2008 Archives
Thinning hair on Arimidex
Are any of you readers experiencing thinning hair after being on Arimidex for a while? I am. Anecdotal evidence may exist that supports this trend in some women. Check with your oncologist or dermatologist to find out if there is anything you can do, besides go out and buy a toupee or a wig. We survivors are living longer than ever and are experiencing possible side-effects or nutrient imbalances/deficiencies that health professionals are just starting to understand. Be proactive and keep on keeping on. We sisters must stick together!
Containers and wraps in the microwave
Someone asked me recently about plastics in the microwave. Check out the links below for the truth on this:
http://web.archive.org/web/20060515234721/http://www.jhsph.edu/publichealthnews/articles/halden_dioxins.html
http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/fs-mwave.html
In summary, all people, and especially cancer survivors, should follow the advice below:
- Only use cookware that is specially manufactured for use in the microwave oven. Glass, ceramic containers, and all plastics should be labeled for microwave oven use.
- Plastic storage containers such as margarine tubs, take-out containers, whipped topping bowls, and other one-time use containers should not be used in microwave ovens. These containers can warp or melt, possibly causing harmful chemicals to migrate into the food.
- Microwave plastic wraps, wax paper, cooking bags, parchment paper, and white microwave-safe paper towels should be safe to use. Do not let plastic wrap touch foods during microwaving.
- Never use thin plastic storage bags, brown paper or plastic grocery bags, newspapers, or aluminum foil in the microwave oven.
Simplified NLN Position Papers
I have now posted on my website under the tab “Lymphormation” the NLN position papers on lymphedema written in a more simplified format. I trust that patients will be able better to understand the guidelines for lymphedema. If you have any questions, please contact me.
Coming soon: simplified NLN position papers
If you are in need of information contained in the NLN position papers on the NLN site (lymphnet.org) regarding lymphedema, you might be interested in reviewing a simplified version that I have developed for the patient. I have worked with a local surgeon, medical and radiation oncologists, and my lymphedema therapist to come up with language that is simpler to read. I will have this information posted shortly. Stay tuned.
Gentle Jan (as explained in my book)
Arimidex and hot flashes
Don’t sweat the night sweats and hot flashes and aching joints if you are taking Arimidex. Count it all a blessing. The latest study from England (http://www.topix.com/drug/arimidex) suggests that those who are experiencing these symptoms do better and may actually be less likely to get a recurrence. That news certainly encouraged my soul.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
I have added an events page to my website to alert readers to booksignings and talks I am giving within the next month. I remind all eligible women to have their mammograms regularly. The earlier cancer is caught, the better.
National NLN Conference
Last month I returned from the NLN conference for healthcare providers in San Diego overwhelmed by all the new developments. If you are a lymphedema patient and in the regular care of a lymphedema therapist, you should ask him or her about the FlexiTouch system, which handles self-MLD if you or a caregiver cannot perform the gentle massage effectively. I tested out the system and it felt so good. Also, ask your therapist about the latest in compression pumps for keeping lymphedema under control. And there are some very cool compression sleeves in vibrant colors and fabrics now on the market.
Survivors and lymphedema patients
Please check out www.caringvoices.ca/en/ for an on-line community of breast-cancer survivors.
Please check out www.lymphedemapeople.com for connection with others desiring ongoing discussion about lymphedema.
New links at www.janhasak.com
You will note that at my website I have added three more links to my resources page that are not in my book. Please check them out; they have a wealth of information.
Blessings,
Jan
Book signings in October 2008
I will be signing my newly published book, “Mourning Has Broken – Reflections on Surviving Cancer” (Xulon Press 2008), on October 11, 2008 at the Forest Ranch Fall Festival in Forest Ranch, CA, and on October 16, 2008 at the American Cancer Society Chico office on Mangrove Ave. from 6-8 pm.
