Patient Resource — A Cancer Treatment and Facilities Guide for Patients and Their Families is designed to provide newly diagnosed cancer patients with the information and resources you need to find the best treatment possible for your cancer so you can survive and thrive through treatment and beyond. The guide features information about cancer, cancer treatment, and treatment facilities available in the United States, along with Web-based resources you can access on your own to increase your knowledge. The guide is designed to be comprehensive, informative, and easy to use.  

It all started with an email Kristen Schuerlein received the fall of 2006. She got an email from a woman named Erin. At the time she didn’t know it, but Erin's words would change her, and change the direction of her company. Erin made her realize that not only were several significant women in her life survivors, but that with Affirmawraps, they could not only make a difference in the lives of those touched by breast cancer, they could raise money doing it. Check out the beautiful products at www.affirmagy.com.

AFTER SHOCK: FROM CANCER DIAGNOSIS TO HEALING- a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your way, empowers patients and their families to take charge of all aspects of a cancer experience—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual—to help the body heal. Puja Thomson’s holistic perspective blends conventional, complementary & alternative approaches, with practical suggestions, organizational tools and personal stories. 

The Annie Appleseed Project, a 501 (c)3 non profit corporation, provides information, education, advocacy and awareness for people with cancer, family and friends interested in, complementary, alternative medicine (CAM), natural therapies from the patient perspective. Latest studies continue to show that a majority of cancer patients use some form of CAM.

BeBrightPink.org is a nonprofit organization which supports and educates young women who have the BRAC1 or BRAC2 genetic mutation. These women have an 80% chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. The organization was founded by Lindsay Avner at the beginning of 2007.

“Beautiful Scarves For Beautiful Heads”- A fun, fashionable, and comfortable alternative to wearing a wig.  Beautiful and unusual fabrics for women and girls!  Lots of styling options!!

 

Boyd Silverworks is proud to offer a unique selection of affordable breast cancer awareness jewelry. Mary Pat Boyd, 2-time breast cancer survivor, is a jewelry artist and hopes to provide inspiration cancer patients, survivors and their families through her jewelry. Please click here to visit her website. 

BreastCancerStories.com, a nonprofit organization, provides a free an online community where people touched by breast cancer can communicate with loved ones and with one another while going through treatment.  The website provides breast cancer patients with their own Web address where they can write and upload photos whenever they feel the need to write; friends and family members the ability to visit a patient’s website, follow their story and leave messages of support; a mechanism for new breast cancer patients to search through an index of stories based on age, type of cancer and type of treatment, and find someone similar to them so they don’t feel so alone.

Our Breast Cancer Survivor Medal shows the world "Women Do Survive". The Medal is done in 3 shades of pink. The dark bottom tail is done in a darker pink, symbolic of the dark side of breast cancer. As you come up under the ribbon it starts to lighten in color, symbolizing the light at the end of our treatments. As we turn the corner our ribbon medal is lighter as our days become brighter and we become the "Survivor". You have earned this medal. Wear it proudly to show you fought the battle and "Won". 

Breast Friends is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients. Breast Friends teaches the friends and family of cancer patients specific ways to offer support, helps them understand what the patient is going through, and suggests useful resources for the patient and her family. The message of Breast Friends is that it's never too late to make contact and provide useful and appreciated support to those we love who are facing this terrible disease.

Started by Andrea Roane, news anchor of channel WUSA9 in Washington DC, this program emphasizes awareness and self breast exam on the 9th of every month. Here's how it works:

 

* On the 9th of every month, women starting at the age 20 do a breast self-exam and then call a friend, a "Buddy", to remind her to do the same. Many "buddies" include mothers, daughters, sisters, husbands, and co-workers.

* Women over age 40 should schedule annual mammograms

 

Cancer for Two does tell our story, but it also emphasizes how we handled certain situations, what worked and what didn't, and makes suggestions about how you can get through your own challenges.

This book will inspire you, lift your spirits, and fill you with hope when you realize that there IS another side to that cancer door.

My wife had an amazing attitude during her illness, and I did a pretty good job of caregiving (if I say so myself!).

Experience for yourself an inward journey of deep relaxation and empowering guid ed imagery.  This 25 minute audio experience is a message of hope design ed specifically for cancer patients.  The content was compil ed from my professional experience as a Certifi ed Hypnotherapist and my personal experience as a cancer survivor.  You can enjoy it often as a retreat from the stress and anxiety of facing cancer, and as some welcome relief from the side-effects of treatment.  All cancer patients will benefit regardless of age and background. Listen and download it for free from my website: http://www.growbeyondcancer.com

 

Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings is a listen-to or read-along book for children about cancer. The story line, as told through the eyes of a child, gives a simple and honest picture of cancer through its clear text and beautiful illustrations. Children of all ages, as well as adults, will find comfort in the many messages that flow through the pages of the book along the wings of the butterfly, especially the lesson that teaches children to realize the power they have in being an active and integral part of a loved one's cancer journey. 

City of Hope, an innovative biomedical research, treatment and educational institution, is dedicated to the prevention and cure of cancer and other life-threatening diseases, guided by a compassionate patient-centered philosophy, and supported by a national foundation of humanitarian philanthropy.  Please click here to find out about the services we offer women affected by Breast Cancer, http://www.cityofhope.org/breastcancer.

Our Mission is to extend our hands and hearts to support those needing help battling breast cancer by improving the quality of life for them and their families. We are located in the Orlando, Florida area. Please check out our website at http://www.compassionatehandsandhearts.org/

Inflammatory Breast Cancer,After the Diagnosis
You have been diagnosed with a very rare form of breast cancer called I.B.C.
Yes – it is rare.
Yes – it is aggressive.
Yes – treatment decisions have to be made as soon as possible.
Yes – YOU CAN SURVIVE THIS!

Click here to read the pamphlet (PDF)

FORCE is a national non-profit for women at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Check out Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered at www.facingourrisk.org.  

When a life-changing event happens, friends and family want to help! The WhatFriendsDo.com webtool is a FREE website that can help family and friends form a "Team" and respond in an organized and helpful
way. Helping a friend through a life-changing event involves lending a hand with meals, transportation
and other tasks. Check us out at http://www.whatfriendsdo.com/

 

If you have HER2 positive type breast cancer, check out  www.her2support.org for current information about treatment and other options that might be available.

Sometimes a wig is too hot, too Itchy and too wiggy. But Hip Hats With Hair are a "hip" way to have hair without wearing a wig! Visit us at www.hatswithhair.com.

Hope Lives! Breast Cancer Support Center is a non-profit organization that provides support, knowledge and complementary care to women in Northern Colorado with breast cancer. We pay for post-diagnosis services to help relieve the symptoms caused by surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy. We seek to improve the overall well-being of our client’s mind, body and spirit. Please visit www.hopelives.org or call 970-225-6200 for additional information.

Hopeful Expressions was founded by two sisters diagnosed with breast cancer.  The company's mission is to provide a center of information and hope to women newly diagnosed or currently undergoing treatment.  We not only provide lists of resources, but also create products such as greeting cards, tote bags and other items to help and support women diagnosed with breast cancer.

http://www.hopefulexpressions.com

You've often had her arms around you and now it's time for you to add your strength to hers.Give the gift of a soft, cuddly Hug and let her know you're there with her, no matter what. Visit http://www.HugASurvivor.com

Women know that they have to do breast exams. They know that they have to have mammograms. What they don’t know is that there is a rare form of breast cancer out there that no one talks about. It is called Inflammatory Breast Cancer.
Click here to read the brochure (PDF)

Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare but very aggressive type of breast cancer. IBC usually grows rapidly and often spreads to other parts of the body; symptoms include redness, swelling, and warmth in the breast. To watch a video clip on this little known form of breast cancer, click here.

 

Links for Life is a Breast Cancer Non-Profit that assists women of Kern County. We pay for breast Mammograms & Ultrasounds for individuals under the age of 40 with a doctor’s referral and if a suspicious mass is discovered we also provide funding for Needle Biopsies.  In our “Missing Link Boutique” we supply wigs and head coverings to any women going through chemotherapy.  Our self-help Support Group meets the first Tuesday of every month where women can meet with other women to access support while they are going through treatment. Our Volunteers Speak at wellness events for large companies and our Health Fair Volunteers provide education at community events in English and Spanish.

To learn more about Links for Life please visit our website www.linksforlife.org or email us at staff@linksforlife.org

Acaringtouchforcancer.com is a free web-site dedicated to educating patients and caregivers about the safe practices of massage; pre, during and after treatment for cancer.  Massage done safely can relieve the physical side effects of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment.  Massage, done by a  massage therapist trained in safe practices for patients in treatment for cancer can offer gentle touch to quiet the mind, create a feeling of calmness,and relieve the muscle tension due to illness and inactivity.  This site also offers information on other types of complementary care, movement therapy for patients and skin care specifically created for the skin side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. 

Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive breast cancer screening, evaluation, education and treatment. Mayo Clinic physicians diagnose and treat more than 1,300 new patients with breast cancer each year. Mayo Clinic is among the most active breast cancer research facilities in the world. A team of medical professionals from several specialties provide innovative treatment strategies and supportive care to make patients' medical care as effective and comfortable as possible. Mayo physicians work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans for their unique needs. For example, genetic counseling is available for patients with a family history of breast cancer. Visit http://www.mayoclinic.org/breast-cancer/. 

Please visit http://www.dragonflysdelights.org for healing and support for women with metastatic disease.

Myself Together Again is one young woman's story of Breast Cancer Recovery and Reconstruction. The Myself Together Again story of delayed breast reconstruction following double mastectomy surgery that appears on these pages was inspired by Denise*, who agreed to have the process photographed so that other young women like her could get an idea of what to expect.  (*Name changed to protect patient's
privacy.) If you need more information about plastic surgery and reconstruction, please visit our website or email info@myselftogetheragain.org.

The National LGBT Cancer Network is the first and only organization in the country addressing the needs of all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender cancer survivors and those at risk.  As a group, LGBT people have dramatically increased cancer risks, coupled with decreased screening rate, resulting in cancer being detected at a later stage when it is more difficult to treat.  Once diagnosed, LGBT people face additional challenges with being "out" to their providers and receiving relevant information about the impact of cancer on their sexuality and "families".  The National LGBT Cancer Network advocates for LGBT survivors and trains health care providers in offering more respectful an culturally-competent care.

Our very own Pink-Link member, Anna Gioia, has launched her new website, www.joyasemporium.com . Joya’s Emporium offers 100% All Natural Products. Intensely scented 100% Soy candles are their specialty - non-toxic, biodegradable and lead-free! As well as their handmade Bath & Body products that are created using only the highest quality All Natural ingredients. They have a great selection of scents that will delight your senses and leave you with gorgeous & healthy skin! Shop at www.joyasemporium.com and contribute to a healthier, safer & cleaner environment for you and your family! "Live your Best everyday!"

  A diagnosis of breast cancer had brought Patti, Jana, Jennifer and Kim together for a monthly lunch at their local Nordstrom’s café, but it was a desire to provide hope to others that would make them friends for life. Nordie’s at Noon shares the personal stories of each of these courageous young women. A source of humor, strength, inspiration and education, the book is a celebration of friendship and of living life to the fullest.

A comprehensive resource providing complete information on various types of cancers such as prostrate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, throat, blood cancer, brain cancer, bone cancer, etc. Also know about the causes of these cancers, symptoms, various treatment methods. Please check out  http://www.onlinecancerguide.com/breast-cancer.html
 

Pink Ties™ was created to let women all over the world know that there are people in their lives who care about them, cherish them, love them, and want nothing but the best for them; to take care of them when sick, stand by them when needed and provide a shoulder upon which to cry, laugh, talk or simply just let go. Check out www.pinkties.net

            After a year of development, BreastReconstruction.org opened its cyber doors to the world in October.  Their mission is to offer a comprehensive website for women making decisions about reconstruction, while providing the most up-to-date information on surgical advances, and a safe environment where women can connect with each other.  Covering a broad range of reconstruction topics, the site covers everything from types of reconstruction, to tips on preparing for surgery.  Users can find the latest information in the research news section, or share the experience and photos of other women in the personal stories section.  The site offers discussion boards, and in early 2008 live chats will be held monthly.

 

 

RevitaLash® Eyelash Conditioner is a remarkable cosmetic innovation that within weeks will dramatically beautify your eyelashes. This product could help your lashes after your chemo treatment has completed. Please check out their website at http://revitalash.com/

Healing Threads are fashionable and functional patient apparel that were designed to provide modesty and dignity. Our mission is to show people they can remain attractive, dignified and emotionally empowered while fighting disease. The garments are used during and after all types of medical treatments including chemotherapy, radiation and surgeries. They are equipped with special breakaway features so while undergoing treatments your entire body does not have to be exposed. Founded on personal experience, Spirited Sisters understand the physical, mental and emotional demands of any illness.

Survivor Posters celebrate the best in every survivor! These wonderful customized posters feature 20 famous breast cancer survivors with a space in the middle reserved for the most famous breast cancer survivor of all: YOU! Perfect as a gift for the survivor in your life, a Survivor Poster is the most unique item you will ever give. Imagine you or your friend on a poster with Sheryl Crow, Sandra Day O'Connor, Peggy Fleming and more! Visit our website at: www.SurvivorPosters.com

Founded by a breast cancer survivor, Tigerlily Foundation (Tigerlily) is committed to educating women (of all ages) around the world about breast cancer; and empowering them to celebrate their lives every day by harnessing their personal power. Tigerlily has various programs including our Chemotherapy Buddy Program that assists patients going through treatment; a survivor group that connects and supports those affected by breast cancer, Funds for Families, which provides financial aid to families in need, and our Fabulous Females Program, which empowers and reminds diagnosed women how fabulous and beautiful they are, among others.

Please visit us at www.tigerlilyfoundation.org or call (703) 869-9462.

Touched With Cancer provides emotional help for people that have been diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers. As a Breast Cancer survivor since 2001, I understand the fear that can come with a cancer diagnosis. We provide psychological services and 6-week support groups that are focused on reducing the emotional and physical pain. For more information you can visit our website at www.TouchedWithCancer.com.

Vicky Victorioustm is a doll that is used to demonstrate pre-surgical anatomy, the actual procedure, and the post-operative anatomy. She demonstrates the pedical tram procedure, the free tram flap, Latissimus Dorsi, and the Mastectomy Implant. She comes with a video designed to help newly diagnosed patients and their family members deal with what lies ahead in a more non-stressful way. For more information, please visit www.breastcancerdoll.com.

 

Woman's Personal Health features the widest selection of post-breast surgery bras, silicone and non-silicone natural breast forms for mastectomy, lumpectomy or reconstruction, camisoles, swimsuits, accessories, skin care, wigs, turbans and back supports. Brands include Amoena, Camp, Jodee, and many others. Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.