Suzanne Somers: A Remarkable Journey of Strength and Resilience

On October 16, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Articles1 Comment

If you grew up in the 80s, you might remember the popular sitcom “Three’s Company,” featuring three quirky roommates and their daily adventures. One of these roommates was Chrissy, portrayed by Suzanne Somers, a character who brought laughter and charm to our screens. However, Suzanne Somers was not just an iconic actress; she was also known for her health and fitness endeavors, including the infamous ThighMaster. But today, we’re here to celebrate more than just her entertainment career. We’re here to honor a remarkable woman who, for over 23 years, battled the insidious enemy known as breast cancer and emerged as a beacon of hope, persistence, strength, and resilience.

Suzanne Somers’ journey was not just about fame and success; it was a testament to her unwavering determination to live life on her terms despite the challenges she faced. Diagnosed with breast cancer in her twenties, she faced a lifelong battle with the disease, enduring multiple recurrences. Yet, she never allowed cancer to define her.

One of the remarkable aspects of Suzanne’s journey was her advocacy for patients’ rights to make their own decisions about their health. She faced criticism for her choices, but her life story stands as a testament to the value of advocating for what you believe is right in your healthcare decisions. Suzanne’s ability to live a full, productive life, complete with marriage, children, grandchildren, a successful career both in front of and behind the cameras, and reaching the age of 76, is a testament to her steadfast belief in her choices.

Suzanne Somers’ life exemplifies persistence, strength, and resilience. In her own words, she once told “Entertainment Tonight” during an interview, “I do my best not to let this insidious disease control me. Like any cancer patient, when you get that dreaded ‘It’s back,’ you get a pit in your stomach. Then I put on my battle gear and go to war. This is familiar battleground for me, and I’m very tough.” Suzanne’s attitude serves as an inspiration to all of us, showing that we can face even the most challenging circumstances with determination and an indomitable spirit.

Today, as we discuss breast cancer awareness, let us also celebrate the life of Suzanne Somers and the invaluable lessons she has left us through her legacy. She reminds us that we have the power to make choices in our healthcare journey, and that, no matter the obstacles we face, we can find the strength within to fight back.

As Suzanne Somers leaves us, we extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to her family, friends, and loved ones. She may have left this world, but her legacy of courage and determination will continue to inspire us all. Suzanne’s journey is a reminder that, even in the face of adversity, we can live life to the fullest and leave a lasting impact on the world.

In her memory, let us strive to be as courageous, as persistent, as strong, and as resilient as Suzanne Somers.

Foods that May Help Prevent Breast Cancer

On October 2, 2023September 27, 2023 By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Breast cancer is a formidable adversary, affecting women worldwide at an alarming rate. While factors like genetics and hormone levels play a role in breast cancer risk, your diet can be a powerful ally in the fight against this disease. I know I’ve heard of food to prevent cancer in general, but when I found this information for breast cancer I wanted to share it with you. It is always a good idea to start with prevention and if we have delicious and nutritious approach to breast health and reduce risk of breast cancer, I’m all for it. Remember, there’s no magical food that can guarantee prevention, but adding these tasty options into your diet might contribute to your overall well-being.

1. Dark Leafy Greens

Let’s kick off our journey to better breast health with a colorful start—dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and broccoli. These veggies are like nutritional superheroes, packed with antioxidants, vitamins (A, C, and K), and minerals (calcium and iron). But what makes them extra special is their secret weapon: glucosinolates (that’s a big word to say that the foods contain sulfur and nitrogen and are derived from glucose and an amino acid.) These compounds have been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, making dark leafy greens a formidable ally in your fight against breast cancer.

2. Berries

Next up, we have the vibrant and juicy stars of the fruit world: berries. Think strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. I’ve always heard that these are super foods. Also think about it, from the fruit groups these tend to be very low in calories and sugars. These little powerhouses are bursting with antioxidants that wage war against harmful free radicals in your body. By doing so, they reduce inflammation and limit DNA damage—two key culprits that can lead to breast cancer. Berries are also packed with dietary fiber and vitamin C, making them a sweet addition to your breast health arsenal. Plus they are delicious!

3. Citrus Fruits

When life gives you lemons, make sure you’re using them to boost your breast health. Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are brimming with vitamin C and other antioxidants. Research suggests that vitamin C has anti-cancer properties, helping protect against breast cancer by reducing oxidative stress and neutralizing those pesky free radicals. Including citrus fruits in your diet adds a zesty twist to your quest for better breast health. Now I’m totally bias in this category. I love citrus foods. Anyone who knows me, knows that lemons and limes are part of my daily life. I will warn you to be careful with the grapefruits if you are on certain medications where is contraindicated.

4. Fermented Foods

Now, let’s venture into the world of fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. These tasty treats are home to probiotics and beneficial bacteria that create a thriving gut (your stomach) microbiome. Recent studies suggest that maintaining a diverse and balanced gut may reduce the risk of breast cancer by supporting your immune system and taming inflammation. So, consider adding these fermented wonders to your daily routine for a healthier gut and potentially lower breast cancer risk.

5. Fatty Fish

Swimming into our list is a group of oceanic superheroes—fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. These fish are teeming with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. While not a guarantee against breast cancer, regular consumption of fatty fish (at least twice a week) can provide your body with these essential fatty acids, potentially contributing to better breast health.

6. Allium Vegetables

Last but not least, let’s embrace the flavorful world of allium vegetables—garlic, onions, and shallots. These kitchen staples contain organosulfur compounds that have been associated with anti-cancer effects. They may help inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, promote cell death, and offer antioxidant benefits. So, next time you’re cooking up a storm, don’t forget to include these aromatic wonders for an extra dash of potential health benefits.

In the battle against breast cancer, there’s no surefire way to guarantee victory, but adopting a healthy lifestyle can tip the scales in your favor. By incorporating foods like dark leafy greens, berries, citrus fruits, fermented goodies, fatty fish, and allium vegetables into your diet, you’re taking proactive steps toward better breast health. Remember, it’s crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and to stick to regular screenings and early detection measures. By prioritizing a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet, we can work together to reduce the risk of breast cancer and promote overall well-being.

As always, be blessed

References:

American Cancer Society. (2021). Can a Healthy Diet Help to Prevent Breast Cancer? Retrieved from source
World Cancer Research Fund. (2018). Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Breast Cancer. Retrieved from source
National Cancer Institute. (2021). Breast Cancer Prevention (PDQ) – Patient Version. Retrieved from source

Preparing for October

On September 28, 2023September 27, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

October means a lot of things for a lot of people. People are looking forward to the fall festivals, pumpkin patches, all things pumpkin spice, and some for Halloween. I’m not saying I’m not looking forward to those things. In fact, I’ve already partaken in a few pumpkin spice lattes myself. But October, to me, is also about women’s issues. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Both of these causes are near and dear to my heart.

In the past, I have asked that if any survivors want to share their experiences with our community, publicly or privately, they’re welcome to do so. I will extend this invitation this year as well. I will say that I’m not blind to the fact that some men suffer from breast cancer or are victims of domestic violence, so they’re invited to share their stories as well. I called it women’s issues because the majority of the survivors of these causes are women.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of early detection and regular screenings. It’s an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about the risks, symptoms, and available resources for breast cancer. This October, I plan to delve into topics such as the latest advancements in breast cancer research, survivor stories, and how we can all contribute to raising awareness and supporting those affected by this disease.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is equally significant. It’s a time to shine a light on a pressing issue that affects countless individuals and families. Domestic violence knows no boundaries, and it’s crucial to understand the signs, offer support, and advocate for change. Throughout October, I aim to explore topics like recognizing the signs of domestic violence, resources for survivors, and initiatives aimed at prevention and support.

But here’s the thing – I don’t want this blog to be just about what I think is important. I want to hear from you, my community. Are there any specific topics that you would like me to cover this month under these main subjects? Your input matters, and I’d love to create content that addresses the issues and questions that are important to you.

In the spirit of fall and community, let’s come together to raise awareness, offer support, and make a positive impact during October. Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month are not just about spreading awareness but also about fostering empathy, understanding, and action. So, as we sip our pumpkin spice lattes and enjoy the changing leaves, let’s remember the importance of standing with those who need our support the most.

Happy Fall!

Ps. If you want to submit your survivor story, please send it to therisingmuse@gmail.com Let me know if you want to remain anonymous so that I know before sharing it. Also if you just want to send it to me and not share it with the community, I can respect that as well.

From Honeymooner to Survivor

On October 12, 2012October 12, 2012 By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Today at The Rising Muse we have the story of author and breast cancer survivor Katherine Bown. Katherine found out that out that she had breast cancer during her honeymoon. Let’s read her story:

In December 2008 I got married when my life was great; I had a brilliant job as a Marketing Communications Manager, I ran website, I had a busy social life – basically I thrived off being under pressure.

Ten days later on my honeymoon I found a lump on my breast, then got diagnosed with an aggressive (grade 3) tumor ( breast cancer). I then spent the 1st year of my marriage going through 18 weeks of chemotherapy and 3 weeks radiotherapy.

When I finished treatment I went back to work but I wasn’t the same person as I previously was, I lasted a year at work and then I took VR – pretty much to search for ‘my purpose in life’ (I’d literally scour the net for ideas; going to change my job, looking at doing charity treks, how I could raise breast cancer awareness, fundraising – pretty much I did anything I could to change my life and give meaning to why the cancer didn’t take me!)

Cancer was a big surprise to me. There’s no history of breast cancer or any cancer in my family whatsoever. I was the first person to go through this journey.

It took 5 months of soul-searching when a friend suggested I set up my own marketing consultancy which I did and has been going great for a year.

I always wanted to write a book, but never knew what kind of book to write. A few months I finally figured it out. I could use my life experience to help family and friends of breast cancer sufferers; explaining in ‘my language’ all of the medical terms, how the breast cancer patient will react in certain situations, the side affects of treatment, how they can help along the way.

I have found my purpose in life, I want to help Mums, Sisters, Best Friend’s, Husbands and caretakers of those dealing with breast cancer. I want to share how important they are to those of us, whom they love, and have been diagnosed with breast cancer, after all I’ve got 1st hand experience at it!

Wow, Katherine! What a story! Thanks for sharing it with us.

If you want to read more about Katherine’s journey and would like more to get her book ‘Your Guide Through Her Breast Cancer Journey’

Her book is on Amazon for just $0.99 and the profits from her sales until 12/31/12 will go towards Breast Cancer Care. I think we can all spare to help.

More about Katherine Bown

Katherine was born Cardiff, South Wales, UK. She has worked in the marketing field for over 15 years. She was diagnosed at 33 years old with Stage 1, Grade 3 breast cancer in February 2009, after finding a lump in her breast while on honeymoon. She had 18 weeks of FEC chemotherapy, 3 weeks of Radiotherapy and is currently still taking Tamoxifen.Since completing treatment, she has given a lot of her time to supporting and fundraising for cancer research and breast cancer charities. Connect with Katherine on Twitter or Facebook

My Story of Hope

On October 8, 2012October 5, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Articles1 Comment

By Gina Cook

My name is Gina and what an honor to share my story with you. My prayer is that somewhere along the line of my story, you will feel hope and strength. They same time flies when you are having fun. I would like to say time has flown because my life has been a blast, full of laughter and health, yet looking back it is hard to believe that 7 years ago my life drastically changed and will forever be changed because of that moment where time stood still and life seemed hopeless.
Breast Cancer is no respector of persons, it doesn’t care who you are, where you came from, what color, what age or that you really don’t have time for this horrible disease. But here I was at the age of 31 years old and a mother of two young girls and a few days before my youngest daughter Dakota’s first Birthday, I was daignosed with Stage Three Breast Cancer with the tumor being over 3 Centimeters in size. I remember feeling as if I could not breathe and the sting of death was at my door. The Words “You have Cancer, and it isn’t good” was spoken by the Doctor.
My life that seemed so young and fresh with so much ahead, suddenly seemed dark and hopeless. And here in that moment, a new me emerged. I was a fighter and was not ready to leave this world. I was not ready to leave my daughters and my family behind. My purpose on Earth was not fulfilled and I was ready to put my boxing gloves on and fight this horrible Cancer. My brother in law bought me some red boxing gloves and had all my family sign them for me, and I was ready to fight.

Because of my size tumor and it being in three out of fifteen lymph nodes they removed from my arm, I began chemotherapy first to shrink the tumor. Immediately I began three heavy and hard months of Chemotherapy. Throwing up , so weak that I had to hold on to to anything in sight to make it to my destination. As if the throwing up and exhaustion isn’t enough then you lose your hair. What was once long and brown thick hair went to a short cut and then a week later fell out on my pillow as if to say “I’m leaving you too”..For at those moments when you are lying in your bed trying to sleep, you feel alone , alone with the thoughts of “How will I survive this?” Though family and friends surrounded me through this fight, I was still alone with my thoughts . No one could really know what I was thinking or feeling.
There are so many days it would take all my energy to get out of the bed. I would pray for God to give me the strength so my oldest daughter Macayla , who was six at the time, could see me look normal when she came home from school. The masked smile and “Mommy is fine, just tired” hurt as much as the multiple surgeries that I had including a Masectomy. I didn’t want my girls to lose their mom. I want to see them get ready for prom, celebrate Birthdays and holidays and see them get married one day. Yet through all these feelings, my heart still had a song.
I will forever remember that moment when my oldest daughter Macayla was running in the front yard. it was a beautiful day and she was chasing Butterflies that were all out in our front yard. I sat on the couch that was in front of the glass window and watched her. The words began to come to me and I walked slowly to the stairs. I grasped the stair rail and held on tight with both hands . One step at a time, I kept repeating the words in my head so I could remember it “My butterfly, you fly so high. You fly for me. Everything I am not know, you seem to be. My Butterfly take on the wind, fly so high, but come back again. Thank you for letting me see, myself through you. Your everything to me.”. I made it up the stairs and went into my closet. Knelt down on the floor and with my paper and pen birthed the song out of it’s cocoon “My Butterfly”.
For that moment she was flying for me but I began to see myself emerge from the cocoon and able to fly. Not physically but spiritually. I felt “HOPE”. I began to check my calendar off every day and what would be closer to my chemo and radiation treatments to come to end. My chemo treatments went on for over a year followed by radiation, more surgeries and after cancer treatments. On the weeks I did not have chemo, I would go for short walks with the girls, go to the mall for an hour if just to show my girls I could do it. I enjoyed every minute and second before the dreaded chemo stepped up to the box on my calendar.
I loved being around family and singing with my mom, sister and my brother Kevin who played the drums. It was very rare I would miss a church service. I didn’t want to quit singing because it got me through the pain. I began to write more songs and the healing process began. Soon the day came when I would see that all the fighting, pushing, and determination to beat this would come and I would hear the words “You are Cancer Free”. “Free” How appropriate those words were to me. I made it!!
Then there was my wonderful mom whom I don’t think I could have recovered as quickly, she would stay up at night with me, and rock my youngest daughter Dakota to sleep when I was too sick. My mom was my rock!! Through this I have met amazing people, made bonds that can never be broken and have continued fighting this battle for others. I have confidence like I never have before, I am empowered to bring Joy and life to others. I am involved as a volunteer with Long Leaf Hospice and am an avid Fan of running, and now a Zumba fitness instructor. My story is for everyone to see that though the disease is ugly , there is hope on the horizon, a sunset over the mountain that you climb and along the way I pray you feel the hands of God. For remember when you only saw the footprints, He was carrying you.
I want to dedicate this to my daughters Macayla and Dakota who are my Butterflies and will carry on the legacy of giving back and inspire others. They dance for me and continue to amaze me every day!
Hope lives !!

Gina Cook
For booking Gina Cook as your guest speaker/singer at your event contact her on facebook or at gcookn@att.net. myspace/ginacookmusic
Gina’s picture courtesy of “Dawn and Company Portrait”

Thanks Gina for your bravery and sharing with us

WF: Praise you in the storm

On September 28, 2012September 23, 2012 By Naty MatosIn Worship3 Comments

This is the last post of September and I wanted to use it to introduce you to some of what I am going to be doing in the next month. October is what I called “Survivor Month”. Why? Because it’s the month chosen for the awareness of two causes dear to my heart: Domestic Violence and Breast Cancer.

This year I would like for you to hear about different things regarding these causes. But this blog is not just for me, if you are a domestic violence or a breast cancer survivor and you want to share your story, please send it to me at therisingmuse @ gmail.com We would love to hear your story of going from victim to victory and encourage those who are still in the middle of the struggle. If your story is chosen to be featured here on The Rising Muse, you will get a copy of my new e-book, The Road Home as my token of gratitude for sharing your story.

And not forgetting that today is Worship Friday, I felt that there was no more appropriate song to worship the Lord with a song that actually talks about us putting our faith in Him through our struggles.

Have a blessed weekend!