Dealing with the fear of recurrence once treatment is complete.
Post-Mastectomy
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Post-Mastectomy Essentials
I am a member of two breast cancer related Facebook groups. A question women frequently ask in those groups is, “What do I need to pack for my mastectomy surgery and what will I need when I get home?” I wanted to share the things that I found helpful as well as what I have seen other women recommend. For …
Inner Beauty
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Unfailing Love
My world was shaken last year when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Now that all the treatments and surgeries are behind me, I can testify that Christ’s love for me was never shaken, and through it all, I had a peace that I cannot explain. I experienced the love of God more than I had at any time of …
Post-Mastectomy
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Neck Pillow
This post does not contain a beauty tip but rather a comfort tip. I had my third and hopefully last breast surgery this week. I had a single mastectomy with reconstruction back in February. In June I had implants put in both breasts. This week I had a revision surgery to help with symmetry. My natural breast was considerably lower …
Hair
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Eyebrow Tips
When I found out I had to go through chemotherapy, one of the things I dreaded was losing my eyebrows. My chemo treatment plan included 12 weekly rounds of Taxol followed by 4 bi-weekly rounds of Adriamycin and Cytoxan (AC). My eyebrows thinned out a little during my Taxol treatments, but I did not lose them significantly until a few …
Hair
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Wigs: Selection Tips and Financial Resources
Before purchasing a wig, you should research the many available options to determine the type of wig that would best meet your needs. The buying guide shown in the link below contains good information on different wig types and options (sizing, hair type, cap type, style, and color). https://www.headcovers.com/resources/wigs/how-to-buy-wigs While there are a vast number of wigs that can be …
Skincare
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Skincare During Chemo
Before I began my chemotherapy treatments, I was using Rodan + Fields skincare, alternating between the Redefine and Reverse regimens. I also used a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream to prevent and treat acne. When I began chemo, I was told to stop using anti-aging products on my skin and avoid products that had drying effects. I temporarily stopped using Rodan …
Inner Beauty
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Strength in Weakness
On June 19, 2018, I received a phone call that I will never forget. “Your biopsy came back positive. You have breast cancer.” I was in complete shock. One of my worst fears was being realized. The weeks that followed were a blur of appointments: nurse navigator, surgeon, oncologist, ultrasounds, biopsies, and scans. So much uncertainty. I felt completely out …
Nails
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Toenails
I was very fortunate to not have any problems with my fingernails during or after chemotherapy. My toe-nails were not so lucky. Towards the end of my chemo treatments, both of my big toenails became very sore and darkened in color. My oncologist assured me this was normal and warned that the nails may begin to pull back and eventually …
Hair
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Cold Cap Tips
To achieve the best results when using cold caps, it is important to adhere to the following recommendations: General Recommendations Drink plenty of water prior to, during, and after treatment. 10 to 12 cups a day is recommended for all chemo patients. For those using cold caps, it is better to drink even more. Use a satin pillowcase. Use aluminum …