By Debbie Brecher, a Breast Cancer Survivor 

My family has participated in the Pink Ribbon Run since 2014 when my mom, Jody, was diagnosed with breast cancer. We walked in her name until this year. I would never have dreamed that this year would present one of the toughest things I've ever endured in the same way.

There are three things that I know for certain about breast cancer. Early detection is absolutely critical, a great medical team behind you is key, and a team of warriors who stand beside you is essential. One of those warrior teams that stepped up the day of my diagnosis to help was the Beyond Pink TEAM (BPT).

There were so many different ways the BPT offers assistance to breast cancer patients and their families. Emotionally, physically, and financially. Until you're one of them you don't realize how much this cancer consumes you. This team was reaching out to me on day one to provide help navigating cancer. I didn't realize how impactful this group was until I became the patient.
It is simply astounding to learn that one of every eight individuals will experience breast cancer in his or her lifetime. Two of those eight will find that they have the most aggressive form of breast cancer. I am one of those two and I can tell you it is not a position I would wish for anyone.

By the grace of God early detection and a great doctor gave me a fighting chance to win the race. I really do think of it like a race. You know there's a finish line. You're following the map your medical team gave you but you have no idea if your body is taking you in the right direction.

At the time there were nights I just didn't think I was going to be able to take much more. The finish line looked a long ways away back in March. I'm thrilled to report my finish line is in Photos from Virtual Run sight on October 1 which is so fitting as October starts breast cancer awareness month. I reached the finish line as my warriors are making sure of it with them by my side. You are my warriors!

Initially, I really didn't want to share the fact that I had breast cancer. It's an overwhelming diagnosis. The last thing you want to do is put your burden on others. But they gave me strength and confidence that I could do this. They made me realize how important it is to share and support one another.

I think we are all compassionate in our own ways. However, compassion in cancer gives me an entirely new perspective.

This was my picture* from last year's walk I'm in the middle, #276. 

While I know they say you're a survivor in your first year I'm anxious to know that by next year when we can all walk together, I can look back at how far I've come. Note: This year’s Pink Ribbon Run had a team, “Jody’s Pack 4-Ever & Debbie’s Warriors” – a family team of 41 supporters for 2 breast cancer survivors, mother and daughter. 

*picture can be seen in full newsletter

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by:
Amanda Schara, LMHC, CADC, UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital
 
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that results from seasonal changes. It is common, with more than three million cases per year in the US. It can last several months or years. SAD is said to occur due to changes in the body's internal clock, and changes in brain and body's chemicals. Feeling depressed on most days, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, reduced energy, concentration, and interest in activities are the commonly noted symptoms. Light therapy, medications, and psychotherapy are the treatments available for SAD.
Symptoms
Most cases of SAD begin during late fall or early winter and go away during spring or summer. Some cases may be reported during spring and summer. Winter SAD and summer SAD show similar and different symptoms including:

• Feeling depressed on most of the days
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Sadness
• Reduced energy
• Loss of concentration and interest in activities
• Trouble sleeping/oversleeping
• Nausea, loss of appetite/craving for fatty or carbohydrate- rich foods
• Suicidal thoughts
• Weight loss/weight gain

Treatments
Light therapy, medications, and psychotherapy are the treatments available for SAD. It is important to let the doctor know of your other medical conditions, including bipolar disorder, to avoid any sideeffects from any of the medications or therapies.
Medication
Antidepressants: Drugs used to reduce the symptoms of depression. Bupropion · Paroxetine
Self-care  

• Keep your house well lit.
• Sit closer to bright windows both at home and in office.
• Take a walk outside each day
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Stick to your treatment plan
• Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, tai chi and meditation
• Practice music or art therapy.

Therapies: Light therapy · Psychotherapy

Causes
The exact cause for SAD is not known but some of the factors that are said to influence the condition include:

• Changes in the body's internal clock due to seasonal changes
• Reduced levels of the brain chemical serotonin
• An imbalance in the chemical melatonin that influences sleep and mood patterns
• Vitamin D insufficiency
• Gender: Women are more prone to SAD
• An imbalance in the chemical melatonin that influences sleep and mood patterns
• Family history of SAD
• Personal history of clinical depression or bipolar disorder
• The distance of living from the equator

As winter continues and the possibility of being homebound due to the pandemic SAD may become more prevalent. Keep your home well lit – open those curtains and shades. Be active, look for exercise videos to do daily and make it a routine. Work on puzzles or a craft, read or watch movies, and phone your family and friends. If at all possible, take time to enjoy the outside, but be safe.