Guest Blog: Elisabeth Dale of The Breast Life

This Week

WE ARE HONOURED TO INTRODUCE LA AUTHOR AND BREAST EXPERT ELISABETH DALE WHO HAS SHARED HER MUM’S EXPERIENCE OF BREAST CANCER FROM 1965.

“Back In 1965, treatment for breast cancer was nothing like it is today. Not only were there no pink ribbons touting awareness, but you were also likely under anesthesia when you received your diagnosis. That was my mother’s experience.”

“At 47, she found a lump in her breast. The only way to determine if it was cancer was to remove the mass and have it analyzed. She was sedated and on an operating table when the results came back positive. The surgeon performed a bilateral radical mastectomy without her knowledge. And she only learned of her cancer and lost breast when she woke in the recovery room.

“For decades, the only treatment for breast cancer was a brutal amputation. There was no radiation or chemo, or any option for breast reconstruction. My mother had little support when it came to adjusting to her new body. She had to work at getting back the mobility in her left arm. (As a Church organist, she was determined to get back to playing.) None of her bras fitted anymore. She was given a prescription for a breast prosthesis—then a heavy sack of fabric—and went to a medical supply house to pick up a pocketed bra. There was no choice in color or style, either. Over the years, she’d stuff her prosthetic into any old bra, even one without pockets. And by the time she passed, at 94, she hadn’t worn bras for years.”

“Today’s medical advancements include mammography for earlier detection and the use of a variety of chemo and radiation options targeting specific cancer subtypes. Modern breast reconstruction became available in the late 1970s and early 1980s. But it wasn’t until the late 1990s that a myriad of new recon techniques (using implants or the patient’s fat) were possible or paid for by insurance. Breast sparing surgeries such as lumpectomies also gave women additional treatment choices. Mastectomies are now more compassionate, with even less aggressive ways of treating some—but not all—breast cancers.”

And how has the intimate apparel industry responded to these changes in the US?

“They are keeping up with the needs of women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Today you can find specialized boutiques for post-surgical fittings and brands dedicated to the best designs. There are choices in non-wired, pocketed bras, suitable both for reconstructed and non-reconstructed breasts. New textiles and fabrics help with healing, including post-radiation treatment. There are padded bra options for those who lose breast symmetry after a lumpectomy. Even women who choose to remain flat have intimate apparel choices. All and all, the industry has come a very long way in the last 25 years”

“While there’s still no cure for breast cancer, more and more groups are focused on research (not only awareness) to find ways to extend the lives of those living with deadly secondary or metastatic breast cancers. But until there is a cure, women like my mother won’t have to resort to wearing “medical devices.” There are now, thankfully, plenty of attractive and functional foundation options for them.”