Breast Cancer Survivors of Sarasota

04/23/2026

Staying organized during breast cancer treatment isn’t just helpful — it’s empowering. Every scan, lab result, pathology report, and treatment summary becomes part of your story, and keeping copies at home gives you control over that information. A simple binder or accordion file can make a huge difference. Create sections for pathology, imaging, lab work, treatment plans, medications, insurance, and visit summaries. Add dates to everything. Keep digital copies too, either scanned or downloaded from your patient portal, so you always have a backup. When a new doctor asks for your history or you need to compare results over time, you’ll have everything at your fingertips. It’s one small way to bring order to a process that can feel overwhelming.
Start with a binder or folder system.
Label sections for pathology reports, imaging results, lab tests, treatment plans, medications, and insurance paperwork. Add dates to each document so you can easily track your journey.

Create a master timeline.
Write down key milestones — diagnosis, surgeries, chemo cycles, radiation sessions, and follow-up visits. Seeing your progress helps you recognize how far you’ve come.

Keep digital copies.
Scan or download your records to a secure folder or cloud storage. Having both paper and digital versions ensures you’re never without the information you need.

Bring your binder to appointments.
It’s your personal health story — and it helps your care team make the best decisions for you. Add a page for questions and notes so you can capture details in real time.

Be prepared, be empowered.
Every document you save is a piece of your strength. Staying organized means staying informed — and that’s one of the most powerful tools you have.

04/22/2026

Breast cancer patients haven’t benefited from the immunotherapy revolution in the same way. We’re trying to figure out why and how to change that.

Blocking a specific enzyme may unlock the immune system's potential to attack tumors

04/20/2026

Research shows that cancer survivors can experience trauma responses similar to those seen after other life‑threatening events—because the body remembers the scans, the waiting, the pain, and the fear.
More than 1 in 3 people who have, or had, breast cancer display signs of PTS or PTSD.

While it can be PTSD — not everyone uses that label, and not every clinician diagnoses it that way.
1. PTSD (Post‑Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Some survivors do meet the clinical criteria for PTSD.
Cancer can be a life‑threatening, unpredictable, and overwhelming experience — all things that can trigger trauma responses.
People may have:
* intrusive memories
* hypervigilance
* fear around scans or symptoms
* emotional flashbacks
* avoidance of anything medical
💛 2. PTS (Post‑Traumatic Stress)
This is a broader term.
It acknowledges trauma responses without requiring a formal diagnosis.
Many survivors fall into this category — the body and mind learned to stay on alert, and that doesn’t switch off easily.
🧠 3. “Scanxiety” and medical‑triggered anxiety
These are very real, very common experiences.
Even years later, the body can react as if danger is still present.
❤️ 4. Trauma‑related stress from chronic illness
Some clinicians describe cancer‑related trauma as its own category because the threat is ongoing, not a single event.

What matters most is this:
Your reactions are real, valid, and shared by many survivors — whether or not the label “PTSD” is used.
Mental health support is essential for recovery and long-term well-being.

04/16/2026

Understanding AYA Breast Cancer: What Young Adults Need to Know 💖

Breast cancer is often thought of as a disease that affects older adults, but thousands of young people between the ages of 15 and 39 are diagnosed every year. This group—known as the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) population—faces unique challenges that set their experience apart medically, emotionally, and socially. Understanding these differences is essential for early detection, effective treatment, and meaningful support. According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER Program, about 5.6% of all invasive breast cancers occur in women under 40.

What Makes AYA Breast Cancer Different?
1. More Aggressive Tumor Types
Breast cancers in young adults tend to grow faster and behave more aggressively. Subtypes like triple‑negative and HER2‑positive breast cancer are more common in this age group, often requiring intensive treatment.
2. Later Diagnosis
Because routine screening typically begins at age 40, most AYAs are diagnosed only after symptoms appear. Dense breast tissue can also make lumps harder to detect, and symptoms are sometimes dismissed as benign. As a result, many young adults are diagnosed at a later stage.
3. Higher Genetic Risk
A significant number of AYAs carry inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or TP53. Genetic testing can help guide treatment decisions and inform family members about their own risk.

Fertility and Family Planning
Cancer treatment can affect fertility, making conversations about egg or embryo freezing important before treatment begins. These decisions can be emotionally and financially overwhelming for young adults who may not have considered family planning yet.
Emotional and Social Impact
AYA patients often face cancer during pivotal life moments—starting careers, forming relationships, or pursuing education. This can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, or uncertainty about the future. Body image concerns and changes in sexual health are also common.
Financial Strain
Young adults may have limited savings, early‑career jobs, or unstable insurance coverage. Treatment costs, time away from work or school, and travel for care can create significant financial stress.

Barriers to Optimal Care
AYA patients are less likely to receive care tailored to their age group. They may fall between pediatric and adult oncology systems, leading to gaps in support. Access to fertility counseling, mental health services, and age‑specific resources is not always consistent.
AYA‑focused programs—where available—help bridge these gaps by offering coordinated care that addresses medical, emotional, and practical needs.

AYA breast cancer is challenging, but young adults are resilient. With the right information, support, and care team, many go on to live full, healthy lives after treatment. Awareness is the first step—because no one is ever “too young” for breast cancer, and no one should face it alone.
Survivorship and Long‑Term Follow‑Up
AYA survivors have elevated risks for:
* Recurrence and second primary cancers
* Cardiovascular disease
* Endocrine dysfunction
* Psychosocial distress
* S*xual health concerns
* Financial toxicity
Survivorship care plans should address:
* Surveillance imaging
* Genetic risk management
* Fertility and reproductive health
* Psychosocial support
* Lifestyle interventions
* Transition to primary care with clear communication

The Need for AYA‑Focused Oncology Programs
AYA patients often fall between pediatric and adult oncology systems, leading to fragmented care. Dedicated AYA programs improve outcomes by providing:
* Coordinated multidisciplinary care
* Fertility and genetic counseling
* Age‑appropriate psychosocial support
* Clinical trial access
* Navigation services
Healthcare systems are increasingly recognizing the value of AYA‑specific pathways to reduce disparities and improve long‑term outcomes.

AYA breast cancer is a biologically and psychosocially distinct entity that requires specialized clinical attention. Early recognition, genetic evaluation, fertility preservation, and comprehensive survivorship planning are essential components of high‑quality care. By adopting an AYA‑centered approach, clinicians can significantly improve both survival and quality of life for young adults facing breast cancer.


04/04/2026

💗 Why Sleep Matters During Breast Cancer Treatment
Sleep is one of the most important parts of healing during and after breast cancer treatment. Your body uses sleep to repair tissues, restore energy, and support your immune system. Getting enough quality sleep can help you feel stronger, think more clearly, and cope better with treatment.

🧬 How Sleep Helps Your Body Heal
1. Supports Your Immune System
Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can weaken your immune system. Sleep helps your body rebuild its defenses so you can stay healthier during treatment.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Cancer treatments can increase inflammation, which may cause pain or discomfort. Good sleep helps calm inflammation and supports recovery.
3. Helps Your Body Repair Itself
During sleep, your body works to heal tissues affected by surgery, radiation, or medication. This makes sleep essential for physical recovery.
4. Improves Mood and Emotional Well‑Being
Breast cancer can bring stress, worry, and emotional fatigue. Poor sleep can make these feelings stronger. Quality sleep helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and support mental clarity.
5. Reduces Cancer‑Related Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms during treatment. Sleep helps restore energy and reduce the overwhelming tiredness many patients experience.
6. Helps You Tolerate Treatment Better
Patients who sleep better often experience:
* Less pain
* Fewer complications
* Shorter hospital stays
* Better overall quality of life

😴 Why Sleep Problems Are Common
Many people with breast cancer experience sleep difficulties. Common causes include:
* Pain or discomfort
* Hot flashes or night sweats
* Anxiety or fear
* Medication side effects
* Changes in daily routine
* Daytime fatigue leading to naps
These challenges are normal, and there are ways to improve sleep.

🌿 Tips to Improve Sleep During Recovery
1. Keep a Regular Sleep Schedule
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
Try calming activities such as:
* Deep breathing
* Gentle stretching
* Listening to soft music
* Reading something light
3. Make Your Sleep Space Comfortable
Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Use comfortable bedding and supportive pillows.
4. Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Phones, tablets, and TVs can make it harder to fall asleep. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime.
5. Be Mindful of Caffeine and Large Meals
Avoid caffeine late in the day and try not to eat heavy meals close to bedtime.
6. Stay Active During the Day
Light activity—such as walking—can improve sleep and reduce fatigue. Always follow your care team’s guidance.
7. Talk to Your Healthcare Team
If sleep problems continue, let your doctor or nurse know. They can help identify causes and offer safe strategies to improve sleep.

💗 Remember
Sleep isn’t a luxury during breast cancer treatment—it’s a biological necessity.
It supports your immune system, reduces inflammation, strengthens emotional health, and helps your body heal.
If you’re struggling with sleep, you’re not alone—and it’s absolutely worth talking about.
Better sleep can make a meaningful difference in how you feel, how you heal, and how you move forward.
You deserve rest, comfort, and support every step of the way.

04/02/2026

Breast Self Exam ✅
Knowing your normal breast tissue—how they look and feel—is key to early detection, as roughly 40% of diagnosed cancers are found by women noticing a change. Perform monthly self-exams to identify new lumps, skin puckering, ni**le changes, or persistent pain. Report any consistent, new, or changing abnormalities to a doctor immediately.
The best time to check your breasts for signs of breast cancer is a few days after your period ends, when your breast tissue is naturally least swollen and easiest to examine. This timing helps you notice changes more accurately and reduces the chance of mistaking normal hormonal tenderness for something concerning.
🌸 Why Timing Matters
Your breasts change throughout your menstrual cycle because of shifting hormone levels. Right before your period, they can feel swollen, lumpy, or tender — which makes self‑checks less reliable.
Checking at the right time helps you feel your natural baseline so you can spot real changes early.

📅 Best Time to Do a Breast Self‑Exam (BSE)
If you have regular periods
* Check 3–5 days after your period ends.
* This is when your breasts are least tender and least swollen.

If your cycle is irregular or you don’t get periods
* Pick the same day every month (e.g., the 1st or the 15th).
* Consistency helps you notice changes over time.

If you’re post‑menopausal
* Choose one consistent day each month for your check.
* Hormonal fluctuations are minimal, so timing is about routine.

Look or feel for:
* New lumps or thickened areas
* Changes in size, shape, or symmetry
* Skin dimpling or puckering
* Redness, scaliness, or rash
* Ni**le discharge or inversion
* Swelling in the underarm area

If you notice something new, don’t panic — most changes are not cancer. But do contact a healthcare professional promptly.

👇🏻Tips to Make Your Self‑Check Easier
* After a warm shower — warmth relaxes breast tissue.
* When you’re relaxed — morning or evening both work.
* Use a mirror first, then your hands.
* Check your whole breast area, including underarms and collarbone.

Breast self‑exams are optional — some organizations no longer recommend them as a formal screening tool. What is essential is breast awareness: knowing what’s normal for you and reporting changes.
Professional screening recommendations vary, but many guidelines suggest:
* Clinical breast exams every few years in your 20s–30s, yearly after 40
* Annual mammograms starting at 40 for most women

04/02/2026

🌟 Should You Check Your Reconstruction After a Mastectomy?

Absolutely — even after a mastectomy with reconstruction, it’s still important to stay familiar with your chest and check for any changes. The exam looks a little different than it does with natural breast tissue, but the goal is the same: knowing what’s normal for you so you can notice anything new.

Even though most or all breast tissue has been removed, breast cancer can still recur in the skin, scar tissue, or chest wall, and reconstruction doesn’t prevent that. Regular self‑checks help you stay aware of changes that might need medical attention.

Because reconstructed breasts don’t follow hormonal cycles, you don’t need to time your checks around your period.
* Choose one consistent day each month
* (e.g., the 1st of the month or the day of your surgery anniversary)
* The key is consistency so you learn what your reconstruction normally feels like.

🔍 What to Look and Feel For
Reconstructed breasts feel different depending on the type of reconstruction (implants, DIEP flap, lat flap, etc.). Over time, you’ll learn your new “normal.”
Here are the changes worth paying attention to:
Skin or surface changes
* New redness or rash
* Thickening or hardening of the skin
* Dimpling or puckering
* Ulcers or sores that don’t heal
Changes in shape or contour
* New bulges, dents, or asymmetry
* Swelling that wasn’t there before
Lumps or firm areas
* Along the scar line
* In the underarm
* On the chest wall
Changes around the implant (if you have one)
* Sudden tightness or hardening
* Shifting or change in position
* New pain or discomfort
Ni**le changes (if you had ni**le-sparing surgery or reconstruction)
* Inversion
* Discharge
* Skin changes
Most of these changes are not cancer — they can be related to scar tissue, fat necrosis, or implant issues — but they’re still worth getting checked.

🩺 Why Self‑Checks Still Matter
Even with regular follow‑ups and imaging, you are the person most likely to notice a new change first.
Self‑checks help you:
* Stay familiar with your reconstruction
* Notice changes early
* Bring concerns to your healthcare team promptly
This is part of your long‑term care, not something you need to feel anxious about — just a monthly check‑in with your body.

You’re not overreacting — you’re being proactive about your health.

03/31/2026

🌸 A Gentle Reminder for Your Brave Heart
Take a moment today to remember the strength that carried you through some of the hardest chapters of your life. That resilience wasn’t a momentary spark—it’s a part of who you are.
The same courage that helped you rise before will rise with you again. It hasn’t left you. It hasn’t dimmed. It’s still yours.
Believe in yourself. Trust the power you’ve already proven you have. Whatever life places in your path, you have everything within you to meet it, move through it, and keep going with grace and determination.

Your story isn’t about what tried to defeat you — it’s about everything you rose above.
Unbreakable. Unshakeable. Unstoppable.

You are not alone. 💖🫶

03/13/2026

DIEP flap at SMH

03/12/2026

Some chemotherapy drugs may cause peripheral neuropathy, a side effect that can lead to tingling, burning, numbness or cold sensitivity that makes cold foods, drinks or temperatures uncomfortable.

Dr. Ryan Huey explains how to cope with this side effect during cancer treatment.

Platinum-based chemotherapy drugs — including cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin — are well-known for causing nerve damage in the hands and feet. This can lead to a side effect called peripheral neuropathy. Patients who experience it often report abnormal sensations of tingling, burning or numbness.

But patients who receive the drug oxaliplatin may also experience something extra: an extreme sensitivity to cold.

Known as cold dysesthesia, this form of neuropathy is unique to oxaliplatin. It can make drinking ice-cold beverages extremely unpleasant and exposure to chilly temperatures very uncomfortable — whether they’re due to air conditioning or just the weather. For some patients, the sensation can be so strong that it’s actually painful.

So, how soon does this cold sensitivity start after receiving oxaliplatin? How long can you expect it to last? And, is there anything you can do to manage it? Read on to find out.

When does the cold sensitivity from oxaliplatin start?

The sensitivity to cold can come on very quickly after a chemotherapy infusion. Still, some patients don’t notice it for several days. It can even surprise them, especially when it comes to cold food and drinks. That’s why I warn patients before they start any oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimen.

How long does the cold sensitivity last?

That depends on the length of your treatment. The first couple of times you receive oxaliplatin, you might only have cold sensitivity for a day or two. But the longer you’re on it, the longer your symptoms can last. A few months into chemotherapy, your cold sensitivity may linger for several days, or even weeks, after an infusion.

The good news is that cold sensitivity usually goes away once you’ve finished chemotherapy. And, it’s not dangerous, just unusual. The abnormal cold sensation of dysesthesia can be mild or bothersome. But in and of itself, it’s just a side effect; it doesn’t mean something bad is happening.

Are there any strategies you can use to manage cold sensitivity?

Absolutely. The severity of cold sensitivity varies from patient to patient, but it’s typically very manageable. It’s rare to need to adjust your dose or treatment schedule just because of that.

In most cases, it’s better to avoid the cold that’s causing you discomfort than it is to look for ways to address it. So, some patients struggle with it more in the winter than the summer.

But unlike side effects such as nausea or diarrhea, which can be improved with medication, coping with cold sensitivity is all about making lifestyle changes. Here’s what I usually recommend.

Food temperature-related cold sensitivities

Ask for drinking water at room temperature.
Request soft drinks with no ice.
Avoid smoothies, popsicles, ice cream and other frozen treats.
Skip cold soups like gazpacho.
Stick with foods served warm or hot.
Choose hot beverages like tea, coffee and cocoa.
Some research suggests chewing ice chips during an infusion may help prevent this side effect altogether.

Air temperature-related cold sensitivities

Wear gloves when reaching into your refrigerator or freezer.
Ask to relocate your workspace if your desk is by a drafty door or beneath an air vent.
Bundle up in extra layers if you have to go outside in cold weather
If you’re experiencing cold sensitivity due to chemotherapy, try the strategies above to see which ones work best for you. If you’re still struggling, contact your care team. They can help you come up with some additional ways to cope.

Source;

https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/how-to-cope-with-cold-sensitivity-due-to-chemotherapy.h00-159853767.html

03/06/2026

New documentary is now streaming on Paramount + The pink pill 💖 FDA approval and controversy

Addyi (flibanserin) for S*xual Health in Women With Breast Cancer 🌸
Addyi (flibanserin) has emerged as a promising option for addressing sexual health concerns in women with breast cancer.
The key takeaway:
ASCO‑presented data show that Addyi improves libido, sexual function, and quality of life in premenopausal women receiving endocrine therapy—a group in which sexual dysfunction is extremely common.

S*xual dysfunction—particularly loss of libido—affects up to 70% of women treated for breast cancer, especially those on endocrine therapies such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. This remains one of the most distressing and undertreated issues in survivorship care.

ASCO‑presented research highlights Addyi as a potentially effective, non‑hormonal treatment option for these women.
📌 Key Findings From ASCO‑Presented Studies
1. Improved Libido and S*xual Function
A study presented at the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting reported that Addyi led to:
Increased sexual desire (libido)
Improved arousal and satisfaction
Reduced pain during sexual activity
Better overall sexual function
Enhanced health‑related quality of life
These benefits were observed specifically in premenopausal women with breast cancer who were receiving hormone therapy.

2. Addressing a Major Unmet Need
ASCO‑presented data emphasized that:
S*xual dysfunction is extremely prevalent among breast cancer survivors.
Endocrine therapy frequently worsens libido.
Addyi may be a valuable option for women experiencing bothersome, medication‑induced low sexual desire.
Dr. Shari Goldfarb of Memorial Sloan Kettering noted that flibanserin “should be offered to women with breast cancer with bothersome and medication‑induced decreased libido.”

3. ASCO Abstract 12015: Positive Interim Results
Sprout Pharmaceuticals’ ASCO abstract #12015 reported:
-Positive interim results for Addyi in breast cancer patients with low libido
-Confirmation that approximately 70% of breast cancer patients experience sexual dysfunction
-Promising improvements in sexual desire and sexual response
These findings were echoed across multiple ASCO‑related reports.

Who May Benefit Most
ASCO‑presented evidence suggests Addyi may be particularly helpful for:
-Premenopausal women and recently approved for post menopausal women under 65
-Breast cancer survivors on endocrine therapy
Individuals experiencing treatment‑induced low libido
-Women seeking a non‑hormonal option—especially important for hormone‑sensitive cancers

Expert Commentary
“Flibanserin should be offered to women with breast cancer with bothersome and medication‑induced decreased libido. Having a medication to treat this often unaddressed issue will improve the quality of life and sexual function of millions of women with breast cancer.”
ASCO expert Erica Mayer, MD, MPH (Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute) added:
“While we continue to make strides in the treatment of breast cancer, the side effects—especially sexual dysfunction in younger women—often remain unaddressed in the clinical setting. This study offers insight into the role of flibanserin in tackling this sensitive but common issue, showing an improvement in sexual dysfunction in patients taking the medication. Although the findings are based on a small cohort, they serve as a catalyst for a larger, more comprehensive study to further examine the potential of this agent in improving the overall well‑being of breast cancer patients.”

Addyi is approved to treat:
Hypoactive S*xual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
A condition where a woman has low sexual desire that causes distress or relationship difficulty.
It is not a hormone, not a stimulant, and not similar to medications used for erectile dysfunction.

How Addyi Works
Addyi acts on neurotransmitters in the brain, especially:
-Increases dopamine and norepinephrine (linked to desire and motivation)
-Decreases serotonin (which can suppress sexual desire)
Because it works on brain chemistry, it’s taken daily at bedtime, not “as needed.”

Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Where to get it and price 👇🏻
https://addyi.com/getting-addyi/

Article about ASCO 2023 https://www.biospace.com/sprout-pharmaceuticals-announces-release-of-abstract-reporting-positive-interim-results-for-flibanserin-in-breast-cancer-patients-suffering-from-low-libido-for-poster-discussion-at-2023-asco-annual-meeting

https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/trailer/video/NSdY67SwcWeOagtJUfk1P0j1ugTFaSco/

A provocative documentary revealing how gender bias shapes medicine and pleasure, THE PINK PILL chronicles the fierce fight to bring the first FDA-approved

02/27/2026

🎉Today marks 6 years of Breast Cancer Survivors of Sarasota support group! Thank you all for helping keep this community strong. 💖

Finding strength is easier when you don’t have to walk the journey alone.
Our breast cancer support group is the largest free local online community dedicated to connection—not sales or advertising, no pressure, just genuine support.
What we offer:
🌸 A free, local online support group where survivors and thrivers can connect anytime.
🌸 Monthly in‑person meetups that bring our community together for conversation, comfort, and shared strength.
🌸 Patient advocacy to help you navigate care, resources, and your rights.
🌸 Free phone support for those moments when you just need someone who understands.
🌸 Monthly gatherings—dinners, lunches, breakfasts, and more—because healing happens in community.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or years into survivorship, you’re welcome here. No judgment. No sales. Just support.