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July 2005 Y-ME Illinois e-News
 
Be sure to watch for the latest issue of Y-ME Illinois e-News in your inbox the first weekday of each month!
 
In This Edition:

 
Y-ME Illinois Brings Free Mammography Screening to Local Communities
 
Y-ME Illinois is excited to announce the recent expansion of our Traveling Mammogram Program.  This program is done in collaboration with the Cook County Mobile Mammography Unit and Walgreens Corporation.  The program expansion will allow us to bring free mammography screening to uninsured women around Cook County on a monthly basis.  Previously this program operated only during the month of October in conjunction with National Breast Cancer Awareness month.  This expansion is made possible in part by a generous grant from the VNA Foundation.
 
According to the most recent data from the American Cancer Society, 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Research and data also show that the survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer is dramatically improved when the cancer is diagnosed early.  In fact, the 5-year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer in Stage 1 is 97%.  These numbers underline the importance for early detection and mammography is currently the best available method to detect breast cancer in its earliest treatable stage.
 
Y-ME Illinois is also in the process of taking over A Day for You from the Y-ME National Office.  A Day for You participants attend all-day seminars and learn about earlier detection methods, are taught breast self-examination (BSE) and receive clinical breast exams. Onsite mammograms also are available, if appropriate. Look for more information about this program to come in future months!
 
If you have questions about this program you can contact Giovanna Velazquez Perez, Outreach Patient Services Coordinator, at gvelazquezperez@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071.
 

 
Don't Miss Your Chance to Run with Pink Streak!
 
MARATHON RUNNERS WANTED – This is your last chance to register before the marathon hits its capacity (estimated for mid-July)! 
 
Y-ME Illinois invites you to run the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon on October 9, 2005, in support of those who cannot wait for a cure.  Join Pink Streak, the Y-ME Illinois marathon team.  Push yourself for all the women and men touched by breast cancer.  Do it for them, and do it for you.  You can register today online!  The registration deadline is August 1st or whenever the marathon reaches capacity. 
 
All Pink Streakers will receive a running shirt, a pre-race pasta dinner, participation in Pink Streak social events, a fabulous goodie bag, incentive prizes, and so much more.  Pink Streak runners will commit to raise a minimum of $750 and all proceeds benefit Y-ME Illinois, dedicated to ensuring no one faces breast cancer alone in our community.
 
Register today or tell your friends who run! Visit Pink Streak online at www.y-me.org/illinois/pink_streak.php or contact Karen at kgreenberg@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071.
 

  
Illinois Breast and Cervical Program Celebrates its 10th Anniversary
 
July 2005 will mark the 10th anniversary of the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP).  IBCCP, a cooperative agreement between the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health, Office of Women’s Health, is a comprehensive breast and cervical cancer screening program available to low-income women ages 35-64 that are not receiving services through Medicare Part B and have no health insurance.  In fiscal year 2004, the IBCCP was able to provide breast and cervical cancer screening services to nearly 19,000 Illinois women.  In 2005, IBCCP will exceed this number.  
 
As a result of the federal Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act of 2000 and the state’s Public Act 92-47, IBCCP is now able to refer women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer who need treatment to the Illinois Department of Public Aid for Medicaid benefits.  The legislation that made this possible was advocated for by the Y-ME IlliNOISY Advocacy Network, showing how advocacy can ensure that women to not face breast cancer alone.
 
Learn more about IBCCP and join the Y-ME IlliNOISY Advocacy Network to use your voice to fight for important programs like the Breast & Cervical Cancer Treatment Act!
 

 
Life is Beautiful. Celebrate it! 
The Sharon Rose Miller Style Brunch
 
Sunday, July 31st
Noon – 4 p.m.
 
Hotel Intercontinental
505 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago
 
Join us for an afternoon of fun for a great cause in the spectacular Grand Ball Room of the Hotel Intercontinental!  Starting with a cocktail at noon...you will mix and mingle with old friends and new while enjoying the guitar accompanied vocals and discovering the treasures inside your goodie bag!
 
At 1:00 brunch will be served!  Someone at every table will be lucky and receive a scavenger box with...well some things need to be a surprise!  During the scrumptious brunch, a panel of experts on fashion, beauty, fitness and style will answer questions on anything from the benefits of Pilates to the downsides of Botox, from the hot new colors for fall to how not to wear your hair.  Between courses, the runway will be graced by the latest in fashions from Chicago's hottest boutiques and a little something for underneath from Wolford.
 
Over dessert, linger with us to the to some light and lively torch music while we announce the winners of the amazing raffle prizes (maybe you would like to do some shopping?  How about a years worth of salon treatments?  Not a White Sox fan - that is OK we have Cubs tickets too - skybox of course!).
 
After all this - its only 4 O'Clock - and you are all set for a fabulous Chicago evening....OR you could join us for an open bar reception at 4 Taste - the one, the only, the original Chicago appetizer lounge!  Have some friends that could not make the brunch?  For a small donation to Y-ME, they can meet you at 4 Taste!
 
Don’t delay!  Brunch tickets and raffle tickets are available for purchase online now. 
 
Style Brunch is in loving memory of Sharon Rose Miller and all she did for Y-ME and the breast cancer cause.  Your participation in this event, either in presence or by making a donation, truly honors her memory.  Donations can be made online.   Questions can be directed to kgreenberg@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071. 
 

 
25th Anniversary Fashion Show & Luncheon to Honor Past Co-Chairs
 
On October 29, 2005, we will be celebrating the Silver anniversary of the Y-ME Fashion Show & Luncheon.   This year’s theme is “Everyone is a Star” and in that light, there are some very special stars we would like to honor this year.   To all the wonderful fashion show co-chairs since 1980, thank you for your work, your energy, your heart and for always making this event such a tremendous success. 
 
We’re thrilled to have the following previous co-chairs join us for this special celebration: 
  • Judy Bowe - 2004
  • Ruth Brody - 1994, 1996, 2000
  • Pam Deluca - 1982, 1983
  • Debbie Fishbein - 1988, 1992, 1995, 1998
  • Linda Frosolone - 1993, 2000
  • Gail Gassner - 1986
  • Peggy Goldman - 1986
  • Paula Harris - 1990
  • Nettie Isenberg - 1999
  • Judy Kahn - 1992, 1995, 1998
  • Cookie Medansky - 1987, 1993, 2001
  • Earl Medansky - 2001
  • Helene Schwartz - 1999
  • Barbara Shuman - 1989, 1991
  • Leonard Thomas - 2002
  • Toya Thomas - 2002
  • Lila Weinberg - 1984, 1985, 1991

 
Online Cancer Resources - New & Updated!
 
Y-ME Illinois Updated its Online Breast Cancer Resources
Y-ME Illinois recently revitalized our online resource listing by adding new resources and offering a short description for each listing. 
 
See these exciting changes on the Y-ME Illinois website for yourself today!
 
New NCI Web Site on Cancers in Women Debuts
A new web site, NCI's Research on Cancers in Women - http://women.cancer.gov - has recently been launched by the NCI Office of Research on Women's Health, Office of Science Planning and Assessment. The intent of the site is to serve as a resource and to highlight, through links to online information on NCI programs and activities, the depth and breadth of NCI's research programs that support research on cancers that affect only women or have a high impact on women. 
 
NCI's What You Need To Know AboutTM Breast Cancer Now Available in Spanish
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in this country other than skin cancer. The number of new cases of breast cancer in women was estimated to be about 212,600 in 2003.  This National Cancer Institute (NCI) booklet (NIH Publication Number is 03-1556) has important information about breast cancer. It discusses possible causes, screening, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. It also has information to help women with breast cancer cope with the disease.  For more information, please visit http://www.cancer.gov/espanol/sabersobre/seno.
 
New National Cancer Institute Resource to Guide People with Cancer in Making Informed Decisions about Complementary and Alternative Medicine
So often, cancer patients and their loved ones are looking for information on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) during and after cancer treatment. NCI's new Thinking About Complementary and Alternative Medicine helps cancer patients and their families look for and make informed decisions about CAM.  The booklet is a joint project between NCI's Office of Education and Special Initiatives, NCI's Office of Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.  It meets the need for a plain language piece that assists cancer patients, caregivers, and health professionals in finding reliable information and resources in the area of CAM.  
 
Thinking About Complementary and Alternative Medicine is available online at www.cancer.gov/publications.  You'll find it in PDF for easy reproduction and making copies.  You can also order copies free of charge online or by phone at 1-800-4-CANCER.
 
People Living With Cancer
People Living With Cancer, the patient information website of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), is designed to help patients and families make informed health-care decisions. The site provides information on more than 85 types of cancer, clinical trials, coping, side effects, a Find an Oncologist database, message boards, patient support organizations, and more.
 
Check it out today at http://www.plwc.org!
 

 
Third Party Events Calendar is Now Online
 
Did you know that there are fundraising events held each month by individuals, groups, and organizations that benefit Y-ME Illinois?  These events are referred to as "third party events" and are held all around the state and can be anything from a golf outing to a dart tournament. 
 
These events are usually open to the general public and attending one of the many fun events that happen each year is a great way to support Y-ME Illinois!  Check out the Third Party Events Calendar online now.
 
If you are interested in having a third party event to benefit Y-ME Illinois, contact Karen Greenberg at kgreenberg@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071.
 

 
2005 Designers Showcase House to be Unveiled in Early September
 
The unveiling of the Northbrook Illinois 2005 Designers Showcase House will take place in early September, followed by a two-week grand opening tour.  All ticket proceeds will be donated to Y-ME Illinois from this grand opening event. The concept for this $6 million, 15,000 square foot French country manor was a collaborative effort between Wilmette designer Suzana Holmquist of The Room Shop and Alwan Builders. 
 
The seven-bedroom, ten-bath home exhibits Old World charm with the rich earthy stone palette of France.  Exquisite woodwork, unique ceilings, intricate murals, and elaborate decorative painting will frame the luxurious amenities including the majestic grand staircase, six fireplaces, two-story great room, richly decorated bedrooms, and a ladies lounge aside a vast walk-in closet.  The lower level includes a ski-lodge style basement, wine cellar, home theatre room, and fully-equipped workout facility. A breathtaking view of two acres of mature woodlands and a natural pond can be enjoyed from inside the home or from the stone patio. The home will showcase design flair, unique high-end furniture and accessories, and the power of generosity and strength of the human spirit. 
 
Ticket price is $30.00 each.  Tickets will be available at the door during the tour event or in advance at the following locations:
  • Clive Christian Cabinetry Showroom, The Merchandise Mart, Chicago, IL
  • Decorating Connections, 125 Barrington Commons Court, Barrington, IL 
  • Faux Design Studio, 101 North Swift Road, Addison, IL
  • Periwinkles, 952 Green Bay Road, Suite B,  Winnetka, IL
Look for further details regarding the official dates of the tour event soon on the Y-ME Illinois website and in the August e-News!
 

 
 
Y-ME ShareRing Network
 
A free, monthly one-hour teleconference, offered by Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, featuring a breast cancer related presentation by a medical professional followed by a question and answer session.  The call then ends with small discussion groups.
 
ShareRing Network Teleconference Schedule:
 
July 20, 2005
Topic: Children's Reactions to a Parent's Cancer
Speaker: Lynette Wilhardt, LCSW, Program Director, Kids Konnected.
To register, click
here.
 
August 17, 2005
Topic: Sexuality and Intimacy After Breast Cancer
Speaker: Lillie Shockney, R.N., Administrative Director of Breast Center at Johns Hopkins Breast Center, Clinician and Educator.
To register, click
here. 
 
To read transcriptions of past ShareRing Network teleconferences, click here.
 

 
Calendar of Events
 
You can also see our Third Party Events calendar online.  These are events held by outside individuals, groups, & organizations to benefit Y-ME Illinois.
 
Wednesday, July 27th
North Shore Friends Annual Card Party
Twin Orchard Country Club
22353 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove, IL - (847) 634-3800
Continental Breakfast at 10 a.m. & Lunch at 12:30 p.m.
$60 per person
 
The North Shore Friends invite you to join in the excitement at their signature Annual Card Party.  Start the day with breakfast, enjoy hours of canasta, bridge, and mah-jongg, and wrap up with lunch with your friends.  Vendors will be on hand selling jewelry, handbags, and other great items.  Space is limited and this event always sells out, so please make your reservation soon. 
 
To reserve your table call Joyce at 847-816-0004!
 
Sunday, July 31st
The Sharon Rose Miller Style Brunch
Noon – 4 p.m.
Hotel Intercontinental, 505 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago
 
Join us for an afternoon of fun for a great cause in the spectacular Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Intercontinental! During brunch, a panel of experts on fashion, beauty, fitness and style will answer your questions on anything from the benefits of Pilates to the downsides of Botox, from the not new colors for fall to how not to wear your hair.  Between courses, models will show you the latest in fashions from Chicago’s hottest boutiques.
 
Don’t delay!  Brunch tickets and raffle tickets are available for purchase online now. 
 
Style Brunch is in loving memory of Sharon Rose Miller and all she did for Y-ME and the breast cancer cause.  Your participation in this event, either in presence or by making a donation, truly honors her memory.  Donations can be made online.   Questions can be directed to kgreenberg@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071. 
 
Sunday, August 21st - Noon
North Shore Friends Day at the Races
Arlington Race Track - 2200 W. Euclid, Arlington Heights
Grandstand entrance
Tickets: $100
Business casual, no blue jeans please
 
The North Shore Friends of Y-ME have a very special summer event planned to benefit Y-ME Illinois.  All proceeds will be donated to Y-ME Illinois.  North Shore Friends would like to thank you in advance for your support and for making a difference.
 
If you are interested in sponsoring and/or purchasing tickets for Day at the Races, please contact Linda Portnoy at (847) 256-5072 or Linda Bitran at (847) 433-2332.
 
Alderman Rugai's 11th Annual Y-ME Softball Tournament
Saturday, August 27th
St. Christina's Fields, Chicago
 
The annual women’s softball tournament hosted by Chicago Alderman Ginger Rugai features 1000 players who gather for the one-day event.  Funds raised from the tournament are dedicated to support the Y-ME IlliNOISY Advocacy Network. 
 
For more information about putting a team together for the tournament, being a sponsor, or volunteering at the event contact Alicia at ahuguelet@y-me.org or (312) 364-9071.
 
The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon
Sunday, October 9th

Cheer on the 2005 Pink Streak Team as they run 26.2 miles to ensure that no one faces breast cancer alone!  Not a runner but still want to be involved?  Join us at the Y-ME Illinois water station.
 
If you want to become part of the Pink Streak Team or volunteer for Y-ME the day of the marathon, contact Karen Greenberg at kgreenberg@y-me.org or visit the Pink Streak Team website.
 
25th Annual Y-ME Illinois Fashion Show & Luncheon
Saturday, October 29th
Chicago Hilton and Towers, 720 S. Michigan Avenue
 
The silver anniversary of this signature Y-ME event that honors both survivors and supporters promises to be the best yet - don't miss it!
 

 
Science & Research Updates
 
Y-ME Illinois does not necessarily endorse the content listed below.  We would also like to remind our readers about the importance of reading reports regarding the latest research with a critical eye.  Reports are sometimes based on preliminary results or based on small samples.  It's also important to remember that "association" does not equal "causation."  Happy reading!
 
Hypnosis for Hot Flashes in Breast Cancer Survivors
Many breast cancer survivors experience hot flashes, which can cause anxiety, disrupt sleep, and decrease quality of life. Hormone therapy, a standard treatment for hot flashes, has issues for these survivors because of side effects and increased risk of cancer recurrence. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of hypnosis as a CAM treatment to reduce hot flashes in these patients.  Find more information.
 
Some Chemobrain Symptoms Reduced by Dexmethylphenidate
Most regimens of systemic chemotherapy send a cocktail of chemicals into a patient's bloodstream to kill cancer cells, but the process can be a major assault on the entire body. Many such cancer patients report similar subjective sensations - they say they are not thinking as clearly, are overly forgetful, are always tired, or just don't feel right. Clinicians now recognize a condition called chemobrain, which includes a complex mix of symptoms such as fatigue, mental confusion, memory loss, and lack of focus.  In this study, cancer patients diagnosed with chemotherapy-related fatigue and cognitive impairment ("chemobrain") were treated with the central nervous system stimulant dexmethylphenidate (Focalin®) for eight weeks. Compared to those receiving a placebo, patients taking the drug experienced significantly less fatigue and possibly better memory function.  Read more.
 
Fact Sheet on Breast Cancer Prevention Studies
Breast cancer prevention studies are clinical trials (research studies conducted with people) that explore ways of reducing the risk, or chance, of developing breast cancer. Prevention studies usually involve women who have not had breast cancer, but are at high risk of developing the disease. Through such studies, scientists hope to determine what steps are effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer in women of all races and ethnic backgrounds. Fact Sheet: http://cis.nci.nih.gov/fact/4_18.htm
 
Link between passive and active smoking and breast cancer
A new study, published online in the International Journal of Cancer suggests that long-term exposure to passive smoking (second-hand smoke) may increase premenopausal breast cancer risk. Read more.
 
FDA Approves New Labeling for Cancer Drug
On June 17, 2005, the FDA approved new labeling for gefitinib (Iressa®, a trademark of AstraZeneca) that limits the indication to cancer patients who, in the opinion of their treating physician, are currently benefiting, or have previously benefited, from gefitinib treatment. The FDA has agreed to AstraZeneca's proposal to limit distribution of this drug under a risk management plan called the Iressa Access Program to the following patient populations:
  • patients currently receiving and benefiting from gefitinib
  • patients who have previously received and benefited from gefitinib
  • previously enrolled patients or new patients in non-Investigational New Drug (IND) clinical trials approved by an IRB prior to June 17, 2005.
 
 
  Happy Independence Day
 
We hope that your holiday weekend is filled with festivities & fun!
 
 
 
July Way to Give
 
Donate a bra to our Sharon Rose Wig & Prosthesis Salon!
 
We are always in need of new & gently used prosthetic bras for the salon, which provides bras, prosthetics, wigs & scarves to breast cancer survivors free of charge.  So buy a new bra for yourself and pick up a prosthetic bra for a woman in need.  Click here for a listing of where you can buy prosthetic bras.
 
Contact Sammie at (312) 364-9071 or sholmes@y-me.org if you would like to donate to the salon!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Don't miss your chance to run with Pink Streak at the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon on October 9, 2005!  Sign up now!
 
 
 
 
 
 
Get your Car Raffle Tickets While They Last!
 
Y-ME Illinois is raffling a 2-year lease for a 2005 Silver Acura TL, thanks to the generosity of Joe Rizza Acura in Orland Park.  A maximum of 500 tickets will be sold at $50 each with the lucky winner to be announced at the 2005 Y-ME Fashion Show & Luncheon on October 29, 2005.  Winner need not be present at the event to claim prize.
 
Tickets are available online or by calling the Y-ME Illinois office at 312-364-9071.
 
 
 
 
Generous assistance from United Airlines helps to make many Y-ME Illinois Programs & Events a success.  Thank you United Airlines!
 
 

Illinois Affiliate of Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
203 N. Wabash | Suite 1220 | Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 312-364-9071 | Fax: 312-364-9066
www.y-me.org/illinois

Y-ME National Breast Cancer Hotline
1-800-221-2141 (English)
1-800-986-9505 (español)
*Interpreters available in 150 languages



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