Painting with breasts and heart

And now for something completely different.

When I first read the description of this story, women literally using their breasts as painting implements, I wasn't sure if our readers would perceive it as oddball or frivolous. But when I watched the piece, from the local CBS affiliate in Atlanta I was won over. 

The story is framed with a woman facing a BRCA diagnosis and a sister with a second breast cancer. The photojournalism and writing is also exceptional and sensitive. I sometimes judge awards for TV news, and I think this story may very well win some.

So take a look at a very unique way of raising funds and awareness.

Suzanne

http://www.cbsatlanta.com/video/22470546/index.html
Image from keetsa.com

Breast cancer patients get a helping hand from Reiki massage

According to this story from WCSH-TV in Maine, breast cancer patients say Reiki helps reduce pain and stress.
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/health/story.aspx?storyid=114182&catid=8

Better yet they get the treatments for free at the Patrick Dempsey center! It's like a dream come true for Grey's Anatomy fans. 
www.dempseycenter.org

Maybe I should move back to Maine?
Suzanne

Breast cancer bonds teacher and students

I would imagine it would feel akward to be a school teacher diagnosed with breast cancer. If it were me, I would feel self-conscious about a class of sixth-graders curiosity.

Which is why this story from Washington state really impressed me.
Marylee Penhollow used her breast cancer as a "teachable moment". I was touched by how much her students learned, and how they expressed it.
http://heraldnet.com/article/20100205/NEWS01/702059863
Image from littlescrappers.ca

What should I call you?

In TV news writing, the rubber meets the road when you come to "second attribution."
Snow becomes "the white stuff," Santa becomes "the jolly old elf," President Obama becomes, "the Commander-in-Chief."

You get the idea.

So as I write this blog I wonder a lot about what our readers like to be called. Especially when a post requires 2 or 3 mentions.
"Patients" is clinical, but at times accurate. 
"survivors" is loved by some, hated by others.
I like "sisters" but the tone is tricky.
I fall back on "bc gals" but it is probably too informal.
"Women with breast cancer" is probably not accurate or empowering for early stage women who are now NED.

So I am curious, what do you like to be called? Are there any terms I have missed? Click on the comment form.
Suzanne

Ann's freebie post

Very useful post from one of the best bloggers out there!
http://butdoctorihatepink.blogspot.com/2010/02/free-stuff.html

A boxer's wish: knocking out breast cancer

Check out this sweet story about a boxer fighting two battles.
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/more_sports/2010/02/04/2010-02-04_fighting_for_mom.html

This might be helpful

The blogger format makes it a little tricky to find past articles...so here are all the Loop lists in one place.
Click away!

http://joinourloop.blogspot.com/2010/01/loop-list.html

http://joinourloop.blogspot.com/2010/01/loop-list-mlk-day-edition.html


http://joinourloop.blogspot.com/2010/01/loop-list-pink-free-edition.html


http://joinourloop.blogspot.com/2010/01/loop-list-young-womens-edition.html

Beautiful article about breast cancer and relationships

One of the most touching parts of this experience has been seeing my husband bravely carry my purse when I was in too much pain to do it.
This article from the Boston Globe is a wonderful tribute to all the men out there who support us though this strange and scary journey.
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/magazine/articles/2009/10/04/will_he_hold_your_purse/