We have had a most interesting day and God knows that is why I am here in a position to help women who are undergoing chemo and losing their hair. You see, to me it is more than just selling a wig. A wig purchase has to have a purpose and a reason. Do you go synthetic or human hair? It's all about your needs and your lifestyle. It really does not mean just another retail sale. It means that I have an opportunity, as does my staff, to educate women about their choices, to gently bring them to a place of peace in their hearts regarding losing their hair they have coveted all of their life. It is about coming to grips being diagnosed with cancer and how could that possibly happen to me?

Today, we helped a young women who had the most gorgeous, super long hair come to grips that she was not only in the process of losing her hair but that if she did not develop a plan now, next week she would be faced with cutting her gorgeous hair filled with mats that just can't be brushed out. It would have to be cut off. And, in my opinion, would be much more traumatic than not. Making a plan, taking control over what you can and seeing it through is - yes, difficult at best; yes it sucks! - but the only way to move forward is to pull within and find the courage to keep you moving forward.

Yes, we developed a plan and yes I hope and I know that we have helped her find her way in an overwhelming situation. This is Susan's Special Needs and this is what we do. We make a difference.

Thank you for the opportunity to be of service to women who need our help. Susan

Mind
I feel calm and centered.
I am in a state of well-being and wholeness.
I know I have within me all that I need
to lead a happy and fulfilled life.

Body
I am creating a healing energy all through my body.
I am doing all that I can to help my body
become healthy and strong.

Spirit
I am discovering more about my life and my self.
I feel a close connection to those I love adn to what I truly value.
I find meaning and purpose in each day.
I am at peace.

www.breastcancerwellness.org
Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine

- Helps prevent muscle-skeletal problems
- Keeps your bra from shifting
- Gives you warmth
- Protects your chest and scars
- May produce a more natural look under clothes
- May produce a more balanced look

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

Many women dealing with breast cancer undergo surgery that alters their physical appearance. The common types of surgery include:
- Lumpectomy: which is the removal of a breast tumor and some of the breast
- Mastectomy: which is the removal of the breast tissue or the surgical removal of the breast tissue and underlying muscle

A breast prosthesis is weighted and helps keep the body symmetrical when breast surgery results in an imbalance. When the body is not properly aligned, you may suffer back, shoulder, and neck discomfort. A breast prosthesis will help restore the body's natural balance and posture.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

A breast prosthesis or breast form is an artificial breast used after a surgery in which the breast has been removed or altered. A breast form may be worn to simulate the natural breast and body shape. Depending on the type of surgery, either full breasts or partial breasts can be purchased to balance the appearance. Breast prostheses usually come in silicone, foam or fiberfill and are worn inside the bra or are attached to the body with a special adhesive.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

Most women would agree the key ingredients for a satisfying daily life is finding the right balance. Naturally one thinks of work-life balance as vital - but did you know your physical sense of balance and symmetry is also important? When you're well-blaanced physically, you maintain better posture and breathe more easily, giving you more energy and contributing significantly to your overall sense of wellness.

Being unbalanced can have the opposite effect. In fact, when your breasts are noticeably uneven, it may affect how you hold your shoulders and even the curve of your spine. Some possible causes of asymmetry include:

- Naturally uneven breasts
- Surgery/radiation (radiated breasts typically change shape with time)
- Breast reconstruction process (expander phase)
- Weight gain or loss after reconstruction and/or treatments
- The natural aging process

Gaining a smooth, balanced look can help you square those shoulders, and ultimately make you feel more confident and feminine.

Symmetry shapers like Amoena's Balance line are perfect for all of these situations, to create an even silhouette, improve your balance, and maximize your curves. There are a variety of shapes and options - your certified fit specialist can help you find the one that works best for you.

After reconstruction balance can be challenging. Shapers can be placed wherever there is missing tissue: on the top, rotated to either side or underneath the breast. When placed underneath and lifts the remaining breast tissue, filling the bra cup completely and even providing a bit of cleavage. Like all Amoena shapers thickness is in the middle of the shape and tapers to thin edges so that it is virtually invisible when worn, even in a seamless bra.

Amoena also offers comfortable attachable shapers, and just this year, introduced the first partial shapers with Comfort+ technology, which equalizes the temperature between the chest wall and the form to prevent overheating and perspiration.

Health insurance will sometimes cover partial forms for those with medical conditions resulting in uneven breasts.

All Amoena partials look naturally soft and feel like cashmere. Try one and experience the balancing effects of perfect symmetry, better posture and self-confidence -- to look and feel your best, every day.

Amoena/Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine by Lee Thrash

During Chemotherapy:
- Some people experience very dry skin. If you're one of them, use mild soaps and lukewarm (not hot) water, or mild cleansing lotions or creams.
- Moisturize! Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp and take special care of the sensitive area around eyes and lips.
- Avoid all types of hormone creams (such as products containing hydrocortisone).
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher (many moisturizers include sunscreen) unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- Skin tone may be altered by the therapy, so it may be necessary to change your foundation color.
- Consult a cosmetologist for specific techniques to improve the look and feel of your skin during treatment.

During radiation:
- It's essential to leave the marks your doctor or radiation therapist may have applied. Don't worry: they will eventually fade away. In the meantime, use warm water without soap or creams in the treatment areas.
- Avoid exposing treated areas to the sun. Do not use sunscreens on them until all your radiation treatments are completed, unless your doctor approves.
- If the treatment areas itch, tell your radiation therapist. A light sprinkling of cornstarch may help. Some creams and lotions may leave a coating that can interfere with your treatment. Use only those products which have been approved or prescribed by your doctor. Do not scratch skin near the treatment area.
- Temporary pigmentation changes, such as redness or tanning, may occur during treatment. Check with your doctor about using cosmetic concealer.
- Do not use cosmetics, perfumes, or deodorants on treated areas before checking with your radiation therapist. A non-metallic deodorant is usually recommended.
- Avoid extremes in temperature on treated areas (no heating pads or cold packs).
- Most radiation oncologists prefer that female patients receiving radiation to the breast wear cotton bras with no underwiring.
- Avoid shaving treated skin until treatments are completed and the skin has recovered. If you must shave, use an electric razor.
- If your skin is still irritated after your radiation treatment is completed, ask your radiation therapist to recommend a moisturizer and sunscreen.
- Immediately inform your doctor of any signs of infection or changes in skin color.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

Eyebrow and eyelash loss does not always occur; it is dependent upon the kind of therapy being administered.
Both eyebrow stencil kits and natural hair adhesive eyebrows are available. Premade stencil eyebrow kits are also available for purchase.
Check with your nurse or physician prior to using false eyelashes, in case of allergic reaction to the glue and increased risk of infection.

Create Your Own Natural Brow Line

- Buy brush-on eyebrow color or a pencil in a shade that matches your hair color.
- Be sure all eye makeup is fresh and fragrance free.
- Hold the pencil straight up against your nose, parallel to the inside corner of your eye. This is where the eyebrow should begin. Draw a dot just above the brow bone.
- Looking straight ahead, place the pencil parallel to the outside edge of the colored part of your eye. Place a dot where the highest part of the brow line should be.
- To define the outside edge of the brow, place the pencil diagonally from the bottom corner of your nose past the outside corner of your eye and draw a dot. Be sure the outer edge of the brow is not lower than the inside one, as this will create a down-turned expression.
- Once you have the basic shape right, connect the dots into a brow line with feathery strokes of color, making the brow fuller on the inside corner and thinning as it moves out. With practice, drawing an eyebrow is as simple as applying lipstick (really!).


Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

Chemotherapy drugs sometimes cause mild, temporary changes in nails and nail beds. These may include brittleness, grooving, discoloration, change in growth rate, heightened sensitivity, and lifting of the nail bed. If the latter occurs, nails should be kept short.

- Most important: don't cut your cuticles. Use cuticle removers.
- Massage cuticle cream into the cuticle area to prevent dryness, splitting, and hangnails.
- Wear gloves while doing chores such as washing the car or the dishes. Excessive exposure to water can lead to
fungal infections of the nail bed.
- Women can wear nail polish to help keep nails strong and protected from the environment. Clear nail polish can be
helpful for men.
- Very dry nails can become weaker or more brittle during treatment. To take off polish, use an oily remover.
- If you're undergoing chemotherapy, avoid artificial nails.
- Alert your doctor to any signs of inflammation or infection.
- Ask a professional manicurist for more information on daily home care to keep your nails healthy and strong.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Information

We have people visit us all the time coming directly from the doctor's office and are frightend about their new diagnosis. At Susan's Special Needs we have developed a Needs Action Plan to discuss chemotherapy treatment. The Susan's Special Needs action plan steps our clients through every phase of their treatment and lists categorically what products they will need and the reasons for those products. This action plan format was developed from my clinical oncology experience as a nurse practioner and as a patient and breast cancer survivor. This step-by-step process includes needs for skin care, scalp care, wigs, turbans and alternative headwear. We know that knowledge is power and with the correct information that women can cope better and gain control over this part of the journey. Please call us (800.497.7005) and we will be happy to step you through what your new needs will demand and what we have to offer. Hang in there, we are here, we are listening and we are on your side.
Thanks, Susan

We found this interesting article regarding lymphedema is informative and important.

(AP) Hospitals in about a dozen states are testing whether some simple steps, such as arm-strengthening exercises, could reduce the risk of one of breast cancer's troubling legacies _ the painful and sometimes severe arm swelling called lymphedema. Lymphedema has long been a neglected side effect of cancer surgery and radiation: Many women say they never were warned, even though spotting this problem early improves outcomes.

And while less invasive surgical techniques mean fewer breast cancer patients today than just a few years ago should face lymphedema, it's a lingering threat for tens of thousands of survivors because it can strike two decades after their tumor was treated.

"I have ladies tell me the lymphedema is much worse than their cancer because the cancer's cured," says Dr. Electra Paskett, an epidemiologist at Ohio State University who is leading the first-of-its-kind research into possible protective steps.

Among them: Wearing elastic sleeves to counter temporary swelling during things like airplane flight or heavy lifting, and doing special exercises with light weights designed to help keep open the lymph channels that allow fluid to drain through the body.

"The theory is building up muscles in your arm acts as a natural pneumatic pump to move the fluid," explains Paskett, herself a breast cancer survivor who developed lymphedema.

When lymph nodes under a breast cancer patient's arm are removed or damaged by biopsy, surgery or radiation, lymph fluid can build up and cause anything from mild swelling to a ballooning of the arm.

Lymphedema isn't just a legacy of breast cancer treatment. The leg can swell if groin nodes are damaged from other cancers, including gynecologic cancer. Melanoma treatment left former presidential candidate John McCain with facial swelling. Occasionally, rare diseases can trigger a different form of lymphedema.

But lymphedema among breast cancer survivors may be most common. It's been estimated to affect between 20 percent and 30 percent of patients who have 10 or more under-the-arm nodes examined, called an "axillary lymph node dissection."

A surprising study published in November's Journal of Clinical Oncology suggests few such women may be diagnosed. University of Minnesota researchers analyzed records from the huge Iowa Women's Health study, to cull more than 1,200 patients who'd had breast cancer between 1986 and 2003. Eight percent had been formally diagnosed with lymphedema yet another 37 percent of the women suffered persistent lymphedema symptoms, including a swollen arm.

Today, some women have far fewer nodes examined in a "sentinel node biopsy," and separate research suggests those women are far less likely to get later lymphedema possibly as low as 5 percent, Paskett notes although many don't qualify for the smaller surgery because of large tumors or other factors.

But perhaps most concerning from the Iowa data, only 40 percent of the women with swollen arms but no diagnosis had heard of lymphedema and less than 2 percent had sought care for their arm symptoms.

Yet early care is key, as Anne Holman of Washington, D.C., can attest. In 2006, doctors found cancer in eight of 18 lymph nodes. She was undergoing chemotherapy to shrink her tumor before an eventual mastectomy when one day her arm turned red and itchy. Come in right away, said Minna Manalo, a nurse practitioner at Georgetown University Hospital's breast cancer unit.

Along with a skin inflammation, Manalo diagnosed lymphedema _ Holman's arm was just starting to swell. Daily for two weeks, she underwent what's called complete decongestive therapy, where a machine massaged fluid from her arm and it then was tightly bandaged to counter swelling. Once her arm shrank, Holman was prescribed a lifelong therapy: A tight elastic sleeve and fingerless glove to wear regularly, especially during her job as an international flight attendant, plus arm eercises to help push out returning fluid.

"I'm trying to stay ahead of the game," says Holman, 61. "You can't cure this, but you can manage it."

Paskett's study now recruiting participants at Ohio State, Georgetown and a growing number of other hospitals tests whether milder versions of those techniques could prevent lymphedema in the first place. Women recovering from a large node removal are randomly assigned to either a regimen including personalized arm exercises, or just lymphedema education.

Results aren't due until 2012. Meanwhile, cancer groups advise:

_Be alert for subtle swelling. Don't ignore a tight ring or watch, or clothes suddenly not fitting.

_See a certified lymphedema specialist, who has proper training in fitting compression garments and proper use of decongestive therapy. Improper use of either can worsen the condition.

_Obesity and arm injuries are additional risk factors. So watch your weight; avoid injections in the affected arm; clean cuts and seek care for infections promptly; wear gardening gloves and oven mitts; and avoid temperature extremes, such as hot tubs. By Lauran Neergaard

We just received a message that we thought was worth passing along. "Cleaning for a Reason" If you know any women currently undergoing Chemotherapy, please pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning - 1 time per month for 4 months while she is in treatment. Clean for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code arrange for the service. http://cleaningforareason.org/ This organization serves the entire US and currently has 547 partners to help these women. From Oakland County Community Health Authority Thanks. Susan

Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph fluid that backs up within our system typically in the affected arm of the mastectomy site. This pertains to all of us who have had a mastectomy, mastectomy with reconstruction or lumpectomy. All of us who have had lymph node dissection are subject to its occurrence as lymphedema is caused by the rearrangement or absence of lymph nodes. Lymphedema can occur at any time from immediately after surgery, to many years after. This problem can often occur due to injury to the arm or for no reason whatsoever. Lymphedema presents itself with swelling in any part of the arm from upper arm to hand. Often women notice tightness in the arms of their shirts, blazers or sweaters. Sometimes our rings and watches will feel tight and/or leave significant marks on our wrists, hands and fingers. This swelling can come and go and not be there one day and be there the next.

At Susan’s Special Needs we have become specialists in the treatment of lymphedema and can direct you to appropriate health professionals for a formal evaluation. Please allow us to check your arms and hands for gross swelling.

We know from our own experience that all of us should wear a basic compression sleeve garment while we travel by car or plane. Specifically the change of the atmospheric pressure in a plane can bring on or exacerbate an occurrence of lymphedema. We recommend now that you wear this garment not only for travel, but for exercise, or while playing golf, tennis and even weight lifting. We should also consider wearing it when we carry anything over 10 pounds such as during grocery shopping, or moving furniture while cleaning.

The compression garment should be looked at as preventative if you do not have this condition. Our standard products are soft, easy to wear and a must for all of us. Be proactive and ask us for a fitting to meet your specific needs. Most insurance companies will offer some reimbursement for these products and we will be happy to assist you in submitting the medical billing with a Doctor’s prescription. A compression sleeve is quite durable and can last, with good care, about 9 months to a year. This is a minor investment in good health.
Copyright © 2009 Susan’s Special Needs All Rights Reserved

EXPERIENCE THE SUSAN'S SPECIAL NEEDS DIFFERENCE. WE ARE LIKE NO OTHER WIG SHOP ... FOR FASHION, CHEMOTHERAPY, ALOPECIA OR THINNING HAIR.

For many people, hair loss is one of the most trying aspects of cancer treatment. When hair falls out, it affects our self-image and our quality of life. But you don’t have to despair – you can go a long way towards boosting your own self-confidence with an educated attitude and some advance preparation. Everyone’s experience is different, so it’s important to become well informed about how your particular treatment affects hair loss. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what to expect. Ask us about home visits. For those who can't make it to our store for a fitting we can arrange for a home visit for custom tailoring.

Chemotherapy Induced Hair Loss

- Depending on the type of treatment you receive, hair loss may start around the 14th to the 21st day after your first treatment. Your hair will start to grow back when you are finished with chemotherapy but it may take 6 to 12 months to grow back completely. It may even have a different texture. Curly hair can grow back straight and dark hair can become lighter. These changes are usually temporary. Radiation to the head or scalp can cause permanent hair loss.
- Hair follicles are weakened by chemotherapy which causes your hair to fall out much more quickly than it would normally.
- You will lose your hair on your head, pubic area, eyebrows, arms and legs. With radiation treatment you will lose your hair where the radiation is directed.

What to look for in a Wig Shop

Look for a wig provider that has experience with women undergoing chemotherapy. They will be able to help you:

- Select the right wig for you prior to chemotherapy. Your stylist will be able to match a wig to your hair style and color. You will then be able to walk in with hair and walk out with hair. We have had people say they get wonderful comments on their new haircut!
- Have your hair clipped (about 14 to 21 days after the start of treatment. (Do not use a razor, it may cause fulliculitis. Leave hair at approximately ¼”.)
- Put your wig on after your hair clipping
- You will be in a wig or head covering for typically 6 to 12 months

Tips for wearing your first wig:

Wearing your first wig can be a new adventure for you. It will feel different than your own hair. However, once you have worn it, you and your wig will become fast friends. Here are some helpful suggestions:
- Your stylist will size your wig to snugly fit your head. Practice putting your wig on with your stylist. She will help you use the wig ear tabs and teach you how to correctly position them on your temples so you will know your wig is in the right position
- What to do if it feels like your wig is slipping
+ See your stylist to evaluate the proper fit
+ It may feel like your wig is riding up in back. This is a normal sensation that will take a little time to become accustomed to. It’s normal
+ Ask your stylist about a Fishnet Wig Cap
+ Ask your stylist about It Stays Washable Body Adhesive for added security
+ Once your hair begins to grow back see your stylist for additional tweaking to the fit.
- How do I keep my wig fresh between washing
+ Use wig freshener
- How often should I wash my wig
+ Your stylist will provide care products and instructions
- Use a teasing brush or styling comb to brush your wig. Review the proper technique with your stylist
- Synthetic wig wearers. CAUTION. Synthetic wigs are extremely sensitive to heat. So be very careful cooking, turning on/off a gas fire, grilling, even opening your dishwasher with hot steam can disfigure your synthetic wig. Discuss with your stylist. Also have a selection of turbans and hats on hand for those occasions.

Fashion, fun and style. The Egyptians started the wig craze 4,000 years ago to provide beautiful choices for women for all their different activities. Now you can have fun and choose a wig for your every lifestyle. Whether it’s a formal evening out, boating, running or just kicking back. Your stylist will help you select from our large inventory of Human Hair, Premium Synthetic and Fashion Wigs. Please call for specific questions or to set up an appointment we'd love to see you. 800.497.7005
Copyright © 2008 Susan’s Special Needs. All rights reserved.