October 2014

october 2014

Medical Marijuana for

breast cancer A New Era in

mammography

In Her Own Words:

silent me

Fighting for Her Life:

Sheri Delmonte

f o r a l l t h e t h i n g s t h at yo u a r e . . . r o c h e s t e r w o m a n

I

rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

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w w w. r o c h e s t e r w o m a n m a g . c o m

This walk gets us to the finish line faster.

When you walk and fundraise in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, you help the American Cancer Society make the greatest impact and save more lives in more communities, through groundbreaking research and programs like clinical trials matching and free rides to treatment.

Walk with us, because you can help us finish the fight.

MakingStridesWalk.org/Rochester Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Rochester, NY October 19, 2014 | 8:30am Registration | 10:00am Walk Frontier Field | 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester, NY 14608 Š2014, American Cancer Society, Inc.

This is a weapon of domestic violence.

I’m proud of Allstate’s commitment to end domestic violence.

1 in 4 women is a victim of domestic violence, including economic abuse - where the abuser blocks access to finances*. Allstate is dedicated to helping survivors live free from abuse.

VINCENZO SCOLLO 585-381-3530 835 Fairport Road East Rochester vscollo@allstate.com

FO UNDATION

* The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Justice; U.S. Department of Justice - ‘Extent, Nature, and Consequences of Intimate Partner Violence’; July 2000 © 2010 Allstate Insurance Co., Northbrook, IL.

102403

Visit ClickToEmpower.org to learn how you can help.

October 8

OUT & ABOUT 7 PLATTER CHATTER: The Red Fern Café

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FASHION FORWARD: Communicating the News

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IN HER OWN WORDS: Silent Me

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SPECIAL FEATURE: I’m Sorry to Tell You This

18

LOCAL BUSINESS MATTERS: Comfort Caps

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TIPS FOR WOMEN: Empowered

22

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SPECIAL FEATURE: Medical Marijuana for Breast Cancer24 FOR A GOOD CAUSE: Domestic Violence Consortium 26 CELEBRATING YOU! 28

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COVER STORY: Fighting for Her Life

30

WHAT’S NEW IN THE ROC

36

SPECIAL FEATURE: Alexander Solky, MD

38

HEALTHY WOMAN: Amazing Breasts

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SPECIAL FEATURE: Ink With a Purpose

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MENOPAUSE MINUTE: Intimacy & Breast Cancer 46 THAT’S THE SPIRIT: Halloween Spirits

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 55

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37

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RW INSPIRES 51

24

16 24

26

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS This new technology is a combination of digital mammography and specialized software which allows reconstruction of the 2D mammogram into a 3D image. This allows doctors to get a better image of the breast to make a more accurate diagnosis.

Dr. Avice O’Connell explains more about this new technology on page [36].

“Once I overcame breast cancer, I wasn’t afraid of anything anymore.”

--Melissa Etheridge

By the time you finish reading this letter, another woman in the U.S. will hear the words everyone dreads – “you have breast cancer”. That’s pretty incredible when you think about it. It’s a pretty fair assumption that all of us have been touched by cancer in one way or another, whether it be a friend, colleague or family member. That’s the reason our October issue focuses on breast cancer awareness. We want to bring a local focus to this disease whether it be the incredible healthcare system and the professionals helping those who have been diagnosed or helping survivors tell their stories to give hope and inspiration to others.

As we write this our cover woman this month, is taking a very courageous step in fighting her disease. Sheri Delmonte has been battling stage IV breast cancer for the past four years. She is now in Gemany to undergo a new specialized treatment that has shown to be successful in others with her diagnosis. Sheri is a single mother of four who, with the support of an incredible circle of friends and this community raised over $30k to help fund her treatment. You can read her story on page [30].

Studies show that early detection is one of the most effective ways to combat breast cancer. Experts recommend annual mammograms for women over 40 to increase chances of early detection.

Tomosynthesis is the newest technical development in digital mammography.

The Compassionate Care Act and medical marijuana are issues important to the treatment of many diseases including breast cancer. Locally the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester has been at the forefront of the fight to get the legislation passed in Albany.

Our article on page [24] talks about the legislation and why it’s important to those diagnosed with breast cancer.

Domestic violence has gotten a lot of press in the last few weeks because NFL players Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month; in light of that our In Her Own Words column this month was written by Maria Chiarilli. Maria’s experience with domestic violence nearly took her life.

You can read her harrowing story on page [17].

Remember, next month is our incredible Ultimate Women’s Expo at the Memorial Art Gallery. This year’s event is sponsored by the Polisseni Foundation and Artistix.

We are also pleased to announce WYSL as one of our media sponsors for this year’s event. If you have a business and would like to be a vendor at the event there is still time to get in. If you are planning on attending the event you can pre-register online and be qualified for our grand prize giveaway!

Visit www.rwmsultimatewomensexpos.com for more information.

Sincerely

Kelly & Barb ON OUR COVER...

Sheri Delmonte, make-up by Lindsey DeRouen of Rock Paper Scissors. Kate Spade handbag provided by Panache Vintage and Finer Consignment. Photography by Stephen Reardon Photograpy.

Publishers Kelly Breuer Barbara McSpadden Editor-in-Chief

Barbara McSpadden

associate editor Margaret Madigan

Creative DIRECTOR/designer Kelly Breuer

Photography

Ve Ja Broyld, Sr. Tiffany Boula Eieio Photography Stephen Reardon Brandon Vick

Contributing Writers Vanessa Cheeks Maria Chiarilli Meami Joy Laura DiCaprio Rebecca Ferguson Krista Gleason Cynthia Kolko Joan E. Lincoln Margaret Madigan Lori Medeiros, MD Jason Pierce Sraddha Prativadi, MD Nicole Shein James Woods, MD

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O&A

MOVIES

The Judge - 10/10 Robert Downey, Jr. stars as big city lawyer Hank Palmer, who returns to his childhood home where his estranged father, the town’s judge (Duvall), is suspected of murder. He sets out to discover the truth and along the way reconnects with the family he walked away from years before.

Fury - 10/17 At the end of World War II, the Allies make their final push in the European Theater, a battle-hardened army sergeant named Wardaddy (Pitt) commands a Sherman tank and his five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines.

Outnumbered and outgunned, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their attempt to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany.

Ouija – 10/24 Olvia Cooke plays a girl who discovers that her dead friend had been messing around with a Ouija board and brings the game home. Douglas Smith is the dead girl’s boyfriend, who may know more about her death than he lets on.

Night Crawler – 10/31 Nightcrawler stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Lou Bloom, a driven young man desperate for work who discovers the high-speed world of L.A. crime journalism. Lou muscles into the cutthroat, dangerous realm of nightcrawling, aided by Rene Russo as Nina, a veteran of the blood-sport that is local TV news, Lou blurs the line between observer and participant to become the star of his own story.

::out &

about

O

Scarecrow 5k Run/Walk Saturday, Oct 11th RESOLVE of Greater Rochester, the organization dedicated to eradicating violence against women is hosting three events on Oct. 11 in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The events include – 12th Annual Scarecrow 5K Run/Walk, Family Fun Run & Obstacle Course, and Pasta Dinner, and will raise awareness of domestic violence while raising critical funds for the organization. As usual the events coincide with the Fairport-Perinton Merchants Association Annual Scarecrow Festival.

Sponsored by Verizon Wireless, the USATF sanctioned Scarecrow 5k Run/Walk, begins on Saturday, October 11 at 9:00 a.m. Race day registration takes place in the Box Factory parking lot, East Lift Bridge Lane in the village of Fairport, from 7:30-9:00 a.m. The registration fee is $20/runner in advance, $25 on race day.

The Family Fun Run & Obstacle Course will take place at 10:00 a.m. Costumes are encouraged.

The flat 1/2mile course features eight different obstacles appropriate for children ages three and up. Kids get a pumpkin and a ribbon for finishing. Registration fee is $5 per person, with a max of $25 per family. Advance registration is available online or by mail for both events at www. runsignup.com, keyword: resolve. Kids can also enjoy the Fun zone! A special area filled with activities – pumpkin painting, glitter tattoos, play plinko and other games to win prizes. Buy tickets on site or use tickets given to Fun Run registrants. All proceeds to benefit RESOLVE. The Pasta Dinner will take place that evening from 5:00-7:30 p.m., in the Church of the Assumption Grand Hall, 20 East Avenue in Fairport. Meals include salad, pasta with homemade sauce, meatballs, roll, dessert, and drinks. Take out is available. The cost is $10 per adult, $5 per child (under 12), under three are free. Tickets may be purchased at Church of the Assumption in advance or the evening of the event.

Finger Lakes Cheese Trail Open House, October 11th The Finger Lakes Cheese Trail is pleased to announce their popular Fall Open House is coming up on Columbus Day Weekend. The one-day Fall Open House is slated for Saturday October 11, from.10:00am-5:00pm both days. Twelve of the 13 Trail members will be participating, with many opening up their farms to cheese lovers that Saturday. There will be many new events and activities at the individual farms for the Open House, and trail-wide visitors are encouraged to play Cheese Trail Bingo as they visit the farms for a chance to win a holiday cheeseboard.

At Sunset View Creamery in Odessa, in addition to cheese tastings, farm matriarch and head cheese maker, Carmella Hoffman, will be creating specialty cheese dishes featuring local chef, Chef William Cornelius’s, sauces. They will also offer self-guided farm tours and have a kids’ activities area.

Thanks to a new collaboration with the Finger Lakes Cider Alliance, there will be an opportunity to try cheese and hard cider pairings as part of their annual Cider Week FLX activities. Eve’s Cidery will be at Engelbert Farms in Nichols for hard cider & cheese pairings. Black Duck Cidery will be at Crosswinds Farm & Creamery (formerly Vanillen Dairy) in Ovid for hard cider & cheese pairings. And the newest Cheese Trail member, Heaven Scent Farm, will be at Three Brothers Wineries and Estates in Geneva, pairing their jacks with Three Brothers’ Hard Cider.

Some of the farms will be going all out to celebrate fall and family. Dutch Hill Creamery in Chenango Forks will will have a petting zoo, animal feedings, activities for kids, pumpkins, corn stalks, Indian corn and yogurt, cheese & milk tastings. Taking it even a step further, Sidehill Acres Goat Farm in Candor will actually be hosting the Candor Fall Festival (9:00am-6:00pm) with regular cider & donuts, pumpkin carving, wine & cheese pairings, raffles, lots of kids activities and vendors.

“The Cheese Trail is definitely not like a Wine Trail,” points out Jeremy Sherman, of Jerry Dell Farm & Store in Freeville. “You don’t pull out of one driveway and into another. It can be a good 20 or 30 minutes between farms. You are truly touring. So plan on enjoying some leaf peeping and maybe making a few stops in between and you’ll have a nice day against the backdrop of beautiful fall foliage in the Finger Lakes.”

For information on what creameries are participating in the Open House and to plan your route visit www.flcheesetrail.com

You Won’t Miss the Meat

the Red Fern Cafe

::platter

Disclaimer: I am a devout carnivore. Nothing I like better than BBQ ribs, a juicy tenderloin, or a roasted chicken -- and don’t even get me started on bacon.

Sure, I enjoy a salad as much as the next girl, but it’s not generally what I order in restaurants. So when I made plans to visit The Red Fern -- a vegan restaurant on the corner of Park Avenue and Oxford Street -- for a tasting, I joked with friends about stopping on my way home for an order of Buffalo wings.

I needn’t have worried. The Red Fern, which celebrated a year in business last month, turns out delicious, satisfying meals. To say that “you won’t miss the meat” sounds trite, but in this charmingly decorated little cafe, it’s also the truth.

What I liked best about the fare here is that it’s not all made with meat substitutes that attempt to mimic the real thing. There’s a smattering of tempeh, seitan and tofu, intended in some cases to stand in for their animal-product originals, but in most cases these ingredients are allowed to shine in their own right. Other offerings rely solely on legumes and vegetables, making the menu equally friendly for those who are allergic to soy or simply tofu-averse.

I started with a glass of freshly squeezed Beet It juice, a potent and spicy blend of beets, apple, carrot and ginger. If you’re not a fan of ginger, skip this one and try the green juice or the fruit-based Sunrise instead. There’s also a selection of smoothies made with fresh fruit, coconut milk and local maple syrup, kombucha on tap, natural sodas and herbal teas.

A caesar salad was topped with croutons, a creamy sesame dressing and “kale parmesan” -- seasoned kale chips, crumbled over the bed of romaine and raw kale.

I stuck my fork in hesitantly, remembering some kale salads I’ve eaten -- or rather, chewed and chewed and chewed my way through -- in the past. Again, my fears were unfounded. These greens were tender, crisp, and thoroughly delicious.

The Red Fern’s nod to local cuisine is a Compost Plate; sweet-potato salad takes place of the traditional home fries, and the mac salad is vegan. To top it off, choose from lemon-maple tofu, Italian “sausage,” seitan or a lentil burger -- which is what I tried. No one would mistake this combination for a classic garbage plate, but it’s a hearty, wholesome entree that will satisfy hungry vegans.

My favorite dish was the Warrior Wrap. You’ll have to trust me here, because the ingredient list -- roasted chickpeas, pecans, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, coconut oil, kale, field greens, cucumber and lemon vegenaise (a faux mayo) -- does not do the sandwich justice. Both texturally and in terms of flavor, the combination, all snuggled up in a whole-wheat wrap and lightly grilled, was absolutely on point.

I’d go back to The Red Fern in a hot minute for this meal.

A gleaming pastry case filled with desserts -- cookies, brownies, cakes, truffles and other tempting goodies -- is front-and-center at the cafe, and so I was pleased when a slice of cheesecake made its way to my table. The filling was creamy and smooth, every bit as delectable as a dairy-based dessert, while a pleasantly tart cherry sauce and a classic graham-cracker crust added depth and contrast.

The Red Fern can accommodate gluten-free, soy-free and nut-free diets, and is -- perhaps not surprisingly -- committed to using sustainable, organic and local products whenever possible.

The Red Fern I 283 Oxford Street I Rochester NY 14607 585-563-7633 I redfernrochester.com Tues -- Sun 11am -- 10pm (closed Mondays)

p

::SHIFT+CONTROL

By Nicole Shein | Photos by Brandon Vick

chatter

Communicating the forward

“News” in Today’s Information Highway

::Fashion

By Joan E. Lincoln

Every year the October “Think Pink” Issue and article topic is always a difficult one for me to engage. With my past family history of breast cancer, I realize that every situation demands a very different approach to communicating the “News” and information associated with such. I can tell you that in my family, our communication style is withholding “news” until there is “more news” whether good or bad.

We have settled into a routine of let’s wait and see before we announce the real issue at hand. Wanting to be a better communicator I searched the information highway and found the following information from media expert Steve Kayser.

Words are Powerful; Use With Care According to Kayser, author of The Greatest Words You’ve Never Heard, it’s easy to take words for granted; most of us use them as effortlessly as we breathe. But words hold power that we often overlook at our own peril,

the big “c”

“Language is the code that translates ideas so they can be shared. They give us an advantage in the natural world, which has enabled us to evolve as human beings,” says Kayser.

“But in our personal and public lives, we are inundated with empty words; words that are used incorrectly; words that are drained of all meaning; and so fail to accurately convey the intended message; and words that carry unwarranted connotations and stigma.” Words can change lives, destroy relationships and alter the course of entire civilizations, Kayser notes.

facebook

breast cancer information

think pink

humor

cancer

phy ogra mamm

communication

Kayser suggests that effective way to communicate is to emulate Mark Twain, the “straight shooter,” who employed wit, charm and incisive commentary in communications. No, most people cannot pick up where Twain, arguably America’s greatest writer, left off. But language and the way in which it’s used can be highly contagious. If you want to inspire authenticity and engage employees and friends alike with genuine communication, consider styling your speech more along the lines of Twain, for example: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do,” Twain wrote. “So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

“The beauty of language is that it’s a common tool for everyone to use, yet it can be tailored to an individual. My primary suggestion is to do that in a way that authentically reveals your meaning,” notes Kayser.

I asked a friend of mine, Kim Infantino, how she communicated the “news” of being diagnosed with breast cancer to her family and friends.

“Basically, I told them my story of what happened when I went for my annual mammogram.” Kim responded. “I kept it light and assured them that it was caught early and very small. Only Tony knew my true frustration, anger, sadness. Mostly, I dealt with it with humor. Cracking jokes about wearing my wig crooked and how now I could get out of doing all sorts of things by pulling the ‘cancer card’. Breast cancer and its treatment have come a long way. I never (well, hardly ever) feared for my life. I was extremely lucky to not have to worry about my job or taking care of small children. I had a huge support group that was there for me every step of the way. The care staff at Pluta and Rochester General were beyond wonderful. I found out last October, then went on the air with Tony (Tony Infantino from WARM 101.3 is Kim’s husband) to encourage other women go get their mammograms.

When I was telling people that I had cancer, I would say it’s just a little lump in the road.”

It’s all in the way you communicate and deliver the “News”.

Joan Lincoln owns Panache Vintage and Finer Consignment in Brighton Commons. Her Fashion Forward segment can also be heard every Thursday morning duringWake UpWith Tony onWARM101.3.

Breast Cancer, Allora & You! Come show your support. For the month of October select one of our PINK Specialty Services and a portion of the proceeds will go towards breast cancer.

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::in her own

words

S Y

ou see, it doesn’t matter who you are, your social status, what life you have lived, or even the color of your skin ‌ EVERY ONE is susceptible to domestic abuse.

16

october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

I, Maria Chiarilli, am a survivor — the new face of domestic violence.

For years, I longed for freedom, to get away from the daily abuse and the fear I lived with, but I found myself imprisoned. As a Catholic Italian American, I took my marriage vows very seriously. I did not believe in divorce; I believed in standing by my husband, “until death do we part.”

As years went by and after having children, my husband became even more abusive. I was scared for my life and received physical and emotional abuse daily. Once I realized that this wasn’t normal and that love isn’t supposed to hurt, it was too late. I didn’t tell many people what was going on, though, through the years, but the ones I did either didn’t believe me or thought that I was highly exaggerating. (Even when I was a little girl, my foster mother didn’t believe me, or didn’t want to believe me. Yes — I was sexually abused by my foster father.)

Walter, my abuser and husband of 28 years, also made sure I didn’t tell anyone. I wasn’t allowed to have friends. I wasn’t allowed to see or talk to my family. Hell — I wasn’t allowed to look up when I walked down the street, for fear someone would say hi to me and I may say hi back! Now you see, at this point, I was afraid to leave, but I was also afraid to stay. He always told me that if he couldn’t have me, nobody would, and that if I ever left, he would kill me. I knew in my heart this was true. There were so many reasons why I should have tried to leave, but there were even more reasons why I had to stay — my fear, my children, my handicapped child and so much more.

Finally, one day, I just couldn’t take it anymore — the emotional abuse, the physical abuse, broken bones, mental abuse, imprisonment, rape, etc. I decided that if I stayed, he would kill me, and if I left, he would still kill me. Not much of a choice, huh? But I prayed about it, and asked God for guidance. I knew that if there was a 99 percent chance he would kill me that also meant that there was a 1 percent chance I could escape.

crushing in my ears. As he was shooting me and stabbing me, I saw a heavenly sight. I knew God sent angels to help me, to protect me.

My ex-husband, evidently thinking I was dead, left me bleeding on the ground, left me for dead, and walked out of the house without a thought about our children.

I survived that night, obviously, but it was only by God’s grace and mercy. That night, I claimed a new life. I vowed to educate and protect women from domestic violence. I now have dedicated my life to writing books about my horrific experience and to plead with women of every race and age to protect themselves. Because of this, I am also engaging in public speaking, as another outlet to warn, educate, empower and help others. I currently have 10 topics that I speak on and hope to speak at as many high schools and colleges that I can, because domestic violence tendencies begin within our youth. A non-profit organization called Domestic Choices is in the near future, as well.

You see, it doesn’t matter who you are, your social status, what life you have lived, or even the color of your skin — everyone is susceptible to domestic abuse. It doesn’t discriminate. We must also teach our youth what is and what is not correct behavior, because I believe domestic abuse is mostly learned. We must all join together to make domestic violence a thing of the past.

As an aspiring author, my book “Silent Me” is my powerful story of one woman’s struggle to overcome a lifetime of abuse and heartache, strengthened by her faith in God. This is a riveting, true-life story of survival that everyone should read. You will feel my pain and anguish and, ultimately, my glorious triumph, as I overcome supposedly impossible odds, surviving the brutal assault on my life. I not only survived — I thrived — proving that there is no such thing as an insurmountable obstacle. The “Silent Me” story is much bigger than my own personal narrative. “Silent Me” means being a victim, silently suffering abuse. This type of lifestyle is a major problem in millions of homes and workplaces worldwide.

But on the evening of Jan. 22, 2011, my ex-husband decided to keep his promise.

My organization, Domestic Choices, was created to give women a greater awareness of the choices they can make to free themselves from the “Silent Me” lifestyle. In my own quest for freedom from abuse, I was often haunted by feelings of aloneness. I will work hard to make Domestic Choices a doorway to freedom for abused women, and to let them know they are not alone nor powerless. Existing services do not always offer the help that abused women need. Real life situations usually aren’t cut and dry. The goal of Domestic Choices is to develop alternate options, allowing such victims and their families to get into a safe environment.

He came with a loaded a gun and manipulated his way into the house, past the children, came down to my bedroom, busted down the door, got on top of me and held a gun to my head. He shot me in the head five times at close range. He shot me again from farther away, each time saying, “Why won’t you die, bitch? Why won’t you die?” Then he stabbed me nine times and severely beat me. I could hear my skull

We all know that in itself is a huge challenge, but it’s one that I am fully committed to. I believe that God has saved me to help others in similar situations, and I plan to carry out His plans, which I believe include telling people that my faith in God had much to do with my survival.

My primary mission, though, is to help the countless “Silent Mes” find their lost voices!

o I took my chances. At this time, I had been separated, divorced and another four to five months had gone by. I also had a “stay away” order of protection, but this didn’t stop him. I was secretly working with a domestic violence counselor, and we made a plan that included my children. SO I DID IT! I COMPLETELY CUT HIM OFF! I asked God for strength and courage. I asked God to protect us.

words

By Maria Chiarilli | Photo by Ve Jay Broyld, Sr.

ME

::in her own

Silent

rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

17

feature ::special

But...”

“I’M SORRY TO TELL YOU THIS,

What to Do After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

By Lori Medeiros, MD

A routine mammogram … and then the call back … and the biopsy … and then the dreaded words, “I’m very sorry to tell you this, but the biopsy showed cancer.”

What happens next? For many women, the first few minutes are just a blur. As a breast surgeon who does biopsies under ultrasound, I know that even when you have been prepared for the worst as much as possible by the doctor who does the biopsy, it’s still always a shock.

I hope you never have to go through this. But if you do, here is some advice for getting through the next few weeks.

First, breathe.

The prognosis for breast cancer has been getting better and better, as we make new improvements and advances in diagnosis and treatment. In fact, early breast cancer (defined as stages 0 through 2) now has a survival rate of between 90 and 100 percent, according to the most recent National Cancer Institute’s SEER database. This amazing news is the very reason why early detection is so important. The ability to find cancer in its earliest stages means less invasive treatment options and a far better chance of beating the disease.

Next, talk to your doctor about the process ahead of you. The best source for this initial conversation will be the person who orders your mammograms. He or she will be able to help with some of your initial questions, and will then refer you to a surgeon. If you don’t have a regular doctor, family and friends or even the Internet can be helpful initially. Breast cancer is unfortunately common, and chances are someone you know has some experience with the disease. Consider taking this time to establish yourself with a primary care or OB-GYN doctor; and be sure to describe your situation when you call for that initial appointment, so you aren’t waiting for weeks. Even if you already have a surgeon, your primary care doctor will be very helpful as a resource after you are finished with the acute

phase of your care – that’s when you enter the stage known as survivorship, when anxiety and depression can sometimes return.

When you meet with each member of your treatment team – typically a surgeon first, followed by an oncologist and radiation oncologist depending on your case – try to bring someone else with you to help listen. I typically spend about an hour or more at this initial appointment and there is a lot of information to absorb. Even though you will be provided with written aids, it is helpful to have someone else to help remember questions and be your support. (The robust support of family and friends will make a huge difference during this process.)

No matter how good your prognosis, this is a very overwhelming time. Remind yourself that you can’t become an expert on breast cancer in a few weeks – and you don’t have to be. With a good team working with you, you can expect to quickly develop a firm grasp of what your next steps are and what will occur in each phase of your treatment.

Finally, the most important thing you can do is treat yourself like you would a good friend who has just been diagnosed. Realize that this process represents only a finite period of time in your life, and you probably won’t be able to do all the things you are used to. That’s OK. You will get back to a new normal eventually. In the meantime, try to adjust your expectations and give yourself the time you need to rest, to get upset and cry, and to heal emotionally. Try to resist making radical diet or lifestyle changes at this time. While good nutrition is important, the introduction of antioxidants and other dietary changes usually takes a long time to take effect – and in the meantime, these changes can be very stressful at a time when additional stress is the last thing you need. Try to keep to your routine as much as you can, and communicate how you are feeling to your friends and family.

Just breathe … you will get through this.

Lori Medeiros, MD, is Medical Director of the Rochester General Breast Center.

NATIONAL BREAST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE

Patient-Focused Care Every woman is unique, and so is

every breast cancer diagnosis. Our patients receive personalized care from a multi-disciplinary clinical team, while Nurse Navigators provide answers, advocacy and support. That’s what makes us a Breast Center of Excellence, and the right choice for your patients and their loved ones.

Breast Center IMPROVE YOUR ODDS Increased awareness and simple lifestyle changes can help you avoid the risk of cancer. rochestergeneral.org/breastcenter

matters finds

::local business ::fab

Offering Comfort to Those with

Cancer

By Cynthia Kolko | Photo by Tiffany Boula

::local business Some people feel a certain calling to start a business. Or the idea for a business may stem from being thrust into an adverse situation. For Cheri Struble, purveyor of Comfort Caps, it was both.

was perfectly qualified, personally and professionally, to ensure that other women going through hair loss received that extra something when purchasing a head covering.

Struble’s altruistic nature drove her to use her experiences as both a nurse and a cancer patient to start Comfort Caps, which she runs out of her Canandaigua home with help from her partner in life, Lee Ludwig. The company provides an array of head coverings for people experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy. Struble’s aim is to help those cancer patients who yearn for a supportive place to shop, talk, and feel better about themselves.

Struble’s first-hand perspective, coupled with her knowledge as a nurse, lets her empathize as well as advise.

With Comfort Caps, Struble created the sort of helpful and private, yet not isolating, place she envisioned. And Comfort Caps allows Struble to do the work she loves.

“I want to help people going through hair loss to feel beautiful,” explains Struble. “It makes me feel good.”

A Perfect Fit

As a community health nurse in Canandaigua for the past dozen years, currently for both the Canandaigua VA Medical Center and Lifetime Care, Struble has cared for numerous oncology patients.

“Never in my lifetime did I imagine it could be me,” said Struble. But in the spring of 2012, a mere two months after a healthy mammogram, the then 36-year-old Struble found a lump. It was an aggressive strain of breast cancer.

During her initial oncology appointment, an emotionally trying meeting for just about anyone facing cancer, Struble had particular difficulty coming to terms with the reality that, with chemotherapy, she would lose her hair. In our society, a great many women assign significant personal and cultural importance to their hair. Historically a symbol of femininity, a woman’s hair can express her beliefs and personality. It can reflect her identity. And so it was with Struble. The loss of her hair would mean a loss of part of herself.

Action needed to be taken right away. Due to her sister having been diagnosed with breast cancer as well, Struble opted for a full bi-lateral mastectomy.

“I thank her everyday,” Struble said, explaining how her sister’s illness inspired her to be diligent in self-detection, pragmatic about accepting the diagnosis and resolute in choosing treatment. The dreaded chemotherapy would come next, but only after a hiatus.

“I had a Jamaican vacation coming, and I wasn’t canceling,” Struble said. When the trip was over, a return home meant a return to treatment. A couple of weeks after starting chemotherapy, Struble’s hair was gone. She was devastated.

A testament to his unconditional support, Ludwig presented Struble with a gift of two wigs. While she loved the gesture, Struble didn’t love the wigs, which she found uncomfortable, awkward, and just not her. Struble wanted something that would not only feel better on her head, but would make her feel better about herself.

Struble turned to the world of headscarves, turbans, and other such coverings, as alternatives to wigs. Unfortunately, there did not seem to be a place locally that carried a selection she found suitable. She tried online shopping, but ordering off the internet is a solitary, even lonely, activity, and it can be hard to choose something without seeing it in person. Struble figured she couldn’t be the only woman in the area going through cancer treatment who liked to try things on, to feel the fabric, and to see the options– a lot of them– in real life rather than in pixels.

And Struble knew there was more to such a purchase than if she were a healthy woman shopping for shoes or a sweatshirt. Much more. Struble realized that she

“They get me,” explains Struble of what she offers customers of Comfort Caps. “They can cry and I understand.”

“Home care is my passion,” she says of her nursing career.

“I like the one-on-one attention and taking good care of my patients.”

With her cancer now in remission (her sister’s is too), Struble is a ray of hope for customers as well. It’s as if the head coverings are merely a bonus to the kinship and guidance Struble provides her customers, who range in age from young women to those in their seventies, and who often spend well over an hour at Comfort Caps shopping and sharing stories.

“I’m here if anyone needs me. I’ll spend as much time as people need,” says Struble of her desire to be of service.

It is easy to see why customers may wish to linger at the Comfort Caps shop in Struble’s home. The warm and welcoming atmosphere is almost palpable upon entering.

Head coverings on display greet visitors with a visual feast of fabrics. Indeed, the selection is vast and varied, with head coverings ranging from pre-tied scarves to caps.

“Halos,” fringes of hair that attach to a head covering, are also offered, as well as caps that can be altered by adding or removing different colorful bands. The company’s bestseller is a two-piece turban that can be worn as a scarf or a simple, but not boring, cap.

The head coverings’ materials encompass a wide spectrum of purposes, preferences, or moods, from demure solids to fun animal prints and colorful florals. Some are embellished, and seasonal options include warm, wooly varieties for colder months, and brimmed caps for sunny days. Fleece caps in children’s prints are also available, as are high-quality wigs, and hairpieces to fill out hair that is thinning or growing back. Other feel-good merchandise such as handbags and jewelry are on display, too.

If Comfort Caps does not carry a particular head covering that a customer may want, Struble can usually find it.

She stressed that, as with the in-house merchandise, no customer is ever obligated to make a purchase. Although what’s for sale are tangible items, the purpose, for Struble, is that each person leaves with a feeling of contentedness and dignity.

“I don’t let anyone leave unless she is one hundred percent confident with what’s on her head,” explains Struble.

Mobile Caps

While some cancer patients long for the diversion of an outing, others are often not up to a car trek or don’t have anyone to drive them. Struble is available to take Comfort Caps on the road for trunk shows or other such group events, so that these patients can still enjoy a Comfort Caps experience.

Additionally, the website for Comfort Caps includes a wish list, where patients can browse the company’s inventory and remotely choose items they would like.

Struble found that often friends of a cancer patient want to help, but don’t know how. The wish list, which can be shared, makes it easy for these friends to order something beautiful and useful for a patient.

matters

L

women ::tips for

Helping Breast Cancer Patients Feel

Empowered Breast Cancer is a disease that has most likely, in one way or another, touched us all. Whether it be a family member, friend, co-worker or someone you just met. Odds are it has had some impact in your life. Breast Cancer awareness month is so important in many ways. It reminds us to do at-home exams, to schedule your mammogram and to start taking more time and awareness for ourselves as women and individuals.

Recently, we have been fortunate enough to help support our friend Sheri DelMonte who has been battling breast cancer for the past five years. Breast cancer awareness is something that has certainly touched us at BODY Spa and Salon. We strive to help every woman feel empowered and important, we want everyone who comes to us to feel secure as well as pampered. Because of this, we offer a vast array of services that cater to women who have breast cancer, are in remission, or anyone battling this disease.

Paramedical Micro-Pigmentology is a form of cosmetic tattooing, also known as permanent makeup. 3D Areola Re-Pigmentation can help improve the appearance and self-esteem of men and women who have undergone breast surgery. These techniques can “create�

22

october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

an areola after after breast reconstruction, minimize the appearance of scars, or restore an areola to a more natural looking color and shape.

The following massages are specifically designed for people going through chemotherapy and women/men going through breast cancer. Breast Massage aids in reduction of both swelling and tightness, softening scar tissue, and alleviation of edema in breasts after surgery. Lymph Drainage Massage is a gentle technique that often provides relief and reduces swelling from lymphedema, while Oncology Massage is the modification of existing massage therapy techniques in order to safely work with the complications of cancer and cancer treatments. The salon team can cut wigs and also offers hair chalk ( a temporary color that washes out after about 5 shampoos) so for the month of October, anyone can get a pink strip in their hair in support of Breast Cancer awareness month!

BODY Spa and Salon is also proud to be a part of several charitable organizations. These include: Wigs for Kids, Locks of Love, Make-AWish, The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester and more. Together we can help take a stand against breast cancer and help raise awareness to support the strong women and men who are undergoing treatments, fighting for their life or in remission.

The Shore Restaurant on Canandaigua Lake

- Monthly Wine Dinners - Weekly Wild Game Specials - Homemade Pasta Features - Chef Sean Wolf

- Steak House Style Menu Every Tuesday Evening - Seasonal Recipes

Call: 585.394.1480 for reservations

770 South Main Street - Canandaigua, New York 14424 - 585.394.7800 www.theinnonthelake.com

feature ::special

medical marijuana for

Breast Cancer

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october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

::special by margaret madigan In June 2014 the State Legislature voted to legalize medical marijuana, making New York the 23rd state to allow use of the drug for medical purposes.

Each state has unique restrictions on marijuana, which remains illegal under federal law. New York’s policy is particularly unique, in that it does not allow for smokable forms of the drug and includes a “sunset provision” after seven years, which means the law shall cease to have an effect after a certain time period.

The American Cancer Society states, “A number of small studies of smoked marijuana found that it can be helpful in treating nausea and vomiting from cancer chemotherapy. A few studies have found that inhaled (smoked or vaporized) marijuana can be helpful treatment of neuropathic pain (pain caused by damaged nerves).”

Here’s a guide that will answer many of your questions about the law…

feature

S

to grow and sell the drug statewide. The law doesn’t spell out where those manufacturers and dispensaries can be located, but gives the state discretion to control where licenses are issued to help ensure geographical diversity.

Any patient who wants to use medical marijuana must receive a prescription for it from a doctor or caregiver who has received a special state training on the drug and its potential side effects.

6. Who will decide which companies get the licenses to grow and distribute marijuana?

The state health department has a lot of leeway to pick the companies that could end up with lucrative marijuana manufacturing licenses. And with so few licenses available for New York State manufacturers, expect fierce competition from companies hoping to do business here, despite the burden of heavy regulations.

According to a guidelines bill being drafted, any manufacturer seeking a

1. Who can use medical marijuana in New license must possess “good moral character,” and anyone who comes into contact with or otherwise handles the drug can’t have any prior convictions York State? or jail time for drug felonies in the past decade. The bill also requires any New York’s program would allow medical doctors to prescribe marijuana for about a half-dozen serious or life-threatening medical conditions: epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, A.L.S. (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, neuropathies, spinal cord injuries, cancer and HIV/AIDS. Within 18 months of the bill becoming law, the state’s health commissioner must decide whether to allow the drug for several other conditions: Alzheimer’s disease, muscular dystrophy, dystonia, posttraumatic stress disorder and rheumatoid arthritis. The list of conditions for which the drug can be prescribed is very narrow because Governor Andrew Cuomo said repeatedly he didn’t want New York’s program to end up like California’s, where medical marijuana can be prescribed for more mild conditions like chronic back pain.

manufacturer or dispensary to enter into negotiations with organized labor to use union workers at its facilities, and potential manufacturers must demonstrate they can post a $2 million bond, or that they would already own the land and facilities they’d use to grow the drug at indoor farms.

7. How different is New York’s limit on the number of manufacturers and dispensaries from the law in other states?

States’ rules vary widely, but they tend to follow a pattern. States where the drug was legalized by referendum are more likely to allow more manufacturers and dispensaries, while states that legalized the drug through an act of the Legislature are more likely to restrict their programs, an analysis of state laws shows.

2. Will the state make any money from medical marijuana?

For example, Minnesota, whose Legislature passed a bill authorizing medical The state is levying a seven percent excise tax on a businesses’ gross income from the sale of medical marijuana, but state budget officials don’t yet have a clear sense of how many people will use the drug. Thusly, they don’t have an estimate of how much tax revenue it could yield. Half of the tax will go back to the counties where the drug was manufactured and will be split evenly. Another five percent of the revenue will go to the state’s drug abuse prevention programs, and five percent will be handed over to the state’s criminal justice department for law enforcement projects.

marijuana, will allow just two in-state manufacturers to grow the drug, and limit the number of dispensaries to four statewide. Connecticut is similarly restrictive, allowing just 10 dispensaries statewide.

Other states regulate the number of dispensaries and manufacturers on a percentage basis. Arizona, which enacted a medical marijuana law in 2010, put regulations in place to cap the number of dispensaries at 10 percent of the total number of pharmacies in the state, or about 124 dispensaries statewide.

3. Is medical marijuana covered by 8. What are the other ways New York’s law insurance?

Under New York’s law, insurers aren’t required to cover the drug as part of will be different from the ones in states like Colorado or California? their policies.

One key difference between New York’s law and those on the books in

4. If marijuana is still illegal at the federal most other states is that New York will prohibit patients from smoking level, how can it be legal at the state level? marijuana, instead restricting its use to oils, vaporizers or other ingestible Yes, this could be tricky in many different ways. For patients, the state’s law contains a non-discrimination clause that says you can’t be fired from your job or discriminated against for using medical marijuana because it’s used for a covered “disability.” But in reality, that hasn’t always protected employees. In 2010, a quadriplegic medical marijuana patient in Colorado was fired from his job for his legal use of the drug. He appealed his firing and the case is still playing out in court.

In theory, the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution means that what the federal government says goes. But in practice, discrepancies between states’ marijuana laws and the federal laws tend to play out in court. So any federal prosecutor who wants to go after a marijuana business for violating federal law would be within his or her right to do so, even with New York’s legalization of the drug for medicinal purposes. Whether the prosecutor would win the case is another matter.

5. Where will I be able to get medical marijuana?

The state will authorize as many as five manufacturers and 20 dispensaries

forms of marijuana.

In New York, the health commissioner would be able to decide how much to charge for medical marijuana, and has the power to add or subtract diseases the drug can be prescribed to treat. And the program could be shut down at any time. If the health department or police departments decide the program is out of control and resulting in diversion of the drug for illegal uses, the commissioner or state police superintendent can issue a recommendation to the governor to end the program immediately. Even if the program is successful, the law has a built-in sunset provision: The law will expire after seven years if the Legislature doesn’t take action to renew it.

The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR) has been a big supporter of making medical marijuana legal to bring relief to cancer patients suffering from nausea and vomiting as side effects from treatment. Along with advocates at the Coalition, researchers at URMC were anxiously awaiting news that the Compassionate Care Act had passed. These two groups, along with many others still feel there is work to do, in order to ensure that the law lasts more than seven years and that all cancer patients get the help they need. rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

25

By Vanessa J. Cheeks You have been affected by domestic violence.

:for a good

cause

Not always a physical act, at one point or another you have seen it, heard it or possibly lived it. Domestic violence is not an individual problem but a community issue that requires complex and multifaceted responses.

That is photo courtesy of brandon vick where the Rochester/Monroe County Domestic Violence Consortium comes in.

Empowering women while helping a good cause is the

Getting itsthe start as when a partnership with the Men’sofEducation order of day the Women’s Council Realtors forAnnual Non-Violence Program thestage Rochester Consortium Fashion Show takes the on September 12 at orthe theHarro DVC, was founded in 1982 as the first batterer East Ballroom. intervention program of its kind in the city.

Now in its 18th year, the show features fashions from

Not just alocal single body but a committee built featured from 50 different boutiques every year. This year’s organizations, andPanache municipal supporters the styles will be advocates presented by Vintage and Finer consortium is unique in that it can work with victims to Consignment, B. Younique and Arlene response Sutherland. create an immediate and customized to their needs by pooling together resources from the community “Panache Vintage & Finer Consignment and www. and guiding them to the programs that would best reactforto joanlincoln.com Makeup Team have been grateful their situation. ourparticular involvement in previous WCR Fashion Events. The

audience of support forasthisa conduit” Fashion Charity Event has “The consortium serves explained Allison also been extraordinary.” said JoanofLincoln, owner of O’Malley, Executive Director RESOLVE, an organization Panache. that participates in the consortium and focuses primarily on abuse directed toward women and The event is a formal evening ofnot funonly and how entertainment children.

“There was concern with my agency including a live music Pass 80’s, cocktail hour,a was responding but, how by we Hall (the DVC) could coordinate basket raffle, a three-course dinner, live auction and of community response.” course, local fashions.

Tackling these acts of violence, that account for 50% of allThe emergency dispatches thehelp Monroe countyfor area, purpose of the eventinis to raise money fouris a local coordinated between theareagencies that year shelter charities. effort Different charities chosen each as victims, law enforcement that seek out batterers and beneficiaries.

This year’s recipients will be: legislators that create laws designed to protect victims or Pluta Cancer Center Foundation mission is to prosecute offenders within the courtwhose system.

The DVC continue to support the Pluta that Cancer Centerpossible its patients relies on various committees discuss new police procedures, preventative measures totorelieve domestic and teams by providing funds necessary the violence paths to education. financialfatalities burdensand thatnew many cancer patients and “Each their organization is doing to understand implications families face, expandtheir andbest enhance the complementary ofintegrative domestic violence differentasways” oncologyin services wellsaid as O’Malley. invest in the

professional development caregivers who the While emergency assistanceofis the at the forefront ofare theonduties lines of patient care. as a part of the DVC, O’Malley offront the agencies that operate emphasizes education as the ofkeyRochester to endingwho the cycles Breast Cancer Coalition provideof domestic violence. Men make up the majority of abusers to violence those touched by aand diagnosis of breast cancer insupport domestic situations O’Malley believes that and make accesscantoprovide information priority working with men hope forand a longcare terma solutions. through education and advocacy. Also to empower

Through programs like RESPECT, men can begin womenBatterer and men to participate fully in decisions related toto address breastissues cancer.that may lead them to react violently in the home but, O’Malley describes confrontation of the abusers Isaiahand House, home for the dying provides residence for actions not atherepy in these programs which span over 26those weeks, “Itirreversible is not therapy a true program with illnessbut who haveeducation been determined that person is facing can to combats be withinmultiple the last issues three one months of their lives.that Their lead them to commit explained commitment flows acts fromofaviolence.” belief in the dignity O’Malley. and value

of every person, violence some ofaffects whomallare homeless, mentally Because domestic income and education ill orand living withitaddiction.

Hospitality comfort care levels races is important to lookand beyond batterers are rendered in cooperation with a certified home health previously arrested for abuse who are often mandated to agencysuch andeducational a resident’s physician. attend programs but also to those who may be experiencing forms of domestic and sexual abuse Crossroads House,the a sings. comfort care home serving the without recognizing residents of Genesee and Wyoming Counties who have

The Rochester/ Monroe County Domestic Violence Consortium 26

october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

College campusesdetermined are a focal point of domestic been medically to be in their last stagesand of sexual assault are an important demographic for life. The staff and and volunteers are committed to provide organizations DVC. to “We going emotional, to colleges personalized like carethe attending thefind physical, many of the seen and or been part of spiritual andkids socialrealize needsthey of thehave residents theirafamilies some of these scenarios and just did not recognize it or seek while affirming a dignified quality of life in a caring, help”, explained O’Malley, “It’s a time for them to decide home-like environment. what kind of man they want to be and we see that they want to becan good.”

Tickets be purchased at Parkleigh, Panache Vintage

and Finer online conversation at www.wcrroc.com.

The work of theConsignment DVC is crucialor in creating for domestic Discount tickets areand stillassault. available through August violence, sexual abuse, The DVC and the 15th.

Rochester community have worked to expel the idea that these forms abuse For more information on this event contact Mayof Jane are accepted in the community and we continue to do so with open Mahon, (585) 218-6817 or visit them on Facebook / conversation and immediate action on behalf of victims.

ROCWCRFashionShow.

WHEN LIFE EATS AWAY AT YOUR INNER BEAUTY “THE TRAGEDY OF LIFE IS NOT DEATH; IT’S WHAT WE LET DIE INSIDE OF US WHILE WE LIVE.” -NORMAN COUSINS Do you find yourself feeling.... u Angry and Frustrated u Like an Imposter

u The Victim of Others u Resentful or Bitter u Lonely or Empty Inside u Regretful about the Past u Hopeless or Depressed uChronically Stressed At InterAct, experienced therapists can help you overcome the things that rob your joy in life, to reveal the worthy, lovable, and beautiful woman you truly are.

2136 Penfield Rd | 585-388-8010 www.interactcounseling.com

you :celebrating

Celebrating You!

By Dr. Meami Joy

Welcome to the first in a series of recurring columns called Celebrating You! We have enlisted the services of Dr. Meami Joy to answer your questions about love, life and how to celebrate a better you. Every other month Dr. Joy will answer questions from our readers and share her professional insights.

Dear Dr. Meami, I am 53, recently divorced after a 28 year marriage as my husband left me for his younger co-worker. I’m tired, grey, having a hard time climaxing, jaded and angry, yet I know there has to be a way to get a fresh start and enjoy sex again. What do I do?

Signed, Fed Up in my 50’s Dear Fed Up, Your problem is common for women of any age who feel they have invested in a long term relationship and lost it all! However, keep in mind, now you certainly know why you don’t want in a partner next time around, and this is key information to be very aware of so you don’t start a pattern of choosing--and settling for--someone who is not capable of meeting your needs sexually and otherwise since in the best, healthiest romantic relationships your mind, body, heart and soul are all engaged.

Step one is a surprise: change yourself from the outside in! Get rid of your grey hair or enhance it with a brightening gloss, and make sure it’s professionally styled in an updated, face framing style that you love to see in the mirror! Just because you don’t have a sexual partner right now, invest in sexy, comfortable bras and panties, nightgowns, etc., so you begin to wake up and see yourself as a sexual, vibrant woman again. Many men say sexy comes from a woman who radiates confidence in herself, shown in the way she walks, speaks, and dresses for self-expression.

Next, journal your feelings of anger at the way your marriage ended,

and your frustration at your current inability to climax sexually. Make a timeline of when this problem started so you can gain insight into the emotional factors that caused it and begin to correct the one by one. Finish this sentence: “I can’t climax because...”’, and you might be shocked at what you reveal to yourself!

If you ever do decide to see a counselor to work on this, your journal entries can be a valuable roadmap to bringing you back to a place where you can indeed celebrate your sexual self and enjoy a fabulous sex life going forward in your new exciting chapters of your post divorce life just waiting to be written--by you!

You are not at all powerless here! You get to decide whom you want to be sexual with in the future, and under what circumstances--keeping in mind my professional advice here that the very best sex comes from being in a monogamous relationship where both partners have formed a basis of total trust in each other emotionally and physically over time-that’s how you learn to really let go and let the connection leading to a satisfying climax and more happen!

This is the perfect time in your life to discover exactly what your own unique sexual needs are, what turns you on and where and how and what doesn’t--so you can then communicate that in detail to trusted, safe partner down the road when you feel intuitively you are ready to.

Start with the end in mind by thinking about what your ideal partner would be like in terms of gender, physical appearance, emotional mindset, career, age, lifestyle and more--get very specific about this and then be open to all possibilities as to who might find with at least some of these key qualities. Then consider signing on with a highly personalized dating service such as discoveryourmatch.com, as an excellent investment in your future happiness!

Thanks, and always remember to celebrate your sexual self at any age... why not?

story ::cover

fightin for her life

By Margaret Madigan | Photos by Stephen Reardon

ng S

heri Delmonte is a vibrant 36 year old woman, divorced and raising her four children as a stay-at-home mom.

At first glance you might not realize she is fighting for her life.

Sheri has been suffering from stage four breast cancer for five years now.

One day in 2009 during a self-examination, Delmonte felt a lump in her breast. She notified her doctor and went in for an exam. The doctor sent her to get a mammogram and ultrasound. The results showed some suspicious areas. The doctor called for a biopsy and once performed it verified there were cancerous cells in the breasts and lymph nodes. Of twenty-four lymph nodes tested, 13 came back positive. The doctor determined it was stage three breast cancer.

What next? Where does one go from there? After going over all the options with her doctor, Sheri decided she didn’t want to take any chances. She wanted to have a double mastectomy and lymph node removal followed by chemo and radiation.

As the months passed, the news didn’t really get any better, the cancer was spreading. It spread to her liver, she had surgery to remove 30% of her liver and managed to hold steady for a year, but the cancer came back. Over the next few years she would have six surgeries and many rounds of chemo and radiation. She has spent the last two years trying different treatments for the cancer in her liver.

story ::cover

In the past eight months the cancer has spread outside the lymph nodes to her chest, abdomen and under arm. Her doctor and she have been trying their best to keep it under control. But in July she found some hope as she was chosen to participate in a clinical trial at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

However, a few weeks into the trial it was discovered her tumor markers went through the roof, the treatment was making the tumors bigger.

Shortly thereafter, she was released from the trial.

Delmonte was determined not to give up and she began intense research to find a new treatment. She sites her four children - Giuseppi 13, Jack 9, and twin 7 year olds Ella and Emma, as her inspiration for fighting against the cancer. She has vowed not to give up. “My kids are what keep me going”, Delmonte said.

She even had a consultation in New York City at world-renowned cancer treatment facility Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center but didn’t receive any particularly hopeful news from there either. Family and friends did research as well, and it was her brother Angelo DelMonte who discovered they had several mutual friends in the cancer community who had sought treatment at a facility in Brannenburg, Germany.

Marinus am Stein is a private clinic for holistic cancer therapy. It offers a comprehensive naturopathic therapy program, conservative surgery, special treatment for tumor repression using Buserelin. What was most encouraging is that these friends found successful treatment at the facility with the help of Dr. Axel Weber.

Holistic cancer therapy is considered “alternative treatment” in the United States. Holistic medicine is a form of healing that considers the whole person -- body, mind, spirit, and emotions -- in the quest for optimal health and wellness. According to the holistic medicine philosophy, one can achieve optimal health, the primary goal of holistic medicine practice, by gaining proper balance in life.

Holistic medicine practitioners believe that the whole person is made up of interdependent parts and if one part is not working properly, all the other parts will be affected. In this way, if people have imbalances (physical, emotional, or spiritual) in their lives, it can negatively affect their overall health.

A holistic doctor may use all forms of health care, from conventional medication to alternative therapies, to treat a patient. For example, when a person suffering from migraine headaches has a consultation with a holistic doctor, instead of walking out solely with medications, the doctor will likely take a look at all the potential factors that may be causing the person’s headaches, such as other health problems, diet and sleep habits, stress and personal problems, and preferred spiritual practices. The treatment plan may involve drugs to relieve symptoms, but also lifestyle modifications to help prevent the headaches from recurring.

Dr. Weber believes in the holistic treatment of the body. A patient first has to be approved for treatment at the facility by supplying recent lab reports, scans, and bloodwork. Once approved, a patient arranges their stay with the facility. Sheri has been approved to be seen for treatment. She is scheduled to arrive at the facility on September 22nd and will stay on site for four weeks. Once a patient arrives, more testing is done to decide on a tailored course of treatment.

The center offers various combinations of treatments tailored to each patient’s state of health. Examples of treatments include – Gentle Surgery – only minimally invasive surgery where possible.

Naturopathic Complex Program – physiotherapeutic measures such as lymph draining, other energy treatments such as magnetic field therapies, acupuncture and neural therapy. Diet supplements and immune stimulants such as thyme peptides, mistletoe injections, oxygen and ozone auto-blood transfusions.

::cover Local Thermotherapy – applying high heat to increase the temperature of malignant cells, it attacks the cell tissue which prevents the cells from reproducing.

Buserelin Therapy – Buserelin is a drug that destroys the hormonal environment required by the cancerous cells for division. Buserelin is not approved by the FDA in the United States for use; however it is approved in many other countries including Canada and of course Germany.

Why are there various drugs and therapies not approved in the United States, yet are available in other countries? The answer: time and money.

The United States has some of the strictest processes for drug approval in the world. The U.S. requires a lot of documented research to back up a new drugs application for approval. On average it takes about 5-12 years for a drug to go through the approval process and costs that pharmaceutical company millions of dollars in the process.

The United States Food and Drug Administration warns consumers that there are fraudulent treatments being offered in this country and others.

“While health fraud is a cruel form of greed, fraud involving cancer treatments can be particularly heartless—especially because fraudulent information can travel around the Web in an instant”, states the FDA website. Hence the need for Delmonte’s diligent research.

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“One of my best friends, Katie Ferrari started an online fundraiser on Youcaring.com right after I got an email from the doctor saying I was a good candidate”, Delmonte said. The online fundraiser as of press time was within a few thousand dollars of its $30,000 goal. It was her brother Angelo who came up with the idea for a fundraiser event held at Wall Street, a bar on East Avenue held on Saturday September 13th. The event drew a large crowd and featured raffles, music, food, guest bartenders and an evening of fun for guests. It also put them over the top in their fundraising efforts.

Sheri was born and raised in Webster and loves the Rochester area. The Rochester area certainly showed their support for one of its own.

“My kids are what keep me going”.

Delmonte and her supporters spoke to patients of the clinic who had received treatment and got positive testimonials.

She also checked several German agencies and websites to make sure Dr. Weber was licensed and legitimate and was on the “up and up”. According to Delmonte, “I looked at other countries for treatment like Mexico, oh I would never go there, too shady.”

story

Delmonte is handling her whole situation pretty well and trying to stay positive.

When asked how her children are holding up she says, “They are handling pretty good, all have their moments. Try to stay positive. I’m honest about what’s going on.

It’s hard answering tough questions. But overall they understand.”

And Delmonte is managing to stay active with the day to day family activities. You wouldn’t know she is a cancer patient by her demeanor. When she’s not having chemo or radiation, that is. “It’s the side effects that are pretty bad. I feel good until the treatment side effects”, says Delmonte.

She has been told by former patients of Marinus am Stein that there are no side effects with any of the treatments that Dr. Weber will perform. Something she really hopes to be true and a welcome change.

Of course Delmonte’s goal is to come back home from Germany cancer free or at least slow its growth. She wants to come home and be the best mom she can be to her children. But she would also like to come back and spread the hope to others. “I would love to come back and help anyone looking for an alternative and spread the word that there is help out there.”

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roc ::whats new in the

Tomosynthesis – a new era in mammography?

By Avice M. O’Connell, MD, MA

Tomosynthesis is the newest technical development in digital mammography.

Mammography is still the gold standard for diagnosing breast cancer and has contributed significantly to the reduction of mortality from breast cancer by at least 30% over the last 20-30 years.

So what is tomosynthesis, how is it done and who should get it? This new technology is a combination of digital mammography and specialized software which allows reconstruction of the 2D mammogram into a 3D image. It is performed as part of the normal two view mammogram.

After each of the two standard mammographic views is obtained, with compression, an additional set of low dose images are taken at different angles. These are then reconstructed so that they can be viewed as a series of thin slice images or like a ‘fly-through’ by the radiologist who can then see through some of the denser areas in the breast.

The benefit of tomosynthesis is that it can uncover problems in dense areas of the breast and result in reduced callbacks for overlapping tissue, which can be a cause of anxiety and also inconvenience for the patient. It has also been shown to improve clarity and detail of real findings hidden in dense areas.

The disadvantages include additional radiation, since it is essentially a double mammogram (although the dose is still within the accepted guidelines).

However, there is a synthetic 2D mammogram which can be generated from the tomosynthesis images which is currently approved by the FDA but is not generally used yet instead of the regular mammogram. Another concern I have is that if a woman gets a tomosynthesis- mammogram she may think that if it is negative, there is no chance of cancer being present.

No test is 100%, and while mammography may be up to 85% sensitive for picking up breast cancers there are still cancers that do not stand out from the surrounding breast tissue due to similar density characteristics. Some women will still need ultrasound. Also, there are rarely some cancers that can be felt but not seen on a mammogram and so may need an ultrasound and possible biopsy to diagnose. A personal awareness of what is normal and what has changed is critically important.

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In recent years there has been a new emphasis on the importance of breast density. In New York State since 2011 and in numerous other states, legislation has been passed to notify women about their breast density after their mammogram. They are then are advised to discuss the possible option of supplemental screening with their doctors. This additional screening has most commonly been whole-breast ultrasound, but now tomosynthesis is added to the choices.

It must be stated repeatedly that high quality screening mammography has been the standard for breast screening leading to reduced mortality from breast cancer, and although tomosynthesis is very promising, there are many people for whom a) mammography and ultrasound offers a better combination and b) there will still be some tumors which the mammogram and tomogram can still not show the cancer but ultrasound and physical examination can find it.

Tomosynthesis is gradually being incorporated into breast imaging practices.

It can be requested at the time of the screening mammogram, or it can be used at the time of recall after the screening. Although insurance is not reimbursing for this technology at this time, they are closely reviewing their policy, and many practices are offering it at no additional charge. Still, the most important plan is to get an annual mammogram and then discuss options for supplemental imaging if the breast tissue is reported as being dense. The second equally important thing is for every woman to know their own breasts and report any changes to their doctor or provider.

Avice O’Connell, MD, MA is Professor of Clinical Imaging Sciences at University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She specializes in all aspects of breast imaging including screening, diagnosis, minimally invasive biopsies and follow up after cancer diagnosis. Dr. O’Connell is a world renowned speaker and is very active in teaching medical students, residents and is frequently solicited for her expert opinion in the media.

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delivering High Quality Patient Care

october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

::special

By Rebecca L. Ferguson | Photo by Tiffany Boula

Strongly rooted in Rochester’s community, Dr. Alexander Solky has a compelling fervor for his work in Oncology. After graduating from Brighton High School, Dr. Solky busied himself with studies in history, and realized, “I really liked medicine.” Beginning the courses that would eventually lead him back home, Dr.Solky graduated from the University Of Rochester School Of Medicine. Never looking back, he completed, his residency, fellowship and then became an attending physician. While many opportunities were presented, Dr.Solky joined the team at Interlakes Oncology and Hematology in 2001. As a boardcertified Oncologist, Dr.Solky works with a diverse group of medical professionals that all share the same vision in delivering outstanding care to every patient, “I can’t do my job without any of them.”

As the son of two Rochester Physicians, Dr.Solky attributes his capacity to be with people in the most trying of times to his parents, who have equipped him with the ability to help absorb the anguish that goes along with the diagnoses of cancer. “I love my patients...such admiration for people fighting their battle” His genuine passion and determination keeps him going, keeps him striving for better.

“We can always be kind; we can always strive for wanting better,” reflecting for a moment on his residency when he knew oncology was where he wanted to be. Cancer is no stranger to this Rochester native, recalling earlier memories of a family member’s diagnosis with metastatic breast cancer.

“And she fought,” recalling the countless conversations and the incredible interactions along her journey, as well as remembering their conversations during some pretty awful encounters, and he thought, “I can change that, I can make that better.”

The job of the medical oncologist is to work with the patient in finding the best approach to preventing the cancer from spreading once a diagnosis has been made. This is a multidisciplinary approach, involving pathologists, surgical oncologists and if needed radiation oncologists. Dr.Solky and his staff also treat and manage the overall medical picture for cancer that has metastasized (cancer spreading from one organ to another). It has always been an important aspect of the practice to provide multiple locations, “we travel more so the patient can travel less.” With a natural respect and compassion, the staff is ready with a kind smile and gracious demeanor.

They are your team. Everything the patient and family have to say is important. Everything. With patient driven initiatives the doctors and staff work methodically to provide the best treatment available, being ever mindful of the body, mind and spirit.

Dr. Solky is currently a contributing member of ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology), where he serves on two different guideline panels.

One is to write the guideline for Early Stage Anti-Hormonal Treatment for Breast Cancer and the second is the Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee whom reviews every guideline for all the differing cancers which ASCO identifies.

Dr. Solky is working alongside experts from all over the nation to write as well as review the latest guidelines for cancer. Persevering along

S

with his peers, Dr.Solky embodies the mission statement of ASCO, a professional oncology society committed to conquering cancer through research, education, prevention and delivery of high-quality patient care. (2014) Retrieved from www.asco.org/about-asco/ascoprofile-and-mission-statement.

Rochester currently offers all FDA approved medications and treatments, some clinical trials as well as state of the art mammography and breast cancer facilities, advancements with precision medicine and a growing number of sub specialized oncologists. Dr.Solky humbly explains, “We’re lucky in Rochester to have a top-notch team of oncologists; you don’t lose by seeing anyone here in town.” There are occasions where difficult cases arise. With a phone call or email, locally and nationally recognized physicians are available to be a partnering body in patient care, illustrating how two women, the same age, both diagnosed with identical breast cancer, will often times have a very different course of treatment. Physicians must consider any co-morbidities, mental health, emotional health...every aspect of the patient is relevant.

Outside of the office, Dr.Solky enjoys spending time with his wife, a hospitalist for URMC, Valerie Lang, M.D. Both met in medical school during their residency at the University of Rochester. Together they enjoy hiking adventures and viewing such wonders as Watkins Glen, taking in the fresh air with their young son. Traveling, playing some tennis and fishing is not to be excluded. On occasion, Dr.Solky may be found on the green while sinking a hole- in-one with friends, “I love golf.”

“It’s a privilege, really...it’s an honor and a privilege to be allowed into people’s lives when they are at their most vulnerable” — Dr. Alexander J. Solky

Currently serving as the president of Interlakes Oncology and Hematology, dividing his time between six locations spanning from Geneva to Brockport, the entire team keeps busy. Having recently partnered with URMC Wilmot Cancer Institute, an already solid collaborative team has been able to optimize access to social workers, clinical navigators and investigational trials. “Rochester is a good place to be if you have been diagnosed with Cancer.”

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There is absolutely no doubt how important family is, this husband and father radiated delightfully while painting a vivid picture of his wildly curious child and supportive wife.

Readily admitting, “I am a baseball nut”, Dr.Solky also makes his way to Boston to catch a game with his brother, who has a career in medicine as a skin cancer surgeon. It was truly endearing to witness the passion that is palpable both personally and professionally.

With October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important for women to know that one out of every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The really encouraging news is survival rates have improved dramatically due to early detection and medicinal advancements. While numbers and statistics can appear alarming, early detection is saving lives. Breast cancer is being found in its earliest stages, largely due to the advancements with mammography.

There is still work to be done, awareness and education are key. Breast cancer does not discriminate and knows no boundaries. Worth noting is the increase in male breast cancer. Often found in late stages it is also noted to be more aggressive. Awareness is everyone’s business.

One woman out of eight will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In this issue of Rochester Woman Magazine, you will find many resources for women’s health fairs, contacts for low cost to no-cost mammograms and doctors that specialize in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Women are truly making strides against breast cancer. Now, time to make those phone calls. Schedule your doctor’s appointments and get your mammogram. Together women can give voice, make decisions, and own our own health.

For further information on Dr.Alexander Solky, Interlakes Oncology and Hematology, please visit their website www.interlakesoncology.com you will find a user friendly site that includes information for all locations in Rochester and the surrounding areas, information about all the providers, including the nursing, clerical and administrative staff.

rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

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amazing b

protect

By Sraddha Prativadi Breast Cancer accounts for 27% of all new cancers diagnosed in women, and with a woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer being one in eight, it is the leading cause of cancer death second only to lung cancer. Despite these statistics, breast cancer related deaths have steadily decreased since 1990, evidence of earlier detection of cancers and better treatments. There are many professional organizations in the United States who dedicate themselves to reviewing a plethora of data and developing models of understanding the information so that as a nation, we can follow the best recommendations to maintain our collective health, which then directly impacts our collective prosperity.

So while you might see many different sensationalist articles in the media about new screening information, please know that one or two studies do not make a recommendation developed by methodical, systematic mathematical and scientific review. Specifically, we have the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), The American Cancer Society, The United States Preventive Services Task Force, The National Cancer Institute and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network working daily on these very issues.

These large organizations are made of multidisciplinary teams of professionals who dedicate their lives to collecting, organizing and making sense of data that clinicians can implement in their offices and clinics in keeping America healthy everyday. As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I will review some basic information so that you can develop your awareness of breast cancer screening and awareness of your own breasts. I have incorporated into this article information we receive as physicians directly from ACOG. What are breasts? They nurture; they attract; they are too small, they are too big; they are the subject of much media attention and the symbol of feminine identity and fertility for cultures all over the world, yet present a serious surgical decision in patients with genetic predisposition or transgender identity concerns. Your breasts are made up of glands, fat, and fibrous tissue, with each comprised of 15–20 sections called lobes. Each lobe has many smaller lobules which end in dozens of tiny glands that can produce milk.

What is mammography? It is an imaging study that places the breast tissue between two plates that then capture an image that is read by a specially trained doctor, a radiologist, who diagnoses a category of image upon which further imaging and evaluation is based. Screening for breast cancer is important as one in eight women will have breast cancer in their lifetime. ACOG recommends an annual mammogram starting at age 40. My colleagues who are breast imaging specialists in the community even recommend a baseline mammogram at age 35 for many patients. Based on the incidence of breast cancer, the sojourn time for breast cancer growth, and the potential reduction in breast cancer mortality, the College recommends that women aged 40 years and older be offered screening mammography annually, per their practice bulletin. Current mammography methods have greatly improved the comfort during these imaging exams. Women aged 75 years or older should, in consultation with their physicians, decide whether or not to continue mammographic screening as the potential benefits may not outweigh the potential harms with increasing age and over treatment.

Ultrasonography is sometimes used in addition to mammography for young patients, patients with dense breasts, patients who need guided biopsies and to differentiate a solid mass from a cyst. It is not to be used for screening for those with average risk. Ultrasonography may

breasts -

t them be an option for additional screening in women at high risk who are candidates for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screening but who cannot undergo the exam due to allergies and claustrophobia.

A clinical breast exam with a physician can be very helpful in understanding your own breast tissue better. Ask questions during the exam. Your physician may give you instructions on self breast exam and breast self awareness during the exam. This is important information so pay careful attention.

So what can YOU do to empower yourself? Know that many cases of breast cancer are actually found by women themselves during screening intervals, the time between an exam by a physician and mammograms. Indeed, this has been my experience with my patients as well. Tissue can change between exams, and sometimes rapidly. So check your breasts monthly and you can perform an exam, checking the breast tissue from the midline of the front of your chest to the midline of the side of your body. Go from the collar bones all the way down to below the breasts and don’t forget the armpits!

More important than performing the above exam perfectly, you should develop a breast self awareness. Look at your breasts in the mirror. Look at them directly. Notice any asymmetrical areas, color changes. Look at your nipples, your skin and your armpits.

If you notice any changes, please see your physician for evaluation.

Awareness is the first key in empowering yourself in anything in life, and is most certainly the case with breast health.

Family history is also an important part of breast health. Know your family history well. If your family does not talk about medical history, maybe you should be the first to broach such topics in your family. You could save a family member’s life or your own. Specifically in my practice, every woman is screened for risks for the BRCA1 and 2 genes, which Angelina Jolie gave spotlight to in the media. These are important pieces of information and an important part of a family legacy.

I would also like to advocate for professional bra-fittings here. I see women all day long who have a multitude of breast symptoms that have to do with lack of proper support. Please have your breasts sized at baseline and then after any major event - weight changes, surgeries, pregnancy, childbirth, lactation. They change and they need attention.

More important than all of these things, I just want to emphasize to every woman to love your body. Your body is a miraculous entity.

Feed it with love and reverence and it will serve you well. Pick high quality, clean foods, focusing on protein and produce in your diet.

There are so many toxins in our food system now and guess where they go? To fat, and breast is mostly a fatty tissue. Pick high quality bras. Especially good sports bras as you exercise daily. Encourage positive discussions about breasts and don’t use derogatory language about your own body parts women! Express gratitude daily for your body’s innate healing abilities.

A comprehensive approach to breast health with preventive imaging, discussion and family history screening along with proactive choices in diet, exercise and mindset can create a new era in breast health.

Sraddha S. Prativadi, MD FACOG is a board certified obstetrician/ gynecologist practicing in Rochester whose life purpose it is to empower women, girls and the world to aspire and reach for their highest lives of purpose, intention, health, wealth and happiness. www.sraddhaprativadi.md.com.

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In

“I love what I do, and I love being able to leave a positive effect on people, but the effect areola repigmenation has on people is shocking.�

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october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Filling in the empty spaces left by breast cancer “The first woman I worked on had been uncomfortable taking her clothes off in front of her husband for six years after her surgery,” explained Melissa Rapini French. “I told her, ‘We can’t have that!’ It was so sad. During her appointment, we both cried the entire time.

Afterward, when she was standing in front of the mirror, she couldn’t stop saying ‘wow.’ She was so happy.”

Areola repigmentation — nipple tattoos, for lack of a better phrase — is a procedure often considered by breast cancer survivors after reconstruction.

Melissa provides this service for women from all over the Finger Lakes at her Geneva store Bl.ink Permanent Cosmetics and Beauty Bar. How does one get a job doing areola repigmentation? Well, for Melissa, it’s a tale of two loves — makeup and tattoos. “A few years ago, I was spending a lot of time around tattoo artists,” she told me.

“With my background in makeup, I found myself asking them if they’d ever considered getting into permanent makeup. The more I thought about it, the more I realized women probably don’t want a man to do their makeup. And then I thought, How about I learn to do permanent makeup?”

So while Melissa continued working her job in outside sales, Bl.ink became her side business. She went to California for a one-week training session and became certified. During her time there, she briefly learned about areola repigmentation and was immediately interested. Soon after, she traveled to Texas to take a class and learn more. “It was probably one of the services I was most excited about from the beginning,” she said. “After the class, I came back to New York and spent a lot of time with Ryan Hamburg, the owner of Geneva tattoo shop Amazing Grace Body Arts.

“Most people who do permanent makeup don’t actually know anything about tattooing,” she added. “I asked Ryan a million questions and had him teach me about all the parts on my machines.

I watched videos. I drew a lot. I even tattooed fruit. I did whatever I needed to do to make sure I was comfortable doing it. And then I started taking people for free, saying, ‘Hey let’s try this.’ There’s a first time for everything, after all.”

By late 2013, Melissa was ready to make Bl.ink her full-time gig, and leased a brick-and-mortar store in a central location in downtown Geneva. “It’s important to focus on what you love,” she said, “and if you’re splitting your time among four different directions, you can really only give 25 percent of your attention to each one. So, if you’re doing what you really want to do, do it 100 percent because that’s the only way you can give 100 percent.”

Bl.ink’s other services include permanent facial makeup — eyebrows, eyeliner, lash enhancement, lip and cheek color, and beauty marks — full scalp pigmentation, scar and vitiligo camouflaging, eyebrow

hair stimulation, eyelash extensions and tattoo removal. Melissa’s storefront also features products like high-end makeup, perfume and lotion. “The whole point of my business is to build confidence in women — whether that’s a nice lipstick or perfume to make her feel great that day, or help her find the missing piece of herself through permanent eyebrows or lashes.”

feature

a ,

by Alyssa LaFaro

with a purpose

::special

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But areola repigmentation has a special place in Melissa’s heart.

“I love what I do, and I love being able to leave a positive effect on people, but the effect areola repigmenation has on people is shocking. The first time I ever did it, I had to leave work for the rest of the day. It’s such an emotional experience — and amazingly cool at the same time. There’s a huge difference between changing someone’s morning routine and changing someone’s life.”

Melissa’s number-one goal during consultations is to make women feel comfortable. She doesn’t even encourage them to show her their breasts, but most of them do anyway. “I hear the word ‘mangled’ a lot,” she shared. “I look those women in the eyes and say, ‘No, you’re not. You’re beautiful.’ Because that’s the truth. I’ve seen some nice reconstruction, and some less-than-nice reconstruction — but I know that I can turn whatever they show me into something that makes them happy.” She offers women an array of options from sizes to color. “Each woman wants something a little different.”

Building the shop’s reputation for the procedure, however, has been quite difficult. Melissa struggles to share that component of her business because it’s so personal. “I feel like I can’t just throw it on Facebook,” she explained. “One woman did put some really lovely comments about her experience on Facebook, but that’s her personal story to share.” Luckily for Melissa, Geneva is a small town and word spreads quickly. “You tell one person, who tells someone else who knows someone interested in the procedure, and the next thing I know, people are calling me to find out more.”

For the future, Melissa hopes to partner with a couple of doctors’ offices willing to spread the word about her business and the procedure. “I know there’s a need for it, so it’s just a matter of finding the time to put myself out there. Technically, outside of doing appointments, I don’t need to be here. Someone else can manage the shop. I would love nothing more than to travel to different doctors’ offices and do something that makes me — and others — feel great.”

Melissa can’t express enough how strongly she feels after completing an areola repigmentation session with a woman who’s battled breast cancer. “I feel like a super hero!” she exclaimed. “It is the best feeling in the world for the women who get it done, which is, of course, the reason I do it — but I had no idea it would be such a great feeling for me, too.”

For more information, visit blinkpermanentcosmetics.com. To schedule an appointment, contact Melissa at 315-325-4062 or blinkpermanentcosmetics@gmail.com. rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

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::menopause

What’s Menopause Got to Do With It? and the Breast Cancer Survivor

By James Woods, MD

By James Woods, MD

You may be unaware that your bones are engaging in a balanced, continuous process of remodeling; laying down new bone while eliminating old bone. So why is this process jeopardized in menopause?

Bone is produced by osteoblasts. These cells lay down a material called osteoid, composed of a collagen in a lattice frame, and fill it in with inorganic material called hydroxyapatite, a complex molecule of calcium and phosphate written as Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2. Hydroxyapatite gives bone its strength and resiliency, and since it contains 99% of the body’s calcium, it serves as the main reservoir when calcium is needed for other bodily processes.

Bone is broken down by osteoclasts, which are derived from stem cells in the blood. Osteoclasts are activated by a group of inflammatory cytokines that stimulate osteoclast activity. When osteoclasts attach to bone matrix, their edges release acid and other substances to dissolve hydroxyapatite, thus releasing calcium, other minerals, and protein materials into the blood and then urine.

By James Woods, MD

Early detection and directed treatments have led to improved outcomes for women with breast cancer. Nonetheless, the gynecologic impact of these treatments is significant. In one study, 42% of breast cancer survivors experienced vaginal dryness, 38% reported that intercourse was painful, and 64% felt loss of libido. For many women, these changes affect her relationship with her partner directly, thereby increasing her risk of depression. Furthermore, medical treatment for depression can accelerate loss of sexual interest and further endanger the relationship. In one series, when 610 breast cancer survivors with normal sexual activity were given antidepressants, 57% experienced loss of libido.

For menopausal women without breast cancer, systemic or vaginal estrogens have been the treatment of choice for vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse. The dilemma facing the breast cancer survivor is that in-vitro, animal, and human clinical studies document that long-term estrogen exposure is linked to the development, progression, and recurrence of breast cancer. In fact, aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen, which block estrogen, often are used prophylactically for five to ten years after immediate breast cancer treatment. Consistent with this anti-estrogen approach, the medical community has been forced to adopt a “no hormone for you” stance for breast cancer survivors.

Efforts to evaluate the role of vaginal estrogen for breast cancer survivors have produced mixed results, but at least one small study has reported that vaginal estrogen in certain women can elevate circulating blood estrogen levels above that observed normally in menopause.

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Bone turnover is regulated by several factors. Hydroxyapatite requires the availability of calcium which is regulated by vitamin D. Vitamin D3 (called calciferol) is synthesized in the skin by ultraviolet B light.

Vitamin D2 is produced by dietary plants. Both are converted in the liver to 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D, which controls calcium absorption in the small intestine. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) has little effect on intestinal calcium absorption but stimulates osteoblast activity and promotes calcium reabsorption in thetestosterone kidney.

Are there other approaches?

Vaginal and DHEA creams have been tested clinically, and neither increases the circulating levels Bone strength changes over the lifetime.

Peak bone strength occurs of estrogen above menopausal levels.

The biologic benefits draw between the ages of 20 to 30. During menopause, bone loss accelerates from factyears that before the androgens to the are not acting in thethe three and the applied three years aftervagina the final menstrual through androgen but most beingafterward. converted to period atan a rate of 2% receptor, per year, then slowslikely to 1%area year estrogens at the local tissue level. Nonetheless, monitoring estrogen Bone health is ameasured

by Bone Mineral Density Neither, (BMD), determined blood levels is critical part of this management. however, is by Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA Scan).

By this technique, FDA approved for this purpose currently. two X-ray beams of different energy are aimed at bone. The results, presented as a T using Score, are compared to that of the average Most patients either of these androgen creamsrace-matched experience young normaldryness, female. aMeasurements -1 toand -2.5 increased Standard Deviations less vaginal lower vaginalof pH, moisture.

(SD) below peak values ifofthe the vehicle lumbar used spine,inorthe femur neck (hip) Water-based gelsnormal are available compounded reflect low cream bone density and irritation.

-2.5 SD orMany greaterof reflect androgen or gel (osteopenia) generates local these significant bonefind lossintercourse (osteoporosis). white women over 50 years, 13% women again lessFor uncomfortable. to 18% have osteoporosis of the hip, and 30% to 50% have osteopenia.

By age 80,of over are treatment likely to exhibit osteoporosis, making hip Survivors breast50% cancer have a very challenging journey, fractures, with a 25% mortality rate in the first year, a serious risk. made more complicated by the fact that many of these treatments have impacthistory on the ofcouple’s relationship.

This malnutrition, new information Age, an a family osteoporosis, smoking, low about the use of androgens for treating vaginal dryness andbone painloss. on estrogen levels, and chronic disease are all risk factors for intercourse for breast cancer survivors does not address all of the Because natural estradiol inhibits cytokine-induced osteoclast activity, symptoms treatment-induced menopause,contributes but it provides some the expectedofdecline of estradiol in menopause to the risk of local solutionsCurrent to vaginal dryness and pain. for menopausal women osteoporosis. daily recommendations who are not on estrogen therapy are 1200 to 1500 mg calcium and 800 James MD a practicing gynecologist andinclude a regularweight-bearing contributor to IU ofWoods vitamin D.isOther preventive measures Rochester Magazine.strategies For questions or exercises,Woman fall prevention likeregarding Tai Chi,this andmenopause hormoneminute therapy other menopausal issues youAllwould like to seeaaddressed future editions, please that includes estrogen. can decrease woman’sinrisk of bone loss. call him at (585) 271-7800 or email him at james_woods@urmc.rochester.edu.

James Woods MD is a practicing gynecologist and a regular contributor to Rochester Woman Magazine. For questions regarding this menopause minute or other menopausal issues you would like to see addressed in future editions, please call him at (585) 271-7800 or email him at james_woods@urmc.rochester.edu.

Henry Hess, MD, PhD

Jim Woods, MD

The Hess/Woods/Warshof Obstetrics and Gynecology practice specializes in perimenopausal and menopausal care and welcomes new patients to our practice.

Patients are seen at 2255 South Clinton Avenue Rochester, NY 14618. To make an appointment, please call 585.271.7800

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spirit :thats the

Halloween

Spirits for Adults

By Jason Pierce

Fortunately All Hallows’ Eve 2014 falls on a Friday, and with a little planning even parents with school-age children can celebrate in style.

The autumn sun sets at 6 pm and most communities recommend trick or treating end by 7:30. Invite guests to arrive at 8 o’clock and use these simple recipes to treat your guests to memorable cocktails that will have them wondering if you are planning to open your own bar.

Apple Mill Cider, 0.75oz Pom juice (available at your grocery store), and 0.5oz Stirrings Ginger Liqueur. Combine ingredients and ice in mixing tin, shake well, strain into an ice filled wine glass, and grate just a little fresh cinnamon on top. (Smirnoff is the #1 selling spirit in the world and recently created a line of light sorbet flavors with only 78 calories per serving.)

Easy Sangria: LiDestri’s Sangria poured over ice in a large wine glass and topped with fresh berries. (LiDestri Red and White Sangrias are produced locally and packaged in eco-friendly pouches.)

Hot cocktail: “Coffee and Bailey’s Vanilla Cinnamon

Mass appeal cocktail: “Captain’s Swizzle” 2oz Captain Morgan’s Spiced Rum, 1oz pineapple juice, 1oz orange juice, a dash of Fee Brothers bitters, and a topper of grenadine. Combine the rum, juice, and bitters in a shaker over ice, shake vigorously and strain over fresh ice in a festive glass, top with grenadine, and garnish with a lime wheel. (Fee Brothers have been making old fashioned aromatic bitters, cocktail mixes and cordial syrups in Rochester for nearly 150 years, and the bold Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum is bottled in Rochester.)

Stirred cocktail: “BLT” 2oz Bulleit Bourbon (or Bulleit

Rye if you prefer), juice of half a lemon, and tonic. Combine ingredients in your favorite glass over ice, stir, and enjoy. (When Bulleit Bourbon’s creator Augustus Bulleit disappeared in 1860, while transporting barrels of bourbon from Kentucky to New Orleans, his whiskey disappeared with him. Fortunately his great-great-grandson, Thomas Bulleit, who has a tremendous passion for distilling and aging American whiskey in small batches, brought this amazing spirit back to life.)

Shaken cocktail: “October Fest” In a mixing glass add 1.5oz Smirnoff Light Raspberry Pomegranate Vodka, 1oz Schutt’s 48

october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

Irish Cream” Baileys makes it incredibly easy to add the perfect mix of Fall flavors and completely transform your standard cup of joe.

We recommend setting your coffee maker to have a pot brewed and ready to blend by the time you get home from work. You’ll need a little caffeine boost.

Batch cocktails: Step 1- Drink your favorite wine (this is the fun part). Step 2- Wash clear wine bottles and remove labels (twist cap wine bottles work best). Step 3- Research classic cocktails and modern takes on the classics (www.thebar.com is an excellent resource).

Step 4- Pick your favorites, mix them ahead of time, refill wine bottles, and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. (Don’t forget to shake before pouring over ice for your guests.)

Now that you are sure your drinks will taste great, you can use props to punch up the Halloween theme. Using dry ice to create a smoke effect is fun. Rimming glasses with grenadine or adding gummy worms and candy eye balls adds a creepy touch. Pair these incredible cocktails with your favorite spooky treats from the kitchen and always remember to enjoy adult beverages responsibly. Perfectly balanced cocktails, crafted with expertise and love, are all about quality not quantity, and nobody wants to wake up with a zombie hangover.

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rochester women

Julie Hetterich Breast Cancer Survivor

By Krista Gleason | Photo by Eieio Photography

Julie Hetterich has an electric smile and a magnetic personality.

She immediately draws you in and makes you feel welcome, like you’re old friends catching up on good times. “I have fun in life,” Hetterich says.

Hetterich was 47 years old when, following a routine annual mammogram, the doctor noticed a misshaped calcification on her right breast and sent her for an ultrasound and a biopsy. Two days later, she was told she had early breast cancer, specifically, ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS. That was March 2009. She decided right away to undergo a double mastectomy, which she did just two months later in May. “I had spots on both breasts,” she recalls. “I just wanted to get rid of it and move on. And if I did that, the surgeons were all saying, you’re going to be fine, no other treatment.”

But there would be other treatment. Two weeks after her surgery, she was diagnosed with stage two triple-negative breast cancer, a rare and typically aggressive form of breast cancer. She was told she’d need six months of chemotherapy. “I thought, wait, this is supposed to be little DCIS cancer,” she remembers.

When people have asked Hetterich whether all the money raised for breast cancer has made any progress in fighting the disease, she tells them the ability to make that initial diagnosis has come a long way. “I was diagnosed five years ago. The biopsy today would have told me I had triple-negative breast cancer,” she explains.

Hetterich lost three of her close friends to cancer. She took care of each of them while they were treated, one for lymphoma, another for leukemia and the other for melanoma. Facing chemo was the hardest part for her. She says, “The chemo scared me. I didn’t accept it until a week before I had to get my first injection. I thought, I can’t do it.”

Then Hetterich thought of Emma Falk, a young girl who went to school with her daughter, who beat cancer twice. Emma made her a sign that read, “Miss Julie, You Can Do It.” Hetterich told herself, “If Emma can do this, I can do this. I can fight this.”

A stay-at-home mom, Hetterich says her kids got her through cancer. “My kids are my life. They were my rock,” she proudly states. Her daughter Sarah, 19, graduated from Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women and is a sophomore at Le Moyne College in Syracuse. Her son Stephen, 16, is a sophomore at McQuaid Jesuit High School in Brighton. She also credits the support of her friend Lin Rapp, who took her to every chemo treatment and helped her maintain her sense of humor.

Hetterich believes God gave her cancer for a reason, for her to help others and show them they can live a normal life again. She spends (continued on page 55)

rochesterWomanMag.com :: september 2014

51

inspire :rw

“Something has to be done!”

Margie Micca Breast Cancer Survivor

By Margaret Madigan | Photo by Eieio Photography

Margie Micca has a family history of breast cancer- her mother, an aunt and a first cousin. She was always asking herself, “When is the ball going to drop for me?” as she had extremely dense, cystic breasts which categorized her as “high risk”. Being high risk required selfexaminations every three months, once or twice a year mammograms, and ultrasounds two to three times a year. Awaiting the results of every test each time was filled with anxiety and fear.

One of her mammogram results included a letter stating that because of her extremely dense breasts she should request that her gynecologist submit documentation to her insurance company to have an MRI approved. MRIs are far more conclusive for cancer screening. Her gynecologist submitted documentation twice and was denied both times. Her intuition told her that one way or another she needed an MRI, so she inquired about the out of pocket cost for either genetic testing or an MRI; the amount was staggering. She needed to find another way.

In November of 2013 she had a mammogram that indicated “normal” results. “Walking out of the breast clinic there was a sign in the waiting area advertising a talk on Genetic Testing. I jotted down the date and time of the talk and tucked it away in my purse”, Micca says. After the information session, she made an appointment, at that sitting the genetic counselor dug deep into her family history and determined that she met the necessary percentage of risk that would qualify for an MRI. Her gynecologist re-submitted a request to the insurance company, this time including the letter from the genetic counselor. After a long wait, she was given approval for an MRI. The insurance company dictated that she could not schedule an MRI until six months from her last mammogram. Six months from that date was May… the month her daughter was getting married.

The MRI was performed two weeks before the wedding, and the results were given immediately,” You have breast cancer”, the doctor told her. She did not want that to hinder the joyous occasion, so she decided to enjoy the wedding to the fullest because the family could never get that day back, then take care of herself afterwards.

The good news was that her cancer appeared to be at an early stage but the challenge was that after a lumpectomy she would only be able to have mammograms (per the insurance company) that would not detect problems. She remembers asking the surgeon the question, “Even though I have now been diagnosed with breast cancer, would I now qualify for an MRI?” The answer was “No.” Frustrated, she decided to have a double mastectomy, that way she would not have to endure the anxiety of every mammogram that might not be correct anyway due to her breast density. This was case the first time around; the surgeons estimated her cancer had been there a while even though her mammogram report read “normal” 6 months prior to the MRI. Micca grew up in Irondequoit moved to Penfield a few years after getting married. She and her husband just celebrated their 30th (continued on page 54)

inspire

::rw

“Live for today and invest for tomorrow” Sandra Wehner

CFP®, Corporate Vice President, Financial Advisor with Sage Rutty & Company

By Laura DiCaprio I photo by Eieio Photography

“Live for today and invest for tomorrow” is the sound financial advice that Sandy Wehner provides to all her clients. But to this Corporate Vice President and Financial Advisor for Sage Rutty & Company, the phrase goes beyond her clients’ portfolios and extends into the betterment of the Rochester community. For the past seven years, Sandy has invested in the future of children and adults with special needs in the Rochester area with her ongoing philanthropy and advocacy for the Al Sigl Community of Agencies.

Her financial involvement and support of Al Sigl’s annual Fine Tastings fundraiser has helped raise thousands of dollars over the past several years.

Sandy first became involved with Al Sigl not as a volunteer, but as an indirect beneficiary of its services. “My mom died suddenly in 2002 and she was the primary caretaker for my dad, an amputee,” she explains. “He couldn’t drive…my mom used to drive him everywhere. He needed to regain his independence.”

Through the Al Sigl Community of Agencies, the Rochester Rehabilitation’s DriveOn program stepped in to help Sandy’s father learn how to drive a hand-controlled vehicle, and it changed his life. “Suddenly he was off and running, driving all over town. He had a whole new lease on life!”

Her father’s overwhelmingly positive experience with Al Sigl made Sandy realize that, “You don’t know what you need until it’s needed…you never know when you’ll need an organization like this.” After her father passed away, she wanted to make a commitment to help the agency that brought so much help, relief and joy to her father and family.

Sandy’s primary focus with Al Sigl is supporting their Fine Tastings fundraiser, which took place on Wednesday, September 17th at the Locust Hill Country Club in Pittsford. The annual event helps raise money and awareness for its member agencies which include CP Rochester, Epilepsy-Pralid Inc., Medical Motor Service, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Rochester Hearing & Speech Center, and Rochester Rehabilitation.

Sandy attended her first Fine Tastings event in 2008 as a guest and has helped sponsor it for the past six years. This year, together with Sage Rutty & Company, Sandy was a Diamond Sponsor and presenter.

After Sandy’s welcome address to the sold out crowd of 400 people, guests enjoyed food from nearly two dozen tasting partners including Avvino, Max Rochester, and Tournedos. Along with enjoying delicious local food, wine, and craft beer, guests viewed original artwork by Cordell and Rachel Cordaro, Mark Groaning, and Gail Leess, and participated in a silent auction.

When asked what her favorite part of the evening was, Sandy responded, “There’s so many cool things…that’s tough.” From networking and visiting with friends to the friendly competition of the silent auction, Sandy best loved seeing generous members of the (continued on page 54)

rochesterWomanMag.com :: october 2014

53

Julie Hetterich

Margie Micca

Sandra Wehner

time talking to other women with breast cancer, to help them get through the initial fear. She tells them it’s okay to be scared. She’s honest with them and says that cancer sucks and chemo makes you feel awful. But she also tells them if they have a positive attitude, they can get through it. She feels the mind is a powerful thing.

wedding anniversary. They have three adult children, Michelle, Joseph, and Michael.

Rochester community coming together to support an organization so near and dear to her heart.

“Something has to be done!” Micca states. She has written to many lawmakers to bring their attention to the issue of MRI’s needing to be covered under insurance for women whose breasts may not be accurately examined with a mammogram. Many politicians have agreed and are investigating the issue.

Fine Tastings is only one of Al Sigl’s creative fundraisers planned for 2014. This month welcomes the 25th Annual Al Sigl Community WalkAbout, scheduled for Sunday, October 26 inside Eastview Mall. Sponsored participants raise money while walking a one-mile course around the mall and are invited to participate in a costume contest, Halloween activities, face painting and enjoy musical entertainment.

(cont)

inspire

(cont)

::rw

If breast cancer has not recurred within five years, the chance of survival is considered to be higher. Hetterich reached the five-year mark in May. Her friends rented a limousine and surprised her with a night on the town.

A strong supporter of Catholic education, Hetterich has volunteered her time fundraising for Seton Catholic School and Our Lady of Mercy High School. A Mercy alumna, herself, a plaque hangs in the hallway recognizing her contributions to the school. She is currently president of the Parent Teacher Association at McQuaid Jesuit High School. It’s important for her to give back.

Yet surviving cancer taught her to take as well – to take time for herself, and to take one day at a time.

She has also been working with Holly Anderson, Director of the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester in attending some advocacy meetings to determine how to go about changing the laws to ensure certain testing for breast cancer that will be covered by insurance for those who need it.

“Fight for further testing!” is Micca’s advice. She stresses that until policies are changed, women need to be their own advocates in getting the best care possible and in some cases saving their own lives. We can’t let insurance companies decide our fate.

(cont)

Sandy and Sage Rutty have committed to sponsor the Fine Tastings event again in 2015, which will coincide with the 100th anniversary of their business. Visit www.alsigl.org to view photos from September’s Fine Tastings evening and to look for updates regarding next year’s fundraiser.

“I wake up happy. I go to sleep happy,” she says.

“I’m good. Life is good.”

october 2014

EVENTS CALENDAR

Towpath Bike Breast Cancer Ride/Run

12 ZooBoo

11-26 (weekends) Step Out Walk

18 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

19 RWM Ladies Night

29

Organization: BCCR Where: Mendon Ponds Park When: 9:00am Website: www.towpathbike.com Organization: Seneca Park Zoo Where: 2222 St. Paul Street Rochester When: 10am-4pm Website: www.senecaparkzoo.org Organization: American Diabetes Association Where: Genesee Valley Park When: 9:00am Website: www.diabetes.org/stepoutrochester Organization: The American Cancer Society Where: Frontier Field When: 10:00am Website: www.cancer.org Organization: Rochester Woman Magazine Where: Body Spa & Salon, Victor When: 5:00pm Website: www.rochesterwomanmag.com

women ::tips for

10 Tips

for Prepping Your Home for Sale

You only get one chance to wow a prospective buyer. Giving your home a simple, inexpensive make-over can go a long way toward a speedy sale at a higher price.

1-The exterior of your home often determines how buyers will view the interior: Make sure your front entrance is clean and inviting. Paint or replace your front door if it is faded or worn. Buy a new doormat and add potted plants. Add some paint to shutters, trim and any other outside features showing signs of wear and tear.

2-Buyers often see the surface condition of your home as a sign of what is underneath: Clean windows. Repair worn woodwork. Repaint or touch-up scarred or dirty walls. Steam clean carpeting or replace if necessary.

3-De-Clutter! Help buyers notice the features of the home and not your stuff: Remove clutter from surfaces, closets and basement. This makes spaces appear larger.

4-Arrange rooms neatly and remove excess furniture. Seasonal décor side-note: It is okay to display seasonal décor. Simply use the less-is-more guideline.

5-Remove personal effects such as photographs:

A few personal touches make a house feel homey. But too many family pictures or your child’s works of art make it difficult for a prospective buyer to picture themselves in the home.

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october 2014 :: rochesterWomanMag.com

6-There is nothing like a clean and fresh smelling home: Studies show that 75% of emotions are triggered by smell which is linked to pleasure, well-being, emotion and memory. Use candles or air fresheners to create a pleasant aroma.

7-Fido isn’t always a buyer’s best friend: Keep pets and supplies out of sight.

8-Keep the heat or air conditioning at comfortable levels: If it is too hot or too cold, buyers may feel rushed to leave.

9-Don’t be known as the house with the “Lime Green” room: Tone down any loud or very dark colors with a muted or neutral shade.

10-Light and bright: Open shades and curtains letting in natural light. For evening showings turn on all the lights and replace bulbs with high wattage bulbs to really show off the rooms.

Stage the Way: When your home is on the market, it is a commodity. Make sure to show off its assets and help buyers visualize the value and use of each space.

Erica Walther Schlaefer is an Associate Real Estate Broker with Keller Williams Realty Greater Rochester. Read more about her work/home/ life balance and selling real estate on her blog: Real Estate Mom, www. waltherrealestate.com/real-estate-mom/

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