deanna McCrery Harmony | 377-4971
Dave T. Muth Harmony | 481-5963
Rob Mygatt Harmony | 229-5411
Andrea Schaefer Mulberry | 290-3758
Elaine C. Minor Horsetooth | 215-9236
Jim Murray Horsetooth| 377-4909
John Peden Centerra | 679-1574
Miki Roth Centerra | 679-1568
Karen Rowan Horsetooth | 310-5797
Adrienne Scharli Harmony | 217-7350
Todd Sledge Harmony | 377-4901
Ryan Spencer Centerra | 214-0263
Linda Sioux Stenson Loveland | 215-9044
Faren Stroh Loveland | 222-6391
Jack Taylor Mulberry | 420-9302
Laura Thomas Loveland | 290-7544
Matt Thompson Harmony | 443-9910
Dave Trujillo Centerra | 679-1550
Cathy Vance Centerra | 679-1554
Karla VanDenBerg Centerra | 405-8530
Becky Vasos Harmony | 377-4969
Robert Walkowicz Harmony | 377-4945
Bill West Horsetooth | 690-0505
travel
a 5-star town By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer
The pace may be slower in Southwest Colorado, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take part in the finer things in life. As the home to one of Colorado’s most luxurious hot springs resorts, Pagosa Springs is best known for their abundant healing waters, but there are other amenities that make it special, too.
Photos courtesy of Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer
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Ryan and I have visited Pagosa Springs several times and while it’s a bit of a drive, it’s well worth it. Even the views along Hwy 285 inspire the occasional stop to snap pictures. On our last trip in early August we rolled into town around 1:30 p.m. and popped into Riff Raff Brewing Company, a place that serves up good beer and good food. After a satisfying lunch, we headed over to The Springs Resort. This beautiful and massive resort borders the San Juan River that flows through downtown Pagosa Springs. There are several lodging options at The Springs and we were booked at the resort’s EcoLuxe Hotel. A LEED-built hotel featuring all suite-style rooms, it was the first of its kind to be built in Colorado. Once checked in, we spent the afternoon soaking, sticking mostly to the upper “Relaxation Pools,” which are for adults only. The Springs Resort is firstrate all the way from the check-in experience to the poolside wait staff to the lush guest bathrobes; a stay here is a five-star experience. We continued our luxurious day by dining at the Alley House, a restaurant that is consistently rated number one in Pagosa Springs by TripAdvisor. com. In general, dining in Pagosa Springs is more affordable than dining along the Front Range; the Alley House is an exception, but their fantastic meals are worth the splurge. Twilight had fallen over the town as we sat on the Alley House’s patio under white twinkling lights. I ordered a medium-rare grilled beef filet with cabernet miso bacon beurre rouge and garlic whipped potatoes. It was divine. After our lovely dinner, Ryan and I walked handin-hand through the moonlit streets back to our hotel. Too tired for a late night soak, we set our alarm for 5:30 a.m. with the goal of catching the sunrise from the Relaxation Pools in the morning. The Springs Resort’s 25 pools are open to the public, but if you stay at the resort you have 24-hour access. When the pre-dawn alarm went off, I forced myself out of bed, put on my clammy swimsuit and pulled on the robe. I am not a morning person and kept mumbling, “This had better be worth it.”
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We shuffled to the front desk where we poured ourselves coffee and then made our way to the pools. What came next was well worth the yawns that plagued me for the rest of the day. As we soaked, high above the San Juan River the sky began to lighten then turned a vivid pink transforming the river and pools into a lovely shade of rose. I eventually moved to the fire pit where I sipped my coffee and watched the sun become a fire ball in the sky directly above the resorts’ steaming cliffs, manmade mountains from which the mineral water is filtered into the pools. I didn’t want to leave, but a busy day beckoned starting with breakfast at The Rose. The owner hails from Albuquerque and makes a delicious green chili and a mean red sauce that lets the peppers do all the talking. I recommend adding “Steve’s Sauce” to any savory breakfast that you order here. The rest of our day was a whirlwind of events. The Cowboy Fast Draw Association was holding their Four Corners Championships in Pagosa Springs Town Park, so we spent some time watching this exciting event. Participants must use single action revolvers made between 1873 and 1899, and they must dress the part too. Men, women and children compete. There are many rules and guidelines governing the sport and you can learn all about the sport at CowboyFastDraw.com. Keeping with our cowboy theme, we wandered over to the Archuleta County Fair. As a small town gal, I love a good county fair and rodeo, and the Archuleta County Fair’s Ranch Rodeo did not disappoint. The stands were packed as the rodeo kicked off at noon with a reading of “That Ragged Old Flag,” followed by the Star Spangled Banner and a prayer. The American West is still alive and well in Southwest Colorado. A “ranch rodeo” involves teams of cowboys from area ranches who compete in real-life tasks that they do on the ranch every day such as steer loading, branding, roping and tying. The teams, which hailed from across Southwest Colorado and New Mexico, were comprised of real cowboys. The crowd was 100 percent committed to the spirit
of the rodeo and so were the cowboys. A truly exhilarating experience, I think that I actually prefer this style of rodeo competition to standard rodeo. We lunched at Kip’s Cantina, a must-stop whenever we’re in town. They are home to my favorite fish tacos in Colorado and I’m not the only one who loves their tacos. This place is always busy, so be prepared for a wait. After Kip’s we made a quick trip to the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, located about 10 minutes south of town. Probably best suited for families with children, the park has been open for nearly 30 years and has an array of animals mostly hailing from North America. There are wolves, coyotes, a grizzly, a couple coyotes and more. The best time to visit is during feeding times at 4 p.m. in the summer and 2 p.m. in the winter. The tours are less scientific and more entertainment and take about an hour and a half. Dinner was pizza a Wolfe Brewing, Pagosa’s newest brewery; they have three now, Pagosa Springs Brewery, Riff Raff Brewing Company and Wolfe. Wolfe has a fun, bar-like atmosphere with a big, family-friendly beer garden. Families, including grandmas, grandpas, aunts and uncles, were everywhere during our visit. It makes sense that so many families vacation here, from floating the river to golf, both grandpa and the teens will find something to do in Pagosa Springs. If you plan to travel with your family, the Wyndham Resorts at Pagosa is a good lodging choice. With large, spacious rental condos and homes, a recreational center, swimming pool, tennis, miniature golf and a long list of organized activities, this is the perfect option for a vacation with the kids. With City Market less than five minutes away, you can easily stock up on groceries for an extended stay. Pagosa Springs is a small town with five-star amenities, but a laid back attitude. Whether you soak at the resort or in the river or whether you eat steak or tacos, you’re sure to leave town with the primary goal of coming back. Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance travel writer based in Loveland.
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JAZZ IN THE MCMORRIS' GARDENS
July 9 :: McMorris TImnath Farms Home :: Timnath An evening of palate temptations, mingling and music was on tap at this soiree hosted by the Fort Collins Symphony. Nearly 200 guests enjoyed the social gathering dining on hors d’ oeuvres, sipping vintage martinis, bidding on a silent auction oil painting named “Yellow Iris,” donated by Ellie Weakley, and listening to the Carol Frazier Band perform jazz favorites. Proceeds from the unforgettable summer evening will benefit the Fort Collins Symphony and its educational programs.
Paisley Pettine, Suzanne Pullen, Carole Egger
Mary McMorris, Rosalie Sinnett
Nancy Richardson, Lisa Lindgren
Carol Story, Kay Edwards
Amy Weits, Shirley Anderson
Lydia Dody, Mary Kopco, Wes Kenney
Rhett Strom, Maury Dobbie, Rut Kjar
Ellie Weakley
Mary Hager and Mayor of Timnath Jill Belisle
SWINGING "FORE" MIRACLES-NOCO RE/MAX ALLIANCE CHARITYGOLF TOURNAMENT July 13 :: Fort Collins Country Club :: Fort Collins Real estate associates and community members were but a part of the 250-plus golfers, sponsors and volunteers at this fourth-annual RE/MAX Alliance’s golf tournament fundraiser. Golfers had great summer weather for tournament play at the Fort Collins Country Club park-style, 18-hole golf course. An exciting and inspirational dinner reception with special guests Mark Randall of the Nuggets and Keegan Cook, 2015 Wyoming CMN Champion, concluded the day. Nearly $30,000 raised at this golfing event will benefit Children’s Miracle Network with proceeds donated to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver.
Teri Rogers, Sarah Long, Eric Sanders, Ryker Long Team North American Title Company
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Carol Vaughan, Gene Vaughan
Jack Giuliano, Clara Giuliano, Keegan Cook, Kenny Cook Keegan Cook - 2015 Wyoming Champion for Children's Miracle Network
Randy Hill, Dan Medeiros, Dixie Zink, Dave Armstrong Team Land Title
Erin Butki, Brian Butki, Bret Ellis, Dave Carpenter Team CSU Health & Exercise Science Department
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R E L AY F O R L I F E O F W I N D S O R
July 18 :: Eastman Park :: Windsor For the 27 teams participating in the Relay for Life of Windsor, the ’80s theme, “Everybody Cut Loose and Put On Your Relay Shoes,” rang true. The event brought out more than 500 survivors, caregivers and supporters, all in their walking shoes, to celebrate life and to remember and fight back against all cancers. Cancer survivors, clad in purple T-shirts, kicked off festivities as they took their victory lap and plenty of activities kept participants excited during the 12-hour relay. The event helped to raise more than $85,000 for the American Cancer Society for research, advocacy, education, patient services and more. Photos courtesy of The
Back: Gene Olson, Jay Pratz, Andy Apodaca, Pam Martin, Larry Binder, Mike Maliszewski with Jesse, Christy Maliszewski with Cole. Front: Ursula Olson, Nick Peters, Lisa Wright - Team Poudre Valley REA
Barbara Goff
Studio Photography.
Carrie Kern, Kelley Johnson, Kristi Smart, Lindsay Miller
Christina Ihfe
Rob Marone Honorary Survivor
Survivor Erica Kovacik with Tom Kovacik, Rachael Kovacik, and Casey Kovacik
R E A L I T I E S C U P I N V I TAT I O N A L G O L F T O U R N A M E N T 2 0 1 5 July 20 :: Ptarmigan Country Club :: Fort Collins More than 150 golfers, sponsors and volunteers convened for this 10th-annual golfing event where Team Turning Point was crowned tournament champion. Golfers played in a scramble format on the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, had prize opportunities at every hole and enjoyed a delicious international banquet following play. Realities Cup raised more than $56,000 for the Realities for Children Charities Emergency Fund benefitting Larimer County children who have been abused, neglected or who are at-risk. Photos courtesy of Marialena Fronczak and Brian Lindecker.
Craig Secher, David (DJ) Johnson, Paul Christenson, Todd Harding Craig Secher and Todd Harding accept trophies on behalf of Turning Point Team members Jason Ells and Jeff Berthiaume. Team Turning Point - Winners of 2015 Realities Cup
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Bill Nelsen, Tom Weeks, Mike Longstreth, Mike Sommars Team Qdoba
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THE MUSES July 21 :: Ethan Allen :: Johnstown An evening of inspired artistry greeted guests as they sampled artful bites and handcrafted cocktails by CopperMuse Distillery; listened to music from the Fort Collins Chamber Music Society against the backdrop of decorative vignettes at Ethan Allen; and received a complimentary copy of the book "Muses." Proceeds from the spirited evening will benefit Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center and its work helping women with breast cancer. Photos courtesy of Petra Lansky Photography.
Dave & Sue Morris
Lydia Dody, Julie Monroe, Christopher Huelshorst
Melissa Venable, Mary Rutledge
Jennifer Taylor, Julie Monroe, Terry Olson, Lisa Swanson
WOMEN OF VISION GALA July 22 :: Hilton Hotel :: Fort Collins An evening of glitz, glamour and celebration were the cornerstones at this gala honoring 12 Women of Vision from Northern Colorado, with three of these women receiving special recognition for being “outstanding” and taking their visions to a higher level. Photos courtesy of A Witness to Life Photography.
Stuart Tobet, Debra Benton, Ada Chen Debra Benton – 2015 International Woman of Vision recipient
Irene Romsa, Beth Heckel, Tami Spaulding, Megan ChenowethHauschulz, Linda Wheeler Holloway Beth Heckel – 2015 Woman of Courage recipient
Katie Lawrence, Ann Clarke Katie Lawrence the 2015 Joan C. King-Tobet Memorial Scholarship Endowment recipient
KRISTI VISOCKY MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT July 26 :: Collindale Golf Course :: Fort Collins The 13th Annual Kristi Visocky Memorial Golf Tournament saw not only many of the 228 golfers partake in the “Caddy Shack”themed costume contest, but also a first with Ryan Huszar using his seven iron to score a hole-in-one on hole 11 and win a car. The very exciting golf tournament part of the two-event weekend netted more than $15,000 and will benefit SAVA (Sexual Assault Victims Advocacy) Center of Fort Collins.
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Cindy Sarai, Ann Marie Labat, Ginger DeReus, Lois Samer Women's Division Winners
The Huszar Family-Dillon, Riley, Nicole and Ryan. Ryan won a brand new Buick Verano from Markley Motors with his holein-one on hole No. 11. Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
Amanda Rogowski, Melissa Taylor, Pamela Badura
Back: Alexa Daly, Dixie Daly, Meaza Arthur, Jessica Born. Front: Alyssa Daly, Ashley Arthur, Macy Villavicencio Dixie Daly - 2015 Woman of Inspiration recipient
Tim Nichols, Katie Nichols, Dave Nichols, Steve Nichols
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PRAIRIE DOG CLASSIC July 27 :: Greeley Country Club :: Greeley Under the Colorado sunshine, Greeley Chamber hosted another sell-out tournament with more than 200 golfers enjoying a flighted-scramble format at the 19th annual event. Competition was fierce with the morning team from John Elway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram taking first place in the A Flight in a scorecard playoff with a score of 53, and Columbine Health Systems taking first place in the B Flight, winning a four-team scorecard playoff. A great day of golfing was had by all.
Matt Baumgartner, Chris Richards, Gian Minoletti, Brandon Fox Team John Elway AM – A Flight Winners
Torrey McCoy, Mark Donelon, Palmer Withrow, Eric Ellis Team Columbine Health – B Flight Winners
OVER THE EDGE August 2 :: Seven-Story Building on Oak St. :: Fort Collins Community members donned on rappelling equipment and went “Over the Edge” to raise awareness for youth substance abuse prevention and promote healthy lifestyles and choices among the young people in Northern Colorado. This unique fundraising event for Team Fort Collins had participants rappel off the top of a seven-story building in downtown Fort Collins, under the careful supervision of experts from Over the Edge, the organization that conducted the event. The inaugural fundraiser raised nearly $30,000 and will benefit Team Fort Collins and their wellness and substance abuse prevention programs.
Athina Sweigard
Jeremy James, Jenna Bryant
Darin Atteberry
Jerri Schmitz
Craig Secher, Matthew Jachowski
Chief John Hutto
FORT COLLINS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF CLASSIC August 3 :: Fort Collins Country Club :: Fort Collins The Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the sold-out annual Golf Classic with 36 teams made up of chamber members and the business community. Players were treated to lunch, dinner and great prizes during the exclusive half-day tournament. Proceeds from the event will benefit the advo- Top: Travis Seyboldt, Branden Murri. Bottom: Jamie Hardy, Travis Willey cacy work of the Fort Collins Team Cosmetic Dentistry-1st Place winners with score of 59 Area Chamber of Commerce.
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Joe Blanchard, Joe Nugent, Matt Brunk, Eric Knotts-Team Workspace Innovations 3rd Place winners with score of 62
Top: Joe Ippolito, Brian Lewandowski. Bottom: Jeff Lederman, Dave Loomis Team Tolmar 2nd Place Winners with score of 60 Lydia’s STYLE Magazine
ADVANCED MEDICAL IMAGING CONSULTANTS, PC FINDING UNKNOWN HEALTH PROBLEMS EARLY SAVES LIVES
Our team includes over 40 BOARD-CERTIFIED RADIOLOGISTS who have completed sub-specialty fellowship training. This high level of expertise ensures that our patients’ diagnoses are thorough and accurate.
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SONGS IN SUMMER August 6 :: Hixon Home :: Fort Collins A picturesque Colorado summer evening against a backdrop of art and sculpture gardens provided music enthusiasts a prime setting for the Opera Fort Collins Guild soiree event. Scrumptious hors d’oeuvres paired with fine wines and beer greeted mingling guests before the musical performances of Classical opera arias, art songs and show tunes at dusk. Proceeds raised from the evening fundraiser will benefit Opera Fort Collins’ Season 36. Photos courtesy of Two C’s Photography.
George Brown, Elizabeth Elliott, Chuck Stroh
Gary & Carol Ann Hixon
Laurie Cadwell, Paulette Neas, Ruth Billings, Bill Richey
Victoria Grissom, Jane Sullivan, Joy Souply, Deborah Booker, Sharon McCarthy
Fini & Dick Thomas
Baritone Chad Reagan and mezzosoprano Jennifer DeDominici
Lindsay Roselle, Nate Budd, Sarah Imhoff
Jesse & Kate Matthews
BOCCE BALL August 8 :: Child Advocacy Center :: Fort Collins This ancient Italian game of lawn bowling modified for American conditions provided 54 teams a friendly afternoon of competition as skill coupled with strategy and luck took teams into the evening hours to crown a winner. Event festivities included an authentic Italian dinner, silent and live auctions, and a testimonial from a Larimer County Child Advocacy Center (LCCAC) recipient. More than $45,000 was Mary Beth Swanson hands trophy to Brent Behler, Nick Cummings, raised at the 14th annual signature event to benefit Luke Kailburn, Ashley Kailburn, Sophie Sparacio, Chris Luke Birky, Brian Hardouin – Team Nebraska Curl Experience - 1st the LCCAC, whose mission is to reduce trauma to Sparacio – Team AMIC-#2 Place Winners for a second year in a row. 2nd Place Winners children during child abuse investigations.
Shawn Miller, James Brookhouser
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Diane Gross , Deb Crawford
Brittney Steavens, Nick Steavens, Nick Steavens Sr., Alan Jones
Mark Hinton, Jodee Hinton
Maggie Dennis, Diane Cohn
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