With the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010 and most provisions due to take effect in 2014, it’s reasonable to ask what MD Anderson is doing to prepare.
Fall 2013 : Sign of hope: Appearances count
Specialty shop caters to cancer patients
Maritza Valero. Photo: Wyatt McSpadden
Studies show that feeling good about yourself goes a long way toward keeping a positive attitude during cancer treatment. In turn, a positive attitude often leads to a more positive experience throughout a cancer journey.
Part of staying upbeat is having certain needs met, a fact that Volunteer Services at MD Anderson understood when they opened Appearances in the Lowry and Peggy Mays Clinic. Unique in Houston, the hospital-based specialty shop markets to the distinctive needs of cancer patients.
Taking measurements
Breast cancer patients can take advantage of the expertise of the certified mastectomy fitter, Maritza Valero, who manages Appearances. Valero began working in the shop as a volunteer and soon found that her passion is fitting patients after breast surgery and making sure they’re happy.
Breast prostheses, or breast forms, are used to replace a breast removed during a surgical procedure. The devices offer optimum outcome for a balanced appearance and are available in different shapes and sizes to accommodate various body types, breast shapes, skin tones and surgeries.
Kobra Karbalai.
Photo: Wyatt McSpadden
Valero, who’s certified through the American Board for Certifications in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, works with Kobra Karbalai, another mastectomy fitter. Together, they fit an average of 100 patients each month.
Lee Madray. Photo: Wyatt McSpadden
Lee Madray, who has clocked more than 1,000 hours in her eight years as a volunteer, stands in front of shelves filled with products designed for cancer patients — from special toothpaste and toothbrushes, creams and lotions, lip balm, hypoallergenic deodorant, sunscreen and shampoos.
For the cancer patients who lose their hair during chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments, there are an array of colorful scarves, hats and turbans.
Other items in the shop include canes, leisure and swimwear, CVC covers and cancer care awareness products, books, cookbooks and journals, as well as inspirational items.
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