2010-09 Lydia's Style Magazine

women’s health & breast cancer :: www.stylemagazinecolorado.com :: est 1984

businesseswho give

celebrate lifethrivers

C

ELEB

RATI

NG Life in the Pink 10 YEARS

hope lives! galaoctober 23, 2010

breast reconstruction options

september 2010

Five dollars

1

2 Touching Lives For Over 30 years.

Finding the latest technology and cutting-edge treatments are only part of the cancer journey. Our board-certified oncologists offer support,

compassion and individualized care as they work to extend and enhance the lives of individuals living with cancer.

Call 970.493.6337 to make an appointment.

Cancer Center of the Rockies

POUDRE VALLEY MEDICAL GROUP

31~ TACORI

LEADING JEWELERS

Celebrating 100 Years! The Diamond Tower I 300 East Foothills Parkway, Fort Collins I www.Sathersjewelers.com

4

4Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

trengthen to the Core! Break the fitness plateau with the Revolutionary,

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Increase Strength ·Gain Muscle Tone· Promote Weight Loss Increase Mobility ·Increase Overall Health Conditioning

Call today for your free trial session!

TWENTY THREE TREES ME DICAL & WELLNESS SPA

POUD RE VA L LE Y H EALT H SY STE M

· Non·Surgical Spine Care · lnterventional Pain Medicine

· Sports Medicine · Acupuncture

· Elector Diagnostic Medicine · Mechanical Diagnosis & Spine Treatment · Pain Relief & Restoration of Function

·Work Related Injuries

Ricardo A. Nieves, M.D., FAAPMR CoLORADO SPINE, PAIN, AND SPORTS MEDICINE, P.C. ~

The first 25 clients to book any series of laser hair removal treatments at Twenty Three Trees Medical and

Wellness Spa will receive 25% off.

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D~~ 1107 S. Lemay Ave., Suite 100 Fort Collins, Colorado 80524

970.495 .8400

66 Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Timothy Wirt, M.D

Board Certified Former Faculty of John's Hopkins Hospital

listed in "Best Doctors in America" and "America's Best Doctors". Patients Choice Recipient 2008

Nationally Recognized Expert in Sinus & Nasal Disease.

Brooke Benton, PA-C Child Health Association/Physician

Assistant Program, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center of Denver

Focus on General Ear, Nose & Throat

Natalie Phillips, Au. D.

Board Certified Doctor of Audiology

Focus on Hearing & Balance Disorders and Tinnitus Treatment

FRONT RANGE CENTER for BRAIN & SPINE SURGERY, P.C. Specialists in Spine and Brain Surgery since 1978

Donn Turner, M.D. Hans Coester, M.D. Doug Beard, M.D.

• We are using the latest technological advances in spine care . such as cervical and lumbar disc replacement, minimally invasive surgery, and kyphoplasty.

• Together we now have over 95 years of neurosurgical and orthopaedic spine experience and more combined continuing education than any other spine practice in our region.

• Our practice has a spine and brain surgeon on call for emergencies 24 hours, 7 days a week.

• We work in all of the hospitals and surgery centers in the tri-city region.

We are in network with all the major insurance carriers in our region

7It's your first child and you wanted everything to be perfect. You never expected complications. But you did your

homework and understood that experience matters. That's where Banner Health shines. For decades, we've

provided doctors with the advanced technology and support they need to make the care you need possible.

Like being the first in the western United States to implement an innovative OB monitoring program that helps

reduce complications before and during childbirth. It matters what hospital you choose. And what matters

now is that you go where experts work best.

~

~ McKee Medical Center Banner Health North Colorado Medical Center

www.BannerHealth.com/COexperts Banner Health has been named as a Top 10 Health System in the U.S. for patient care according to Thomson Reuters.

Connect with us:

Parents need to know they have an Ally that will be there for them as their child develops.

The Youth Clinic emphasizes preventive medicine with their patients; preferring to enhance and maintain health. With children of our own, we understand the challenges and joys of parenthood firsthand and we are eager to share your experience.

If you are looking for a lasting part-nership with friendly Physicians, come visit the Youth Clinic.

Caring for your child runs in our family.

Partneringwith Parents

Loveland2695 Rocky Mountain Ave., Suite 260

South Fort Collins1214 Oak Park Dr.

North Fort Collins1200 E. Elizabeth St.

www.youthclinic.comMain nuMber (970) 267-9510 • Fax (970) 207-9967

Come visit our newly remodeled North location today!

For an appointment call:

970-482-2515

8


sty le media and design, inc.| 970.226.6400 |

w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m

Publisher Lydia Dody | [email protected] Angeline Grenz | [email protected]

creative director Scott Prossersenior designer Lisa Gould

digital director Austin Lamb | [email protected] sales eXecutives

Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226Abby Bloedorn (970) 222-8406

Karen Christensen (970) 679-7593Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400

Saundra Skrove (970) 217-9932

office Manager/about town editor Ina Szwec

accounting Manager Karla Vigil

editorial assistant Audrey Springer

office assistants Ronda Huser, Trisha Milton

contributing writersConnie Hein, Kay Rios, Tracee Sioux, Audrey Springer

PhotograPhers Warren Diggles, Marcus Edwards

affiliationsFort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce

Loveland Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

2010 style MagazinesJanuary-Loveland/Greeley Medical & Wellness

Magazine and DirectoryFebruary-Style

March-Northern Colorado Medical & WellnessApril-Style

May-Northern Colorado Medical & WellnessJune-Style

July-Fort Collins Medical & WellnessMagazine and Directories

August-StyleSeptember-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer

October-Northern Colorado Medical & WellnessNovember/December-Holiday Style

Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. free magazines are available at over 140 locations throughout Northern Colorado.

For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 226-6400. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: [email protected]

©2010 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.


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11Alzheimer’s educAtion

Corey,Thank you so much for your very comfort-

able interview. Bob and Tammy certainly were impressed with your approach and your ques-tions. I learn something new every day from the families we serve. It is an ongoing education that is full of insights and humility.

I look forward to seeing your hand turn our words into a powerful message.

Thanks again,

~ Emmalie ConnerRegional DirectorAlzheimer’s AssociationFort Collins

~ Look for the article in next month’s Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine.

GreAt response to Article

Dear Lydia and Staff, Thank you so much for the great feature

in your August issue. I had no idea when you asked to feature me as the new CSU Ram Club President how many comments I would receive from so many in our community. The issue has only been out a few days and already I have had over 50 phone calls or emails from those who have read it. Please give an extra thanks to the writer, Connie Hein, for her great article as well as Warren Diggles, your photographer – we had so much fun at the new CSU Prac-tice Facility taking photos with CAM the RAM. Again, thanks for the article, but more so for helping share information on the CSU Ram Club. You and your staff are appreciated!

~ Connie HanrahanThe Mantooth Company

new clients From Style Ad

Dear Style, I wanted to let you know that I received four

out-of-town clients, who were staying at the Marriott Hotel and saw our LaVida Massage ad in Style Magazine.

Thank you,

~ Sherry Buersmeyer, OwnerLaVida Massage, Fort Collins

missed An issue

I love reading your magazine for the many informative articles, the inspiring stories, the beautiful women and the beautiful clothing as well as all the wonderful services now available in Northern Colorado!

I am a huge fan of your magazine but I travel a lot and somehow missed the May issue with the article “The hCG Diet: Can it Help You?” I am interested in this diet and want to read all the information out there. I was excited to see a local couple had success with the diet and that Style had covered the story.

Thank you so much for your time and this wonderful publication!

~ Desiree Johnson, Windsor

thAnk You For Fun photo shoot

Lydia,I just wanted to say thank you for allowing us

to come to your house for the photo shoot, it was a lot of fun. The photographer was great with us and he made it a fun shoot. The rest of the services were fantastic. Thank you to all that donated time and services. It was a great time. Thanks again.

~ Juliet Chavez

we love to hear froM reaDerS. SenD your coMMentS anD SuggeStIonS to: [email protected]

Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 | Fax: 970.226.6427www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

11Women’s Health & Breast Cancer

FeAtures

depArtments

ContentsWomen’s Health & Breast Cancer

on the cover: Rhonda Bisby is a triumphant breast cancer survivor.

Her beautiful hot pink top and evening pants are courtesy of

Designs Boutique, Fort Collins. Cover photography by Marcus Edwards.

16 « Meet the Models

18 « Breast CanCer Cause Brings FaMily together

20« Businesses Who give22

« ChaMpions oF hope

30 « thrivers CeleBrating liFe! – Breast CanCer survivors danCe to the MusiC

44 « pain ManageMent during Breast CanCer treatMent

54 « natural produCts For your skin

56 « options For Breast reConstruCtion

66 « stages oF liFe in Cups

74 « 24-hour stress relieF

11 « FroM our readers

14 « puBlisher’s letter

68 « aBout toWn

Junior league terraCe garden touraBBy’s signature ConCert seriesrealities Cup golF tournaMenthuMan raCeWild West Ms WalkaBout

52 « pilates rehaBilitation aFter surgery

64 « 10 Best day hikes in northern Colorado

12


13Breast Cancer Myth #1:

"Breast cancer's not in my family, so I'm not at risk."

Fact: Most breast cancers are spontaneous- meaning there's no

family history or genetic link.

r----Breast Cancer Myth #2: 'Tm too young to get breast cancer."

Fact: Women at all ages are at risk for breast cancer. While it's true

that breast cancer risk increases as you age, the fact is that many

women under the age of 50 are diagnosed with the disease.

Breast Cancer Myth #3: '1lead a healthy lifestyle, so I'm not at risk for breast cancer."

Fact: Healthy women get diagnosed with breast cancer every day.

No activity or intervention is 100% guaranteed to prevent

breast cancer.

Stay committed to positive lifestyle behaviors, but know that

mammography is key to breast health and early detection.

Screening mammography saves lives. W e support the American Cancer Society guidelines for

annual screen ing mammography to begin at age 40 for women at average risk for breast cancer.

We offer the latest digital technology with convenient locations in Fort Collins and Loveland.

Same week appointments typically available.

m Breast Diagnostic Center POUDR E VALL EY H EA LTH SY ST EM

970.207.4700 • pvhs.org

We thank Gwen, Marta and Vikki - local breast cancer survivors committed to raising awareness and helping other women know the fact s about breast health .

This year is very special to me as it sig-nifies my 10-year survival since being diagnosed with breast cancer; it’s the 10th anniversary of Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Foundation,

and it’s the 10th issue of this annual Style magazine focused on women’s wellness and breast cancer.

It is in celebration of this unique sisterhood that we look forward to producing this special magazine. Once again, we had a glorious day in my home for the photo shoot sharing, celebrating, encouraging and laughing together. Our models enjoyed new hairstyles, professionally applied make-up, chair massages and beautiful fashions provided by a supportive team of volunteer partners.

Although none of our women were professional models, their inner beauty, courage and appreciation for life shone through as we chased away their moments of anxiety by dancing to Lady Gaga. Thank you to our exceptional group of beautiful women who inspired us with their courage, strength, sense of humor and touching personal stories. They are proof that the human spirit can conquer adversity and that we can become stronger as a result of our challenges.

Publisher’s Letter: A Special 10-Year Anniversary

[email protected]

Many of our women relied on their faith for strength and support, some on their families and caregivers. However, without exception, each woman has been changed forever as a result of her experience with breast cancer.

Support for one of our thrivers, Marci Guay, came from her mother, family and friends. Read how she has battled two encounters with the disease in “Breast Cancer Cause Brings Family Together.” Today she is cancer free and as an expression of her gratitude, she and her mother are committed to giving back to help other women.

Along with inspiring stories we are dedicated to sharing information. Read about how traditional techniques in reconstruction are still the best ones in “Options for Breast Reconstruction.” And learn about options in “Pain Management During Breast Cancer Treatment” for up-to-date information.

It takes a community of caring people to support and provide assistance to not only the women and families that fight this battle but for other important causes as well. We salute the “Businesses Who Give” who are committed to corporately contributing to the well being of the people of our communities through their donations and services. They are among many caring local businesses whose culture includes supporting the quality of life we have in Northern Colorado.

We also salute the 2010 Champions of Hope winners who are being honored for their contributions of services and resources to Hope Lives and the women served by this important non-profit. Women’s lives are significantly improved with their support!

This year is significant for the Hope Lives foundation as it is celebrating its 10th anniversary at the annual Hope Lives Gala on October 23. Once again this evening of Celebrating Life will be held at the Hilton Fort Collins. Starting at 5:30 p.m. and going till 12:30 a.m., guests will enjoy a non-stop evening of fun, complete with a gourmet dinner, entertaining hosts, a humorous play, inspiring fashion show, live and silent auctions, and dancing to live music. The mood will be festive and the cause worthwhile. So pull off the invitation on page 19, invite your friends to join you, and come celebrate life with us. Tickets can be purchased at www.hopelives.org.

Thank you for reading this issue; pass it along to someone who might need it. A deep thank you to everyone who feels it in their hearts to help this cause by contributing to Hope Lives and the women it serves. It is through your collective efforts, contributions and donations that we make a difference in healing and survival. We will continue the fight until a cure is found. Hope does live!

With deep gratitude,

C

ELEB

RATI

NG Life in the Pink 10 YEARS

14


Meet the

Angela Aldrich Angela is mother to Lily, age 8. She is a caretaker for

the elderly and an interior painter. In her spare time she enjoys cross-stitching, cooking and watching football.

“I had a blast! I loved my outfit. It fit my personal-ity and made me feel good about myself. The ladies at Chico’s were fabulous. Abby did my make-up and made me feel so beautiful. Meeting all the other wom-en was very inspiring since I am still going through chemo, etc. There was such positive energy in Lydia’s home that day.”

Juliet ChavezJuliet is married to Don. She has three children,

Donald, Tina, and Roxane. She enjoys crocheting, knit-ting and beading.

“I thought this was a lot of fun. I have never done anything like this before, but the photographer made it a great experience. The clothes were very nice and I would like to thank Chico’s for allowing us to model them. I love the hair!”

Regina BrownRegina’s partner is Tricia Heller. She is a physician

with Cancer Center of the Rockies. Her hobbies include travel, skiing, golfing, reading, jogging and watching sports, especially the Broncos, Rockies and Nuggets.

“It was so exciting to meet all the models. I wish I had more time to get to know them. I was self-con-scious at first, but the staff was great! For hair and make-up, it was nice to have so much attention spent on the details. Chico’s, as always, was great!”

Debbie DixonDebbie’s partner is Bradley Handley. She has a

grown son, David, and three grandchildren. She is the box office coordinator at the Lincoln Center. In her spare time, she is involved with the Fort Collins Children’s The-atre and Opera Fort Collins.

“I really enjoyed my experience as a model. The fit-ting at Chico’s were just plain fun – I ended up buying some of the pieces. The shoot was made enjoyable by the photographer, who encouraged us all to ‘move and groove’ to music. The most amazing part was to meet all these women in various stages of treatment and re-covery, and to realize how strong and durable we all really are.”

Stacey BolandStacey is mother to Abigail, 19, Emilie, 15, and

Luke, 14. She is an airline agent with American Airlines. When she’s not busy with work and family, she enjoys hiking, running and ceramic painting.

“The fitting was great – lots of help and good sug-gestions by the staff at David’s Bridal. Lydia picked out a red dress that normally I wouldn’t have worn. It was a perfect fit. Kim at Namaste Salon did a great job with my hair. The modeling experience was great; the best part was getting to know the other survivors and hear their stories.”

Patti DeanPatti is married to Hal and has two children, Caitlin,

27, and Casey, 23. She is a probation officer with the Larimer County Probation Department. She enjoys land-scaping, home remodeling and yoga.

“The overall experience was great! At Designs there was no pressure, and everyone just wanted to make sure the models were comfortable in how they looked and felt in their outfits. The models were all ages and stages of treatment and it was such a nice supportive environment to celebrate being us.”

Rhonda BisbyRhonda is mother to Katherine, age 28, and Joseph,

age 26. She is a registered nurse at Poudre Valley Hos-pital. She enjoys yoga, water aerobics, gardening and playing with her dogs.

“Designs is a fabulous store. I think my outfit and jewelry were some of the prettiest I have ever worn. My hair and makeup experiences were really wonderful – I think I’ll keep my hair this way. After all of the special treatment, I truly felt like a model. This experience will be one of my best memories.”

Ronda CoverstonRonda enjoys reading, being outdoors, hiking and

fishing, and spending time with friends.“What a wonderful experience! After losing my hair

and feeling so vulnerable, going into David’s Bridal was a welcome change. They saw past the baldness and saw me as the beautiful woman I am. I had never had my make-up done, so the day of the shoot, having some-one do my face up was such a treat. I felt very special, and to be in the company of so many wonderful survi-vors is something I will cherish.”

Models

16


Brooke HuppBrooke is married to Mike and has two children,

Tanner, 11, and Rylee, 9. She is an accountant at Muel-ler and Associates, CPA. Her interests include spending time with friends, shopping, playing cards and watching football.

“I felt like I was a princess. It was awesome. I loved how C&S Workshop did my up-do. I loved the make-up and can’t wait to visit Sephora to get some. Designs had such a great variety of styles, and I had fun trying them on.”

Kathleen Sullivan-BaileyKathleen is married to Art. She is a Women’s Studies

instructor with Aims Community College. She enjoys music, reading, swimming, cycling, hiking and volunteering.

“I loved every part of my modeling experience. I was just released from the hospital from my seventh surgery, so the timing was perfect for me to experience feeling like a woman again. I knew as soon as I walked into Cloz that I was going to find an outfit that would be perfect for me, and I did! Clayton and Shuana at C&S Workshop both made me feel beautiful with a cut, style and hair color treatment and was so supportive throughout the entire process.”

Susan McCrarySusan is married to Craig and has two grown chil-

dren, Ian and Amon. She is a registered nurse with Ban-ner Health. Her interests include gardening, reading, playing with her grandson and family events.

“Since I am bald, the hair experience was a hoot. The make-up experience was educational. It was a Cinderella experience for sure. Everyone involved re-ally went out of their way to make me feel more like a woman than a victim. This reminded me that I am more than this disease and allowed me a chance to shine.”

Grace ZachGrace is a former high school teacher for Poudre

School District. She is an active retiree, having written a book, The Roads of Crystal Lakes, and a play about William Blake. She also enjoys hiking in the mountains, volunteers teaching tai chi and is a Spellbinders Story-teller at Zach Elementary School.

“It was great fun being so pampered. I loved the atmosphere of caring and support, and the modeling was relaxed. I had fun choosing a dress to model at Cloz. Penne was very helpful, and my clothes were a lovely new style.”

Margie McGraneMargie is married to Joe, and they have two chil-

dren, Polly, 19, and Marty, 17. She is a senior coordina-tor and front desk manager at the Fort Collins Club. Her hobbies include skiing, hiking, camping, fishing and sewing.

“It was all great. Make-up was fun – I loved the false eyelashes! The fitting was nice and easy; Cloz is definitely a place I will shop at again. I loved moving during the photo shoot.”

Dorothy YellowbirdDorothy is married to David Pierce. She has one

grown son, Nathan, and two grandchildren. She is the owner and a licensed massage therapist at A Therapeu-tic Touch in Fort Collins. Her hobbies include mountain biking, white water sports, camping, cross-country ski-ing and cooking.

“For me this was a life-changing gift, priceless. I’ve never worn false eyelashes. It was so exciting; noth-ing could have been better. I have been so lonely, and afraid, and all that is gone. From the beautiful dresses to helping one another, it was something I never expected when I was diagnosed. I can’t thank you enough.”

Joan KingJoan is married to Stuart Tobet. She is Professor

Emerita at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts, and the founder of Beyond Success in Boston. She enjoys cooking, travel and music.

“I felt cared for and appreciated throughout the entire process. The connectedness between the models and the tangible support offered by all the volunteers flowed in the atmosphere all day. KayCee from Sephora was a delight. Shauna, of C&S Workshop, with obvi-ous compassion, created an environment of caring and deep connection with me in only a few minutes.

Donna WalterDonna is mother to Demain, age 34. She is a self-em-

ployed naturopathic doctor. She enjoys a variety of activities, including alpine skiing, running, weight lifting and travelling.

“The fitting process went much smoother than I had anticipated. The dress from David’s Bridal was beautiful – the last time I wore such a nice dress was when I was married. Although I was fatigued by the end of the day, the whole process starting with the hair, massage, conversations with the other models, make-up and actually modeling was like celebrating a special occasion. Although I am a survivor, I was made to feel very supported and special.”

Vicki FisbeckVicki is married to Bill. They have three children, Kristi,

Scotty and Michael, and five grandchildren. She is the vol-unteer dance coordinator for the Fort Collins Senior Center. She enjoys square dancing, biking, tennis, walking her dog, Macy, and hiking in the mountains.

“This was a day I will treasure forever. Designs made the whole time so easy and helpful in finding this terrific outfit. Amy at Capelli’s Salon made me feel so welcome. I was in awe of Abby’s make-up skills. The photographer made me feel very comfortable in front of that camera. This was a day I will treasure forever. Everything was done in Style.”

Patricia MeilbeckPatricia is married to Kevin. She has two children,

Nathan, 26, and Colin, 24. Her interests include crafts, quilting and cross-stitching.

“The modeling experience will be the memory of my lifetime. Nancy Handler was a miracle worker with my hair. Cloz is a great clothing store. Penne and Lydia found the perfect outfit for me. I was thrilled to be able to wear such a flattering outfit. I still tell people how glamorous it was to be in a photo shoot. The photographer put me at ease in front of the camera. Lydia’s direction made the picture all the better.”

Marci GuayMarci is married to David. She has three children,

Sammie, 14, Jonny, 11, and Hannah, 9. She enjoys bike riding, gardening and spending time with friends.

“Modeling is something I never in a million years would have imagined I would be a part of. I smile when I tell my friends and family what I was doing, and that it took breast cancer to turn me into a model – how ironic. The energy in the room that day was amazing. All the smiles around the room were priceless. I am blessed to have been a part of such a special event.”

Barbara StolzBarbara is mother to grown children Terry, Nancy,

Jerry, Bill and Vance. She has 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She is retired from Hewlett-Pack-ard, and presently volunteers in several roles at Timber-line Church.

“It was so much fun at the photo shoot. All the models were beautiful and so very nice to talk to – so many stories. Thank you to Kim, my hair stylist, and Kinga, my make-up artist. What a privilege to be in this magazine.”

Models


17

As a two-time cancer survivor, Marci Guay wants anyone going through the experience to know that there are wonderful, positive things that come

like shining stars from an experience that seems so dark. “There is always light if you look for it.”

She and her family no longer look back on those dark times during her diagnoses and treatments, but focus on the many positive things that came from it. The experience has changed their hearts and attitudes about life.

The first time Guay was diagnosed with cancer was difficult, but she says she was strong and private about her illness. “My children, Samantha, Jonathon and Hannah, were very young and I wanted to protect them.” She only told her family and closest

friends about her battle with breast cancer. “The first time I felt strong and determined that

I would survive.” Her first diagnosis was stage one breast cancer, and she sought very aggressive treat-ment and knew she would be fine.

Because of the experience, Guay encourages people to be advocates for their own health and says if she hadn’t she might not be alive today.

Guay’s cancer was not obvious from the start: she told several doctors about the pain she had in her breast that started shortly after she finished nursing her third child. But, “because I was young and had no family history of cancer, no one sus-pected it would be malignant,” she says. “Since there was no lump they didn’t test for cancer until I finally insisted.”

continued on p. 63

Brings Family TogetherBreast Cancer Cause

“I will love the light for it shows me the way. Yet I will endure the darkness for it shows me the stars.”

– Og Mandino

Carol Lacert and her daughter, breast cancer survivor Marci Guay

18


By Connie Hein

19STYLE MAGAZ IN E

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Gala Presenting Sponsor Mary H. Storer Foundation

@ Hilton Fort Collins

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Advanced Energy I Advanced Medical Imaging Consultants I Beverly Donnelley, MD I Fort Collins Mortgage I Harmony Hand & Physical Therapy

Home State Bank I Import Auto I Keller Williams I M & E Painting I Mountain Vista Plastic Surgery I Mueller and Associates

Northern Colorado Paper I Otterbox I Porter Industries I Poudre Valley Health System I Shippers Supply I Xanadu Med Spa

Volunteer HonoreeLaurie SchulzRegistered Nurse

“I became involved with Hope Lives in 2001, looking for a local foundation to support cancer victims. I lost my sister in 2001 to breast cancer after an 11-year respectful battle, our family and friends traveling along the journey with her. February of 2006, I was diagnosed with this hateful cancer as well. Working on behalf of breast cancer survivors in our community has improved my own

quality of life, and I have been inspired by many stories of my new ‘sisters.’ The complementary and personal services provided by Hope Lives helps our local women endure and improve their time undergoing treatment.

“What a unique organization, providing services such as housekeeping, massage, a wig bank (some of which are my dear sister’s), counseling and cosmetic procedures. I feel honored, blessed and proud to be associated with Hope Lives. Thank you for this opportunity to volunteer.”

Style Magazine salutes the winners of Hope Lives! Breast Cancer Support Center’s Third Annual Champions of Hope 2010 Awards. We celebrate these tireless individuals for their unceasing commitment and service to the mothers, daughters, wives and sisters of Northern Colorado who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. We thank them for their generous support of Hope Lives. Through their efforts, women have been diagnosed earlier, been provided exceptional medical care, and been given the complementary care needed to enhance their physical, mental and emotional recovery.

Champions

Hopeof

2010 Honorees

Medical HonoreeAmy Hill Brewster, M.D.Mountain VistaPlastic Surgery

“Taking care of breast cancer patients has been my career devotion. I was so excited 10 years ago when Lydia Dody founded Hope Lives with the goal of helping individual patients not only survive, but also thrive in the face of breast cancer. That is truly what breast reconstruction is all about. So naturally I wanted to be part of Hope Lives and today I am honored to receive this award.

“My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer while I was in medical school. She lived cancer free for 20 years, and then died five years ago during treatment for a recurrence. My goal has always been to provide my patients with the level of care that I would want for my own family.

“Each patient is unique. They come with different needs and goals. It is a joy to help them determine which path is right for them and move past the fear. I get more back than I give. These women and their families are an inspiration to all who know them and each has a special place in my heart.”

Care Provider HonoreesDee Koloski, ND, LAc, &Kathryn Plummer, NDSage Holistic Health

“Years ago, we were approached by Hope Lives to consider serving as providers for their organization. Our favorite part of our clinical training in naturopathic medical school was working in the various community clinics, and now we are proud to support our local community through Hope Lives.

“The work we have done with Hope Lives clients has included some of the most rewarding experiences we have each had in clinical practice. While many people think of a cancer diagnosis as a threatening blow or a death sentence, we have seen firsthand some of the most inspiring life transformations to which we could have ever have hoped to witness.

“In our work with Hope Lives we have met some amazing women with whom we feel deeply privileged to share in and help with their health journeys, whether they seek to make it through their conventional treatment course more comfortably, or they have determined it is time for them to pass and would like comfort and company. We learn from each of our patients and we love to share their stories and wisdom with others making similar journeys.

“While we are being honored as Champions of Hope, our patients deserve the real honor. There is no higher gift and privilege than in being trusted to work through this type of life challenge together.”

Community HonoreeBob SutherlandOwner, Sutherland Lumber & Design Gallery

“We exist because of the strength and character of our community, and Hope Lives is paramount to both. Various members of my family and a next-door neighbor have all been touched by breast cancer. The outcomes for breast cancer patients are variable but community involvement can make all the difference in empowering people.

“We became familiar with Hope Lives through Lydia Dody and are impressed with the important niche they serve in our communities. They are the only not for profit organization offering complementary care services to support women diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. And their efforts and support services go directly to their clients who live right here in our own back yard.

“Our business culture at Sutherlands stresses the importance of giving back to the communities we serve. We feel that is our obligation to support the quality of life we enjoy here in Northern Colorado and for our future generations.

“We applaud Hope Lives and the work they do to improve the lives of women and their families.”


Care Provider HonoreeDonna Corbett-LewisOwner, Atrium Health Spa

“Joey, my dear friend and ‘buddy check’ partner, changed my life! Joey, while doing her breast check in 1998, she found a lump. Within the month Joey found herself waking up from surgery with only one breast. I had the honor of walking with Joey through the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of this huge journey! I went on a mission to find what would help. My

background as a massage therapist and in body-mind therapy enabled me to help her process the anger, rage, fear and ‘why me’ questions.

“Joey told me that she was helped most by feeling a partnership with someone who would listen without judging, who also encouraged her, and who helped, as she said, ‘keep me out of the dumps. I did not have to walk it alone; I will never forget the support and love I received!’

“For seven years at the Atrium Health Spa, we have worked to help people detoxify after diagnosis. The joy of seeing Joey as a 12-year survivor has caused us to reach out to others who are dealing with cancer. We have added a focus on prevention and helping family members who are at high risk maintain their health.

“Our goal is to empower women to follow their passion and to give them hope. It has been my joy to hear women say, ‘this is a safe haven in my month of therapy. I can totally relax without being poked. Truly the highlight of my month is to come here.’”

Community HonoreeTina MatuskaDirector and co-owner, Hair Dynamics Education Center

“I love that Hope Lives is a community service. It gets our business people involved with helping local women work through very challenging situations. As a local business owner, I get so wrapped up in the day-to-day operations of my school that I don’t always have the time to help others. Hope Lives makes it easy because we can

help while at work. We can offer our services to these ladies in need and it can inspire us.

“Hair Dynamics donates wigs to the women who are recovering from chemotherapy. Years ago I was offered the opportunity to purchase 2,000 wigs at a fraction of their cost with the agreement that I would make them affordable to women in need. When Abby Charpentier (Always Beautiful by Abby) asked me about working with Hope Lives and I told her she had the right person. We donated the wigs to Hope Lives and Abby agreed to help fit the wigs.

“The money we donated recently to Hope Lives was raised through a fundraiser by our students last year. They wanted the money to go to women with breast cancer. So we want to thank all the volunteers who came in on their day off to give salon services to raise this money. Our students are the heroes here. We are all proud of them for their commitment to this cause.

“I have had an aunt and grandmother both have breast cancer. They did very well. I feel very fortunate for this. I hear stories on TV and around me; I attended the Hope Lives Gala last year and heard many of their stories. I cried for them and their families and was proud for each of them for their fight to get their lives back.” 21


Patriarchs of the Gallegos dynasty, Rudy Gallegos, Jerry Gallegos and Art Gallegos, standing with their pink lid trash cans, available via special order, supporting Hope Lives.

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Who GiveBusinesses

Northern Colorado’s Front Range has a rich tradition of giving back. Many corporations, small businesses and individuals make a point of carving a bit of community goodwill out of their budgets every year.

Often, this is done by supporting local non-profits’ yearly fundraising events. The following companies and groups are not only a neces-

sary component in event planning, but they make a point of supporting non-profit events on a regular basis:

Gallegos sanitation “It’s not about trash anymore.” That is the

tagline Gallegos Sanitation Inc. (GSI) has adopted in recent years, in part to reflect the change in our community from a throwaway society to a philosophy of recycle, reuse and sustain. But for GSI, the company has found out that when you have been in a community for as long as they have, it’s not just about business anymore – it is about giving back.

“After 51 years, it is not just the pressure to stay current with the times. It is also about being a community leader,” says Mark Glorioso, GSI general manager. Being a leader means GSI has begun to look for new ways to support the community, including doing what they do best: material handling, not just trash. To that end, they have created a Zero Waste program that promotes alternatives to the trashcan.

The program is still in the pilot stages. They premiered Zero Waste at the NewWestFest, know-ing that the focus would be heavy on education. A Zero Waste event has the goal of 15 percent or less total trash, with the remainder going to compost or recycle. After the event, GSI employees sifted the three categories for contamination (trash going into the wrong receptacle) to see how their education efforts were paying off.

By Angeline Grenz


23“We are very excited and encouraged by our

recycling results from the Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest… through community outreach and education we can meet or exceed our goals in achieving Zero Waste,” says Glorioso. The com-pany reported a successful 80 percent diversion rate (waste diverted to compost or recycling) after the event. “As we expand we look forward to even better results at future Zero Waste events.”

GSI plans to promote the Zero Waste program to businesses and events in the community. They have also taken these same sustainability values to the classroom, working with Poudre School District on specialized education in elementary and middle schools.

Their programs include sustainability courses on Zero Waste, vermicompost (composting with worms) and more. If you wonder at the impact their efforts have on first, third and fifth graders, consider this: “We had the family of one of our students call us to tell us they bought a backyard composter at the insistence of their child after our Live Green or Become Extinct [first grade] class. This really does help to mold young children and change the attitudes of parents,” says Kari Gallegos-Doering, who heads up marketing and public relations for her family’s business.

Over the years, GSI has embraced many causes: Muscular Dystrophy, Poudre Fire Authority, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County and more. They do this through monetary support and frequently through the donation of services. In fact, from May to October, their event equipment (trash cans, portable toilets, etc.) are booked for outdoor racing events, fundraising events, concerts and more, often donated or given at reduced cost to many local non-profits.

Along those lines, GSI has recently taken up the breast cancer cause. While looking for additional community outreach opportunities, Gallegos-Doering thought about breast cancer’s effects on the Gallegos family: she lost her aunt to breast cancer more than 20 years ago, and many from the Gallegos family have participated in the Race for the Cure ever since.

Their search for a local cause led them to Hope Lives and a brainstorm. The company decided to offer support to the foundation year round with a “Pink Lid” campaign. Customers can sign up for a pink lid and breast cancer ribbon on their polycart trashcan for an initial cost of $40 and a renewal cost of $25 annually. GSI donates $20 to Hope Lives from the initial and renewal fees for as long as you continue the program.

“This is our pay it forward program. Statistics show that most people have someone they know with breast cancer, as we have. It makes sense for us to give to this cause,” says Gallegos-Doering.

Gallegos Sanitation has also moved into the green deconstruction business, where they can help buildiers receive LEED accreditation points by tearing down and reusing materials from existing structures.

And GSI’s vision for the future doesn’t end there: “One day we hope to be able to build a recycle center that will reduce the amount of trash we as a community produce and enable us to be profitable in the recycle market,” Gallegos-Doering says.

Gallegos Sanitation, 1941 Heath Parkway, Unit 2, Fort Collins (970) 484-5556 www.gallegossanitation.com

palmer Flowers For more than three decades, Palmer Flow-

ers has been supplying floral arrangements for special events across Northern Colorado. Their delivery trucks are a common sight in the com-munity and they have developed into one of the largest retail florists in the nation.

The Palmer family has been in the flower business since 1912. Prior to Fort Collins, they provided floral arrangements in Boulder, Denver and Chicago. Giving back to their community has always been part of the family philosophy, but for Spiro and Angela Palmer it is their family of community members that have truly inspired them.

“There is just something special about this community,” says Spiro. “It is a community known for giving back – something you just can’t get in a big city. And without these people, we wouldn’t be in business today.” He says past examples of other businesses’ generosity have inspired them.

To that end, Palmer Flowers has made it a tradition to give in a variety of ways to many community non-profits. Whether it is door prizes, auction items, monetary donations or gifts of goods and services, Palmer regularly works gift-ing into their yearly budget, and despite a tough economy, they have not slacked off during the past two years. “Businesses [in Northern Colo-rado] have had a lot of good years and a couple of bad years, so we continue to give back” even during leaner times, says Spiro.

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Flower arrangements provided for a single event can range from $1,000 to $10,000, yet Spiro says the amount is rarely as important to him and his wife as the effort to ensure the event is done right. “We are more interested in making the evening truly special for the non-profit.”

Palmer Flowers regularly supports organiza-tions such as Hope Lives and Pathways Hospice in their yearly fundraising events. Spiro says they also look for events that support children and education, and new non-profits that are just starting out.

Spiro credits his business’ success – and their ability to give every year – to their team of employees, some of whom have been with Palmer Flowers for as long as 25 years. “We are fortunate to have a great team that has been with us for so many years. They enjoy being involved in these non-profit events, too.”

Today, Spiro and his wife remain active in their business. On the particular day of the interview, he was creating flower arrangements with his staff. Angela continues to teach regularly at Palmer’s Design School, teaching future florists their art. “She has happy students who become happy florists. This is a happy business,” says Spiro.

Palmer Flowers, 3710 Mitchell Drive, Fort Collins, (970) 226-0200www.palmerflowers.com


“This is a community

known for giving back – something

you just can’t get in a big city.

And without these people, we wouldn’t be in

business today.”

Spiro and Angela Palmer,Palmer Flowers

26


Flexx productionsSeven years ago, Phil Gottula and Kevin Quill-

ing, fed up with their positions at a larger com-pany, decided to branch off and start their own event production and rental company. After years of hard-earned success building their business, Flexx Productions in Fort Collins, they have been able to reflect on priorities that are important to them.

“My partner and I have always felt we are sup-posed to help community non-profits, especially as we grew more successful,” says Gottula. For the past several years, Flexx Productions has regu-larly offered event rental equipment at reduced prices or no cost to many non-profits, including Crossroads Safehouse, Realities for Children and Hope Lives.

“This is just something we’ve always felt we should do; it is how we were both raised. And we know how much these organizations need help, especially with the recession right now,” says Gottula. “Though we are still a small company, we help out as much as we can and have been able to do more the past two or three years.” He estimates that Flexx gives between $25,000 to $30,000 a year in discounts and donations.

Gottula credits Flexx Production’s success in recent years to their one-stop-shopping approach. “We are not just a rental company. We also help

“This is just something we’ve

always felt we should do. And we know how much

Women’s Health & Breast Cancer 27

supply infrastructure and ideas. We provide all the help to produce your event.”

Other companies often handle one portion of an event, and then refer clients to four or five other companies for the rest of their needs. At Flexx, they coordinate all services and then pass the savings on to their clients. This includes gen-erators, power equipment and special lighting, in addition to traditional services like catering equipment, chairs, tents and more.

This service is something they proudly share with the non-profits they help support. “This year Hope Lives celebrates their 10th year and they wanted to do something different for their gala to make it really pop. We discussed the addition of LED lighting to make an impression,” recalls Gottula.

“I try to be involved in the planning of the event,” he continues, “but still keep rental costs down and give clients options. I am the options guy.”

Flexx Productions 1833 East Harmony Road, Unit #19, Fort Collins(970) 223-1195www.flexxproductions.com

these organizations need help, especially

with the recession right now.”

Phil Gottula, Flexx Production

28Lydia’s STYLE Magazine28

After the FireWhat do two attorneys, a couple of engineers, a

schoolteacher, an “IT guy,” a nursing student and a couple business owners have in common? For these individuals it is a shared love of music and the desire to give back – the two supreme commandments of local rhythm and blues band After the Fire.

After the Fire was resurrected from the ashes of another local band that played at several venues during the 60s and 70s. Don Taranto, original member and drummer, says the band lost most of their equipment in 1972 when the old Matterhorn club burned to the ground.

The event caused the band to disperse for some time in the 70s and 80s, while band members went on “to get real jobs,” says Taranto, owner of Fort Collins engineering firm TST, Inc. But their collective love of music brought them back together in the late 80s. This time, however, they had a mission: “We sort of just gravitated together, but we didn’t want to play for money, so we decided to play for non-profits.”

Today the band features 12 members from all walks of life. Of the original band, only two remain: Taranto and trumpet player Ed Goodman. Others have trickled in over the years, such as Bill Sterk, bass player and attorney from Berthoud. Sterk joined After the Fire in 1994 and has been playing with them ever since.

The band is known for their blues classics and large horn section. They play approximately five shows a year. Most of their performances are at large non-profit fundraisers for crowds of a couple hundred or more. Today, their oldest member rings in at 63 years old and their youngest is in her 20s.

“It is a combination that works great. We get the best of both worlds this way. And playing together


for many of us is a kind of therapy,” says Taranto. This year the band played at fewer events than

normal as they went through transition, losing a few members and bringing new members into the fold. But the band’s goals have remained the same.

“When we did the interview process, we made it clear that the band members do not earn any money for performances,” says Sterk. While some musicians could not commit to the altruistic mission, others gladly stepped up to embrace the philosophy.

Sterk has taken the lead in organizing and schedul-ing the band. In line with the band’s philosophy, he looks for non-profit events that support the Northern Colorado community. They have played at events to support Crossroads Safehouse, Boys and Girls Clubs of Larimer County, Hope Lives, Realities for Children, the 20/30 Club and much, much more.

Their philanthropic leanings have encouraged similar efforts in others. For more than 20 years, the band has been practicing at locations made available to them free of charge by local real estate firm Veldman Morgan Commercial.

“They have always given us a vacant space to practice in. Without that, we wouldn’t have been able to stay together nearly as long as we have. They deserve a pat on the back,” says Taranto.

The busy band members work hard to find time to practice together for events throughout the commu-nity. But they find the effort worthwhile. “Everyone in the band wants to give back to the community,” says Sterk. “Our pay is that we enjoy what we do and you just don’t get a whole lot of other offers to play in a 12-piece band.”

After the Fire, www.rockatf.com

“Our pay is that we enjoy what we do.”

Bill Sterk, After the Fire

donna walterI was first diagnosed with lymphoma in the early 80’s. There were the

obvious upsets and concerns. I was newly remarried with a young son. I wanted to be there for my role as a mother and wife, living. I certainly did not want to die. I got lucky. I met a pastor who invited me to his church to receive prayer and hands on healing. The blessing came. The realization that there is a connection between the spiritual, emotional and physical became evident. It was through this revelation I discovered naturopathy; this became my passion and profession.

The bad news is that 20 years later I was diagnosed with breast can-cer. The good news is that I had new tools and a new approach. I did not have the terror I felt with my first diagnosis. I found success through prayer, spiritual support and lifestyle changes. I had a new understanding that certain foods, supplements and other non-invasive treatments can impact the outcome of cancer. My hope is that what I have gained I can pass on and share with others.

The compassion I have for life and for others has deepened. I am blessed every day to be here. And I am fortunate to still have my father in my life. Dad has had a 33-plus year struggle with a debilitating neurologi-cal disease. His strength is reflected in his relationship with God. He has been my inspiration and his spirit is contagious.

Celebrating Life!Thrivers

donna is ready for a night on the town in her strapless poly satin short cocktail party dress, $99. Invisible pearl three-strand necklace and earrings add a feminine touch, $30. Courtesy of David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.

Photography by Marcus EdwardsArt Direction by Lydia Dody

Fashions by:Chico’s, Fort Collins | Cloz, Loveland

David’s Bridal, Fort Collins | Designs Boutique, Fort CollinsMakeup by:

Abby Charpentier, Always Beautiful by Abby KayCee Warren and Kinga Sowa, Sephora, Fort Collins

Hair Design by: Leslie Mitchell, Suzanne Fankhauser and Ashton

Nicholson of Capelli’s Salon Shauna & Clayton Troxell, C&S Workshop

Kim Shore, NamasteOn location stylist: Nancy Handler, Crazy Beautiful Salon

On location chair massages: Elizabeth Larsen, Irwin Family Chiropractic/Avanti BodyworkLunch provided by Rustic Oven

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Celebrating Life!

rhonda Bisby When I was diagnosed, my reaction was panic. I felt like running as hard and fast as I could

to the OR so the doctor could operate immediately and get the cancer away from me. It was about a week after my divorce was finalized, and my depression over that was pushed even deeper.

Throughout the year I struggled with surgery, chemo, losing my hair, weight gain – so much. This is when Hope Lives helped me. Also, friends came out of the woodwork to help – I never knew people could be so good and kind.

My children have been my inspiration. They are my encouragers, my cheerleaders. Both of them live in Texas, but they came up to help me. My daughter is a mammographer and turned into my mother during surgery and recovery – always telling me positive stories about others, knowing exactly what the doctors were telling us and repeating it to me in my foggy just-diagnosed state. My son had just returned from working in China for a year; he came straight to Fort Collins and picked up where my daughter left off. He took me to appointments, held my hand during chemo, held my head when I was so sick. He let me cry as much as I needed, and cried with me. He even shaved his head with me.

Being a survivor has made me more aware of how special each day is. Don’t sweat the small stuff; tell people you love “I love you.” Most importantly, I feel a part of a sisterhood of survivors – women who want to share, listen, laugh and cry with you. That is our strength, the way we thrive.

Before I was diagnosed, on my birthday, I walked in the Komen Race for the Cure in honor of my mother, who lost her life to breast cancer. I remember asking my friend, “Why do some women have pink t-shirts?” When she told me they were survivors, I said, “Well, I sure don’t want a pink t-shirt then.” One year later I walked again, proudly, in my pink t-shirt.

Grace zachI was diagnosed May 2005. I had fibrous lumps in my left breast that dated back to a 1957

staph infection in that breast. The lumps were not troublesome. Interestingly, I was trying to weed out an invasive ground cover in the backyard and complained that it was like a cancer. A few days later, I felt a hardened lump in the left breast. Tests indicated cancer and surgery was scheduled in less than two weeks.

I had wonderful spiritual support and was not afraid. It was just a matter of removing the lump. And very fortunately the cancer was contained, but my lymph nodes and left breast were removed. I think my age was a positive factor in contrast to how I would have reacted earlier in my life. And I was grateful to avoid any chemotherapy and only took tamoxifen for one year. So I know I was very fortunate.

My church was an exceptional support. Wellness and healing are positive affirmations. This favorite affirmation was given to my by Reverend Cheri Jensen: “Joy fills every cell of my body! Every cell is alive with love! I relax into the healing process. I allow Spirit to do what Spirit does.”

I am very grateful for my good health! I go hiking in the mountains in the summer and volunteer teaching tai chi classes from September to May. I am a Spellbinders Oral Storyteller for Zach Elementary 1st graders once a month – a continually transforming delight!

I saw no reason for reconstruction surgery at the time of my mastectomy. And I was content with the prosthesis. But after about two and a half years, I began to realize that one shoulder was lower and my posture was hunched over. That was when I decided to consider reconstruc-tion. Dr. Tsoi was my surgeon, and I am delighted with the result. I stand straighter and feel less pain in my left arm. And that invasive plant has been rooted out and is no longer in my garden to threaten other flowers. And that cancer is no longer part of me. Right now vitamins and gratitude for unexpected blessings are the only medicine I need.

Grace is gliding to the orchestra notes

in graceful style from Komarov. Elegant two-piece body skimming,

stretch pleated evening ensemble with flirty

jagged hemline, $239. Amethyst stone

necklace, $70, enameled flower earrings, $15,

and metallic scarf, $8.50, add a feminine

touch. Courtesy of Cloz, Loveland.

rhonda is in step with fashion in this Joseph Ribkoff ensemble: a fuchsia ladder-back accent top, $84, over wide leg cocktail pants with floral pattern, $212. Brighton long Swirlz necklace, $68, enamel bangle bracelet, $68, and dangle earrings, $48, add a playful touch! Courtesy of Designs Boutique, Fort Collins.


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ronda coverstonI found a small lump in November 2009, but put off get-

ting it checked. I had a new job and was helping a good friend, Ruth, with her mom who was dying of breast cancer. I put the lump in the back of my mind and forgot about it until early January 2010, when I realized that the small lump was now a huge mass. I called my doctor in a panic. I had an ultrasound and mammogram the next week, biopsies the fol-lowing week, and on January 13, 2010, my doctor confirmed the diagnosis of breast cancer. I looked in my doctor’s eyes and said, “Ok, what do we do to fix it?” I left the doctor’s office numb with shock, but with a fighting attitude. I knew from the second I heard “cancer,” I would beat it. I was in the surgeon’s office the next morning. It all went so fast; it was a blur.

Emotionally, it has been really hard. There are so many things I thought about. How could I be 34 and have breast cancer? I was scared on the inside, but I kept my smile strong, as I knew everything happens for a reason. Financially, I was terrified. I didn’t have insurance. Thanks to a grant from the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation my chemotherapy would be paid for, and also my radiation treatments are cov-ered that I am going through right now. I have been very grateful for the services provided by the Hope Lives program. I have been able to get physical therapy, lymphatic drainage therapy, mastectomy supplies and much more. Without these services I don’t know what I would have done.

I learned very fast that I was going to have to put all my trust into the doctors and know that they would do their best to help me to a full cancer-free recovery. It is hard to admit you don’t have control over your life. That is what cancer felt like, a spiral, spinning out of control. My warmest thanks go to my oncologist, Dr. Ross McFarland, my surgeon, Dr. John Hunter, and to my oncology radiology doctor, Dr. Gwen Lisella. You have been so gracious in taking my health into your hands.

I also want to say thank you to all the wonderful nurses at the Poudre Valley Hospital outpatient infusion, for all their dedication and hard work for every one who comes through their doors.

My mom, Corky, and dad, Ed, have been a huge inspira-tion to me as they are both cancer survivors themselves. I found a lot of inspiration within myself. No one could make me face this battle but me. When I had hard days and found myself down, Ruth was there with encouraging words. My heart would ache with not knowing how things would go

but here she was being so strong for me when she had just lost her mom to this vile disease.

ronda is dancing to the beat in a luscious eggplant two-piece-look

long tank dress and jacket with rhinestone edging, $218. Purple

crystal necklace, $25, and earrings, $10, add a touch of fun! Courtesy

of David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.

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margi is strutting in style in a snappy Parsley & Sage grey and

white cotton zip front jacket, $72, topping a Judy P nylon stretch

tank, $62, and Christopher Blue slim leg black jeans, $145. Red

bead necklaces, $18 to $20, silicone fashion rhinestone

trimmed watch, $18.50, and red clip earrings, $20, add playful color. Courtesy of

Cloz, Loveland.

regina is tapping to the beat in a Western styled brown suede vest, $129, over a crisp white cotton shirt, $85, and Platinum slim leg indigo snake jeans, $89. Silver bead Irelynn necklace, $44, stone and bead Angie necklace, $54, dangle Adra earrings, $20, twist chain bracelet, $48, and silver cuff, $44, complete the look. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

margi mcGrane I was diagnosed in 1997. Phys-

ically it was not hard at all – I can now chest a soccer ball better than most of the men on my team – but emotionally I had a moment with my husband where I had a pity party. He said, “You told me God said you would be okay, so what’s the problem?”

Jesus is my strength. Spiritu-ally, I have always had a strong relationship with the Lord, so it strengthened that and made me really step out in what I believe. My pastor and his wife have been pillars for me. My husband, the love of my life, has been my big-gest supporter, and my children are my constant joy and pride.

regina Brown Thank goodness I always took the time out of my daily workload to schedule my annual

checkups and mammograms, as it was a routine exam that caught my cancer at such a very early stage! I knew what was next… and yet, I really didn’t have time for this – I had my own cancer patients to take care of. Not to mention it had only been four months since I lost my mom to cancer. So, I was very matter of fact with the whole thing and didn’t want to make it any big deal. It took me three months to call it cancer, and I am an oncologist!

Fortunately I had the incredible strength and support of Tricia, my partner of the past 18 years. She has witnessed the lengths I go to, making sure the best is carried out for my patients. She said, “You do all this work for your patients, you shouldn’t have to do it for yourself.” I also worked with my sister-in-law, a holistic healer and life coach, and she helped me to visualize my body free of cancer and a successful surgery. My surgery was a great success, and then it was on to radiation.

Initially, I tried to work through treatment, as I felt compelled to do my part in the clinic and not be a burden to my colleagues and patients. Between fatigue and stress there finally reached a point where that wasn’t a realistic option. I realized part of the problem was I refused to ask for help. I needed the time away, to reflect on what I was going through. My reflections were a powerful reminder of just how wonderful my family and friends truly are. Our neighbors gave me strength through their kind words and offerings. My medical assistant took time out of her weekend to make me a homemade meal. That was beyond overwhelming. The count-less cards, letters and well wishes made me want to get back to work even faster to battle this beast called cancer!

I realize my situation could be so much worse, and I see those scenarios everyday. Even though my cancer was caught at the earliest stages, the process of surgery, radiation and taking a pill every day was still something I had to go through. No one is immune.


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Vicki FisbeckI was diagnosed in July 2007. My husband and children were very shocked. I

was so healthy, and for the past 30 years I have eaten so well. Bill’s and my knees went out from under us and we couldn’t catch our breath. New people to trust, new scheduling. Our lives totally changed. But we took hold of each other and walked this journey together. Our kids joined us and the doctors finished our team. Together, we got through it.

Spiritually, I found a new facet of faith in Jesus. He held me so close and a peace covered me that truly does pass all understanding. I see more clearly how He is directing my life. This giant was not Goliath like David had, it was cancer, but my God was able to defeat this enemy! Once I knew it had been defeated – even while I was still in treatment – I rested in Him and the fear subsided.

Emotionally, chemo caused such a depression in me, which I had never ex-perienced to that depth. But after a few months, it slowly went away. After that I was back up to my cheerful self – and now I am on an emotional high! This journey almost took my life and my last breath; now I am breathing in new depths of life. I can see so many things I used to take for granted that now I hold so much dearer.

Physically, this has been the hardest part for me. I have been active all my life – I even climbed Longs Peak for my 50th birthday and went skydiving for my 60th! Then came the chemo and down I went. I was in a wheelchair for six months, had a blood clot in my lung, and another time I had a staph infection. The chemo affected my balance and I could not go down stairs without help. I still can’t drive a car or sit in the backseat. What a change in my lifestyle and dependence upon people. But no one seems to mind. Family and friends are here to help at a moment’s notice. I’ve certainly found out what true friends are and how much my family loves me!

My whole strength came from my faith in Jesus. But also added to that is the knowledge that I had so many people praying for me. I am the volunteer dance coordinator at the Senior Center here in Fort Collins. One of the first things I did was to share with them the diagnosis. The cards and prayers piled in, and I could feel the love from these wonderful people I adore.

My sister Judy came and took hold of my hand as only a sister can. She even shaved her head for me so I wouldn’t feel so alone. She brought her bags up to PVH and stayed with me day and night, constantly by my side. The nurses loved us dressing alike and walking the halls when I had the energy.

My three children stood beside me. Kristi helped me see that chemo was actually my friend to heal the cancer. She came to most of my chemo infusions, along with her dad. She motivated me to move forward when I could not see anything in front of me. Scotty helped me to get there each day by coming for lunch and telling me it was okay to not even have enough energy to breathe at times. I rested in those words each day. Michael, my son in Denver and a DJ, would call, visit and has always shown me how strong I am. I could hear his voice on the radio.

Bill was my knight in shining armor. He held me up while holding my hand. His heart grew bigger with love for me, as he was afraid of losing his soul mate. He brought me through a very dark place to the bright sunshine.

There was a part of me that walked out of a closet through this journey. She’s beautiful, strong, bold, confident and freer than I had ever been. She’s a part of me that has risen up and grasped a hold of life as never before. Now my heart is open more to love and to be loved!

Vicki is kicking up her heels in Joseph Ribkoff’s striking banded sequin paisley halter, $126, and

scallop hem black poly stretch skirt, $163. Brighton black stone Dreamy Drops earrings, $48, bangle

bracelet, $42, and fashion stretch ring, $52, add a fun touch. Courtesy of Designs Boutique, Fort Collins.

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«Barbara stolz After my annual breast mammogram in October 2009 revealed a lump, the biopsy con-

firmed it was breast cancer. Upon hearing this news, I remarkably had complete peace that only could come from God. My physician offered several options for treatment. After consider-able research of materials and references, and meeting with each family member and talking with friends, there was complete agreement what process should be followed. The choice was double mastectomy. Again, I had peace.

God answers prayer in ways we would never imagine. My prayer the last few years before diagnosis was that my daughter, Nancy, and I would become close. Because of busy lives, there was never a situation that would allow a block of time to cultivate that closeness I so longed for. However, from first news of breast cancer to my healing, my journey each day

was intimately shared by Nancy. She took care of every detail, from appointments, records and after-care necessities. In this unwanted circumstance was the beginning of God’s answer to my heart’s desire.

Nancy and her husband, Doug, my “son-in-love,” opened their beautiful home as my own from mid-November 2009 through mid-January 2010. The winter weath-

er had set in early and continued through this period, with record-breaking tem-peratures, but I never missed an appointment because every detail of my after-care was

selflessly given to me by my Nancy and Doug.It would take volumes to describe the precious love, nurturing, caring, meals shared,

football games viewed, family and loved one’s visits, dozens of cards and gifts, flowers, phone calls, and many prayers given. Most of all, the indescribable closeness and the tender sacrifice of love from my daughter, who indeed was my constant physical, social, emotional and spiri-tual caregiver that God used to heal me.

Barbara is strutting in style in a genuine suede Elegance jacket, $299, and Denim Delight cotton shirt, $79, over a lovely chocolate crinkle broomstick skirt with detailed hem, $89. Beaded tan Desire belt, $79, adds a focal point. Long seed bead Odela necklace, $54, copper

drop earrings, $28, and copper cuff bracelets, $34, pull the look together.

Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.


35stacey Boland

I was diagnosed in 2006 with breast cancer at the young age of 36 years. I had so many misconceptions about cancer and was in shock that it was happening to me at a young age and with no family history. It came at the most inconvenient time since we were moving from my hometown to Fort Collins. I had to find all new doctors to treat me and felt quite alone in dealing with it.

Cancer has impacted me spiritually by relying on God and drawing near to Him on a daily basis. One of my favorite scripture verses is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” I used to say that repeatedly when the doubt and fear of cancer returning would invade my thoughts. Cancer has given me a new appreciation for life and what really matters – my three wonderful children, Abbey, Emilie and Luke, and all of my other family and friends.

I found inspiration and strength from my wonderful family, who gave of them-selves and their time to help me in this journey. I’m thankful to God for them daily and for giving me hope for the future. Also, I’m thankful to Hope Lives for working for all those in the community affected by cancer, for the complementary care I re-ceived and for the Hope Lives Pink Boa!

stacey is twirling to the music in a cherry red poly sheer halter dance dress with rhinestone

broche accent, $89. Stretch red glass bracelet, $15, and dangle earrings, $10, add a flirty

accent. Courtesy of David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.

Juliet chavezI was diagnosed with stage 2A breast cancer on June 29, 2009. My daughter and I de-

cided on a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. I decided from day one that I was not going to allow this to control my life. I have can-

cer; cancer does not have me. I got my courage from my youngest daughter, Roxanne, who was diagnosed with cancer when she was 18 years old. She handled it with such grace and dignity to the very end. She lost her battle at the age of 26, and never once complained. She always said she would live her life to its fullest, and I decided I would do the same. I also lost my mother to breast cancer on May 12, 1999.

My family has been my inspiration, but my daughter Tina has been my strength. She has been by my side from day one and continues to support me. I thank the good Lord for giving me the strength to deal with whatever comes my way.

Juliet is hearing the beat of the music in a

stylish metallic braid trim Bonaparte vest, $99, topping a crisp white cotton Lenora

shirt, $69, and cotton rayon spandex side zip

pants, $79. A woven elastic black belt, $69, hammered silver long necklaces, $38 each, silver Ariana bracelet, $34, and hammered Aven earrings, $20,

add just the right style! Courtesy of Chico’s,

Fort Collins.

debbie is keeping time to the music in a chic wild grape me-tallic tweed jacket, $129, top-ping a grape microfiber tank, $49, and traveler, no-tummy black pant, $62. Captain Hook silver buckle belt, $38, Augusta silver dangle earrings, $22, and steel drum silver bracelet, $28, give it extra pizzazz. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

debbie dixon I was diagnosed July 1, 2010, following a “routine” mammogram, then ul-

trasound, then a biopsy, then a meeting with my doctor and an MRI. My reaction was stunned disbelief. I heard nothing after the doctor said “cancer.” If I hadn’t seen the pictures, I would still doubt this is happening.

Realizing I might die is scary and sobering. I dread what I know is coming, but I can’t avoid it. I liked the life I had and that changed immediately. But this is a chance to evaluate what is essential in my life. It is an opportunity to reach out to family and friends in a more personal way as I share what is happening and how I am feeling. It is a connection on a deeper level than most people have in their lives. It’s a journey to a new way of life, and I’m taking all the good I can from my life right now.

Friends at work, church and theatre have been incredible at offering prayers and their offers of help. My family and my faith in God will get me through this. A sermon at church helped: “Most of our life is spent figuring out ‘Plan B.’” This diagnosis is everyone’s unexpected side trip.

I continue to be amazed at how many people have had this disease and are now survivors who reach out to me and offer support and ideas to get through this “roller coaster” ride. A co-worker was diagnosed a month before me, an-other one three years ago, a sister-in-law five years ago, a friend 23 years ago; each person’s journey is another source of strength. This is a club I wouldn’t have chosen to join, but now that I’m in it, I know I’m in good company!

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Angela AldrichI found a lump the end of January 2010 and followed up with my PA the first week of February. At

the time of my exam she assured me that it was nothing and not to be worried. However, over the next eight weeks it continued to grow, so I went back and saw my doctor. Within the hour she sent me to the Breast Diagnostic Center, where I had a mammogram, ultrasound and met with the radiologist. The end of the next week I had two biopsies, and on April 12 (my parents’ anniversary) I received a call from my doctor. My breast mass as well as my lymph nodes were positive for cancer. I spent the next few weeks undergoing tests to see if it had metastasized anywhere else. When I received my PET image back it showed that it was also in my mammary glands, and my official diagnosis was stage 3 HER2/neu-positive.

Being a single mother, my first concern was for my beautiful, smart 7-year-old daughter, Lily. How would I take care of her while I was in treatment? What tools would I need to help her understand what was about to happen to Mommy? Searching the Internet I found age-appropriate books and got my hands on them. We read through them together and I answered her questions as they came. I knew the dreaded question was going to come up. On the couch with my sweet girl in my lap, crocodile tears dripping down her cheeks, she looked at me and said, “Mommy, are you going to die?” That is when the reality that I had breast cancer finally sunk in and I was able to start the fight of my life. Sitting there looking at her my thought was, “Bring it on, because I am ready!”

HER2-positive cancer is extremely aggressive and fast growing so my treatment was going to be aggressive and fast. I had four rounds of chemo in eight weeks, a bilateral mastectomy in July, and started more chemo two weeks after my surgery. If all goes well I will have eight rounds of chemo in 16 weeks and 52 weeks of another drug called Herceptin, all done through IV.

Lily has set up her camping cot at the foot of my bed and sleeps in my room every night so that she “can keep an eye on me.” My mother has been the most organized person through all of this and has gotten me where I needed to be. My church family has been amazing with prayers, meals, notes of encouragement, and my faith, while tested, has definitely become stronger.

Having cancer has truly made me stop and smell the roses. I notice the beauty around me more. It has made me love and appreciate my family and friends even more. I have found strength inside myself that I never knew existed. Whether I am having a good day or a bad day, I thank God that at least I have another day.

Angela is keep-ing time to a

modern beat in a military stud-

ded metallic denim Napoleon jacket,

$149, beaded band Cleopatra tank, $59,

and platinum slim leg black wash jeans, $69. Stretch silver bamboo belt, $69, accents the

waist and beaded drop earrings, $24, and wide bracelet, $48, add the final

polish. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort

Collins.


37Kathleen Sullivan-Bailey

My personal story of cancer began on October 3, 2009, my birthday, when I was di-agnosed with breast cancer. My healthcare team insisted that I begin the process of labs, X-rays, ultrasound, biopsies, and finally a lumpectomy.

Two months later, in December, I learned that the lumpectomy was not enough to remove the cancer from my breast. So, my healthcare team, Drs. Sally Parsons, Diana Medgesey and Beth Henderson, advised me that it was critical to my health as well as my life that I undergo a bilateral mastectomy.

In the meantime, I was also alerted that my mother was dying of breast cancer. Her death was just two days before my scheduled mastectomy surgery on December 21, 2009. As a result, I was not able to travel to Boston and memorialize her life and passing. So, for me my journey had become a multi-dimensional experience.

Recently on Thursday, August 5, because of complications, I re-entered the hospital for another reconstruction surgery performed by Dr. Gonyon. However, I’m thankful that I am still cancer-free! Six operations and 10 months later, I am still navigating through the process of breast cancer and recovery. I have been so blessed by Spirit that she surrounded me with so many new and wonderful friends during this time because we are new resi-dents to Fort Collins.

My entire healthcare team made all the difference in my recovery and I feel as though they are my adopted family. Each of them within their own special ability cared for me with compassion, empathy, kindness and love. Looking back at the last 10 months, I am so fortunate to have such a loving, gentle and patient husband. Art made all the difference in my recovery. As a retired firefighter, Art knew what to do every step of the way. He rescued me from the many ups and downs of cancer. He nourished me back to health as well as patiently and lovingly held me in his arms when I was falling down with fear and despair.

Kathleen is in tune with the dance steps in a flattering Cub-ism geometric print long top in shades of green, $62, over flirty Cut Loose black gored skirt, $68. Fringed turquoise scarf, $18, silver col-lar necklace with tur-quoise pendant, $32, and turquoise drop earrings, $15, add lively color. Courtesy of Cloz, Loveland.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

marci Guay My experience with breast cancer began in July 2004 at

the age of 33, one week after moving from Texas to Colo-rado. My immediate reaction was how does a 33-year-old get breast cancer? How soon can I get this cancer out of my body? I was very sad and angry that my husband and children were going to have to see me fight this disease. My children were young; my daughter Sammie was 8, Jonny was 5 and Hannah was only 3 years old. It was overwhelming dealing with a cancer diagnosis, my kids starting new schools and moving to a new place. All I wanted to do was hide the fact that I had cancer. I was only 33 years old, athletic and had no risk factors predisposing me to breast cancer.

Our family stayed strong and we got through all the surgeries and chemo treatments with the help of our loved ones. The toughest times were after all my treatments were finished and we all had time to process what had just hap-pened. Cancer has changed all of our lives forever for the good, the bad and the ugly. We have met wonderful people along the way and have learned to appreciate all that life has to offer. It wasn’t until after I finished all my treatments and was cancer free that I felt safe enough to talk about my ordeal with others.

I would like to say that my story ends here but unfortu-nately that is not the case. In November 2008 while training for my first marathon my breast cancer came back. Instead of going to Hawaii to run a marathon with my sister I found my-self doing a completely different marathon. I was fighting for my life. I began the process of another surgery, more chemo and radiation. Hearing the diagnosis of breast cancer for the second time was even more devastating than the first. I now knew what to expect and emotionally was not ready to fight this disease again.

Our cancer experience has helped us focus on raising money and awareness for a cure in hopes that we won’t have to see any more of our friends and family suffer from this hor-rible disease. The amazing part of this whole ordeal is that we saw firsthand where all the money we raised has gone. In just four and a half years since my original diagnosis, treatments have improved. This really proved that the money we all have raised is making a difference!

Thank you to my husband Dave, my three beautiful chil-dren, my parents and in-laws, sisters and all my beautiful fam-ily and friends for their love and support over these past six years. Thank you to my children for seeing the breast cancer ribbon as a sign of hope and for the strength they give me everyday. I have had exceptional doctors and care, and am blessed to be able to share my story.

marci is swaying to the music in Joseph Ribkoff’s stylish metallic brown and beige animal print keyhole maxi dress,

$253. Brighton bronze Roseline small clutch, $92, and Utopia drop stone earrings, $33, finish the look. Courtesy

of Designs Boutique, Fort Collins.

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Women’s Health & Breast Cancer

Brooke is on the move in Alberto Makali’s crinkle top with sequins and zebra banding, $142, worn over a Stiletto flirty side zip layered skirt, $154. Brighton Roselle pink patent purse, $190, Europa multi colored necklace, $88, and matching drop earrings, $34, make a statement. Courtesy of Designs Boutique, Fort Collins.

Brooke HuppIn the shower one morning I discovered a lump in my breast. I told my husband and he immediately told me

to get it looked at. I went in and the doctor scheduled me for a mammogram the following week. I was just sure that I was being too cautious and that everything would be fine, after all I was only 37. After the mammogram the doctor recommended that I have a biopsy. He said the chances of it being cancer were like one in 10, but if it were his wife he would want her to be sure. I still felt everything would be okay. Was I in for a shock. On February 11, 2009, I got a phone call from the doctor. I don’t remember anything she said after the word cancer. So many questions and emotions were going through my head. I was so scared. I just kept thinking, “God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, but I don’t know if I can do this.”

The following months were full of doctors’ appointments, surgeries and emotions. I had a bilateral mastectomy and hysterectomy and am now cancer free. I was fortunate and didn’t have to do chemo. I faced my cancer head on and tried to stay positive. My motto was, “It is what it is.” I had it and there was no changing it. Yes, I did lose my breasts, but I realized what a lucky woman I am.

There is no way I could have made it through all of this without my amazing husband Mike, my mom and best friend Karen, and my kids, Tanner and Rylee. As hard as this was for me, I know it was just as hard for them and they were with me every step of the way. My wonderful friends and family were there for all of us in every way possible. What a huge and wonderful support system we had.

I am stronger than I ever thought I was. I decided early on that in 2010 I wanted to participate in the Avon Walk. In June, I went to Summit County with five of my friends for the walk. The old Brooke would never have made the whole 39 miles, but the new me did. I have never done anything like that before and it was such an accomplishment for me that I can’t wait to do it again. I always said I didn’t want my breast cancer to define me, but you know what? I do. I want it to define the new “me,” a strong, caring, lucky, cancer-free woman and mom. I want to find a way to use what I’ve been through in a positive way to help in the fight against breast cancer.

Susan McCrary“Overwhelmed” is the best word to describe how I felt when I heard that dreaded word: cancer. A year

prior, I felt a lump and had gone to my doctor. After a mammogram and ultrasound, the radiologist said it was nothing; yet, my gut instinct told me I should have a biopsy. Being a nurse, I thought I would give it a couple of months and then go back and have a lumpectomy regardless of the diagnosis.

Unfortunately, due to some circumstances beyond my control, I didn’t return to have that biopsy until 14 months later. In June 2009 my husband suffered a debilitating stroke. Suddenly my thoughts and con-cerns were centered around being a wife and caretaker, helping to keep our family lawn and landscap-ing business (McCrary and Sons) operating, continuing with my full time nursing career, and keeping the finances under control. After all, there were just so many hours in a day, my plate was full and my health was secondary. Nevertheless, when I got the notice to have my yearly mammogram again, I did demand an ultrasound and a biopsy. Only this time the diagnosis wasn’t “nothing;” instead, I was told I had stage 3 breast cancer.

For sure, the Lord had my full, undivided attention. I sunk to my knees, cried and decided that I would stand on His promises: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways,” says the Lord. “My ways are higher than your ways. So are my thoughts higher than your thoughts,” and “I will not leave you nor forsake you.” I knew that my sustenance was in Christ Jesus first, and He would supply everything else.

And yes, regardless of an altered body image due to a double mastectomy, multiple infections and surgeries, loss of hair and weight, I am blessed. I have a cast of family and friends like none other. They have faithfully prayed for us, fed us, called and visited, sat feeding me ice chips into the wee hours, and planted our garden in the scorching sun. My family has taken over the responsibilities, from housework to business, and been there to encourage me through the valleys of this horrific disorder. Cancer is a disease that changes not only the person whose body it invades, but the lives of those who interact with that per-son. In most cases, it makes us realize just how temporal life is.

In retrospect, I realize if the cancer diagnosis had transpired a year earlier, I can honestly say I don’t think I could have endured both the physical and mental demands of helping my husband deal with his trials of having a stroke and my own ordeal of undergoing chemotherapy and the upcoming radiation treatment. My husband, Craig, told me at the beginning of this ordeal, “I wondered why the Lord let me live? Now I know why. I am here to help you. We’ll get through this.” How much richer can one person be?

Susan is relaxed in a riverwash

blue shawl collar horizon

texture cardigan, $89, over a blue medallion stone

accented batik top, $69, and platinum

denim slim leg jeans, $69. Layered

necklaces, Narjisa medallion, $48, and

Dassia rope, $38, with Denise hoop

rhinestone earrings, $22, and Lindy

rhinestone bracelet, $24, add a flirty

look. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

39


patti dean In November 2007 I was sitting in the breast diagnos-

tic center reading October’s Style Magazine [which was the breast cancer edition], with no idea I would soon be joining the club. I really shouldn’t have been surprised by the diagno-sis as my mother had breast cancer and my younger sister had just completed radiation when I received my news, but one can never be adequately prepared to hear the words “You have breast cancer.” The first few weeks were some of the most difficult. I like to address a problem head on and move on it, but information kept changing and words were flying by that I couldn’t get a grasp on. It felt so out of my control. Scheduling of additional tests and waiting for results felt like it dragged on forever although, looking back, it all occurred rather quickly. A scheduled lumpectomy turned into a bilateral mastectomy as a second tumor was found on the opposite side and plans changed daily. I had a new vocabulary and read furiously as I tried to comprehend it all.

Identifying the impact that breast cancer has had on my life is not a simple task. Although I remained optimistic throughout my treatment, the rollercoaster of emotions was difficult to deal with. There were many highs and lows, and often within the same day. It is a very frustrating experience not to have control over your body and not know what it’s go-ing to do next. As your body changes to something you don’t quite recognize and you look at a bald head in the mirror, you have to look deeper within yourself to find who you are and what is important to you. Eventually I found the blessing in that, but it is hard to see at the time. But hair comes back (not the color you expected), as do eyelashes (thank goodness).

I have been very fortunate to have my husband beside me through this journey, and although he would have preferred to smother me with protectiveness, he gave me the space I needed and allowed me to handle things the way I needed to. My children, too, have been very supportive, as have our close friends. They never treated me as “sick,” they kept our life as normal as possible, and they were there when I just needed something to distract me. I truly have been blessed. Co-workers and friends came out of the woodwork to offer support and meals.

I’ve also experienced the silver lining to cancer. I’ve met some very special women who have shared their cancer ex-periences and have inspired me. I’ve learned to allow myself to not always be so practical and to dream a little. I’m more willing to try things without worrying about failure. A few months after completing chemo I walked the Avon Walk mar-athon with the Pink Yo Yo’s team, I practice yoga several times a week, and I’ve returned to school after many years to earn my Master’s in social work. Life is good, and I don’t intend on wasting time. A thought that repeatedly went through my mind after my diagnosis is that I’m not done yet, and my bucket list grows longer every day.

patti is swinging to the beat of the music in a Joseph Ribkoff silver long sleeve, handkerchief hem cover-up, $178, worn over sophisticated silver bamboo patterned tunic, $147, and Margaret M micro fiber stretch wide leg pants, $123. Flirty chain earrings by Brighton, $48, add movement. Courtesy of Designs Boutique, Fort Collins.


patricia meilbeckIn January 2006 I found a lump in my breast. In February the biopsy came back

positive, stage IIIC intraductal breast cancer. I was shocked and scared. In April of that year I had a mastectomy and reconstruction, then four different chemo drugs and radiation. While I was still receiving treatment I had a red appearance on my breast. Several different doctors could not figure out what it was, so during one of my treatments my oncologist decided to take a biopsy. We were all shocked to find out I now had inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). I went on a different chemo, and then another when the IBC spread to the other side. Four years after my first mastectomy I had a second mastectomy, because I had a different type of breast cancer on the other side. I have gone through 12 different chemo treatments. I still have IBC, and am trying to get on a clinical trial drug called TDM1.

I did not think I would still have breast cancer over four years later. My fam-ily and friends have been my strength. My husband is wonderful to me – he does all the housework inside and out. My family helps me with all my chores. I want my husband and children to be able to see me cancer-free. I will see my son come home from his third deployment to Afghanistan. I do not have the strength or endurance I previously had, but I know I will be fine no matter what.

patricia is striking a pose in a stylish Ava-lin shawl collar loose

weave linen cardigan, $75, over a Flair poly

tank, $35, and a Curio rich brown soft acrylic

circle skirt, $110. Two-strand beaded necklace, $32, and

matching beaded drop earrings,

$12, are just the right accessories. Courtesy of Cloz,

Loveland.

Joan kingI discovered the lump and instantly knew it was malignant.

In that same moment I knew this was “My Personal Call to Greatness!” The biopsy was taken June 2, 2010, and my sus-picion was confirmed on June 4. I did not cry any tears as I received this news or phone my husband who was out of town to tell him, because I already knew it was malignant. And I knew I would be fine, ultimately.

My passion and mission has been to help people evoke their greatness. Now, it is my time to evoke my greatness, step by step, as I journey through the path of chemotherapy, radiation and medication. My husband is committed to walking this path with me. So many friends and associates have come forth to support me. I am so very grateful for the abundance of love in my life. I have a strong connection to the Spirit and know that I have all the resources within to meet this challenge; otherwise I would not have been presented with it.

Joan has a dance in her step in an ensemble by Joseph Ribkoff. White textured zip front shirt jacket, $150, tops a Press cami, $37, and wide leg black and white pants, $148. Multi strand red coral necklace from Judy Barber, $300, and cherry red alligator patent purse from Brigh-ton, $165, add just the right color. Courtesy of Designs

Boutique, Fort Collins.

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Lydia’s STYLE Magazine42

dorothy YellowbirdOne day in November 2008 I was massaging my

clavicle and noticed the skin was sticky, not smooth, with a 3-inch-long oval and hard center. I told David, my husband of 18 months, that my breast felt funny, and we made an appointment during our lunch. The next day I went in for a mammogram, and it took four shots before they got a clean picture. I waited 90 minutes, and then I was placed in a small room with three other doctors, who told me to prepare for cancer. More appointments the next day, biopsy, MRI lab… then the small room again. David was with me this time, and the pathologist talked. All I heard was blah, blah, blah.

I hate cancer. I took care of my mother and son when they had cancer. Two and a half months prior to my diagnosis, my dad died from bone cancer. Now I had cancer. I didn’t know this could happen so fast. I was numb. David left, and the doctors went to work on me. Everyone was so polite – too polite. I asked to look at the biopsy; it was gray and looked like cancer. All the tension hit me. I lay down and tears streamed out of my eyes; I was given a tissue and hugged.

My first surgery was a bilateral mastectomy and I needed a blood transfusion. Physically I had a lot of difficulties with the chemo due to having fibromyal-gia, so I was in the infusion ward by Saturday. I had two other surgeries, a third on December 1, 2008, which took six to eight months to heal, and involved two years of pain. Things were also difficult because Colleen, my best friend since I was 15, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died on May 6, 2009.

I found strength and confidence in my husband and friends, as well as clients. I have one friend that is a doctor and she changed her schedule to be at my first surgery. I found so much support from clients – cards, soft blankets, soft hats, flowers. I felt love from people I didn’t expect. Someone always called when I was down. David did his best – all the housework, laundry, etc. Friends provided meals.

I’m beginning to love my life as it is. If I don’t like something, I change it, and then I live it without fear. I take a new chance every day. Fight for what you want, especially when it comes to your care. You can’t beat this fight alone. Stumbling blocks are stepping-stones; it may be only wobbly steps, but it’s a step – laugh out loud!

dorothy is dancing to the music in a cobalt blue strapless poly satin side ruche cocktail dress, $139. Exquisite rhinestone necklace and chandelier earrings, $135, add sparkle and bling. Courtesy of David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.


Allura Skin & Laser ClinicJahna Brazier, CMT Ronda Coverston was delighted with her

hour long lymphatic massage treatment. The Swiss created Biodrainer equipment used is based on acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, which encourages flow in the lym-phatic system. This technique helps the body rid itself of lymphatic waste and extra fluid. Some literature shows that using this equipment can be more effective than manual massage but re-sults are unique to each individual. This proce-dure is also used for softening scars and reduc-

ing swelling after liposuction and to flush out anesthesia after surgery.

“It was a wonderful experience. It was very stimulating as I felt the lymph working, while also being very relaxing. The spa is professional, and everyone is so personable. My arm usually feels stiff but now it feels relaxed and not tight and I feel energized!” – Ronda Coverston

Patricia Mielbeck was treated to a permanent eyebrow procedure. Brow definition enhances the eyes and helps women cope with hair loss as a result of treatment. The three-hour treatment begins with a discussion about how much make-up the woman wears and what her expectations are. A stencil is created for the shape of the brow and colors are mixed and tested on the skin to find the perfect shade. A topical anesthetic is applied to minimize discomfort, and the tattoo process begins. When done, they appear a little

fuller and darker than they will be after 10 days.“Abby is marvelous. She did a fantastic job

with my brows. She made my eyes pop with color. The difference is better than I thought it could be. People have commented on how great my eyes look. The procedure was easier than I anticipated. Abby made sure I was as comfort-able the whole time.” – Patricia Mielbeck

Vogue Laser ClinicAbby Charpentier,Permanent Makeup Artist/Esthetician

Vicki Fisbeck relished every moment of her one hour Signature Facial. This European facial is customized to each client’s needs. Her skin was first cleansed and then a detox mask was applied. She received a draining lymphatic and scalp massage, a treatment mask, and more massage while her hands soaked up a rich cream treatment. A serum and moisturizer followed for a beautiful natural glow.

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LaVida MassageChristine Hendrickson, Esthetician

Rhonda Bisby was in heaven for a nearly an hour soaking up her special Four Layer Fa-cial. It included two applications of 30 percent vitamin C enzyme, followed by a skin polishing resurfacing mask, and a hydrating enzyme mask. This mixture results in extra exfoliating and puts antioxidants into the skin so the complexion be-comes tighter, brighter and softer. While these ingredients are working, a chest and arm mas-sage provides relaxation and refreshment.

“The facial at Xanadu was wonderful. I really

felt like my skin had a glow afterwards and even several days later, it is very smooth. The staff was friendly and caring. The whole experience was great and I’d recommend Xanadu and the Four Layer Facial to all my friends. Thanks again for this special treat.” – Rhonda Bisby

Xanadu Med SpaStefanie Hussain, Esthetician

Margie McGrane enjoyed a relaxing one-hour anti-aging manual microderm treatment fa-cial using Murad dermatologist formulated prod-ucts. The process included cleansing, extracting, manual treatment, glycolic peel, mask, and neck, face, hand and arm massage incorporating pres-sure points. The results are clarity and smooth skin texture, along with a reduction of fine lines. And, of course, she enjoyed wonderful stress-relieving relaxation during the entire experience.

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Salon GiorgioSelena Shannon, Esthetician

Thrivers Receive Beauty Treatments

Breast cancer. It’s cruel, painful, shocking and devastating. There is treatment, which can some-times be just as – or even more – cruel, painful, shocking and devastating as the cancer itself.

Pain Management During Breast Cancer Treatment

Still, never before have cancer patients had a broader, more hopeful array of treat-ment options. Style spoke to providers including oncologists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, spiritual healers, medical marijuana caretakers and patients to explore some of the mainstream and complementary therapies available to treat

cancer and cancer treatment side effects. Regina Brown, M.D., medical oncologist at the Cancer Center of the Rockies, reports that

some of the side effects of cancer treatment might include shingles (a blistering rash from a previously dormant chicken pox virus), constipation, neuropathy (nerve damage causing numbness and pain in hands and feet resulting from chemo), depression, mucositis (mouth sores), joint pain, hot flashes and “chemo brain” (cognitive impairments thought to be brought on by chemotherapy).

Dr. Brown says breast cancer patients deal with acute pain and chronic pain. “One of the acute pain symptoms might be pathologic fractures from metastasis - when breast cancer spreads to the bone. In those situations, depending on how bad the pain is, you want to think about anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen can be beneficial. Radiation as a treatment

44


By Tracee Sioux

During Breast Cancer Treatment


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modality can actually treat that metastasis pain for weeks or even longer. When we use radiation for bone metastasis we see a reduction in pain in 80-90 percent of our patients.”

For acute pain, Dr. Brown also prescribes opiates like morphine or oxycodone. Often oncologists prefer patients to use Fentanyl Transdermal patches like Duragesic for chronic pain. “The patch, worn on the torso, provides continuous pain relief over 72 hours. We tend to use that more than pills. If they have to take them every four to six hours, we try to find something more long lasting. There is less nausea associated with Fentanyl and a little less constipation.”

Dr. Brown has a whole host of pharmaceuticals and treatments, which she prescribes and advises for patients, depending on the side effects, pain levels and symptoms a patient reports. However, Dr. Brown doesn’t stop at traditional Western medicine and pharmaceuticals; she takes a whole mind, body and spirit approach to treating cancer and cancer treatment side effects.

“I encourage complementary therapies,” Dr. Brown says. “I’m a firm believer that it’s not just about the body. The mind, the body and the spirit are a huge part of how we do treatment. The mind is very important in our ability to heal and trying to manage a lot of the emotions that go with diagnosis and treatment. I definitely think that being able to get in touch with yourself and making those connections with your emotions and your spirit is valuable.

“If you’re running around with a lot of anger or strong emotions that aren’t necessarily positive, those things do effect your life and your ability to heal,” Dr. Brown says.

the power of emotionsDr. Brown sometimes refers patients to her sister-

in-law Melanie Brown’s practice, the Coaching Healing Spectrum. Melanie Brown, a healer, spiri-tual life coach and physical therapist has created a cancer treatment program, Conscious Cancer Journey, which addresses the mind, body and spirit connection.

“People’s beliefs and attitudes contribute to hormones, both stress hormones and cell hormones. When they began the Human Genome Project we expected to find 100,000 different genes. What we found were around 25,000 genes. That’s evidence that we aren’t controlled by our genes the way we

Regina Brown, M.D., oncologist with Cancer Center of the Rockies, Poudre Valley Medical Group


once thought we were. We have 100,000 proteins that turn the genes on and off – terrain, they call it. We all have cancer cells, the question is: why do they start proliferating? Having a lot of stress hormones turns down your immunity. A balanced life dials up immunity and suppresses cancer from proliferating,” explains Brown.

“It has a lot to do with how people think and the way they look at the world,” she continues. “I help them look at their thoughts, their fears. I help them connect with looking at how many people are surviving cancer now. My program can change your attitude and viewpoint, help you get out of the fear and learn to access the parts of the brain where you create the positive attitudes, which releases hormones for cell repair.”

About 20 years ago, Brown worked with a patient who was termed “terminal” with metastatic breast cancer that had spread to her brain, liver and bones. “I thought my job was to help her die,” Brown recalls. The patient uncovered childhood abuse that she hadn’t previously been consciously aware of during work with Brown. Once she dealt with the emotions around the trauma her tumors miraculously vanished within four months. Twenty years later she is alive, well and cancer-free.

“This work connects you to your highest self. It helps you find a way to move out of the fear and you have power again. That does effect your abil-ity to enhance your own immunity and decrease effects of the cancer,” Brown explains.

Acupuncture’s Benefits“Chinese medicine really rocks,” says Janet

Yelowchan. Yelowchan, the oncology counselor at Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH) is a licensed acupunc-turist, licensed professional counselor and addictions counselor. PVH cancer patients are referred to her when diagnosed and she helps them explore the variety of options for treatment. She also has a private acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and psy-chotherapy practice, Medicine Buddha Clinic in Fort Collins.

“Really the patient heads the team, what suits her life and suits her beliefs is what matters,”

Acupuncturist Janet Yelowchan eases the side effects of treatment in cancer patients such as

nausea and peripheral neuropathy.


Yelowchan says. “The oncologist coordinates things but they can’t be the expert at everything. You get the physical therapist in, the psychotherapist, the massage therapist, sometimes you incorporate other sorts of energy medicine like Reiki or healing touch massage, and everyone works together and everyone communicates. Don’t forget nutritionists and naturopaths who are very educated about how to use food and supplements as medicine. We do that in Chinese Medicine too.

“Breast cancer treatment can take nine months,” Yelowchan continues. “What Chinese Medicine and acupuncture often do is minimize and negate some of the nausea and stimulate the immune system. The woman’s fatigue is less, a lot of times they keep working and it allows them to have more of a life.”

“Acupuncture and Chinese medicine improves liver functions, toxicity, metabolism and helps patients get through their therapy so much easier and their recovery is much quicker,” says Elizabeth Knapp, a licensed acupuncturist and registered nurse at Source Point Community Acupuncture.

“I’ve had people who have not had sensation for years as a result of neuropathy that have gotten sensation back after a few weeks of treatment. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system and helps alleviate pain. Breast cancer patients have pain but we usually treat them for nausea and fatigue or because their blood cell count was too low for further treatment,” Knapp notes. “There are a specific number of pressure points that have been shown to increase white blood cell count and increase immunity. We also use Moxabustion, we take mug wart and burn it over certain points, it never touches the skin, but holding it over certain points has been shown to increase white blood cell counts.”

massage therapy for sleepKathleen Michie, oncology massage therapy

program coordinator at PVH, is a massage therapist and physical therapist.

“A great deal of literature shows that massage helps restful sleep, pain relief, nausea control, decreases fatigue, distress and helps people feel more content.”

Practitioners should be trained in treating specific cancers, Michie cautions.

“Depending on type of cancer, treatment and blood levels, there are different ways we modify the massage. I may change the pressure or depth of the massage. If the platelet count is too low it could cause bleeding so we must be very careful. Or if the patient is undergoing radiation treatment some massage lotions have metals in them that

Massage therapy can help with sleep, pain relief and nausea control.

48Lydia’s STYLE Magazine4848

could interfere with the radiation.”Massage can be a great source of pain relief,

especially for neuropathy. Neuropathy, resulting from chemotherapy, sometimes causes so much pain and discomfort some patients may consider discontinuing treatment.

“I’ve had patients tell me the massage, the 30 minutes with less pain, is the only thing that allows them to continue treatment,” Michie says. “For those patients, I can teach their family members to administer the relief and it helps them get through the hard times. Right now PVH offers complimentary massages for all of our in-patients. We’ve given over 3,000 massages. Some of these massages are given to family members. It helps relieve the patient’s stress knowing their family members are taken care of.”

the medical marijuana AlternativeSome breast cancer patients benefit from medi-

cal marijuana, especially for symptoms like pain, nausea, loss of appetite, depression, and inability to rest, relax and sleep.

If breast cancer patients are nauseous, achy, can’t sleep and have no appetite, medical marijuana – known to make people relaxed, drowsy, settle the stomach and give people the munchies – might be just the trick, says Janet Kramer, caregiver at 3 Rising Phoenix Medicinals.

Depending on the symptoms, Kramer will suggest different strains of marijuana to the cancer patient.

“Not every strain will help reduce nausea. There are some strains that have a reputation for being good for nausea like Blueberry,” Kramer says. “One of the biggest distinctions in the strains would be that the Sativa strain tends to be more upbeat, causing the patient to feel happy and energetic, and the Indica is more likely to make you relax and go to sleep. Most are crosses between the two. You might buy more than one strain, one for day and one for night.

“For pain, canna butter is what many patients prefer because the it’s easy to control the dosing, patients report longer effects and it doesn’t give you an immediate high peak and then a rapid decline,” continues Kramer. “A lot of patients prefer to use a vaporizer so it’s not like smoking a cigarette. It’s a special device which heats cannabis to a certain temperature until it reaches a vaporization point and then the vapor is what is breathed in.”

Medical marijuana eases pain and nausea, increases appetite and aids sleep, according to Janet Kramer,

caregiver at 3 Rising Phoenix Medicinals.


49

Kramer keeps notes, like a doctor’s medical records, to record which strains had what impact on patients. This helps in the trial and error process of determining dosing, strain impact and symptom relief.

“I think there is so much controversy surrounding medical marijuana, I personally don’t give licenses for it,” says Dr. Brown. “But I have several patients that are on it. I think there probably is a role for symptom management, but just like anything else there is always that abuse potential and excuse potential. I encourage patients to seek out a pro-vider that will give them a license and try it if that is something they are interested in.”

lifestyle changesLoveland resident Heather Janssen, get born

magazine editor-in-chief, has Stage 4 breast cancer, currently in remission. Janssen said her main side effects of treatment were fatigue and depression.

“Exercise is the biggest thing to manage aches and pains and depression,” Janssen said. “I didn’t find my naturopath until long after my treatment was over. Mine has been super-supportive. I think there are a lot of misconcep-tions about naturopathy. She has great ideas about how to reorient your body. I would advise patients to do it initially.”

“There is so much research now about get-ting the white foods like sugars and flour out of the diet and getting more veggies like greens and kale [into your diet]. They are anti-angio-genesis foods – foods that shrink the blood vessels, which allow cancers to grow. The right foods have been shown to help in healing and immunity,” Melanie Brown says, echoing the importance of a food guru.

“Find a good therapist, a talk therapist, to help you deal with the emotions of it,” Janssen also advises. “Get different opinions from lots of oncologists before you decide what treatment plan to do. Find someone detail-oriented who wants to help you assimilate all the information in an executive summary so that you can make the best decisions. Also, outsource things like childcare, meals and cleaning if you can.”

In other words, when people offer to help say “yes.”

Tracee Sioux is a Fort Collins writer. She can be found at TheGirlRevolution.com and www.linkedin.com/in/traceesioux.


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Pilates Rehabilitation After Surgery By Angeline Grenz

The journey to healing after breast cancer doesn’t end when the mastectomy or breast reconstruction scars have healed. In fact, without proper rehabilitation and physical therapy after any surgery, mobility can become impaired to the point of loss of function.

O ften, loss of mobility begins as a protec-tive reaction to the healing process, and it is not until later that many women real-

ize they have lost healthy functioning. Incisions take approximately 16 weeks to fully heal. However, after that initial healing, physical therapy can commence to prevent permanent loss of function.

“Movement is the key to lifelong health,” says Serene Rene’ Calkins, physical therapist, Pilates Rehabili-tation Practitioner and owner of Art & Science Physical Therapy and Pilates in Fort Collins. “But women who have had breast cancer surgery are often so happy to be alive and healthy that they cut themselves short [on the healing process].”

Calkins says it is not unusual for her to work with women who had mastectomies 15 or 20 years ago. After years of not being able to move their shoulders or neck freely, they finally contact Calkins for therapy.

“Usually, they come to me because they just want

to be able to pick up their grandchild, brush their hair or fasten a seatbelt easily,” she says. “But after they begin to regain motion, they want more.”

Calkins is a manual therapist – her main tools to help her patients are her hands. She works with any patient who has surgery to first address the disturbed and restricted movement caused by scar tissue. During surgery, fascia – the layers of connective tissue through-out the body – is cut. As healing progresses, scar tissue forms, further impairing the smooth movement of the fascial tissue.

“The tissue becomes bound down and function is impaired,” says Calkins. After a while, the body compensates for the scar tissue by reducing mobility in one area and overusing the muscles in another area. For women who have had mastectomies and breast reconstruction, the impairments often include shoulders that roll forward and a head that tilts down toward the shoulder.

The first step in the healing process is to help lengthen the scar tissue, allowing it to once again become pliable. Manual therapy can help accomplish this. Once the tissue is released, however, “it doesn’t mean you get normal movement back,” Calkins says.

“This is where Pilates is just magical,” she adds. Pilates uses all forms of natural movement – flex and extend, rotate, and side bend motions. Because Pilates engages so many movements, it helps retrain the body and eliminate faulty movement patterns.

Because Pilates is about proper form and movement, therapy can start slowly with very minor movements, using specialized Pilates equipment such as the reformer or chair. Initially, movements are aided by the use of springs. As a patient grows stronger, the springs are removed.

“Pilates coaxes movement from you,” says Calkins. The movements work very differently from weight

training, which tends to produce shorter, tighter move-ments. After a Pilates rehabilitation session, a patient will often feel a sense of length, taller and more open. Once the body learns the new movement patterns, mobility is restored.

A Pilates rehabilitation practitioner receives special-ized training, and must already have formal medical training, says Calkins. Calkins, who has been a physi-cal therapist for 20 years, uses Pilates rehabilitation in addition to an array of traditional therapeutic exercises.

Calkins is adding a second physical therapist to her practice and has initiated a Functional Fitness program this month that offers anyone the opportunity to come in for an evaluation to uncover deficits in strength, flexibility or function. After the evaluation, a program of fitness training that works to achieve your fitness goals is recommended that can be carried out at Art & Science, or through another location.

For more information about Art & Science Physical Therapy and Pilates, please call (970) 472-1775 or visit their website, www.ArtandSciencePhysicalTherapy.com.

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Common sense advice includes: use sen-sitive skin products, protect your skin from the sun (especially if medication

has given you a heightened sensitivity), keep your skin well hydrated, and talk with your doctor about skin irritations.

All skin products are not created equal, how-ever. Knowing what ingredients to look for in a product and what to avoid can be a challenge. Quality products are available, but consumers are charged with being mindful of labels and knowing what products best suit their specific needs. Renaud Naturals, a Loveland skin care product manufacturer, is dedicated to provid-ing the most natural, organic products around.

Michele Renaud Slavik founded Renaud Natu-rals in 1997 as part of her quest to access products free of petrochemicals and needless preservatives. Slavik, who studied cosmetic chemistry, formu-lates all her products in-house. She uses the best natural ingredients she can find to make a wealth of products for specific skin issues ranging from sensitive skin to acne to hyper pigmentation.

Because her products are specifically

for Your SkinBy Angeline Grenz

Natural Products

The exposure to harsh chemicals and amplified sensitivities that are common during cancer treatments can be especially hard on our largest organ, our skin. Rashes, itching and dryness are common side effects of cancer treatment. Beyond that, there are pressure sores and radiation burns. How can you protect your skin during treatment?

54


formulated they are safe for sensitive skin, can help improve the appearance of scars and are deeply moisturizing to the skin.

Slavik sells her Renaud Naturals line at a retail location in Loveland and at stores such as the Fort Collins Food Co-op, Whole Foods and Vitamin Cottage. Private label products sold internation-ally make up approximately half her business.

“Our products are so pure, they are really good for cancer patients,” says Slavik. “Our shampoo can help with hair growth, and our herbal balm works well on chemotherapy or radiation sores.” Another popular product for battling skin discomfort from cancer treatment: Renaud’s hydrating mist with aloe, water, mango juice and vitamin E. “Clients tell me how good the mist feels on burnt skin.”

Pure olive squalane, sold by the ounce, works well on burns, bruises, eczema, dermatitis and cuts. It is touted to speed wound healing and have antibacterial properties.

Slavik advises when choosing a skin care line to avoid parabens, a commonly used preservative in many skin care products. Additionally, she says to look for organic, natural ingredients as much as possible and says a loose rule of thumb is, “If you can’t pronounce it, most of the time it is not good for you.”

Since even the large organic skin care lines must go through a longer manufacturing and shipping process they often require additional preservatives, Slavik warns. She says because her products are made in Loveland through a simple process, they have the added benefit of very few preservatives and are the freshest products available.

Slavik continues to formulate new products all the time. She hopes to eventually gain a certified organic label for Renaud Naturals.

Renaud Naturals 101 East Fifth Street, Loveland(970) 667-1433www.renaudnaturals.com.Retail hours:Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Michele Slavik, creater of Renaud Naturals, at her retail and manufacturing location in Loveland.


55

forOptionsBreast Reconstruction

By Kay Rios

While breast cancer research is rapidly moving forward, traditional breast reconstruction approaches are still achieving excellent aesthetic results with high overall patient satisfaction ratings.

“Throughout history plastic surgeons have been known for thinking outside the box to solve com-plex problems,” says Warren Schutte, M.D. at Front Range Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

“As a result, we’ve seen tremendous technological advances in reconstructive techniques, many of which can be applied to the breast reconstruction arena. Although it’s critical that a surgeon have these techniques in their arsenal, new does not always mean better.”

Over the past few decades, many plastic surgery centers started using micro-surgical techniques, he says. “Plastic surgeons have developed complex techniques for harvesting tissue from multiple loca-tions to reconstruct the breast.” These techniques have been successful in many patients, Dr. Schutte says, but the trend is going back to the tried and true.

“Plastic surgeons are using what has worked for years and has made patients happy with their

outcome,” Schutte says. For example, “using implant based reconstruction is easy both from a surgical and a patient perspective and provides great results.”

He refers to the use of tissue expanders and implants, a practice with successful history behind it. The tissue expander is a balloon-like device con-structed from elastic silicone. Following a mastec-tomy, a tissue expander is placed under the muscle of the chest wall. “After the area heals, about three weeks out, I then inflate the tissue expander slowly with sterile saline fluid each week until the breast reaches the optimal volume desired by the patient. It usually takes about four to five weeks to attain this size.” Once that’s accomplished, the expander is surgically replaced with either silicone gel or saline-filled implants.

The newer micro-surgical techniques, like the deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) or

Warren Schutte, M.D., consults with a patient about her options for breast reconstruction.

56


FeelBeautiful


5757

superior gluteal artery perforator flap (SGAP) pro-cedures, frequently involve replacing the breast tissue removed during the mastectomy with living tissue from the abdomen or, in some cases, from the upper buttock. These relocated tissues are kept alive by small arterial branches that are often reconstructed to their new bodily position under a microscope. The tissue collected is then surgically transformed into a new breast mound.

Another approach is to use the latissimus dorsi flap, taking muscle and skin from the back and tunneling it to the mastectomy site. It remains attached to the donor site, leaving blood supply intact. The muscle flap can sometimes be used to reconstruct the breast mound but, more often, it only provides the muscle and tissue necessary to cover and support a breast implant. This technique is commonly used when radiation treatment is required to treat the chest wall.

Dr. Schutte also uses the transverse rectus abdo-minus myocutaneous (TRAM) flap procedure, with muscle, skin and fat from the abdomen rotated into the chest. However, he says, “It’s only appropriate for, and looks good in, about 10 percent of the

This reconstruction procedure takes muscle, skin and fat from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast.

tRANSvERSE RECtUS ABDoMiNUS MyoCUtANEoUS (tRAM) FLAP

PRoCEDURES

1.

1.

58


population. You can’t be too big or too small. If someone comes in with the perfect build, I would certainly consider using a TRAM flap.”

Breast reconstruction patients are typically referred by their general surgeon, and Dr. Schutte begins the process with an initial consultation to go over notes and radiology reports, looking at the specific kind of cancer and what that means relative to the patient’s overall treatment plan. He then discusses the risks, the healing process, post surgery care and patient expectations. “Then the next decision is if they will have immediate or delayed reconstruction.”

With immediate reconstruction, the plastic sur-geon is present at the mastectomy and begins the rebuilding process at that time. Delayed reconstruc-tion means beginning the reconstruction at any period of time other than the same day as their mastectomy. Frequently, this time delay allows completion of additional treatments like chemo-therapy and radiation. However, Dr. Schutte says he commonly reconstructs women that may have had their mastectomy over 20 years ago. Many of these women are unaware of their options.

This breast reconstruction technique takes muscle and skin from the back to reconstruct the breast.

2.

2.


59Illustrations courtesy of Mentor® Worldwide LLC

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Dr. Schutte notes that both immediate and delayed approaches are both highly successful, although most literature supports immediate reconstruction with the main benefit being related to the psychological well being of the patient.

“Many women just feel better if they get started on the process right away. If you choose to delay reconstruction, it can be harder to move forward with reconstruction later with the recovery of your recent mastectomy still fresh in your mind.” The recovery from delayed reconstruction is still fairly quick, he adds.

Regardless of the reconstructive technique or timing required, Dr. Schutte says that the idea is to restore a sense of wholeness in the patient. Breast reconstruction, however, can go beyond this idea. “When an individual has facial fractures after a car accident, the goal is to put them back together identical to their facial structure prior to

Mastectomy scar

BREASt iMPLANt RECoNStRUCtioN WitH tiSSUE ExPANDER

Tissue expander is surgically replaced with breast implant

1.

3.


the accident. But breast reconstruction allows a different thinking. Even though the idea of cancer can be scary and depressing, patients often times leave a consultation excited about their options. The approach I use is similar to the approach I have with my cosmetic breast patients. And why wouldn’t it be? Cancer survivors should look their very best too. It’s not just about rebuilding and reconstruction; it’s also about giving the patient a look they feel good about and that often means having the opposing breast worked on as well.”

Dr. Schutte often reconstructs the non-cancer breast at the time of mastectomy using cosmetic breast enhancement techniques like augmentation, reduction and breast lifting. Dr. Schutte is then able to reconstruct the cancer side to match an already optimized opposite breast. “We can certainly try to match the other breast as it exists but, at 60 or 70 years of age, most folks may not want to

Breast with tissue expander that is surgically placed in the chest

Final result with implant

2.

4.

61

Illustrations courtesy of Mentor® Worldwide LLC

match the other side,” he says. “Gravity affects us all. It’s about looking at the whole picture. I treat it like any cosmetic patient, and most of the time it’s not about recreating something similar to what they had, but what they would really like to have.”

Dr. Schutte realizes breast reconstruction is an individual choice. “Not every woman gets recon-struction but I personally can’t imagine having a part of your body all your life and then suddenly not having it. Most women feel better about their body image after breast reconstruction. It is impor-tant to note that the cancer side reconstruction as well as the opposite breast surgery performed for symmetry is almost always covered by insurance.”

Dr. Schutte is open to whatever choices his patients make. “It’s a very tailored approach,” he says. “We approach this the same way we approach all of the other procedures we offer in our office.” Front Range Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, in fact, offers a full range of procedures beyond reconstruction including all facial and skin rejuvena-tion surgery, which may be performed in the office, and breast enhancement, tummy tucks, and body contouring procedures.

In every case, he says, “I look at the problem, study the anatomy and listen to the patient’s aes-thetic goals, then decide with the patient the best surgical approach to reach those goals.”

Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer in Fort Collins. She writes for a variety of publications and is cur-rently at work on a collection of creative non-fiction and a mystery novel.

Dr. Schutte at the Fort Collins office of Front Range Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

62


Guay’s second bout with breast cancer was a challenge physically and emotionally. “The second diagnosis was much harder because I didn’t have the determination and hope I did the first time.”

Her second diagnosis came a few years after the first, in November of 2008, when another lump was found in her breast and a grapefruit-sized tumor on her ovary. At that time, Guay turned to her husband Dave for help with her medical decisions, feeling like she didn’t have the strength to get through scheduling and treatments a second time. Her parents and sisters, who had all moved to Fort Collins for various reasons after her first illness, along with many friends, were able to help the Guays when they needed them most.

During her second cancer treatment she was told by one surgeon that he might not be able to get all of the cancer out with surgery. “He was very negative about the procedure and the prognosis,” she says. “My oncologist recommended a more experienced surgeon who had a more positive attitude and who probably saved my life.”

Guay says she also reached out to organizations, such as the Avon Foundation for Women and Hope Lives, that supported her throughout the process.

Carol Lacert, Guay’s mother, said the Hope Lives volunteers stepped in to do whatever they could to help. Volunteers provided house cleaning, massages, wigs and many other services that helped not just Guay, but her whole family.

“We were so thankful for all their generosity and kindness,” Lacert says. “The volunteers took some of the burden off of us, so we could be with Dave, Marci and the children. And it was good to have people that encouraged and guided us along the way.”

Her daughter’s experience with cancer brought their family together, friends closer and created new friendships through these organizations, says Lacert. She and her daughters and friends formed a group called the Pink Yoyos that were Guay’s cheerleaders throughout her treatments.

Lacert encourages other people going through similar experiences with a loved one to reach out to foundations that can make the journey easier. Her other advice is to talk to each other, open up and be honest about your feelings, and never be afraid to include laughter in the conversations.

“Believe it or not, we did lots of giggling during both illnesses,” she said. “Along with the fear and lots of tears, there was laughter that helped brighten the long hard days of Marci’s recovery.”

Mother and daughter agree that even though it’s hard remembering the dark times they went through, they now feel stronger, and Guay says she feels proud to be a cancer survivor and able to help others going through the experience.

“Even though I am cancer free,” Guay says, “cancer is still part of our lives. Not in a negative way, but in many positive ways.” She says they are all more compassionate. “Even our children have become strong, caring, compassionate young people because of the experience.”

Guay and her family have truly found bright stars in the darkness and are grateful for those that helped them along the way. They give back by being very active in Hope Lives and other cancer foundations.

“We are involved not only because so many won-derful people reached out to help us, but because we find healing in the knowledge that we can be part of helping find a cure for cancer,” she says.

Connie Hein is a freelance writer living in Wind-sor and the author of the Toliver in Time series of children’s books.

continued from p. 18


63

10 Best Day Hikesin northern colorado

By Audrey Springer

this is a moderate-to-difficult 8-mile round trip hike in rocky mountain national park (rmnp). Aspens line the start of the trail, and there are water-falls and lakes further along. dogs are not allowed, and the fee to enter rmnp is $20 per vehicle. Directions: From interstate 25, take highway 34 through loveland and estes park to the Beaver meadows entrance. turn south on Bear lake road and drive approximately 8.5 miles to Glacier Gorge Junction. (www.landscapeimagery.com) Map: www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/maps.htm

this is an easy-to-moderate 7.7-mile round trip hike in rmnp. peaks such as castle rock and the Gable tower overhead, with rock features, a log bridge and mist-spewing waterfall to provide entertainment for kids. dogs are not allowed, and the fee to enter rmnp is $20 per vehicle. Directions: the Fern lake trailhead is located 4.1 miles from the Beaver meadows entrance station (located on highway 34 past estes park). immediately after the entrance station, turn left on Bear lake road and travel 2 miles to moraine park road. turn right on moraine park road and follow signs to the cub lake trailhead. continue past the cub lake trailhead until it dead-ends at the Fern lake trailhead. (www.protrails.com) Map: www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/maps.htm

this is an easy 2.5-mile round trip multi-use hike west of loveland. the main attraction is a series of rock formations, and there are trail markers that lead the way. dogs are allowed on leashes, and there is no fee for use. Directions: From the intersections of highways 34 and 287 in loveland, drive 4.4 miles. turn right (north) on a road marked by both larimer county open space and hidden Valley estates. parking lot on the left. (www.landscapeimagery.com) Map: www.larimer.org/parks/brochure_bbone.pdf

this is an easy-to-moderate 1.8-mile hike just north of estes park in rmnp. the lake bowl is granite that has been carved out by the rain, with a beach suited for picnics. there may also be elk bugling in the area. dogs are not allowed, and the fee to enter rmnp is $20 per vehicle. Directions: to reach the lumpy ridge trailhead: From us 36 in downtown estes park, drive north on macGregor Avenue. shortly after crossing us highway 34, macGregor Avenue will turn into devils Gulch road. continue on devils Gulch road bypassing the gateway to the macGregor ranch area. less than a mile later, turn off at the trailhead, marked by an nps sign. turn left (north) onto the trailhead access road which dead ends several hundred yards from devils Gulch road. (www.protrails.com)Map: (Lumpy ridge trails): www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/maps.htm

GLacier GorGe DeviL’s BackBone

GeM Lake traiL

soapstone prairie, north of Fort collins, features miles of multi-use trails, including lindenmeier trail, an accessible-grade trail that leads to an over-look. the area is full of historic interest, including archeological artifacts that may date back more than 10,000 years. dogs are not allowed, and there is no fee for entrance. Directions: From Fort collins, travel north on state hwY 1/terry lake road. turn left (toward waverly) on county road 15. travel north and turn right onto rawhide Flats road and take it 6 miles to the entrance station. (www.fcgov.com) Map: www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/pdf/soapstone-brochure.pdf

soapstone prairie naturaL area

Fern Lake

this is a moderate 4.9-mile trail west of loveland that, despite its name, leads to the summit of sheep mountain. there is also the easy 1-mile Foothills nature trail that splits off at about .25 mile, suitable for less experienced hikers and families, that includes educational markers. dogs are allowed on leashes, and there is no fee for use. Directions: From loveland highways 34 and 287, take highway 34 west for 13.5 miles to the round mt. trailhead, across from Viestenz-smith picnic Area. (www.landscapeimagery.com) Map: www.cityofloveland.us/parksrec/sat_topo.pdf

this is an easy-to-moderate 2.2-mile hike in rmnp. the trail passes the Big thompson river and travels along moraine park, a meadow created by glaciers. elk and bears may be in the area. dogs are not allowed, and the fee to enter rmnp is $20 per vehicle. Directions: From interstate 25, take highway 34 through loveland and estes park to the Beaver meadows entrance. Just beyond the entrance gate, turn south on Bear lake rd., drive a few miles south and turn right on the road to the morraine park campground. Follow the road .25 mile and veer left on the road to Fern lake. the cub lake trailhead is marked along the left side a few hundred yards down the road. (www.landscapeimagery.com) Map: www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/maps.htm

this is a 6.8-mile easy multi-use trail in the pineridge natural Area, just to the west of Fort collins and parallel with horsetooth reservoir. Features include trail markers, dixon reservoir and possible prairie dog sightings. dogs are allowed on leashes, and there is no fee for use. Directions: directions to pineridge natural Area: From the corner of college (us 287) and horsetooth road go west on horsetooth approximately three miles. the road ends at the trailhead. (www.mtbr.com) Map: www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/pdf/foothills-trail-brochure.pdf

horsetooth mountain open space, west of Fort collins, features a vari-ety of multi-use trails and area landmarks. hikers may choose to travel the easy horsetooth Falls trail, or take on the moderate horsetooth rock trail. dogs are allowed on a leash, and the fee for one-day entrance is $6 per vehicle. Directions: From harmony and taft hill road (in Fort collins) turn west onto county road 38e. the entrance to south Bay is at the south end of the reservoir. continue west on county road 38e about 2.5 miles from the south Bay entrance. the parking area and trailhead are on the north side of the road. (www.larimer.org/naturalresources)Map: http://www.co.larimer.co.us/parks/htmp_map.htm

rounD Mountain traiL FoothiLLs traiL

horsetooth Mountain open space

this is a 2.8-mile moderate hike and horse trail southeast of estes park with interpretive signs, leading to homestead meadows, the site of historic abandoned settlements built in the late 1800’s. dogs are allowed on leashes, and there is no fee for use. Directions: lion Gulch trailhead is located on hwy. 36, thirteen miles west of lyons and 8 miles east of estes park. From estes park travel to the 8-mile marker on hwy. 36. the trailhead is on the west side of the road. (www.larimer.org/naturalresources) Map: www.ushikingtrails.com/mediawiki/topos/liongulch.pdf

Lion GuLch traiL

cuB Lake

northern colorado in the fall has some amazing scenery. With the temperatures cooling off and the leaves changing color, it is a great time to get outdoors and take a hike.

Cups looks at a woman’s life as told through her bras – from training bra to push up to bra burning to nursing bra to mastectomy bra – hit-ting both the high and low points as marriage, child birth, disease and aging occur. Mirroring the social changes of the past few decades, the play interweaves the personal journey through those times and the stages in a woman’s life.

Sheram, who is currently the playwright in residence at Bas Bleu Theatre in Fort Collins, developed the idea while living in California. She was approached a few years ago by a sculptor wanted to do an exhibit on breast sculptures.

“He wanted a live performance piece for the gallery opening,” she says. “I wrote two or three of the bras and so from there, based on com-ments I heard from people and thinking about it

more, I decided to make it a full length piece.”She developed it into an hour and half play

by reflecting on her life and interviewing other women.

“I used a chronology that has the character graduating in 1964 so that I could get into the college unrest as part of the timeline,” she says. “It certainly has autobiographical elements (Sheram graduated from Fort Collins High in 1965) but I went beyond that because I wanted to tell every woman’s story from that generation. Parts are very much my story but a lot of it is not at all me.”

For example, Sheram doesn’t have kids and she didn’t experience breast cancer although she is a survivor of stomach cancer. “That scene is written from my experience, but since it wasn’t breast cancer I interviewed people who had that

It’s no small matter to find one defining symbol that represents the stages of life and tells a shared story for many women. But playwright Joni Sheram has found the perfect means for doing just that in her creation of the one-woman show, Cups.

Stages of Life in CupsBy Kay Rios

66



67perspective and got their exact words.”

The theater is a familiar realm for Sheram. “I started Cups in 2006 but I’ve been writing forever. I graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in theater and taught drama in high school, so I kept my finger in the pie so to speak. I’ve also written a lot of scripts and performed with a murder mystery company writing pieces for the company.”

Sheram has gained a well-deserved notoriety as a playwright through Cups. The Francisco Theater Company in La Veta, Colorado, performed the world premiere in 2009. That was followed by performances in Sedona, Denver, Tucson, Canon City, Manitou Springs and even New Zealand.

“The rule of thumb is that if a playwright can get 10,000 eyes on a script in one year, the potential for going national is huge,” Sheram says. “It took off from the very first show. Every time it was performed, I got two or three other engagements from it. I first did it at Bas Bleu in February 2009 and then came back in June of 2009 because it was such a hit.”

The rule of thumb played out and Cups has gone national, licensed by the Theater League. It will open in Los Angeles at the end of this year, will be performed early in 2011 in Chicago and a show is in the works for spring 2011 in New York.

An excerpt from Cups will also be performed for the Hope Lives Gala event on October 23 at the Hilton in Fort Collins. Wendy Ishii, founder and artistic director of Bas Bleu, will perform the piece. (Ticket information for the Hope Lives Gala is available at www.HopeLives.org.)

Ishii likes the everywoman feel to the piece. “When I first saw the script, I felt I could have written this play because of the universal sense of it,” she says. “I think everyone who reads it feels that way. The laughs and tears of recognition speak to its truths. It’s just amazing.”

The other aspect to the play is that it raises awareness and creates an understanding, Ishii says. “It’s raised over $100,000 for breast cancer research and I’m happy to be part of that. Part of our founding principle is to raise awareness about issues important to this community and this certainly fits that mission.”

While Cups provides a female perspective, there’s value for both genders.

“If I would pick one word I hear most often to describe it, that word would be ‘authentic,’” says Sheram. “People of my generation are especially moved by it and say ‘It’s my story.’ Men also really like it and when they see it, they laugh because it’s their generation, too – they were the ones trying to cop a feel. One show had about 10 men sitting together in the second row. Basically, a book club of women had seen it the week before and they ordered their husbands to come the next week and I think someone was taking roll. I think the order was: ‘If you want to understand us, you will see this.’”

Sheram is working on a companion piece from the male perspective. “It’s about ‘Wheels’ and is a man telling his story through the wheels in his life – his bicycle, his first car. I’ve gotten so many stories from men: I’m in the culling process.”

For more information on Cups, visit www.cupsaplay.com.

Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer in Fort Collins. She writes for a variety of publications and is cur-rently at work on a collection of creative non-fiction and a mystery novel.

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June 27 :: Jay’s Bistro :: Fort collinsMore than 200 guests enjoyed an evening of great music at this 6th annual piano soiree. This concert series, dedicated to the memory of Abby French, has

touched thousands of guests since its inception in 1997 and has raised more than $200,000 for two nonprofit agencies that were instrumental in Abby’s short

life. Proceeds benefit Pathways Hospice and their programs to provide physical, emotional and spiritual care for patients, their families and caregivers, and Respite

Care and their programs dedicated to caring for children with developmental disabilities and special needs, and providing respite to their families.

Dwight & Dana Sailer

June 19 :: eight Area homes :: Fort collins More than 1,100 gardening enthusiasts enjoyed perfect weather at this 28th annual popular self-guided

tour of local home gardens. Each featured garden was unique and offered plenty of color with a variety

of plantings and provided attendees many ideas for enhancing their outdoor spaces. Homeowners,

nursery representatives and master gardeners were on hand to answer questions throughout the day.

This signature event helped to raise more than $33,000 for local community programs including the

PSD Snack Program, to help provide healthy snacks to children in need, and the ABLE Women program

designed to help women get on the path of self-sufficiency.

Michael Smiley, Midge Toomey

Jim & Lisa Rabold Cindy Pickens

Deanna McCrery, Julie Radtke, Paige Radtke

Kathy & Steve Price

Dawn Byers, Sonia ImMasche

Suzanne Brazil, Mims Harris Jack & Sandra Lundt

Jeanette Meyer, Jaye Powers

Marie Legare

JUNIOR LEAGUE TERRACE & GARDEN TOUR

ABBY’S S IGNATURE CONCERT SERIES


69This custom-built home for Linda and Phil Myers overlooks Windsor Lake. The home, completed in March 2010, was a dream come true for Linda & Phil. Linda grew up in the area and was anxious to build their custom home there.

The home's overall design was inspired by Tuscan architecture and trips to Southern Europe. The home is open and airy; the warm earth tones in the wall colors, tile and wood invite in family and friends. The home features a dramatic sandstone fireplace in the living room that vaults up towards the ceiling, hand-picked tile throughout the kitchen with rich copper brown granite, stainless steel appliances, custom knotty alder cabinetry from Milarc Cabinents, and an adjoining pantry and wine bar. The home's baths and bedrooms echo the theme with custom tile and design features including granite, alder cabinetry, a hammered copper sink and cozy fireplaces.

remodeler. Despite the recession, they have kept very busy doing large remodels and additions for past homebuyers and new clients• Rudkin also offers commercial construction in Northern Colorado. They have been family owned and operated for 28 years and plan to continue the family tradition with two sons currently attending Colorado State University as construction management majors, each specializing in different areas of expertise.

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2010 REALIT IES CUP INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

July 12ptarmigan country club :: Fort collinsMore than 150 golfers and sponsors convened for a great

day of friendly competition. Golfers played in a scramble

format and participated in golf games vying to win

hole-in-one prizes. An awards banquet treated golfers

to great food, a silent auction of sports memorabilia

from collegiate and professional sports teams, and prize

drawings. More than $27,000 was raised to benefit

Realities For Children’s Emergency Fund, which provides

services and assistance to abused and neglected children

in Larimer County.

Dan Medeiros, Andy Conradson, Kerry Grimes, Dixie ZinkLand Title Guarantee Company Team

Craig Secher, Jennifer Trimble, Todd Harding, Kathleen George, Cheri McLaughlin, Michelle RahmComcast Spotlight Team (2010 Realities Cup Women’s Division Champions)

Steve Stoltz, Dan Schwartz, Chris Schwartz and Brandon Tompkins – Eclipse Energy Team (2010 Realities Cup Champions)

2010 REALIT IES CUP INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT I

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RE/MAX agents support the fight against breast cancer, and they want

to help you buy or sell a Home for the Cure. Participating agents

pledge to make a donation to Susan G. Kamen for the Cure® on your

behalf. Contact your RE/MAX agent for more information, or visit

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HUMAN RACE

WILD WEST MS WALKABOUT (WWMSW)

August 1 :: old town square :: Fort collinsThe 27th annual Human Race got underway on a perfect Colorado morning as more than 500 walkers/runners participated in a variety of races including a 10K,

5K and two Healthy Kids Club Series runs. An awards ceremony and prize giveaways followed the races. Proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Larimer County

and their mission to provide an environment that helps young people reach their full potential.

Lou Rotola (founder of the Human Race), Bridgette Lococo, Allison Lococo, Briana Cathcart, Randall Lococo

Stephanie Del Grande, Brenda Tuttle, Gayle Timm Kristin Bohlender, Scout Bohlender

Steven Hannem

August 20-22 edora park & local neighborhoods :: Fort collins The Grand Finale of the

5th annual WWMSW

provided participants,

including some with MS,

a bittersweet moment as

they crossed the finish

line and completed the

50-mile course over three

days. Since its inception,

the event has enlisted

hundreds of volunteers

and crew to help scores of

walkers who participated

in the MS fundraiser.

Nearly $80,000 was raised

this year, bringing the five-

year total to $460,000. All

proceeds from the five

WWMSW events have

gone to the Colorado

Chapter of the National

MS Society’s research

and wellness programs,

support the Rocky

Mountain MS Center,

and go directly to people

in need who live with MS

through the Walkabout

Grants Programs. The Schulte Family-Quinn, Robert, Nicholas

Josh Nichols, Samantha Sclafani, Kurtis & Melissa Hooley, Valerie & Derek Heys

Beth & Lyle Zevenbergen

Lester Murray, The Stockover Family – Maureen, Butch, Patrice, Alexa, AndreaRandy Carter, Steve Larson, Gregg Blew, Ed Dyas

Summer & Alan WeiselKendra Driemeyer, Cheri McCullough, Sharon Aaland, Stephanie Richards, Judy Harrigal (Heart–n-Sole Team)

72


73I

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At Heart Center of the Rockies, our goal is to keep adult athletes healthy, active and safe.

That's why we offer a sports cardiology program that screens athletes for heart problems that increase the risk of heart attack during vigorous exercise. Catching these problems can mean the difference between running the extra mile or sitting on the sidelines.

Make an appointment with sports cardiologist C. Patrick Green, M.D., today. Call 970.221.1000 in Fort Collins or 970.624.1800 in Loveland.

~ Dr. C. Patrick Green

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24-HouR

• Sleep restfully for 7 to 8 hours, with a consistent schedule, falling asleep and waking up at the same time every day. Kick the kids out of your bed and turn off the television.

• Wake up with some sun. Exposure to sunlight before noon helps maintain the body’s natural circadian rhythm for better sleep, according to the Mayo Clinic. And sunlight just puts you in a better mood; according to a University of Manchester study, the vitamin D from sunlight can improve mental ability as you age.

• Swap out coffee for tea. Ginseng tea is known to have a soothing effect, as well as stimulating the metabolism. Five thousand years of Chinese medicine can’t lie.

• Put down the breakfast burrito and caramel macchiato. Eat a good breakfast of foods that are low-fat, protein-rich and full of complex carbohydrates, such as oatmeal or eggs with whole-wheat toast.

• Driving somewhere for work or errands? Put

some aromatherapy oils in your car. Peppermint and cinnamon reduce anxiety, fatigue and frustration, and increase alertness. The deep breathing doesn’t hurt, either.

• For work in front of a computer, remember to take quick but frequent breaks from the screen. At least once every hour, stretch your arms, get up and walk around, or focus your eyes on a more distant spot, like a wall or out the window.

• Relax during lunch. Set your work aside and just eat.

• Exercise outdoors. Even a five-minute walk can cheer you up, and 20 minutes can boost your mood for 12 hours, according to recent reports. Thirty minutes of daily exercise five days a week, including two days a week of muscle strengthening work, also promotes general health.

• Snack on nuts or other protein-filled foods between meals to maintain steady levels of glucose in the blood.

• Leave work on time. It may be counter-intuitive, but staying late results in less effective time use, because it leaves you more tired and stressed for the next day.

• Dinner should be eaten about three hours before bed. Don’t eat a big, calorie-heavy meal; keep it light on food and alcohol.

• For dessert, indulge your sweet tooth with a high-quality (70 percent cocoa content or higher) dark chocolate treat. In moderate amounts, dark chocolate has been shown to promote heart health.

• To prepare for sleep, reduce stimulation. Turn off the TV and read a fun book, have a bedtime snack, or listen to soft, soothing music.

• When it’s time to sleep, turn off all lights and use a sleep mask or blackout curtains to block outside light you can’t control. Use a white-noise maker, like a fan, or earplugs to block distracting noises. Sweet dreams.

StReSS Relief


Stress can raise blood pressure, cause strokes and ulcers, lead to the development of diabetes, and may be linked to the developmentor progression of cancer. A 2009 study by the American Psychological Association found that 42 percent of Americans say

their stress level is on the rise. Possibly your heart rate has accelerated in response to that statistic.

Take action to cut your stress with these easy to do tips and spend your next 24 hours stress-free.

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2010-09 Lydia's Style Magazine

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