HOUSTON, Oct. 30, 2014 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Dillard's in Houston's Galleria generously hosted a very successful BRA Day event on October 11, 2014 to support Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA). Shoppers flocked to the Galleria department store to make purchases benefitting the Reconstruction of a Survivor program. Ten percent of all purchases (excluding shoes) was donated to help support the program's mission to improve the lives of those impacted by breast cancer through valuable local support groups. Shoppers were greeted by master of ceremonies, Deborah Duncan of KHOU's Great Day Houston, and treated to complimentary bra fittings, refreshments and door prizes throughout the day.
Many believe the breast cancer journey ends after completion of treatment, whether that be chemotherapy, radiation or mastectomy. The little known fact is that survivors have more options now than ever before. Breast reconstruction techniques now include advanced surgeries that go beyond breast implants. Women are learning about several innovative flap procedures that can use the patients' own skin and fat for breast reconstruction using advanced microsurgical techniques.
"Very few survivors and caregivers are aware of these options. Our goal is to educate and empower patients about their choices to make their bodies whole again," said Rebecca Pennington-Ward, Program Director of Brave is Beautiful, an educational resource that provides free information for breast cancer patients, survivors and their families regarding reconstructive surgical options. Since the designation of national BRA day in October, 2011, more and more patients, caregivers and physicians are becoming aware of the surgical choices for breast cancer survivors.
To meet this goal, the program began with a presentation by Jay Shenaq, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, founder of Plastic Surgery of Houston and executive director of the Breast Center at Westside Surgical Hospital. Dr. Shenaq educated shoppers and survivors about reconstructive options available after lumpectomies and mastectomies. He graciously met with attendees after his talk to answer individual questions.
One attendee and former patient, Virgina Chavez, was referred to Dr. Shenaq at Westside Surgical Hospital for her reconstructive surgery earlier this year. She enjoyed the presentation and commented, "He's like a dad to me. It was obvious how much he genuinely cared for me and for my family." While staying in the hospital, Virginia said Dr. Shenaq came to facilitate her post-op care three to four times a day. "Doctors just don't do that!" exclaimed Chavez.
Pennington-Ward was richly rewarded to hear directly from several attendees who said that they "had no idea of these options until hearing Dr. Shenaq speak." Sadly, this is often the case. Fewer than 25 percent of survivors pursue reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy. Sometimes health care providers are not aware of the breast reconstruction options, or that it is covered by insurance, and therefore do not inform the patient.
In addition to Dr. Shenaq's presentation, the audience also heard from Dr. Jennie Bennett – founder and director of the non-profit organization, Reconstruction of a Survivor. This program offers support groups and resources to patients and families in more than 13 locations throughout the Houston area. Debra Williams, who is a volunteer with the program, also spoke and shared details about the way in which the organization impacts the lives of its members.
The first BRA day at Dillard's was a success – thanks to the collaboration of many and the generosity of the store. The team plans to make this an annual tradition. "It is our goal to ensure all breast cancer patients are educated about their choices, and that the entire health care team is well-informed, so that women can access options necessary to continue their lives," said Pennington-Ward.
Media Contact: Mika Rao, K+S Consulting, 7135327311, mika.rao@ks-consulting.net
News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.com
Image - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141030/155673
SOURCE Westside Surgical Hospital
