New state law outlines what school districts must follow for student attendance
By Jamee A. Pierson PCM Explorer
Due to changes in Iowa’s chronic absenteeism and truancy law, the PCM School District has updated its policies to align with the state. The PCM School Board approved the addendum to the handbook at the Sept. 16 meeting.
“As a district we want to ensure you are aware of your child’s attendance record so we will continue to reach out to parents when students are absent three times in one semester, as defined in our handbook,” PCM Interim Superintendent Art Sathoff said. “A strong partnership between the school and home helps support positive attendance. We encourage parents to reach out to our building principals with questions or concerns regarding attendance and absenteeism.”
In the new law, there are three key terms to understand concern-
ing absenteeism:
• Chronic absenteeism is defined as a student missing 10 percent of the grading period.
• Truancy is defined as any child of compulsory attendance age who does not qualify for the specified exemptions listed in Senate File 2435, fails to follow the school board’s attendance policy, lacks a reasonable excuse for their absence and has been absent from school for at least 20 percent of the days or hours in the grading period.
• Grading period is defined at PCM by days in each semester for all students. For the 2024-25 PCM school year the first semester has 80 days and second semester has 89 days.
“In an effort to address statewide chronic absenteeism and truancy, Iowa has developed the following tiers and responses,” Sathoff said. “PCM, like all public school districts in the state, are required to perform the school responsibilities listed below.”
Tier 1 — The student has been absent for 10 percent of instructional time (8 days first semester, 8.9 days second semester). Chronic absenteeism initial threshold is met. The district will mail a certified letter to par-
ents. The district will contact the county attorney.
Tier 2 — The student has been absent 15 percent of instructional time (12 days first semester, 13.35 days second semester).
Law requires students and families attend a school engagement meeting with school officials at which an absenteeism plan is developed.
Tier 3 — The student has been absent 20 percent of instructional time (16 days first semester, 17.8 days second semester). The student is considered truant. The county attorney determines any legal ramifications.
“In addition to the absenteeism tiers, we must also now code absences according to the approved state exemptions below,” Sathoff said.
The new Iowa exemptions vary from the district’s previous absence codes in one crucial way, according to Sathoff. Absences not counted toward chronic absenteeism and truancy include: 1) Completed requirements for graduation or obtained a high school equivalency diploma. 2) Excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or
ATTENDANCE | 3
Former Mustang Brandon Myers joins ANF Wall of Honor at Kinnick Stadium
Retired NFL tight end recognized at Iowa-Washington football game
By Troy Hyde PCM Explorer
Brandon Myers wasn’t required to have a farming background to be eligible for the America Needs Farmers Wall of Honor. But the former PCM standout spent a lot of time on farms growing up in Prairie City.
“Being a farmer was not required, but having the characteristics of a farmer is,” Myers said about being the latest member of the ANF Wall of Honor. “I was pretty shocked when I got the call. I’m now with a group of guys who are the pillars when you think of Iowa football.”
Myers was an all-conference tight end for the Iowa Hawkeyes before playing nearly a decade in the NFL for the Oakland
Raiders, New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The ANF Wall of Honor salutes past University of Iowa football players who exemplify the tenacity, work ethic and character of the Iowa farmer, and Myers becomes the 12th member of the prestigious group.
A four-year letter winner with the Hawkeyes, Myers credits his success to a solid work ethic and lessons learned growing up on his grandparents’ farm in Central Iowa.
“It was about 10 miles west of Prairie City,” Myers said. “They had corn, soybeans and pigs. I grew up there. I drove the grain cart. We lived on a farm, too, but had only pigs and sheep.”
CONSERVATION’S GROUNDBREAKING GROUNDBREAKING
By Christopher Braunschweig PCM Explorer
The future home of Jasper County Conservation’s environmental education center is a lush green acreage rife with tall trees and two ponds near the corners of the property. This past week, donors, supporters, board members and staff of county conservation gazed at the grounds, imagining what it will all look like.
For many of them, this will be the last time they see the site looking so bare and relatively untouched. Soon, construction of the environmental educa-
tion center, sometimes called the nature center, will take place and begin a new chapter for county conservation. And it was cause for celebration.
Jasper County Conservation on Oct. 5 was joined by community members for a ceremonial groundbreaking at the site of the new nature center. Carol Kramer, a longtime member of the Jasper County Conservation Board and a frequent donor to projects, could not be happier to have that golden shovel in her hands.
“I have been dreaming about
Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer
Jasper County Conservation gather Oct. 7 for a ceremonial
the future environmental education center in Newton.
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
Former PCM standout Brandon Myers acknowledges the Kinnick Stadium crowd at the Iowa-Washington football game after being recognized as the 12th member of the ANF Wall of Honor on Saturday. He was joined on the field by his wife Ashlee and son Carson.
Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer
Due to changes in state law, PCM has updated its policies on absenteeism and truancy for students. The school handbook up amended at the Sept. 16 meeting.
Rosie Caldwell
Oct. 8, 2024
Explorer PCM
Obituaries
There are very few humans on the planet that embodied love & joy like Rosie Caldwell. She saw people for who they are and loved them. She didn’t see their wrongdoings first, she saw them as humans first. True to her faith, she loved fiercely, just as she felt God intended us to do.
Rocella Pladsen arrived here on November 2, 1949 into a large family. Rosie was born into a family with 6 brothers (Arlyn, Roger, Cletus, David, Ken, and Gary) and life on the farm with all these ornery personalities left Rosie always up for a time of laughs. The stories of growing up always
Carl Wayne Van Ryswyk
Sept. 11, 2024
Carl Wayne Van Ryswyk, age 86 met his Savior on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at his beloved Park Hills Baptist Church. Carl was born in Otley, Iowa on June 4, 1938, to Pete and Nellie Van Ryswyk. Carl was a jack of all trades and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need of his help! He truly had a servant’s heart and
entertained any audience member. Rosie left the farm life, but the farm never really left her. She was never scared to get her hands dirty, and her work ethic left a lasting impression on her children. Miss Pladsen married Ben Caldwell on December 14th of 1974. Ben came with 3 children,Tad, Tim, and Tanna, of his own from a previous marriage. But Rosie raised them as her own, and loved them with all the love she could. She always felt love was a staple and she showed it. Later, Rosie and Ben added to their family with their son, Adam, and their daughter, Natalie. Why? Because clearly they enjoy chaos. There was never a division amongst the kids. It didn’t occur to any one of the kids they were half-siblings at all. That was a testament to them as parents. Rosie modeled love and family
was always willing to share the love of Jesus with all he met.
He was a devoted husband to Shirley Elaine Walker Van Ryswyk for 59 years and cared for her in the most beautiful selfless way during her lengthy illness. He was also an amazing father to his 4 children Carla, Jeff, Craig, and Chris. We especially were so blessed by the beautiful way Carl and Shirley cared for Chris after his Down Syndrome diagnosis. He received his Bach-
because that is what was most important to her. Rosie was a dedicated Elvis fan, and the family was regularly exposed to his music. The family learned to also love and respect The King. She was a music lover in general, and music was on constantly in the house. Elvis was a common artist to hear, but so was Patsy Cline, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Niel Diamond, Bette Midler, Olivia Newton-John, and so many more. Rosie also enjoyed being outside. She took many walks, and it was very common to find her digging in the dirt planting, replanting, moving plants, etc. She also enjoyed all her grand-dogs, and they all knew the word “Grandma”.
Her first grandchild arrived in August 1998, Isaiah. Then shortly after came Baillie, Claire, Ellie, and Cori. Rosie was beyond smitten. One wouldn’t have known
elor of Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas and later also his Master’s Degree. He worked faithfully at White Instruments for many years and was able to purchase it from the White family and successfully operate it for many years. He also later owned C Van R Automotive and Western Auto.
Carl has always led his family to know, love and serve Jesus! Carl and Shirley both served faithfully at Kinney Avenue Baptist Church and Northwest
Veterans honored in Monroe
Submitted Photo
Veterans honored during the Oct. 6 Quilts of Valor presentation in Monroe include: (back row) Michael Conejo, Jason Stock, Jeff Stock, Darrin Dixon, Doug Duinink, Jason Birkenholtz, Jeff McDermott; (middle row) James Van Maaren, John Carter, Ronald Johnson, Duane Van Veen, Joel Timmins, Chad Phifer, John Timmins, Brian VanGenderen; (front row) Glen Robinson, Lee Eskelson, Teresa Brown, Laura Timmins, Jason Timmins, Matt Timmins, John Duncan, Stephanie Stock
‘The Sound of Music’ Halloween Nature Hike
Jasper County Conservation is inviting the public to a night hike featuring “The Sound of Music” at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at the Newton Izaak Walton League, located west of Newton on Highway F-36. This is a fun and educational, not scary, event featuring musical skits performed by Newton Community Theatre (NCT) actors and members of Jasper Conservation Connection. Hikers will meet friendly characters along the trail,
learn about nature and the environment and listen to some familiar and fun songs. This year, performers will sing songs from “The Sound of Music” production held at Newton Community Theatre last June.
Hour-long hikes will begin at 6 p.m. and will depart every 15 minutes. Each time slot can accommodate around 25 hikers.
I want Jasper County folks to prosper. That is why I’m running for Jasper County Supervisor. On the board of supervisors, I will work to keep the county’s levy rate low, continue to improve rural roads, see that emergency services are fully funded, build relationships with our communities, and improve the quality of life for our residents.
she could love more than what she did, but those grandchildren were her biggest point of pride. Most recently, she gained three bonus granddaughters, Alex, Chloe, and Josie, whom she loved upon the first meeting. She worried about each of her children, well into their adulthood, and now she had these grandchildren she was going to put her little grandma bubble around. The rules she set for her own children were no longer, these grandkids stayed up well past their bedtime with grandma, they ate desserts in the morning, and so many messes were made. And Rosie would just laugh. If you asked her what made her most happy, it was when she had her children and grandchildren in one place. She loved watching them laugh and enjoy each other. She loved seeing her hardest work all just fall
Baptist Church. Carl and Shirley joined Park Hills Baptist Church November 28, 1971 and served there faithfully for 53 years in various roles. Carl served faithfully as a deacon for several decades. In fact the evening he passed away he was at a deacons and elders meeting and had just offered counsel on the Building and Grounds projects of the church.
Carl is survived by his daughter Carla Dillard and husband Steve, sons Jeff Van Ryswyk and wife
into a space that personified her joy and her love was awe-inspiring to her. It was such a beautiful event for her to watch and take part in. She would just laugh. Her laugh will be missed most.
Rosie had two goals in life: to be a loving mother and to be a hairstylist. Those two goals were achieved. Her children were so lucky to have such an amazing role model of love. If someone was lucky enough to sit in her chair at her salon, they were honored in a way only Rosie could offer. They were validated and loved. And she created a small community within her business. Little did her clients know it, Rosie worried and cared about them outside of the salon, too. She went above and beyond her role as a hairstylist. She was a friend.
Rosie entered eternal life on Tuesday, October 8th of 2024. Her spirit is carried on through her
Kim, Craig Van Ryswyk and wife Sheila, and Chris Van Ryswyk. Carl was incredibly blessed by his grandchildren Stephen Dillard and Brandon Bellar, Callie and William Banowsky, Daniel and Sandy Dillard, Vandelll Van Ryswyk, Caleb Van Ryswyk, Baylee Van Ryswyk, Lauren and Logan Gwin, Paige Van Ryswyk, Walker Van Ryswyk. He was blessed to have bonus grandkids Teresa Morgan and Kouassi and Nathalie Fofie. Carl was super blessed by his
children and grandchildren. Her love will continue to bestow them. Her three brothers on Earth, Ken, David, and Gary, will carry her joy and her memories of an ornery child. Her life-partner, Ben, will forever be changed due to her dedication to her marriage, her love for him and their children, and her kind spirit. All are dedicated to keep her spirit of love and joy alive.
Rosie was greeted on the other side by her parents, Ruby and Wallace, her brothers, Arlyn, Cletus, and Roger, and so many family pets. Her grandparents embraced her, too. We know she is around us all, loving us, hugging us, but also, she is busy doing and having a party like only she can do, hopefully with Elvis himself.
Mom, we love you, and you will forever be missed. See ya later, alligator. “
13 great grandchildren Prisca Fofie, Salomon Fofie, Benjamin Bellar-Dillard, Elijah Bellar-Dillard, Ella Jane Morgan, Micah Dillard, Elizabeth Bellar-Dillard, Blair Banowsky, Evelyn Dillard, Stephen Fofie, Ethan Dillard, Aidan Dillard and William Banowsky. He is also survived by His brother John Van Ryswyk and wife Kay, and his sister in law Ila Walker, and so many cousins, nieces and nephews as well as a multitude of friends.
Prairie Meadows donates $10K to the Monroe Senior & Community Center
Prairie Meadows recently awarded the Monroe Senior & Community Center, known as The Gathering Place, a Betterment Grant totaling $10,000. The grant will help fund a new digital sign. Prairie Meadows is a nonprofit organization dedicated to lessening the burden of government by promoting economic development, jobs, agriculture, and tourism in the state of Iowa.
“The Gathering Place is grateful to receive this Community Betterment Grant from Prairie Meadows. The digital sign will serve not only ourselves, but unite the whole community,” Andy Algreen, treasurer of the Gathering Place, said. “We are planning to include information from our city and schools and gratitude to whom it deserves. We are looking forward to improving our communications with our community so they can stay in the loop as to what is happening in Monroe.
“We also want to encourage seniors and people of all ages to continue to join the many programs and events that the Gathering Place has to offer. The Gathering Place not only offers a space to rent, but has many programs for all ages including senior health classes, parenting classes, classes from the ISU Extension office, summer programs for kids, music programs, along with Congregate Meals served Monday through Friday for anyone 60 and older,” Algreen said. Follow The Gathering Place of Monroe on Facebook.
The new sign will be placed next to Highway 14.
“This project will impact Monroe and will help people who drive by understand what a small town can bring to their community while inviting surrounding towns to join them in their many opportunities,” Julie Stewart, Prairie Meadows Vice President of Community Relations, said.
judge. 3) Attending religious services or receiving religious instructions. 4) Unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons. A doctor’s note is required for an illness or medical, dental, or orthodontist appointment to be considered exempt. 5) Individualized Education Program (IEP) that affects attendance. 6. Section 504 plan under the Federal Rehabilitation Act that affects attendance.
“PCM, like all other public schools, is required to report all non-exempt absences to the state,” Sathoff said. “Going forward you may notice additional absence codes in Infinite Campus when your student misses school. These new codes reflect Iowa exemptions. We will continue to use illness (without a doctor’s note), vacation and activity codes to track and report non-exempt absences, and enforce attendance rules outlined in our student handbook.”
PCM-specific policies are still in place, such as a student must attend school at least half a day — end of fourth period — on the day of activity in order to participate in a game or practice. All district specific policies are included in the handbook. Any questions regarding attendance or absences are to be directed to building principals.
Explorer PCM
Myers utilized his farm strong work ethic to capture three bowl game victories with the Hawkeyes.
Previous ANF Wall of Honor recipients include Casey Wiegmann (2012), Jared DeVries (2013), Bruce Nelson (2014), Robert Gallery (2015), Dallas Clark (2016), Chad Greenway (2017), Aaron Kampman (2018), Matt Kroul (2019), Marshal Yanda (2021), Tony Moeaki (2022) and Bryan Bulaga (2023).
Myers said he played on teams with Kroul, Yanda, Bulaga and Moeaki. He continues to have relationships with those guys today.
“To be up there with them is a pretty big deal,” said Myers, who helped PCM win a state basketball championship during his prep career. “It means a lot and is humbling. I don’t get excited about a lot of things anymore, but I was pretty pumped about this.”
His NFL career led him to his wife Ashlee. They’ve been
Groundbreaking
this since the middle ’80s. Actually it was with (former conservation board director) Dennis Black first, and then we kept working at it and working at it,” Kramer said at the groundbreaking. “This was a dream not just for Jasper County citizens but mainly for Jasper County children.”
To commemorate her generous offerings to county conservation over the years and to this specific project, staff have announced the park surrounding the nature center will be named after Carol and her late husband Frederick “Fritz” Kramer. She said it was
“very humbling” to be recognized in this way.
Jeff and Jodi King, who owned Keystone Laboratories for more than three decades, have been major donors to county conservation. The two have even organized a donation challenge to community members to finish out some of the final touches to the nature center. They will match up to $100,000.
“We’ve just really been super excited about this,”
Jeff King said. “Like Carol said, it’s going to be a great addition to Jasper County and the surrounding area, and even beyond that. You see the kids over here, and you know that
married for 10 years and have two children — 7-year-old Carson and 1-year-old Dawson. They live in Peoria, Arizona, and Myers currently owns and operates a residential and commercial window cleaning company. He also spent time as a volunteer football coach at an area high school in Arizona during his early years as a retired football player.
Myers and his family spent last week in Prairie City and they attended the Iowa/ Washington Big Ten Conference football game at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City on Saturday.
That’s where he was recognized on the field as the latest ANF Wall of Honor recipient.
“Most kids in Iowa grow up wanting to play for the Hawkeyes or Cyclones,” Myers said. “To be able to go there and develop, they made my dreams a reality and they opened up a lot of doors for me. I’m so thankful for it.”
America Needs Farmers was launched by former Hawkeye head coach Hayden Fry to show support for farmers during the 1980s Farm
is who we’re building this for; the next generation that can take care of the land.”
The King family is thankful to be able to step up and help with the project and that the nature center itself will be named after their daughter, Dana King Ceretti, who died in late 2009 at age 30. Jeff King said his daughter was always excited about conservation and what people can do to make the world better.
“For her legacy to live on in this, I think, is extremely humbling for us,” he said.
Kramer added, “…I was her teacher in sixth grade, and they chose something to write about. And she wrote about the earth. And I always think about that.”
When fully constructed, the Dana King Ceretti Environmental Education Center will feature 7,200 square feet of space for public and staff use. The
Crisis by placing a gold ANF decal on players’ helmets.
This year marks the 39th anniversary of ANF and its longstanding tribute to America’s farmers.
In this same spirit, the ANF game recognizes the hardworking men and women in agriculture whose work creates a positive impact in Iowa and across the globe.
“Farming and football have each evolved since the inception of ANF during the 1980s, but the values and qualities that define ANF are just as important and remain true today — commitment, integrity and the drive to continuously improve upon their craft,” Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson said.
Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer
Jeff and Jodi King, longtime supporters of Jasper County Conservation, participated in the groundbreaking ceremony on Oct.7 at the site of the future Dana
site will include a sculpture walk, a community garden, a nature playscape, a wetland area, a natural amphitheater, a shelter house, prairie restoration and much more.
Keri Van Zante, director of Jasper County Conservation, said the nature center project is 30 years in the making. The plan is to have earth moving from the site by next week, provided permits from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources come through in time. Either way, there is going to be a lot of activity at the site. Especially with the second phase of the project being constructed concurrently with the nature center. The Geisler-Penquite Foundation fully funded
a $700,000 Geisler-Penquite Land Stewardship Lab for the second phase of the project. In addition to the lab, it will also fund an outdoor recreation center.
“So we have phase one and phase two that will be going all at the same time,” Van Zante said. “I don’t think many projects can probably boast that.
“But we got a lot of good conservation friends out there.”
King Ceretti Environmental Education Center, which is named after their daughter.
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
A banner of PCM graduate and former Iowa Football player Brandon Myers was added at Kinnick Stadium with his induction onto the America Needs Farmers Wall of Honor. Myers was recognized at the annual ANF game Oct. 12.
Cancer!
It’s been a rough year. At the age of 76, in less than 12 months, I have had prostate issues, neuropathy in my legs, a heart pacemaker, and now, cancer. Yep. I feel like a worn out old Ford truck — fix or repair daily. Thank God for good mechanics, I mean doctors.
Cancer was the furthest thing from my mind. Cancer was something other people had. There wasn’t much cancer in my family, so it wasn’t a hot topic around the Sunday dinner table. In fact, I was under the somewhat laughable belief that cancer was the result of a troubled mind, i.e., people who were full of resentments and spite got cancer. You know the spiel, “It serves him right. He led a life of evil and dirty deeds. Cancer ate him up!”
Thirty-five years ago, I gave up, out of necessity, alcohol, tobacco and mood-altering substances. I exercise daily, try to keep my weight under control, and practice a good Christian life. All of this combined, I
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Curt Swarm Empty Nest
thought, should pretty much ensure a long and healthy life. My life may still be long and healthy. I dunno. My cancer, at Stage 3, is relatively minor compared to some of the more serious cases.
The cancer started in my scalp, a red splotch the doctors call a lesion. A biopsy revealed that the lesion was neuroendocrine carcinoma. I was referred to the University of Iowa Hospital. In the interim between the referral and my appointment, Ginnie and I started drinking aronia juice every morning that farmer friends gave us.
Lo-and-behold, by the time we got to U of I, the lesion disappeared. The doctors, and they are brilliant, were a little taken aback, but they forged on. After biopsies and two PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scans, their diagnosis was Merkel Cell Carcinoma, caused by UV rays (sunlight)
House District 38 voters
As Colfax City Administrator, I’m breaking with the sage advice that city officials remain more neutral than Switzerland, in all elections. Not a departure I arrived at lightly. A registered Independent (dirty swing voter), I value the character of the individual more than party affiliation.
Brad Magg’s an excellent Colfax City Council member. He’s prepared, he asks good questions. City councils (for now) are comparatively less partisan than state or federal office. Still, occasionally our mayor and council stray into divisive behavior – then Brad has a unique ability to see both sides of the argument and contribute professional, composed input that deescalates a disagreement. While Brad is outgoing and affable, his listen to talk ratio is high, especially for an aspiring politician. Brad won’t show up and talk to you at length while campaigning, ghost you while in office, then say you’ve tarnished your non-existent relationship when you call him on it.
A remarkable council member, but an even better private citizen; Brad has served on our Main Street Board since its inception in 2008 and on our city council since 2010. Colfax faced losing our century-old pharmacy on its preeminent intersection; Brad worked to save it. If elected, he won’t forget Colfax. Colfax is trending up because of people like Brad. I sleep easy with the knowledge this is something he’ll continue to be a part of his entire life.
Brad possesses all the traits of great friends. He never fails to ask how my family is and with Brad it’s not just small talk. He, even though he’s not a dog person or a hunter, will sit with you quietly for hours when your bird dog’s life is cut tragically short; calling daily to check on you in the weeks that follow. While compassionate, he’s quite capable of giving you tough love when needed. None of this requires a political affiliation.
Bills like House File 718 have gutted city budgets with bipartisan support. Brad, a proud product of our public school system, is not afraid to make tough budgetary decisions, striving constantly to do more with less. However, councilperson Magg also understands that sooner or later less is less.
I encourage you to look not at the letters behind the candidate’s name, but at the professional and personal skill set.
Magg you’re it.
Wade Wagoner Altoona
Second Amendment rights
I saw a recent post of Christina Bohannan at a staged photo shoot, where she pretends to be a supporter of the Second Amendment. I’m reminded of a recent video where Kamala Harris talked about taking away guns at one of her rallies. Let’s not forget our Constitutional right to bear arms as given by the Second Amendment.
Christina Bohannan has earned an “F” rating from the NRA Political Victory Fund. She supports radical gun control measures that undermine the rights of law-abiding citizens. This awful rating is indicative of her position against the fundamental rights of Iowans to defend themselves. She supports policies that would make it harder for responsible gun owners to exercise their Second Amendment rights. She favors increasing restrictions and gun confiscation measures.
I’ve seen Congresswoman Miller-Meeks stand up for Iowans’ rights to self-defense. She supported Rightto-Carry Reciprocity legislation, which ensures that
law-abiding gun owners can carry concealed firearms for personal protection across state lines. She opposed schemes for gun control such as red flag laws that allow the government to confiscate firearms without due process, and she has voted against the Biden-Harris agenda to ban lawfully owned firearms and impose federal gun purchase waiting periods.
Christiana Bohannan supports policies that jeopardize our right to self defense and public safety. Congresswoman Miller-Meeks has always supported our constitutional freedoms and opposed radical gun control. Iowa’s First District deserves representation in Congress that will stand up for law-abiding citizens rights to protect their families.
I urge First District voters to support Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks in the 2024 election. She has a proven track record of defending our Second Amendment rights. Thad Nearmyer Monroe
on my scalp, that spread into the lymph nodes in my neck. Two-in-a-million people have Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Lucky me. (Everything happens for a reason.) Their recommended treatment was infusions of a new immunotherapy drug, Keytruda, that boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Of course, there can be side effects. Their recommendation was three infusions, three weeks apart, followed by another PET Scan.
I had my first infusion, and it went well. The infusion center at the U of I is impressive. There are 40 infusion stations, and the staff treats you like royalty. I was a little sick after the first infusion, but nothing serious. The swollen lymph nodes in my neck are reducing in size and lesions disappeared.
Ginnie and I are continuing to drink aronia juice daily, in the hope that the juice, which is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, will work with the immunotherapy. They may counteract. We’ll see.
I recently participated in an art contest and reception for Louisa County in Morning Sun. There was a mixed media painting
that I really liked, titled “Self Portrait at End of Treatment” by Judith Costello. I made up my mind that if I sold one of my sculptures that I had in the contest, I would buy the self portrait. Well, I sold a sculpture, “Myrtle the Turtle,” so I approached Judith with the offer to buy. She readily accepted and we had a nice chat about cancer treatment and recovery. She asked me how long it took for my infusions. I told her 15 minutes. She said hers took five hours. She also had radiation in addition to chemotherapy, followed by immunotherapy, like I was doing. She’s fully recovered now, and doing well. I have her self portrait hanging in the spot where I meditate and say my morning prayers (the toilet, if you must know), asking for healing for me and others. I find her self portrait inspiring. We will whip this cancer together. I appreciate all the prayers I have received from friends and strangers alike. Also, in case you’re wondering, drinking is not an option.
Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@ yahoo.com
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A proven record in his community
The citizens of Iowa House District #38 have an outstanding young candidate to support in the upcoming election. Brad Magg is a life-long resident of District #38. He has been serving others since the age of 14 when he and his mother started Magg Family Catering.
Brad has a long record of service in his community. He is a member of the Colfax City Council, vice president of Colfax Main Street, past president of Jasper County United Way. He is a graduate of the Leadership Iowa program. Brad has been involved in serving his community all of his life and
Is
Dunwell fiscally responsible?
In a recent issue of this paper, it was written that “Fiscal responsibility is of the utmost importance for Dunwell.” The cost of the private school voucher plan will cost well over $200 million in year two. With over 80 percent of that going to families that were already enrolled in private schools. And when income restrictions are eliminated in the 2025-2026 school year and every family currently sending their children to private schools will receive funds, the amount will more
Why all the attack ads?
l’m getting tired of political ads on social media. What bothers me the most are the attack ads that are full of misrepresentations and outright lies!
In my district Christina Bohannan and the Democratic Party are making false statements about Marianette Miller-Meeks, and it needs to stop. One of the lies being promoted is about Miller-Meeks supposedly voting against capping the price on
believes in the promise of the communities of Iowa. In 2014 he was named one of the Business Records’ 40 Under 40 leaders.
When Colfax was in danger of losing its long-time pharmacy, Brad stepped up and became a co-owner of Spring City Pharmacy to ensure that the citizens of his community continued to have access to a drug store. He has been a positive influence in revitalizing downtown Colfax.
Brad believes in Iowa’s public school system. He supports providing adequate funding to Iowa’s schools. The public school system in Iowa used to be the envy of the nation. Brad Magg will help restore Iowa’s schools to their role of being envied for excellence. He believes in having a tax system that is fair and progressive to all. Our tax policy in this state should be fair to all and provide the
than double. How is it fiscally responsible to allocate tax dollars in this way? I also do not believe that it is fiscally responsible to reject federal dollars — which Iowans paid with their tax dollars — to help feed children and families in the summer. A better plan has been promised, but what will that cost? Politics over people.
Mr. Dunwell is not only fiscally irresponsible, he does not listen to his constituents. Most people in Iowa did not want private school vouchers. Most people do not want state-wide book bans. There was already a local process in place to review books for school libraries. Most people did not want the AEA to be disassembled. The property tax bill File 718 is a disaster for
insulin. This is not true, Dr. Miller-Meeks joined with Democrats in voting for the Affordable Insulin Now Act to cap its price at $35.
Another lie that Bohannan is saying about Miller-Meeks is that she is an “extremist” and wants to outlaw all abortions with no exceptions. This is not true! I applaud Marianette’s pro-life stance that offers exceptions for rape, incest and the mother’s health. She also promotes alternatives with her contraception bills and is in favor of IVF. The extremist is Christina Bohannan who supports abortion through the entire gestation cycle.
Some of the topics I would like
services that Iowans expect from their government. Brad is an entrepreneur who understands how tax policies can affect economic development. He is a business owner (in fact of several businesses). He knows what it means to meet payrolls and other expenses associated with a business.
Brad Magg is an individual who will work across party lines to get things done not only in District #38 but for communities throughout Iowa. Brad is a consensus builder who will do what is right and in the best interests of the citizens of our district.
I have long been impressed with Brad Magg. I am proud to be supporting him as our next representative in the Iowa House and encourage your support of this outstanding young man. Wade Sheeler Newton
small towns. More politics over people.
In the same article in the Newton News, the reporter wrote when referring to Mr. Dunwell, “was noticeably tired this time around.” Let’s do Jon a favor and elect Brad Magg. Instead of rewarding Mr. Dunwell for not listening and spending our money irresponsibly, we can vote for a proven leader. Brad Magg is an entrepreneur, a business person that understands how to invest while maintaining fiscal responsibility, someone with character that truly cares about all of the people of Iowa. Make a plan. Vote. Help your family, friends make a plan. Vote for Brad Magg! Jeff Eisbrener Newton
to hear Bohannan be honest about are her: stance on the southern border and allowing illegals taking jobs of the middle-class workers. Allowing men to participate in women’s sports and on the Second Amendment. Why she donated money to the Prairieland Freedom Fund and promoted the Minnesota Freedom Fund which supported protestors in the Minnesota riots and to Defund the Police. I prefer candidates to be honest. I support candidates who tell the truth. That’s why I’m casting my vote for Marianette Miller-Meeks!
Jim Farland Newton
Reoccurring Vandalism Causing Restroom Shutdowns
PCM High School has dealt with vandalism in the school bathrooms for many years. This year, the defacement reached its peak with boys’s bathrooms being shut down. The students have to earn their bathroom privileges back by being vandalism-free for a certain number of days. The school has four custodians: Gary Wilkening, Virgil Courtney, Jane Pitt, and Laura Hollander. Hollander and Pitt shared their thoughts about the desecration. “What’s the point? What point are you getting across by vandalizing something?” said Hollander. She spoke about her day-to-day life, describing it in one word: busy. She already spends her whole day cleaning; the vandalism just adds more work on top of what she already has to do. She enjoys all of the support PCM gives her, saying it’s her favorite thing about working here. Advice Hollander wanted to share with the students was, “The world’s ugly; don’t be ugly; be kind.” Pitt also shared her thoughts and is very confused about why students continue to do this. “Is it because of us? Because they’re mad at us for something? We just don’t know,” she said. Just as Hollander said, Pitt describes her day as busy, very busy. She explained that they work all night to clean the school, saying it takes a lot of time and effort. When asked what she likes about PCM school, “The staff, the kids, everybody is friendly and nice; they make you feel comfortable,” she said. Pitt wanted to share this: “Be kind to everybody; you never know what everybody else is going through.” As the custodians, they do all this work every day and night, so the vandalism just piles up on their schedule. Kristen Souza, PCM High School’s principal, also shared some of her thoughts about the vandalism. “It’s not fair, and the last vandalism was actually directed at one of our custodians, and that’s just terrible. These are people that are just trying to do their jobs,” Souza said. She also explained that if or when the school finds out who committed this crime, they will be charged. There’s not only a board policy against vandalism, but it’s also against the law. “We’ve had some pretty significant vandalism in the bathrooms and in locker rooms, and we can’t do that,” Souza said. She knows that it is a pain to physically close the bathrooms, but this was one of the very few options to put the vandalism to an end. “I don’t ever really worry about our kids being respectful; I think it’s maybe one or two people ruining it for everybody else,” she said. Relying on the goodness of all the students at PCM is something she believes in. She also hopes that students can realize our custodians are humans too. Hopefully this is the last PCM will see of the vandalism, and those who are causing the trouble can begin to see things through the custodians’ eyes. PCM High School appreciates all the hard work and time that is put into keeping the school clean and hopes to show their gratitude by respecting the bathrooms and custodians.
Piper Clark Web Editor
Meet a Mustang Get to Know Lone Cross Country Senior, Wyatt Vannoy
This years cross country has only one senior running, Wyatt Vannoy. Vannoy has been running all throughout highschool since freshman year. His inspiration to start running was,“I was just bored and thought hey, I could run for fun.” Usually during meets runners have to run 3.1 miles or 5 kilometers. This causes cross country to be a very difficult sport. The team puts lots of time and effort into trying to run faster and getting better over the season. Vannoy reflects on running varsity this year saying it ”has been fun spending time with my teammates. Everybodys great and we all encourage each other and it’s a really good time.” Vannoy enjoys running because it keeps him active and fit. He will continue to keep running after highschool ends, just not competitively anymore. Vannoy continued by stating he would ”totally recommend running Cross Country, it’s a fun sport and you would get a lot of support” if you were to join. Vannoy added,”Yeah the distances can be intimidating but that’s the fun part, you have to be motivated and dedicated enough to push yourself.” If starting to run intimidates you; Vannoy continued by saying,”you don’t have to do it alone, you would have your teammates and friends to support you as you run.” As cross country comes to a close Vannoy mulled over running through highschool saying,”It’s fun (being a senior this year). I look back sometimes and reflect on the past three to four years.” Vannoy has many fun memories from his time in cross country but his favorite thing about the sport is running with the team and spending time with everyone. Be sure to come support Wyatt and the rest of the cross country team on October 24 for their state qualifying meet.
What is THE CRIMSON VAULT?
Lewis Daye 9
Nickname: Junie
Parents: Lew & Meagan Daye
Extracurricular Activites: Football & Track
3 Words to Describe him: Funny, Athletic, & Independant Advice for your younger self: “Don’t listen to what other people have to say” Favortie Classes: Spanish & Health
Best High School Memory: Playing my first varsity football game Dream Job: Play professional football
Levi Edgett Staff Writor
What’s that?! A brand new PCM podcast! That’s right a new podcast called THE CRIMSON VAULT is here. It’s our new official podcast put on by the PCM Journalism class,hosted by sophomores Levi Edgett and Skyler Jennings. This podcast covers all sorts of topics from your daily conversations to the controversy of sports in our community. If you want a quick laugh then be sure to check it out. In the first episode we go over the controversy with the homecoming festivities. We talk about the game, our fans, the shirts for classes, and the games the girls and boys play. Next episode we will be covering sports, Esports, and in school drama. Our goal is to get the viewers the information about subjects going on in our school from a student’s perspective that they may not have access to anywhere else .Over the course of this school year and first season we hope to cover topics you the fans want to hear. If you have a topic you want covered or want to be on the show just let our advisor, Brooke Grett know. (Email listed below “this week at a glance”) We hope you enjoy this podcast as much as we do filming it. Thank you and we hope to see you over on the podcast!
Luke Ferneding 9
Nickname: Ginger
Parents: Dan & Meghan Ferneding
Extracurricular Activites: Speech, Choir, Band, Drama, Student Gov, & Fall Play
3 Words to Describe him: Smart, Funny, & Compassionate
Advice for younger self: “Be yourself” Favortie Classes: Band & Geometry
Best High School Memory: The bus ride home after going to west Marshall for a band competition… stay in band!
Favorite Movie: The Blacklist Favorite Artist: Taylor Swift Dream Job: Heart Surgeon or Prosecuting Lawyer
It’s fall now and that means it’s Gilmore Girls season. If you don’t know what Gilmore Girls is, it’s basically a TV show on Netflix that focuses on Lorelai Gilmore and Rory gilmore. Lorelai is the mother of Rory, Lorelai had Rory while she was still in school. Lorelai lived in a very traditional wealthy home so her parents were very disappointed and were hard on her. It continues to where Rory is now a teen and is going through the teenage experience. Through the show it follows love lifes, family issues, and relationships. This all takes place in a very close tight knit community. The question you are prob- ably asking is how does this relate to fall? If I am being honest I am not completely sure. My guess would prob- ably be because of how the town is during fall. The town is so gorgeous, it looks like a pumpkin patch. The trees are dying, turning all different colors, leaves are falling, and the town is fully decorated. Continuing, to why I love Gilmore Girls. I love Gilmore Girls because of the characters, and the feeling. In the show everything has a warm feeling to it, everyone cares for each other. If there was one thing I would change though it would be one of the guys leaving the show. If I had the chance to change something I would change one of Rory’s love interests. Here’s some background, in the beginning of the show Rory figures out she can go to a private school in the next town over. Rory was more worried about school, but she meets this guy named Tristan. Tristan was more of a heartbreaker kind of guy but he really liked her. He teased her all the time, it was his way of showing his love. He never showed interest in another girl like he did Rory. Rory started to fall for him but there was a problem. She had a boyfriend back home in Stars Hollow, his name was Dean. I truly believe Dean wasn’t always the best boyfriend, so it could have pushed her to Tristan. Rory wanted to stay loyal to Dean but she knew she liked him and he liked her. In the show they never got a chance to get together. As you could imply, Tristan was a troublemaker, so he got in trouble. He broke into his friend’s parents’ safe and his dad sent him to a military camp. During this episode they were being extra flirtatious and they were doing a play for school, Romeo and Juliet. The play was later that night and Tristan showed up late. He apologized and told them he was leaving, he said, “I gotta go, I’d kiss you goodbye but, uh… your boyfriends watching take care of yourself Mary.” This quote from him shows his personality. You can tell he loved her, he used his special nickname for her. You can also see his sarcasm. Tristan is just one of the many love interests of Rory. If you want to watch a really great drama-heartwarming series I would 100% recommend Gilmore girls.
Rylee Parsons Print Editor
Kenna Grier & Libby Winters Staff Writers
Abby Bradbury Staff Writor
PCM senior Gavin DeRaad,
celebrates a defensive play with junior Braedyn Lester (65) during a home game earlier this season. The Mustangs won their second straight district title after a dominating win over West Marshall on Oct. 11.
PCM football dominates West Marshall, claims second straight district championship
STATE CENTER — Another
dominating effort on the gridiron for the PCM football team clinched a second consecutive district championship on Oct. 11.
The Class 2A No. 2 Mustangs rushed for 282 yards and the defense collected three sacks, eight tackles for loss and one interception during a 49-7 road win over West Marshall.
Adrien Robbins rushed for four touchdowns and Gavin Van Gorp threw for three TDs and still hasn’t recorded an interception this season.
PCM led 14-0 after one quarter and scored 49 straight points before the Trojans reached the end zone in the fourth.
It was the first time the Mustangs (7-0, 4-0 in the district) were held to fewer than 50 points during the 2A District 6 season, but they are outscoring their district opponents 20929 this fall.
Robbins scored on a 52-yard TD run early in the first and then added touchdown runs of 10 and 15 yards later in the half.
Van Gorp tossed TD passes of 15 and 13 yards, respectively, to Harlan Shannon and Gavin Steenhoek in the final 39 seconds of the first half to go up 35-0 at the break.
Robbins scored his fourth touchdown on a 3-yard run in the third and Van Gorp’s 27yard TD pass to Steenhoek with 37 seconds to go in the quarter capped the Mustangs’ scoring.
Van Gorp finished 12-of-15 through the air for 120 yards and three TDs and rushed for 20 yards on six carries. He has 865 passing yards this fall and ranks tied for second in 2A with 17 TD passes. Robbins gained 221 yards and scored four times on 26 carries and had a 9-yard reception.
His 1,285 rushing yards rank second in 2A. He also ranks tied for third with 17 rushing TDs and leads the class with a yards per carry average of 11.
Steenhoek finished with 86 yards and two scores on seven catches, Shannon grabbed two passes for 20 yards and one TD and Sawyer Bouwkamp gained 41 yards on five carries.
Steenhoek’s six receiving TDs this
fall ranks tied for sixth in 2A.
Trenner Van Dyke led the defense with five tackles and one fumble recovery.
Keegan Fenton registered four tackles, Alex Wendt tallied three tackles, one sack and two tackles for loss and Danson Drake contributed three tackles. Bouwkamp posted 2.5 tackles.
Kaden Clark and Tate Birkenholtz each finished with one sack and two tackles for loss and Carson Hansen snagged an interception.
Dominic Witt made all seven of his PATs and booted six of his eight kickoffs for touchbacks. His 45 touchbacks leads 2A and ranks fifth in Iowa.
The PCM defense limited West Marshall (5-2, 3-1) to 72 passing yards and 72 rushing yards. The unit has allowed 57 points this fall but only 28 have come before the fourth quarter of blowouts.
Ben Gonzalez came into the game with more than 700 rushing yards but was held to 27 yards on 12 carries.
Vincent Clawson threw for 72 yards, one TD and one pick and rushed for 44 yards on 14 carries.
Holden Simms caught five passes for 61 yards and one touchdown and Michael Lechnir led the Trojan defense to 10.5 tackles.
PCM volleyball scores sweep at home triangular
MONROE — Strong serving and aggressive net play were the keys to the PCM volleyball team’s home triangular sweep on Oct. 10.
The Mustangs got off to a fast start and never looked back in a 21-9, 21-6 win over Cardinal and then delivered a 21-18, 21-16 victory over Woodward-Granger.
The Mustangs had eight aces in the win over Cardinal (7-16) and then served up 11 aces against Woodward-Granger.
Tori Lindsay led PCM in the sweep over the Comets with 14 assists, five digs and six aces and Libby Winters finished with four kills and five digs.
Addyson Pederson put down five kills, Rebecca De Vries tallied four kills and two digs and Addison Steenhoek registered two assists and two digs.
Addi Hudnut chipped in four digs, Lillian Humpal posted three digs and Peyton Lathrum put down two kills.
The Mustangs were 34-of-37 in serves and had a kill efficiency of
PCM harriers face tough field at Centerville
CENTERVILLE — The PCM cross country teams each faced at least three ranked teams on Oct. 8 during the Centerville Invitational.
The Class 2A No. 8 Mustangs led the way in the girls’ competition, while the top PCM individual finisher was Kash Fischer in the boys’ 5K race.
Class 3A No. 5 Fort Madison was the girls’ team champion and 2A No. 5 Chariton won the boys’ title at Lakeview Sports Complex.
PCM’s girls scored 119 points in fourth and the Mustang boys were eighth in the 14-team field.
Darbey DeRaad led the Mustang girls in 13th. She posted a time of 20 minutes, 33.3 seconds. Lila Milani (21:02.6) finished 16th.
The other three scoring runners were Bailey Wheeler (21:15), Annie Ford (21:33.9) and Abi Teeter (21:38) in 24th, 35th and 36th, respectively.
The non-scoring runners were Raegan Vannoy (22:11) in 43rd and Ali Hilsabeck (22:11) in 44th.
Class 2A No. 4 McKenna Montgomery of Albia won the girls’ race in 18:23.6 and 2A No. 12 Paige Popson of Albia (19:16.9) was the runner-up.
Class 3A No. 5 Fort Madison won the girls team title with 37 points.
Class 2A No. 10 Pella Christian (69) edged 2A No. 6 Albia (79) for second and PCM (119) and Keokuk (145) completed the top five of the 13team field.
Oskaloosa (160), Davis County (169), Central Decatur (211), Wayne (239) and Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont (241) finalized the top 10.
The boys team title went to 2A No. 5 Chariton, which scored 37 points and placed all five scoring runners in the top 15.
Class 2A No. 14 Pella Christian (73), 3A No. 17 Fort Madison (84), 3A No. 20 Oskaloosa (112) and Knoxville (126) completed the top five. Albia (177) led the next group and the remaining top 10 teams were Davis County (179), PCM (197), Clarke (248) and Ottumwa (277).
Fischer led the PCM boys in ninth. His time was clocked in 17:14.4. Owen Osterhaus (17:32.7) finished 18th, Joe Shaver (19:04.5) was 50th, Rylan Edgington (20:04.2) took 59th and Kolby Clark (20:41.9) placed 68th to complete the Mustangs’ lineup.
PCM was without varsity regulars Coby DeRaad, Gabe Nessa and Charlie Ford.
Class 2A No. 13 Sawyer Meinders of Pella Christian won the boys’ race in 16:08.9. The runner-up was 3A No. 16 Isaac Rankin (16:18) of Knoxville.
.275. Lindsay finished 15-of-15 in serves and Hudnut was 7-of-8. Pederson’s kill efficiency was .444, while Winters had a kill efficiency of .333. In the win over Woodward-Granger (9-15), Lindsay finished with 10 assists, four digs and four aces and Steenhoek collected 13 digs and two assists.
a significant advantage in kill efficiency.
The Mustangs finished 57-of-60 in serves, but Roland-Story had a kill efficiency of .354. PCM’s kill efficiency was .081.
De Vries had six kills and three aces, Winters posted eight digs and two aces and Pederson and Humpal each put down two kills. Hudnut tallied two digs.
PCM finished 37-of-40 in serves with Lindsay going 9-of-9, Hudnut finishing 7-of-7 and Steenhoek serving 6-of-6.
Roland-Story 3, PCM 0
STORY CITY — PCM missed three serves and registered 10 blocks, but Class 3A No. 13 Roland-Story was too much during a 25-18, 25-16, 26-24 road loss on Oct. 7. Both teams had seven aces in the Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference matchup, but the Lady Norse had
Lindsay led PCM (14-9, 3-3 in the HOIAC) with 10 assists, seven digs and three aces.
Rebecca De Vries added five kills, two blocks and two digs, Winters tallied three kills, five blocks and three digs and Steenhoek registered 11 digs.
Pederson put down two kills and had two blocks and Claire Van Wyk posted two digs.
Lindsay finished 16-of-16 in serves, while Steenhoek was 15of-16, Hudnut served 9-of-9 and Humpal was 7-of-7.
Roland-Story (24-4, 7-0) was led by Kamryn Lande’s 14 kills and 10 digs. Brookelyn Jondie put down 19 kills and Miley Geise collected 37 assists and three aces.
PCM opens regionals against Clarke
The regional volleyball pairings were released on Oct. 9. The Mustangs open 3A tournament action against Clarke (9-18) at 7 p.m. on Oct. 22 in Monroe. The winner faces either top-ranked Mount Vernon (32-3) or West Marshall (10-18) in the 3A Region 1 semifinals at 7 p.m. on Oct. 24 in Mount Vernon. The regional title match is Oct. 29.
PCM Explorer
Lindsay R. De Vries
PCM Explorer
Robbins
Troy Hyde/ PCM Explorer
right,
Fischer
D. DeRaad
PCM Explorer
Catching cancer in its earliest stages, when it can be treated most successfully, can increase the chances individuals who develop the disease go on to live long, healthy lives. Doctors are not as familiar with their patients’ bodies as the patients themselves, so it is vital for people to be aware of anything that seems out of the ordinary regarding their physical well-being. In regard to breast health, familiarizing oneself with how the breasts look and feel can help women detect breast cancer sooner rather than later.
The Mayo Clinic says breast self-exams encourage breast awareness. A self-exam is a visual and manual inspection of the breasts that people perform on their own at home. Opinions on the efficacy of breast self-exams are mixed. For example, a 2008 study of nearly 400,000 women in China and Russia reported that breast self-examination does not have a meaningful effect on breast cancer survival rates and may even lead to unnecessary tissue biopsies. In response to this and similar studies, the American Cancer Society stopped recommending breast self-exam as a screening tool for those with an average risk of breast cancer. Still, other organizations, such as Breastcancer.org, advocate for breast self-exams when they are part of a comprehensive screening program that includes regular physical exams by a doctor, mammography, and ultrasounds and MRI testing.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.® says a breast self-exam can be performed at least once a month. Establishing a baseline early on can help women detect abnormalities that much sooner. The exam should be done a few days after a menstrual period ends. For those who have reached menopause, the exam should be performed on the same day of each month to establish consistent results.
There are a few different ways to conduct a breast self-exam. The Cleveland Clinic offers these three options and instructions.
1. While standing: Remove your shirt and bra. Use your right hand to examine your left
breast, then vice versa. With the pads of your three middle fingers, press on every part of one breast. Apply light pressure, then increase the pressure to firm. Feel for any lumps, thick spots or other changes. A circular pattern often helps you ensure you check the entirety of the breast. Then you should press the tissue nearest your armpit. Check under your areola (the area around the nipple) and squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge. Repeat these steps on the other breast. A standing exam is easily performed in the shower.
2. While lying down: Breast tissue spreads out more evenly while lying down, so this is a good position to feel for breast changes, particularly for women with large breasts. Lie down and put a pillow under your right shoulder. Place your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, apply the same technique as described in option 1, using the pads of your fingers to check the breast. Change the pillow to the other shoulder, and check the other breast and armpit. Remember to check the areolas and nipples.
3. Mirror examination: With shirt and bra removed, stand in front of a mirror. Place your arms down by your sides and look for any changes in breast shape, or any swelling and dimpling of the skin. Look for changes in the positioning of nipples. Next, place both hands on your hips and flex your chest muscles, once again looking for any changes while the muscles are in this position. Remember to look at both breasts.
Breast tissue extends to the armpit, collarbone and the top of the abdomen, so it is essential to look at all these areas, not just the cleavage and nipples.
A self-examination is not sufficient to detect breast cancer. The NBCF says mammography can usually detect tumors before they can be felt, making a mammogram the best exam for early detection. However, self-exams can be yet another tool for women to use to maintain breast health.
— Metro Creative
The World Cancer Research Fund International reports that breast cancer is the second most common cancer across the globe, and the number one cancer in women. Nearly three million new cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed across the globe each year.
Breast cancer poses a notable threat to women’s health, but research and resulting advancements in treatment have made the disease more treatable than ever. Women also can play a part in ensuring better outcomes in relation to breast cancer by educating themselves about the disease, including its warning signs. The MD Anderson Cancer Center notes that most changes to the breast are a byproduct of hormonal cycles or conditions that are not as formidable as breast cancer. So women should not jump to any conclusions when spotting such changes. However, the MDACC recommends women visit their physicians if they notice any of the following signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
• Lump: The MDACC notes that a lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer. Echoing assertions made by the MDACC, the American Cancer Society notes that most breast lumps are not cancerous. The ACS indicates a lump that is a painless, hard mass with irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, though cancerous lumps also can be soft, round, tender, or even painful. The lack of uniformity regarding cancerous lumps is one reason why it pays for women to be extra cautious and immediately report any abnormalities in the shape and feel of their breasts to their physicians.
• Swelling: The ACS notes that some women with breast cancer will experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they do not feel a lump.
• Dimpling: The MDACC reports that women with breast cancer may notice dimpling or puckering on the breast. According to the ACS, the dimpling can sometimes make the breast look like an orange peel.
• Nipple retraction: The National Cancer Institute notes that nipple retraction occurs when a nipple turns inward into the breast or lies flat against the breast. Though nipple retraction can be a sign of breast cancer, the NCI notes that’s not necessarily the case for all women. Some women experience nipple retraction due to aging, breastfeeding, injury, infection, surgery, or certain conditions of the breast.
• Changes to the skin around the breast: The ACS notes some women with breast cancer experience redness on the skin around the breast or on the nipple. Additional changes may include dry, flaking or thickened skin around the breast and nipple.
• Discharge from the nipple: The Mayo Clinic notes that it’s normal to experience discharge from the nipple while pregnant and during breastfeeding. However, fluid coming out the nipple when a woman is not pregnant or breastfeeding could be a symptom of breast cancer.
• Additional symptoms: The MDACC notes scaliness on the nipple that sometimes extends to the areola is another warning sign of breast cancer. The ACS also reports that swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone can indicate that breast cancer has spread even before the original tumor in the breast has been felt.
Breast cancer is a formidable yet treatable disease. Women who recognize any signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer are urged to contact their physicians immediately. — Metro Creative
