Patient Perspective: Wyteria
I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 38. This was a shocker because I do not have a family history of breast cancer and considered myself a healthy person. In the past 1½ years, I have undergone multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment — which was an emotional journey for myself, my family and friends. I come from a very close family, and this made us even closer. They would take turns coming to visit me after major procedures. During a time when I was planning to extend my family, my husband and I had to redirect our thoughts and prayers to my survival. It was during this time that I appreciated my hobbies more than ever because they were a distraction from my medical concerns. I found myself wanting to be more active (when my body would allow it). Yet after my first major surgery, I was shocked to discover that I had limitation in my arms and range of motion. It was difficult to raise my arms, comb my hair, and perform simple tasks around the house. I also realized that getting dressed for the day was a major chore which resulted in wearing specific clothes that did not require reaching my arms above my head. When I was referred to TurningPoint by my surgeon, I was relieved that my condition was common among others who had similar procedures. The environment was welcoming and relaxing from the moment that I entered the office to my last visit several weeks later. The physical therapy that I received from my team was beyond exceptional. They were skilled in teaching exercises and educating me in ways to optimize my range of motion. Because of the treatment that I received at TurningPoint, I can happily report that I have regained my range of motion in my arms and have returned to my normal life, including experimenting with the newest exercise crazes! I am so grateful to have TurningPoint in my life during my most difficult journey.
Evidence Update: Benefits of Exercise for Breast Cancer Patients
There is evidence that exercise after the diagnosis of breast cancer improves mortality, morbidity, health related quality of life, fatigue, physical functioning, muscle strength, and emotional wellbeing. Based on scientific data, breast cancer patients should participate in rehabilitation programs including aerobic and strength training. A 2016 meta-analysis study that included 2,659 breast cancer survivors compared a control group of non-exercising women with an exercising intervention group. Compared with the control group, quality of life was significantly improved in the exercise intervention group, especially in mental health and general health as well as emotion well-being and social well-being, https://www.childinjuryfirm.com/ativan-lorazepam. Exercise alleviated the symptoms of depression and anxiety in the exercise group. Furthermore, exercise was also associated with positive outcomes in body mass index, lean mass, and muscle strength. Zhu G, Zhang X, Wang Y, Xiong H, Zhao Y, Sun F (2016). Effects of exercise intervention in breast cancer survivors: a meta-analysis of 33 randomized control trials. OncoTargets Ther, 2016 Apr 13;9:2153-68. doi: 10.2147/OTT.S97864.
Patient Perspective: Celia
Four years ago, I was watching an NFL game in October. Being in the marketing field, I mentioned to my husband how remarkable it is that Breast Cancer Awareness had grown into such a movement that even football players wear pink. A week later I felt a lump in my right breast. Because of all the Breast Cancer campaigning happening, a little voice told me that I should have this checked out. It was probably a cyst, I thought. I was only 41… It turned out to be Stage 2 and I had the option of a lumpectomy or a mastectomy. I chose a bilateral mastectomy so I wouldn’t have to live with the fear of the cancer returning. After 5 grueling months of treatment, I was cancer free! I had a Pink Party and celebrated with my family and friends. I thought I could just pick up my life where I left off. Two years later, I was in the midst of divorcing, starting a new life and looking forward to a new journey when a routine exam found a rogue lymph node. Here we go again… surgery, chemo and this time radiation for good measure. That’s where TurningPoint came into my life. My oncologist recommended physical therapy in advance of radiation as a preventative treatment to counteract any potential side effects. My PT’s weren’t just my “physical” therapists, they were like real therapists! They made me feel comfortable, made me laugh and made me look forward to coming to treatment every week! The entire staff at TurningPoint made me feel well cared for and welcome. TurningPoint is just that – a place where I made a choice to put myself and my health first, with the help of some extraordinary people. I am Grateful and Blessed for this experience.
Patient Perspective: Mary Lynn
I received my original diagnosis on June 23, 2016 after having my annual mammogram and ultrasound. In mid-January of this year, I had my third breast cancer surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy (left breast) and reconstruction (both breasts). I was anxious to get back to a “new normal” routine. Unfortunately, two weeks after the reconstruction surgery, I had an emergency appendectomy. Before my surgeries, I was attending yoga classes 2-3 times a week, plus my home practice, and walking my 85-pound lab five mornings a week for about 2.5 miles. I work part-time as the administrative assistant at the preschool where I taught for many years. My husband Frank and I have one adult son. Frank retired several years ago, but started a new career in nursing after my diagnosis. (He did an outstanding job!) The love, encouragement, and support I received from my immediate family, my church and work families, and many friends and neighbors were incredible. My emotions and my body were on such a roller coaster. My faith and support groups helped get me through so much, but my physical well-being was shot. Although I was fortunate not to have radiation or chemotherapy, the four surgeries had certainly taken a toll. Both my breast and plastic surgeons had recommended TurningPoint. I began that part of my journey in March—and what a journey it has been! My physical therapists knew exactly what I was feeling, both emotionally and physically, and they knew how to help fix it. I looked forward to my session every week! In the beginning, when I was asked about my goals, my first one was to be able to walk my dog again. It’s been a long road, but I am now walking her again. Also, one year and one day later (June 24, 2017), my son and I participated in the Susan G. Komen 5K (I was a member of TurningPoint’s Team). I’ve started back to my yoga classes, attend TurningPoint’s Stretch & Strengthen class on Fridays and I’m trying Pilates on Wednesdays. (Pilates is hard and new to me, but my core is thanking me!) Although, my weekly physical therapy sessions are complete, TurningPoint continues to monitor and help me manage my lymphedema, giving me advice and encouragement all the way. I can truly say the whole experience has been “my turning point”!
