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Viewpoint
Our health is important. There are reasons why people let things go. They can be caring for their elderly parents, a family, working, and no or limited health coverage. Another issue we have as a Black community is not trusting the medical field or procrastination.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. I have not experienced Breast Cancer, but I know friends and family that have been diagnosed and survived. It has been said Breast Cancer has touched everyone in some way.
This issue will share stories about Breast Cancer and stories of survival. I had the opportunity to speak with a survivor of breast cancer who is the President, CEO, and Co-founder of the African American Breast Cancer Alliance in Minneapolis,
Minnesota. There will also be stories from the Contributing Writers and Mary’s Tips and Ideas.
We hope you find this issue full of information you can use and pass along.
Embrace Your Community Damita
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Herbal Protection From Our Elders
By Christina Gobert, Contributing Writer
As I write this, it is apparent that Fall is upon us. I have already noticed the leaves on my Crepe Myrtle shedding and changing to that beautiful Autumn color we all adore. As an Herbalist, when this time of year comes I immediately start thinking about what I can prepare to support me and my families’ immune system. The staple that never fails is Elderberry Syrup. In last month’s article, I mentioned that Elderberries are used to treat colds, flu, allergies, to remove mucus from the respiratory system and provide an overall boost to the immune system.
Spiritually, Elderberries “offer the protection of a familiar elder, a protective guarding, shielding us from storms”(Karen Rose, Spiritual Herbalism).
I also add additional Alkaline herbs to create a synergistic tonic that is sure to provide protection well into the wintertime.
Ingredients:
3.5 cups of spring water 2 cups dried elderberries 2 tbsp grated ginger 1/2 tsp cloves 1 tbsp Nettle Leaf 1/2 tbsp burdock root 1/2 cup agave or date syrup
Unwind and Heal with ‘ooh girl yes! Self Care Coloring Book and Things!’
By Jacqueline Johnson
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for yourself is essential for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our new ‘ooh girl yes! Self Care Coloring Book and Things’ is designed to offer women a unique and creative outlet for unwinding, reflecting, and prioritizing self-care.
Self-care is more than a trendy buzzword; it's a vital practice for recharging and protecting your mental health. When you set aside time to relax, you allow yourself to step away from the pressures of daily life. Engaging in relaxing activities like coloring can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote a sense of inner calm. Studies have shown that coloring has therapeutic benefits like meditation. By allowing your mind to focus on a simple yet creative task, you can release tension, lower stress levels, and cultivate mindfulness.
For those facing significant life challenges, such as those battling or recovering from breast cancer, selfcare becomes even more crucial. October, recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is a reminder of the importance of nurturing our bodies and spirits. Coloring can be an accessible way to help heal emotionally, allowing you to express feelings that might otherwise be hard to put into words. It offers a gentle, nonverbal outlet for processing emotions while also stimulating positive thoughts.
Our ‘ooh girl yes! Self Care Coloring Book and Things!’ is not just about coloring; it’s about creating moments of joy and peace in a busy world. Filled with uplifting designs and empowering affirmations, this
Contributing Writer, Jacqueline “ooh” Johnson
book encourages you to take time for yourself, breathe, and rediscover a sense of balance and wellness.
Embrace the power of self-care through creativity and let this coloring book be part of your journey toward healing and personal growth.
For the month of October with every purchase of ‘ooh girl yes! Self Care Coloring Book and Things!’ you will receive a set of coloring pencils, and a sample of our top selling Calming Butter. Visit www.jacquieooh.com for more information.
Jacqueline Johnson, a proud Texan, currently resides in Denton, TX, alongside her spouse. She is a newly “empty nester” with your last daughter to leave the nest to attend college. With two grown sons residing in California and two grandsons, and her newly married daughter and son-in-love, Jacqueline is the visionary behind Jacquie ooh, an online resource hub committed to equipping women with the tools they need to think well and live well. Additionally, Jacqueline has spearheaded the development of the Glow Collection by Jacquie ooh, an exceptional line of all-natural skincare products. Designed to provide your skin with a nourishing gourmet experience, this collection embodies her passion for holistic well-being. Jacqueline is also very involved in her community where she volunteers and is the precinct chair in her county, she recently formed a nonprofit for mom’s called, Mom’n It. She is the author of: “Glow Through It” 21-Day Devotional Journal for Women, “Dare to Sparkle” Entrepreneur Guide plus Dream Big 4-Day Devotional and her newest book, “ooh girl yes! Self-Care Coloring Book and Things.” And, most recently her remarkable show, “Motivational Monday with Jacquie ooh” received the 2024 Telly Award for being an exceptional online talk show. For more information on Jacquie ooh please visit www.jacquieooh.com
Kindness
Breast Cancer Awareness: The Urgent Need for Early Detection in Black Women
Breast Cancer Awareness: The Urgent Need for Early Detection in Black Women
By Damita Miller-Shanklin
As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's essential to highlight the disparities Black women face when it comes to this disease. Although Black women are diagnosed with breast cancer at a slightly lower rate than white women, they are 40% more likely to die from it. This clear contrast is a call to action for increased awareness and education within our community.
The higher mortality rate among Black women is upsetting. Despite medical advances, Black women face more severe outcomes, often due to latestage diagnoses. By the time many Black women are diagnosed, the cancer is more advanced, limiting treatment options and reducing chances for survival. This is a serious issue that has to be addressed.
Early detection is one of the most critical factors in breast cancer survival. Regular screenings and mammograms save lives by catching cancer in its early stages when it's more treatable. However, many Black women either lack access to sufficient healthcare or are unaware of the importance of these screenings. Raising awareness about early detection within our communities can help close this gap.
Another concerning factor is that Black women are more likely to develop triple-negative breast cancer—a particularly aggressive form of the disease that is harder to treat and tends to spread faster. Triple-negative breast cancer is also where the cancer cells don’t have estrogen or progesterone receptors (ER or PR) and also don’t make any or too much of the protein called HER2. (American Cancer Society)
Unfortunately, this form of cancer also has fewer treatment options, making early detection even more crucial.
As a community, we must be proactive. Talk to your family and friends about breast cancer, encourage regular mammograms, and advocate for accessible healthcare options. Together, we can spread awareness and ensure that Black women and men have the information and resources they need to detect breast cancer early and increase their chances of survival.
Breast cancer is a fight we can’t afford to lose. Let’s make early detection a priority, empower our community, and work toward better health outcomes for all Black women.
By Aubrey Edmond, Contributing Writer
Recently, I have been trying to practice kindness and patience towards myself, towards others, and towards the world. Last week, I was waiting in line at the Starbucks on my college campus during a short break I had between my classes. I had about twenty minutes and had gotten about four hours of sleep the night before because I was up studying for an important test. The line was absurdly long, but I knew that I would not make it to my exam without any coffee. The two girls in front of me were so wrapped up in a conversation that they were completely unaware of the line's snail-like movement, and everyone behind them was beginning to get bunched up in the back corner of the building. They were obviously freshmen, they had that bright and excited look in their eyes of newfound freedom that fades after the first six to eight months of college. We moved forward slowly, and by the time we got to the point where the two of them were the only people in front of me, the line had taken so long that there was no way I would make it to my next class on time. All of a sudden, a boy appeared out of nowhere, looked at the line, and joined the two girls. I was baffled and angry, but I kept my mouth shut and took a deep breath. The first girl walked towards the cashier, and then again, another boy walked in front of me and joined them in the line. I had assumed they would all go to the cashier together, but they each went individually, taking about fifteen minutes altogether to decide what they wanted to order.
If this had happened to me at any other time, I probably would have said something to them. The weekend prior, I experienced someone getting so mad at me on the road that he rolled down his window to yell at me, and instead of yelling back, I smiled and waved. I realized how much lighter I felt after that than I would have if I had responded out of anger, and I have been trying to incorporate that sentiment into more aspects of my everyday life. While this was not exactly an instance of kindness, it was enough of a deviation from normalcy for me that I decided making a change was actually important. The world has been feeling a lot less kind recently, and if that’s something that I notice within myself, why wouldn’t I change it?
feature
The Story of the African American Breast Cancer Alliance
By Damita Miller-Shanklin
I had the opportunity to speak with Reona Berry. She is a Breast Cancer Survivor, Co-Founder, President/CEO of the African American Breast Cancer Alliance. The AABCA has been “committed to sharing crucial, life-affirming information, and promoting the benefits of early detection and treatment.” The African American Breast Cancer Alliance is located in Minneapolis, MN but the information shared is a global message for all organizations.
The African American Breast Cancer Alliance was started in 1990, in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. Despite the small Black population, about 12%, a group of nine Black women came together, united by a common cause: to support each other through breast cancer. Six of these women were survivors themselves, often feeling isolated and wondering if they were the only Black women in Minnesota facing this battle. Slowly but surely, they began to hear whispers from friends and acquaintances saying, "You'll be okay, honey. I had it 20
years ago." But there was a pervasive silence around the topic, with many afraid that speaking about the disease might somehow invite it into their lives.
The challenges were huge. Many women didn't have insurance or had to choose between feeding their children and visiting a doctor. There were misconceptions that breast cancer was a "white woman's disease," and few resources specifically addressed the needs of Black women.
There were misconceptions that breast cancer was a "white woman's disease," and few resources specifically addressed the needs of Black women.
To combat this, the group created a brochure called "Being There" with the help of the American Cancer Society, who printed it for them. The brochure quickly gained traction because there was no other information out there for women of color, especially Black women.
Despite their local focus, the group's efforts resonated beyond Minnesota. When COVID hit, they began hosting national online support groups via Zoom. They discovered Feature continues on p6
that many Black women in other cities and states didn't have access to a support group in their area. This outreach was essential because the need was there, even if the groups themselves were not.
As the conversation continued with Berry, it was clear their outreach has grown significantly over the years, especially with the help of virtual meetings during the pandemic. These meetings allowed women to join and connect without the burden of travel, creating a safe space for them to ask questions and share their experiences.
The African American Breast Cancer Alliance has always focused on making cancer less of a taboo topic in the Black community. Initially, many women were hesitant to get mammograms, partly due to a lack of information and partly due to the pervasive myth that breast cancer was not a concern for them. The group worked tirelessly to educate and support, ensuring that Black women knew they were not alone and that they deserved the same quality of care and information as anyone else.
The story of the African American Black Cancer Alliance is one of resilience, community, and unwavering support. It reminds us all that we are stronger together and that, with love and support, we can overcome anything.
Over the years, the Alliance has been a source of information, support, and community for many. Their work has extended to health fairs, churches, businesses, and even small gatherings where women could speak openly and honestly. Through these efforts, they have empowered countless women to take charge of their health and their lives.
One of the highlights of their support efforts is their annual retreat. These retreats are not about cancer but about living
and celebrating life. Survivors gather at a hotel for a weekend of fun, food, and laughter. They share their stories, dance, and even have a "survivor strut," a joyful celebration of resilience and community. This retreat is a time for the women to be themselves, to relax, and to support one another outside of the shadow of cancer.
The Alliance's journey hasn't been without its challenges. They faced resistance when trying to educate their community, with some women turning away at health fairs when offered information about breast cancer. But they persisted, believing that knowledge is power and that every woman deserves to be informed and supported. Their work has also helped other Black women start similar groups in their own communities, creating a ripple effect of support and education.
The Alliance has always been more than just a support group; it has been a beacon of hope and strength for many. They have shown that, with the right support and information, Black women can and do survive breast cancer. Their mission to "take cancer out of the closet" has made a lasting impact, encouraging women to prioritize their health and to seek the help they need without shame or fear.
Speaking with Berry was eye-opening. We learned about the unique challenges that Black women face in the healthcare system and the importance of having a community that understands and supports them.. I knew their story would inspire others, just as it had inspired me.
The story of the African American Black Cancer Alliance is one of resilience, community, and unwavering support. It is a testament to the power of women coming together to support each other through one of the most challenging experiences of their lives. It reminds us all that we are stronger together and that, with love and support, we can overcome anything.
Mary Linnen, Editor
MARY’S TIPS AND IDEAS
Tips for a healthy lifestyle
Recommended Foods for Cancer Patients
Some of the best foods to eat during chemotherapy or other cancer treatments are plant-based proteins. They offer the highest levels of vitamins and minerals . This means eating lots of vegetables as well as beans, legumes, nuts and seeds.
For more information: https://www.hopkinsmed icine.org/health/conditio ns-and-diseases/ cancer/cancer-dietfoods-to-add-and-avoidduring-cancer-treatment
Get enough sleep. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. But in addition to quantity, quality of sleep matters too!
Eat a balanced diet. What you put into your body directly impacts your health since our bodies derive energy and nutrients from our food.
Drink more water. Most of us don't drink enough water every day. Water is essential for our bodies to function.
Exercise. Regular exercise strengthens your heart, boosts your mood, and increases energy levels.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic
What Age Does a Woman No Longer Require Breast Cancer Screenings?
The guidelines do not include recommendations for women after age 74, as there is limited data on whether mammograms save lives in that age group.
But we have patients who are much older than that and healthy, who would benefit from early detection that would inform treatment decisions.
Mammograms can be used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease.
www.cancer. gov
Strawberry Fruit Smoothie
Courtesy of The Food network
Fruits are on the list of foods for a healthy life as well as foods for a breast cancer patient. Keep this handy and enjoy it anytime.
WHAT YOU NEED
1 banana
1 cup strawberries
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons honey
Pinch of ground cinnamon
DIRECTIONS
Blend the banana, strawberries, yogurt, milk, honey, cinnamon and 1 cup ice in a blender until smooth. Pour into a glass.
Preparation:
1.Combine the berries and herbs with spring water in a pot and bring to a boil
2. Reduce heat and allow herbs to simmer for 30-45 minutes
3. Remove from heat and let steep about 1 hour (steep means allow the herbs to sit in the pot, with the fire off)
4. Strain herbs using a funnel or cheesecloth
5. Once the liquid has cooled to just above room temp, add the sweetener and stir.
6. Keep stored in a glass container in the refrigerator.
Additional info: Be sure to add a sweetener ration that is at least half the volume of liquid after it has simmered. This amount can change slightly, ex: if you are left with 2 cups of Elderberries after simmering, you will want to add at least 1 cup of sweetener.
Adults can take 1 tablespoon per day and children can take 1 teaspoon per day of this powerful syrup to prevent the winter sniffles.
Elderberry syrup bought from grocery and health food stores typically have additional harmful ingredients. This recipe is purely from Mother Nature. Give it a try!
Lastly, I am hosting a class in partnership with Austin Community College called Intro to Herbalism, Infusions 101!
In this class, participants will learn a brief history of Herbalism, including how indigenous cultures used herbs historically. Participants will learn ways herbs can support in balancing the body and mind and soul. Participants will have the opportunity to make an herbal infusion in class and will leave with a sample herb of their choice. Click here to register- hope to see you there!
Holistic Well-Being Guide
Ayurveda & Meditation Teacher https://www.naturalhealingwellnessco.com
This information is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose or treat.
Healing Herbs continued from p2
Before We Go ...
Breast Cancer can affect each of us at one time or another. In speaking, with women who are survivors, after the shock of the diagnosis, the journey of survival begins. Decisions have to be made based on the women’s specific type of breast cancer. Everyone has a different experience. The journey is hard for families, friends and the women who are going through it.
Resources for black women seem to be very limited. In my research, it was difficult finding support groups that allow black women to have a safe place to discuss their journey and receive information that will help in their healing. Below, you will find some resources that may help if you are looking for information. Not all of the resources are local but they offer general information you can use.
1. Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC): Based in Austin, BCRC offers a wide range of support services including a specialized group called Pink Table Talk specifically for Black women. They provide free support groups, navigation services, and resources for women facing breast cancer in Travis, Williamson, Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell counties (UT Health Austin) and Breast Cancer Resource Center of Texas
2. TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance: This organization focuses on addressing the unique challenges Black women face in breast cancer outcomes. Although not local to Austin, it provides virtual resources and support, including community engagement, advocacy, and educational content for Black women nationwide (TouchBBCA).
3. UT Health Austin - Breast Cancer Support: UT Health Austin provides a comprehensive list of local resources, including support from organizations such as the Breast Cancer Resource Center and the Capital of Texas Team Survivor, which offers free wellness and exercise programs for survivors (UT Health Austin).
4. The Sisters Network: The Sisters Network is a national organization. They are committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African American community. They do have an Austin Chapter.
These groups offer both local and virtual support tailored to Black women, providing a network to help navigate the challenges of breast cancer.
