runway 09 section
TRANSCRIPT
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A PICTORIAL TRIBUTE TO WOMEN WHO ARE
WINNING THE BATTLE AGAINST BREAST CANCER
Jimmie Lou Fisher 4-MONTH SURVIVOR
causerunwayfor a
2 4 . OCTOBER 2009
I am proud to chair Runway for a Cause 2009, our eighth show. In the past seven years, Runway has raised more than $716,000 to fight breast cancer, showcased hundreds of survivor models, and received support from hundreds of volunteers, sponsors and dozens of retailers. I have worked diligently to continue Runway’s outstanding record.
When I became involved with Runway in 2005, I must admit that I had never heard of it.
I was new to the breast cancer movement having been recently diagnosed in 2003. I am grateful to Penny Burkhalter for asking me to join the committee; and I cannot express my good fortune in being associated with this important event.
Runway has afforded me the opportunity to do SOMETHING about breast cancer. My diagnosis made me feel powerless, and I desperately needed to direct my energies toward fighting the disease. I desired control, and as my family and friends will tell you, I like to be in control! Runway has provided me with a much-needed sense of direction.
I have enjoyed every minute of my time as chair. I admire our committee because it is an all-volunteer group that produces a fabulous local fashion show — arguably a full-time job from March to September — while working and taking care of their families. We ask a lot of ourselves because we are passionate about this event. That long-standing committee members choose to remain active year after year is a testament to our love for Runway. While this year’s economic climate presented fund-raising challenges, our sponsorship committee, under the gracious guidance of Shirley Davis, overcame these challenges to raise money for our charitable recipients who treat Arkansans fighting breast cancer. Additionally, Runway would not be possible without Vicki and her wonderful AY staff, who juggle our constant committee demands and publish a great monthly magazine.
I hope my marks on Runway this year are ones of organization and creativity so future shows may be even better. However, for me, 2009 will be hard to top because of the benefits I have reaped working with the finest group of ladies in Little Rock in this worthy pursuit.
Thank you, 2009 Runway committee, for your dedication and hard work. Thank you to my family, Scott, Ella and Mary Scott, for your love and support.
Kristi Moody, ChairRUNWAY FOR A CAUSE 2009
From the Chairwoman
5913 Kavanaugh • Little Rock501.661.4696 • proposalsboutique.com
We salute our friend and employee breast cancer survivor
Betsy Kemp
Bring your race number the day of the race and receive 20% off your purchase
BeyondCOTTON11525 Cantrell RdPleasant Ridge Shopping Center
10700 NorthRodney Parham RdLittle Rock
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VICKI KOVALESKI A watercolorist, designer and in-structor, Kovaleski earned her Fine Arts degree from the University of Arkansas at Little
Rock in 1990. Years later, a pivotal entry into a prestigious art competition earned her the high-est honor from Juror Janet Fish, affirming and unleashing her passion. She is a former presi-dent and active member of the Mid-Southern Watercolor Society, a member of The National Portrait Society, and has studied with many inter-nationally famed authors and artists.
THE ARKANSAS STUDIES INSTITUTE served as the back-drop of our Runway model photo shoot. We are grateful to their staff, especially Holly Mathisen, Kathryn
Heller and Colin Thompson for letting us invade their space, drink their coffee and take over the "dressing rooms."
KYLE G. MCLAUGHLIN is the founder of studio kgm, a commercial pho-tography studio. While working on his BFA, he began an internship, that became an assistant-ship, which led to him starting his own studio.
Some of his more noteworthy shoots have graced the pages of American Photo, Cosmo Girl, and Seventeen magazines. In his down time, Kyle teaches classes at the Arkansas Arts Center and works on personal projects to keep his artistic passions thriving.
Contributors
TRACY COURAGE is a public relations professional and freelance journalist. She worked as a reporter and editor for 15 years at daily newspapers, including eight years at the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. She left newspapers in 2006 to
work in public relations at Pulaski Technical College. She lives in North Little Rock with her husband, Peter, and their 4-year-old daughter, Madison.
11525 Cantrell Road | Little Rock | 501.225.7807pleasantridgetowncenter.com
Big City Shopping …closer than you think!
Be sure to visit the Susan G. Komen “Race Space” opened at Pleasant Ridge October 2nd thru the 16th{ {
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2 8 . OCTOBER 2009
WHAT IS YOUR RUNWAY STORY? WRITE TO ANGELA AT [email protected], OR TO AY MAGAZINE, 910 W. SECOND ST., STE. 200, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201
You have again proven your commitment to the Arkansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Thank you so much for all your hard work in making the 2008 Runway for a Cause such a success. Your willingness and enthusiasm to help pull this event together resulted in one incredible fundraiser! Your $10,000 contribution will be greatly appreciated throughout the state as grants are funded to educate, screen and treat this deadly disease. Please pass on our thanks to all who participated in the event.
Elizabeth ClarkFinancial & Missions DirectorKomen for the Cure, Arkansas Affiliate
Thank you for your 2008 financial support. The gifts that Runway for a Cause and other donors entrusted to the Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute (CARTI) Foundation helped us serve some 2,500 cancer patients last year … CARTI has helped bring the fight to cancer for 33 years. CARTI Foundation’s role in that fight is to raise money to support CARTI and our cancer patients. Your gifts provide an array of assistance in education and support programs for patients as well as money for
equipment and other items that guarantee our patients receive the best treatment possible.
Kathi JonesPresident, CARTI FoundationLittle Rock, Arkansas
It’s been many months since Runway for a Cause 2008, but I wanted you to know, your event is still making a difference in at least one life … mine! The Nurse Navigator Project at Baptist Health Medical Center is my lifeline to hope and to recovery. Laurie, the Baptist Nurse Navigator, has been much more than a caregiver; she’s a friend, someone I can call in the middle of the night if I have to. Thank goodness for programs like this and people like Laurie, and thank goodness for organizations like yours that can fund these programs. It’s been one year; I’m cancer free, and I really owe it all to the Nurse Navigator program at Baptists and to [Runway].
Cindy, a breast cancer survivorvia Baptist Health Foundation
Mailbag
{ Models from the 2008 Runway for a Cause holding up signs noting their years of survival.
5600 Kavanaugh • In � e HeightsLittle Rock • 501.664.7330
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Liz Clouse, R.N., C.P.S.N.Edward J. Love, M.D.
One Lile Court, Suite 100 • Little Rock, AR501-907-7543
10% OFF ONE PRODUCTONE TIME | ONE PER PERSON
BRING THIS COUPON IN TO RECEIVE YOUR DISCOUNT
14810 Cantrell Rd.Little Rock, AR501-868-8484
Congratulations on another fantastic Runway for a Cause. As a survivor, I have a great appreciation for what all of you are doing to support these great causes. It was an honor to be a model for several Runways, and I have attended every year. Keep up the great work. Thank you.
Cathy ClowersHot Springs Village, Arkansas
Congratulations on a very successful Runway for a Cause! This was my first time to attend, and I was quite impressed.
Gina GraceMoore Stephens FrostLittle Rock, Arkansas
Thank you again for allowing me the privilege of modeling in Runway for a Cause. The entire event made me feel so special, and I thank all the people who put so much time and effort into making it such a special event. As an eight-year survivor, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Robbie DavisConway, Arkansas
Thank you, AY Magazine, for your fight against breast cancer.
Joann VaughnSpecial Touch CateringLittle Rock, Arkansas
What a wonderful experience I had at Runway for a Cause 2008! Thank you so much for the honor of being a runway model and a model in the October issue of your wonderful magazine. It was such a privilege to meet so many strong, beautiful and fun women. Everyone involved made the event such a special time for the models. We felt like royalty. I am so proud to have been a part of such a wonderful event for such a wonderful cause. Thank you for all you do.
Brenda BallLittle Rock, Arkansas
3 0 . OCTOBER 2009
(From top) Kristi Moody, Carey Hill and Shirley Davis
2009 RUNWAY COMMITTEE: (Back row from left) Vicki Vowell, Laura Davis, Barbara Freeling, Sharon Heflin; (Second row from left) Carrie Hurley, Bev Eberle, Anne Marie Gibbs, Evelyn Menz, Emily Wilson, Gerri House, Wanda Valacahovic; (Third row from left) Kristi Moody, Carey Hill, Cherry Landfair, Toni Lazenby; (Front row from left) Rosanne Boyd, Cathy Gammill, Stacy-Lynn Hobby, Penny Burkhalter. Not pictured: Linda Newbern, Becky Bien, Gayle Maloch, Lynn Corley, Shannon McKinney and Pam Drilling.
A Word of ThanksOur committee members are a formidable group. Special thanks to: Kristi Moody our chair, the most
organized woman I know; Carey Hill, co-chair, for her attention to detail; Penny Burkhalter and Pam
Drilling for their job coordinating retailers; Stacy-Lynn Hobby, Gerri House and Cherry Landfair for
recruiting our beautiful models; Evelyn Menz for her insight into music; Lynn Corley for arranging
beautiful decorations; Laura Davis and Cathy Gammill for spreading the word; Bev Eberle and Becky
Bien for securing magnificent items and escorts; Ann Marie Gibbs, Carrie Hurley and Emily Wilson
for logistics; Sharon Heflin and Gayle Maloch for gathering plenty of volunteers; Barbara Freeling for
producing a great show; Shannon McKinney for a delivering a delicious menu; Linda Newbern for
mapping it all out; and Rhonda Penn, AY office administrator, for keeping us all on schedule. Much
gratitude to the sponsorship committee: Rosanne Boyd for her extra effort; Toni Lazenby for her
exceptional ability to raise money; Wanda Valachovic for her continued support; for all the women
on our committees who helped raise money; and to Shirley Davis, my friend, who reminds me that
friends, family and laughter will get you through.
Once again, job well done — Vicki
P.S. We would like to thank the Arkansas Studies Institute at 401 President Clinton Ave., in Little Rock
for allowing us to use their beautiful facilities for our fashion photo shoot.
2009 Runway Committee
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Symbolizing courage, strength and above all hope, the pink ribbon is recognized worldwide as the emblem of the fi ght against breast cancer. Cecil’s has captured this spirit in a gold and diamond ribbon pendant hand crafted by C.Y. Sheng.
We at Cecil’s have created a jeweled tribute to commemorate those who have lost the battle with breast cancer, and to celebrate with those who have beaten this terrible disease. This symbolic diamond studded ribbon will be awarded to a Breast Cancer Survivor at the Survivor Luncheon following the race.
3 2 . OCTOBER 2009
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2008 RECIPIENTS
Penny Burkhalter, Bev Eberle, Kristi Moody, Pam Drilling, Paula Pistorius, breast cancer survivor and dosimetrist, Kathi Jones, president, CARTI Foundation, Shirley Davis and Emily Wilson. Kristi Moody (center), with Missy Lewis (left) and Elise Siegler, Baptist Health Foundation. Penny Burkhalter and Sheila Vaught, Komen. Bev Eberle, Vicki Vowell and Dana Kleine, campaign chair, The 20th Century Club.
2008 Runway fashion show models
Since its inception, Runway for a Cause has raised more than $716,000. We
cannot thank our sponsors, volunteers, donors and models enough for their continued support. Each year, we have supported some of the state’s most worthy organizations as they champion the effort to defeat breast cancer. With your generous support, Runway for a Cause 2008 made the following donations: $30,000 to the Baptist Health Foundation Nurse Navigator Program, which pairs breast cancer patients and RNs one-on-one to help patients manage their healthcare through follow-ups, instruction, monitoring and care to help arrest breast cancer; $30,000 to CARTI (Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute) Foundation Health & Wellness Strategies for breast cancer patients, which includes their Cancer Well-Fit program; $30,000 to The 20th Century Club, which provides housing for breast and other cancer patients who travel to Little Rock for treatment and cannot afford to pay for lodging during treatment; and $10,000 to the Arkansas Affiliate Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
If your organization would like to be a recipient of the
proceeds from 2010’s Runway for a Cause event,
contact AY: Runway for a Cause, c/o AY Magazine, 910
W. Second St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201.
Where the Money Goes
Paying
Tributeto
FamilyFriends
& Patients
who have hadbreast cancer
with much love,Liz Clouse
3 4 . OCTOBER 2009
A Unique Approach to cosmetic surgery" … never forget the fact that we are partners in this venture."
“I do not envision my patient relationship as a single experience. I want to take time to fully understand their needs, so that I can provide the highest level of safety, discretion, and care. Cosmetic surgery involves a lifetime of personal attention. I largely focus on the prevention of aging and, when time, the restoration of beauty and form in a natural manner. Your decision to have surgery is an important one and should be tailored to your individual goals and needs. From the initial consult to the last postoperative visit and beyond, I want you to feel comfortable and informed with the details of each process.
MICHAEL SPANN, M.D. | Arkansas Plastic Surgery | michaelspannmd.com | [email protected] | 501.219.8388NOW AT TWO LOCATIONS: 9500 Kanis Rd, Little Rock, AR 72205 | 2200 Ada Ave, Conway, AR 72034
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2009 RUNWAYFOR A CAUSEwomen
(Seated, from left) Terri Parker West, Patricia Brown and Jimmie Lou Fisher, (Standing from left) Karen Trevino, Stephanie Flaherty, Dale Ronnel, Jan Smithson, Nicole Francis, Evelyn McKenna, Karen White and Phyllis Watkins.
Photography by Kyle McLaughlin • Shot on location at the Arkansas Studies Institute
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be devastating
to an individual and her family; however, many discover
strength in the face of adversity and become empowered
… finding that cancer has no power unless it is given.
It’s with great pride, we present 11 women
of various ages and vocations and in various
stages of recovery … each graceful, joyful
and powerful. 3
ay magazine's
3 6 . OCTOBER 2009
Patricia Brown, 514-year breast cancer survivor
Executive Director, Fort Smith Classic — Nationwide Tour
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Jimmie Lou Fisher, 67(but my spirit is 35)
4-month breast cancer survivor Senior Education Instructor for
Attorney General Dustin McDaniel
3 8 . OCTOBER 2009
Stephanie Flaherty, 378-month breast cancer survivor
Dentist
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Nicole Francis, 36two-time, 1-year breast cancer survivor
Literacy Specialist
4 0 . OCTOBER 2009
Evelyn McKenna, 407-year breast cancer survivor
HRIS Manager for Stephens Inc.
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Dale Ronnel, 70(and I’m still surprised when I have to say that!)
3-year breast cancer survivorCommunity Volunteer
4 2 . OCTOBER 2009
Jan Smithson, 465-year breast cancer survivor
Pharmaceutical Sales Management
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Karen Trevino, 49currently undergoing treatment
Executive Director, North Little Rock Visitors Bureau
4 4 . OCTOBER 2009
Phyllis Watkins, 637-year survivor
Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Arkansas
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Terri Parker West, 54two-time, 10-year breast cancer survivor
Creative Director/Designer
4 6 . OCTOBER 2009
Karen White, 5612-year breast cancer survivor
Sales Support Assistance for Publishing, AT&T Advertising Solutions
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4 8 . OCTOBER 2009
GenerousGems
O 6.60 ct tw diamond, 14k white gold earrings, provided by Sissy’s Log Cabin.
ø 18kt white gold south sea pearl and diamond ring provided by Wilker-son’s Jewelers.
o Rose gold, bronze and steel earrings with citrine by Rebecca; provided by Cecil’s Fine Jewelry.
O Carleon bangle bracelet in sterling silver and 14 kt yellow gold with black diamond pave setting, by Caerleon by Goldman Kolber, provided by Lauray’s The Diamond Center.
O 4.44ct oval tanzanite and 1.21 ct diamond pendant with three natural black pearls, 16-inch Omega choker provided by Newton’s Jewelers.
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STOP FIGHTING OVER THE LAST ISSUE OF AY!
AYMAG.COM/GO/SUBSCRIBE
No, it’s not a typo! FFANY, the Fashion
Footwear Association of New York, each
year, for 15 years, has hosted the FFANY
Shoes on Sale on QVC, and this year
promises to be FFANtastic as always. For
three shoe-lovin’ hours Oct.13, QVC will
offer more than 100,000 pairs of designer
shoes at half price. For the entire month
of October, the network will present a
Shoe of the Day. The net proceeds,
which have yielded more than $30 million
cumulatively, will benefit breast cancer
research and education at eight worthy
institutions including the Winthrop P.
Rockefeller Cancer Institute of the University
of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS).
This is not the first year, UAMS has received
money from FFANY; however, for several
years, the center was not a recipient.
“We invited representatives from QVC
and FFANY to visit us and witness our
passion and relentless pursuit in the cure of
cancer,” said Rachelle Sanders, executive
director for the institute’s foundation. That
meeting included many of the researchers
and heavy hitters in the breast cancer
fight including Drs. Rhonda Henry-Tillman,
Thomas Kieber Emmons and Suzanne
Klimberg.
Klimberg is just one of the doctors
whose projects have used funds from
FFANY. “She’s a true warrior,” Sanders said.
“She always says ‘there’s got to be a better
way.’”
Klimberg’s outside-of-the-box thinking
has lead her to pioneer several projects,
such as Spit for the Cure; Tears for Life; and
her ground-breaking ARM (Axillary Reverse
Mapping) procedure, which prevents
lymphedema (swelling of the arms due to
faulty drainage of the lymph nodes); and
eRFA, “a procedure that gives patients a
cancer-free area around the site where
their cancerous tumor was removed, so a
second surgery in the area is unnecessary.”
This year’s celebrity spokesperson for
the FFANY Shoes on Sale event is Jessica
Simpson. Her line of shoes is just one of
those that will be featured. For more info
tune into QVC on Oct. 13.
Kiss My FFANY!
5 0 . OCTOBER 2009
Resource Guide
VESTA’S Melissa Tanner, Owner11525 Cantrell RoadSuite 610Little Rock, AR 72212(501) 375-7820vestasboutique.com
FLETCHER & BENSKY FURS11401 Rodney Parham RoadLittle Rock, AR 72212(501) 225-9000fletcherandbenskyfurs.com
Ranch-sheared mink coat with a natural chinchilla collar, $10,000, provided by Fletcher-Bensky Furs. 18k white gold, 3.52 ct tw bezel set diamond earrings, 14k white gold ring with 1.95 tw center diamond accented with pave diamonds, provided by Sissy’s Log Cabin.
Royal blue scrunch tee, $99, royal blue and grey stripe skirt, $160, menswear button blazer, $206, all by Dick & Jayne, provided by Vesta’s. 4.44ct oval tanzanite and 1.21 ct diamond pendant with three natural black pearls, 16-inch Omega choker; 2.75 ct diamond, 18kt white gold ring and “Marquis Line” 14.31 ct diamond, 18kt white gold bracelet, both by Roberto Coin; Lady Rolex stainless-steel watch with 18kt white gold bezel, mother-of-pear diamond dial, Jubilee bracelet; 2.50 ct diamond dangle earrings, by Simon G, provided by Newton’s Jewelers.
Purple check jumper dress, $398, cashmere ruffle-sleeve turtleneck, $428, both by Burberry, over-the-knee zip-up boot, $598, by Stuart Weitzman; provided by Barbara Jean. Rose gold and bronze ring with pear-shaped citrine, rose gold, bronze and steel earrings with citrine, rose gold and bronze cuff bracelet, rose gold, bronze and steel necklace, all by Rebecca; provided by Cecil’s Fine Jewelry.
BARBARA JEANChristine Bailey, owner 7811 Cantrell RoadLittle Rock, AR 72227(501) 227-0054barbarajean.com
Zip-front, animal-print lounge caftan, $165, by Diamond Tea, black gown, $99, by Carlton Hall, marabou slippers, $42, by Jacques Levine, provided by Barbara Graves Intimate Fashions. 2.30 ct black and white diamond bangle bracelet, 1.25 ct black and white diamond dangle fashion earrings, onyx, diamond and pink sapphire 18kt white gold fashion ring, provided by Wilkerson’s Jewelers.
BARBARA GRAVESINTIMATE FASHIONSBarbara Graves,owner10301 Rodney Parham RoadLittle Rock, AR 72227(501) 227-5537barbaragraves.com
PROPOSALS Dawne Vandiver, Shannon Aston, owners5913 Kavanaugh Blvd.Little Rock, AR 72207(501) 661-4696proposalsboutique.com
Wool ottoman suit with ruffled, beaded jacket and neckline in black, $820, by Teri Jon, black evening bag, $170, provided by Proposals. 1.67 tcw diamond pendant, on black diamond necklaces, 2.5 ctw diamond pave set dinner ring, platinum and diamond 1.25 cushion-cut diamond ring with diamond pave accents, by Henry Daussi; provided by Lauray’s The Diamond Center.
Pebble-print bracelet-sleeve swing jacket, $178, by Anthracite, sleeveless black turtleneck, $35, by Sisters, black gabardine pant, $138, by Elliott Lauren, black fabric boot shoe, $95, by Vaneli, provided by New Traditions. 18kt white gold south sea pearl and diamond ring, south sea 14mm pearls with diamond clasp, south sea pearl earrings with diamond accents in 18kt white gold; provided by Wilkerson’s Jewelers.
NEW TRADITIONSGayle Rule, owner1920 N. Grant St.Little Rock, AR 72204(501) 663-2388
FEINSTEIN’S Jill Ricciardone, owner5600 Kavanaugh Blvd.Little Rock, AR 72207(501) 664-7330
Deco geometric print blazer with coordinating tank and pant by Basler, exclusively at Feinstein’s, onyx and rings necklace by Lordane; provided by Feinstein’s.
Pintuck cotton jersey turtleneck, $105, by Gerard Darel, Lombard pant with side zip in black, $498, birdseye tweed jacket with detachable fox shawl collar, $1,698, both by Ralph Lauren Black Label, graphite shoe boot, $375, by Donald Pliner, provided by B. Barnett. 18k yellow gold onyx dragonball earrings with tassels, 18k yellow gold multi-dragonball necklace, 18k yellow gold dragonball necklace, 18K yellow gold jade ring accented with diamonds and sapphires, all by Lagos; provided by Sissy’s Log Cabin.
B. BARNETTMarisa Ensiminger, owner8201 Cantrell RoadSuite 280Little Rock, AR 72227(501) 223-2514bbarnett.com
Grey pants, $85, coordinating jacket, $99, magenta shirt, $69, all by Tribal Sportswear, provided by Beyond Cotton. 52-inch lampwork beads by Kathy Drake, 6.60 ct tw diamond, 14k white gold earrings, provided by Sissy’s Log Cabin.
BEYOND COTTONNancy Schuster & Mandy Schuster, owners10700 N. Rodney Parham RoadLittle Rock, AR 72212(501) 221-9195
DILLARD’S6000 University Ave.Little Rock, AR 72204(501) 661-0053dillards.com
Stretch, ruched taffeta blouse with brooch, $99, and trumpet skirt, $99, both by KM Collections Woman, rhinestone evening sandal, “Midnight,” $79, by Gianni Bini; provided by Dillard’s. Jewelry: 6.50 cts diamond 18kt white gold bangle bracelet, by Odelia, 1.66 ct diamond and 1.85 ct sapphire 18kt white gold ring; provided by Wilkerson’s Jewelers.
Distressed skinny jeans, $178, by Joes, hot pink turtleneck, $118, polka dot jacket, $162, both by Sao Paulo, silver earrings, $66, by Marcia Moran, provided by Companions.
COMPANIONSPamela Rees, owner14810 Cantrell RoadLittle Rock, AR 72223(501) 868-8484companionsboutique.com
Our models' fashions include some of this fall's hottest styles. Here's how you
can get their look from head to toe ... bling included. Thank you, retailers, for
helping our models feel like the glamorous superstars they are!
O
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NEWTON’S JEWELERS701 Garrison Ave.Fort Smith, AR 72903(479) 782-9123newtons-jewelers.com
CECIL’S FINE JEWELRY10720 N. Rodney Parham RoadLittle Rock, AR 72212(501) 225-5068cecilsfinejewelry.com
LAURAY’STHE DIAMOND CENTER402 Central Ave.Hot Springs, AR 71901(501) 321-2441laurays.com
WILKERSON’S JEWELERS222 S. Main St.Stuttgart, AR 72160(870) 673-4441wilkersons.com
SISSY’S LOG CABIN2319 Camden RoadPine Bluff, AR 71603(870) 879-3040sissyslogcabin.com
KORTO MOMOLU created this beautiful necklace, titled
“Sharon Renee,” for Runway for a Cause. It is fashioned
of pink turquoise stone and African wood. Momolu, who
lives in Mabelvale, Ark., came to national attention after her
appearances on “Project Runway.” She wore the signature
piece at this year’s styleshow and dedicated it to her sister-in-
law Sharon Gaines, who is currently undergoing treatment for
breast cancer.
“I’ve participated in the Race for the Cure every year since I
moved to Arkansas. However, my husband has several family
members who’ve had breast cancer, so it’s definitely become
a more personal cause,” Momolu said.
She plans to duplicate “Sharon Renee” and sell the
necklace on her Web site, kortomomolu.com, to assist
Gaines in paying for medical expenses. “I am hopeful that
a cure for breast cancer will soon be found. It affects so
many women, especially African Americans.”
Starting next February, you can obtain a bit of this
fashionista’s runway style. Her line of handbags —
including the popular “horn” handbag — and necklaces,
aptly named Korto Momolu will debut and be carried
exclusively by Dillard’s nationwide. You can purchase
Momolu’s jewelry and find more information about her
fashions and her busy schedule at kortomomolu.com.
close to home
ROSIE DAVIS watched with sadness and a feeling of helplessness as her daughter
Tosha waged a brave battle against breast cancer. When Tosha Thompson lost that
battle, Davis became angry and decided to use that energy in the battle against breast
cancer … “I don’t want to talk about breast cancer … I want to roar!”
Her latest endeavor — a cookbook titled Family Traditions with Rosie — capitalizes on
Davis’ fame as a part of the Hot Springs’ restaurant Jason’s Burgers ‘N’ More.
“This is a cookbook of family recipes and good southern food,” Davis said. “Many of
the entrees that we serve at Jason’s Burgers ‘N’ More are included, like coleslaw, pinto
beans, hush puppies and our famous grilled fish.”
The book also includes some rather exotic items Davis enjoys, but cannot serve at
the restaurant, such as deer venison poppers, Ben’s Duck Balls, which are stuffed with
cream cheese, and fried squirrel.
“I actually started compiling recipes before Tosha’s diagnosis
and stopped when she became ill. One of her last requests was
that I finish the cookbook. I was not motivated, but my friend Lisa
Naylor pushed me. I wouldn’t have finished it without her,” Davis
said.
Family Traditions features the breast cancer awareness pink
ribbon and a pictorial tribute to Tosha. Davis is contributing the
proceeds from the books’ sales to Susan G. Komen for the
Cure and Runway for a Cause. To purchase your copy of
Family Traditions, contact Jason’s Burgers ‘N’ More at 148
Amity Road, Hot Springs, AR, (501) 525-0919.
5 2 . OCTOBER 2009
Each year, thousands of manufacturers join in the fight against
breast cancer by donating proceeds from product sales to
organizations, such as the Susan G. Komen for the Cure
(komen.org), which was founded in 1982 and has raised
more than $1 billion; the National Breast Cancer Foundation
(nationalbreastcancer.org), founded in 1991 and has raised
$7.1 million; and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
(bcrfcure.org), which was founded nearly 20 years ago by
Evelyn Lauder and has raised more than $250 million thus far.
Here are a few of this year's great products.
Dove Chocolate offers a “bite” of encouragement in each of their Promises
of Hope candies. The candies are available in milk and dark chocolate and each is wrapped with a message from a
breast cancer survivor, benefits Komen for the Cure, $5, national retailers.
We love a great lipstick! Bobbie Brown’s Pink Ribbon Collection features pink crystal glitter lip
balm and blush pink creamy lip color; benefits BCRF; $40; national
retailers or esteelauder.com.
Get your guy to join the fight in this Warriors in Pink multicolored
silk tie with insignia, benefits Komen for the Cure; $29; shopwarriorsinpink.com.
in the PinkCasual, comfortable and, of course, pink, this limited-edition tank, by Ella Moss, looks great on any woman, benefits BCRF; $50; Nordstrom.com.
Ford Motor Company continues its support of Komen for the Cure the
Warriors in Pink campaign, which includes fashion
and accessories including the silk tie (bottom right)
and this limited edition Zune 4GB MP3 player, $175 (100
percent of the purchase price benefits Komen), both feature the Warriors in Pink insignia;
shopwarriorsinpink.com.
Chocolate-covered graham cracker cookies, $20, 25 percent of sales benefit NBCF; ladyfortunes.com.
Sometimes, you’ve got to take it with you! Clinique’s three mini
lip glosses in Air Kiss, Kissyfit and Whisper, benefits BCRF; $19; national
retailers or esteelauder.com.
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5 4 . OCTOBER 2009
APRIL MILLER, 38, HAS GONE HEAD-TO-HEAD WITH CANCER MULTIPLE TIMES SINCE HER FIRST DIAGNOSIS IN 2002. It has been a tumul-tuous experience with many ups and downs. She has put her trust in God, learned to stay informed, be involved with the selection of her doctors and, most importantly, to stay on her toes.
Her first run-in with cancer began by chance. She found a lump in her left breast while showering one evening and visited her doctor within a week to have it checked. The results came back that the lump was, in fact, malignant and in a very-advanced stage. Her physicians recommended a bilateral mastectomy along with the removal of lymph nodes to be examined for more extensive testing. After her surgery, Miller began chemotherapy treatment only to find that her lymph nodes had somehow been lost; then, to add to her frustration, her lung was punctured in the process of installing her port, which increased her hospital stay. An LPN for more than a decade, Miller reached out to some of her colleagues to find a new team of doctors that she could trust.
Though Miller finally felt she had found the best doctors available, her battle with cancer was about to become exponentially more trying. She had a very adverse reaction to chemotherapy that left her feeling worse than ever.
“I was so very sick from the chemotherapy,” Miller said. “I could barely get out of bed. I don’t know why some people get sick from it, and some don’t. They treated my cancer very aggressively. I prayed to God one night and told him I didn’t know how much longer I could hold on. I didn’t know how much more of it I could handle.”
Miller felt that her prayers were answered the very next day. Her physician called her family in to announce that he wasn’t sure whether the chemo or the cancer was going to kill her faster. She was given three to six months to live and released from her chemo treatments. “I walked out of the hospital that day feeling like a weight had been lifted,” she said. Miller went on with her life and returned to work, only to be diagnosed again with cancer 18 months later, this time it was a mass on her uterus and another one in her chest wall.
Miller underwent more chemo for the new masses. One day, while receiving a chemo
treatment she found another mass on her chest. She had researched natural healing methods and decided to raise the money she needed to attend the Oasis of Hope Hospital in Mexico, a hospital that focused on natural healing methods, such as: detox and cleansing; learning new eating habits and exercises; sunbathing; and the use of apricot kernels, which, according to Miller, is a natural chemotherapy. Miller was in Mexico for 31 days and came back feeling fantastic. She waited three months and went in for a body scan to see how the cancer was doing. “When I left for Mexico, the cancer was attached to my ribs and chest wall, when I came back it was gone,” she said.
This experience inspired her to become a certified natural health practitioner. She speaks to groups about her experience and the benefits of natural healing and conducts workshops from her home. Miller continues to stay on her toes with her battle against cancer and overcome great odds.
ANo Match for Miller
This North Little Rock resident
found a combination of traditional
medicine and Mother Nature's remedies
to be just what the doctor ordered.
BY AMY BOWERS • PHOTOGRAPH BY JAMIE FENDER
AYMAG.COM . 5 5
148 Amity • Hot Springs, AR 71913501-525-0919
All of the proceeds from the book go back to support Runway for a Cause and Susan G. Komen for the Cure
5 6 . OCTOBER 2009
STATEWIDELook Good … Feel Better Locations throughout Arkansas(800) 395-LOOKlookgoodfeelbetter.org Reach to RecoveryCall (800) ACS-2345 for a Reach Visitor in your area and for additional program information.
BENTONLadies’ Cancer Support GroupFirst Baptist Church211 S. Market St.Benton, AR 72015(501) 315-2270
BENTONVILLETogether Let’s CopeMercy Health Center3101 SE 14th St.Bentonville, AR 72712(479) 986-6040
FAYETTEVILLEBeen There Inc.2949 Point CircleFayetteville, AR 72704(479) 571-4673
Coping and ConversationCancer Support Home1101 N. Woolsey Ave.Fayetteville, AR 72703(479) 521-8024
Hispanic Women With CancerCancer Support Home1101 N. Woolsey Ave.Fayetteville, AR 72703(479) 521-8024
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Ozark Affiliate P.O. Box 9462Fayetteville, AR 72703(479) 750-PINK (7465)komenozark.org
Young Breast Cancer Survivors GroupCancer Support Home1101 N. Woolsey Ave.Fayetteville, AR 72703(479) 521-8024
FORT SMITHDonald W. Reynolds Cancer Support HouseOffers multiple group sessions and classes
Breast Cancer Support GroupsSometimes, we need somebody to lean on. Family and
friends are often more than willing to be your rock through rough times, but there is nothing like being a part of a group of individuals who has traveled the same path
you are on to offer insight and wisdom. Here is a list of support groups, organizations and agencies that are fully-
equipped and more than willing to offer their guidance.
Tickets: $50 per person • Dress: business casual • Open bar and heavy hors d'oeuvers
Seating is limited. Please RSVP by calling 501-244-9700 or at aymag.com/go/cookoff.
Proceeds from the evening will go to the Pulaski Technical College Foundation for the Arkansas Culinary
School in honor of the late columnist Richard Allin.
Enjoy a lovely evening as these celebrity chefs prepare recipes submitted in our 2009 Reader Recipe
Contest: David Bennett of Vieux Carre, Rob Best of Best Impressions, Donnie Ferneau of Ferneau Restaurant,
Timothy Morton of 1620, André Poirot executive chef of Peabody Little Rock and Lee Richardson of Capital
Hotel. Event judges will be Mark Abernathy of Loca Luna, Faith Anaya of KidsCook Arkansas, Peter Brave of
Brave New Restaurant, Todd Gold of Purple Cow and Mary Twedt of KUAR’s “Arkansas Cooks.”
AY MAGAZINE'S 2009CELEBRITY
CHEFCOOK-0FF
Thursday, October 8Pulaski Technical College aymag.com/go/cookoff
AYMAG.COM . 5 7
3324 S. M St.Fort Smith, AR 72903(479) 782-6302
HARRISONDialogue Support GroupFirst Christian Church915 Maple St.Harrison, AR 72601(870) 741-9560
HOT SPRINGSCancer Support GroupSt. Joseph’s Mercy Cancer Center 1455 Higdon Ferry RoadDaffodil RoomHot Springs, AR 71913 (501) 622-4730
Genesis Cancer Center133 Harmony Park CircleHot Springs, AR 71913(501) 624-7700genesiscancercenter.com
Pink Ribbon Sisters McAuley Senior Center5010 N. Hwy. 7Hot Springs, AR 71909(501) 622-4113
JONESBOROCancer Support GroupNortheast Arkansas Medical Center’s Hope Circle311 E. Matthews Ave.Jonesboro, AR 72401(870) 934-5214
Northeast Arkansas Breast Cancer Support GroupHoliday Inn3006 S. Caraway RoadJonesboro, AR 72401(870) 935-3196
Sisters in SurvivalMount Carmel Methodist Church4000 Southwest DriveJonesboro, AR 72404(870) 919-2851
LITTLE ROCKAmerican Cancer Society Little Rock Office 901 N. University Ave. Little Rock, AR 72207 (501) 664-3480cancer.org
Bosom BuddiesBaptist Health 9500 Kanis RoadLittle Rock, AR 72205(501) 202-7386
BreastCare4815 W. Markham St.Little Rock, AR 72205(877) 670-CAREarbreastcare.com
Cancer Friends & FamilyPulaski Heights United Methodist Church4823 Woodlawn Ave.Little Rock, AR 72205(501) 223-3575
Faithful FriendsChrist the King Catholic Church4000 N. Rodney Parham Road
11600 Mara Lynn • Little Rock
501.224.3075
no drama, just great hair!
Fresh! Casual! Delicious!
The Keet family invites you to help us support Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Bring this ad to Taziki’s during the month of October and we will donate $1 for every entree purchased.
Catering, Happy Hour, Covered Deck, Open Sundays
8200 Cantrell Road(501) 227-8291
5 8 . OCTOBER 2009
EEVERY YEAR, ON THE EVE OF THE SUSAN G. KOMEN ARKANSAS RACE FOR THE CURE, two dozen women from cities across the country gather at Little Rock architect Steve Barker’s home for what has be-come an annual tradition.
Between the three bedrooms, four sofas and numerous airbeds, the women make themselves at home and settle in for what Barker describes as a weekend of “eating, gossiping and catching up.”
They rise early the next morning to join the thousands of other women on race day while Barker prepares a post-race champagne brunch for them back at his house.
What really brings them to central Arkansas each fall, though, is their love for Suzanne, Barker’s wife of 34 years, who lost her battle with breast cancer in April 2005. The women have become Barker’s extended family, and their annual visit is now a festive time to honor Suzanne’s memory and her love for life.
Suzanne, who worked 30 years as director of computer services for the Medical College Physicians Group at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), was always hopeful she would survive cancer.
“She was never one to let things get her down,” Barker said. “She always wanted to be the one leading the parade.”
Suzanne was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998 after a routine mammogram when she was 50 years old. The following year, she had a double mastectomy followed by chemotherapy. The Barkers thought the cancer was gone. Suzanne survived nearly five years when a general malaise prompted her to see her doctor.
“She just wasn’t feeling 100 percent,” Barker, 60, recalled. “At one point, she had a cough that wouldn’t go away. She went to her doctor and had X-rays, and they found that she had pneumonia.”
The doctor discovered that Suzanne’s cancer had returned and spread to her
lungs. Radiation and more chemotherapy followed. With mounting respiratory complications, Suzanne was admitted to UAMS where she died on April 12, 2005, at 2:20 a.m., with Barker by her side.
The aftermath of Suzanne’s death is still a blur to him. On the day of his wife’s funeral, Barker was hospitalized for meningitis. He spent nine days in the hospital, and the ordeal destroyed some of his short-term memory.
What he knows for certain is this: “Life is fragile, and it can change in a heartbeat,” he said. “One second, everything is wonderful, and the next day, it’s caving in around you.”
Within two months of Suzanne’s death, Barker found a way to honor his wife’s memory while helping others with breast cancer.
In June 2005, Barker donated the seed money to establish the Suzanne F. Barker Breast Oncology Fellowship Fund at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. The fund’s purpose is to help improve the quality of care given to breast cancer patients by providing continued training to doctors in breast oncology. Income from the fund provides financial support for selected fellows to attend medical conferences and to spend time on research, education and clinical activities.
Dr. Anjali Sibley, who works in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at UAMS, is the current fellow.
Through an annual campaign, the fellowship fund has grown to more than $300,000. “It keeps growing and growing,” Barker said. He hopes the fund will someday provide for an endowed chair.
The fellowship is directed by Dr. Laura Hutchins, director of the UAMS Division of Hematology/Oncology, and Dr. Suzanne Klimberg, director of the Breast Cancer Program at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. Both doctors helped treat Suzanne.
The fund also provides support for a guest lecturer at the Breast Cancer Challenge, an annual medical conference held at Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Mo., which draws health professionals from Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Kansas.
“We know that cancer is evil, and doctors are the good guys,” Barker said. “Maybe someday the spark will be there and will lead to something. Something will happen someday, and it will be a better day for everybody.”
Remembering Suzanne
Each year, women and men flock by the thousands to participate in the Race for the Cure by running or walking to do their part to bring us closer to finding a cure for breast cancer and to honor loved ones who have fought the battle. It is easy to get involved. Contact your local Susan G. Komen affiliate and sign up. We'll see you at the finish line.
0 Susan G. Komen Arkansas Race for the Cure; Oct. 17, 2009, Little Rock, Arkansas. komenarkansas.org.0 Susan G. Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure; Oct. 17, 2009, Texarkana, Arkansas. www.komentexarkana.org.0 Susan G. Komen Ozark Race for the Cure; April 24, 2010, Rogers, Arkansas. komenozark.org.
on your mark!
BY TRACY COURAGE • PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF STEVE BARKER
AYMAG.COM . 5 9
Little Rock, AR 72212(501) 664-4510
Just Between Friends 5001 W. 34th St.Little Rock, AR 72204(501) 568-0971
New Outlook: The Women’s CancerRecovery Support Group, St. Vincent Health System2 St. Vincent CircleLittle Rock, AR 72205(501) 552-3900
Susan G. Komen for the Cure Arkansas Affiliate904 Autumn Road, Ste. 500Little Rock, AR 72211(501) 202-4399komenarkansas.org
Witness ProjectWinthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute4301 W. Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72205(501) 686-6000
MOUNTAIN HOMEPeitz Cancer Support HouseOffers multiple group sessions and classes315 Powers St.Mountain Home, AR 72653(870) 508-2273
NORTH LITTLE ROCKBosom BuddiesBaptist Health Medical Center3333 Springhill DriveNorth Little Rock, AR 72116(501) 202-6888
PINE BLUFFCaring Bosom Friends303 N. Maple St.Pine Bluff, AR 71601(870) 534-5852
FriendsCook’s Kitchen 3700 Olive St.Pine Bluff, AR 71603 (870) 879-2813
SHERWOODNew Outlook: The Women’s Cancer Recovery Support GroupSt. Vincent Rehabilitation Hospital2201 Wildwood Ave.Sherwood, AR 72120(501) 552-3900
SPRINGDALECancer Support GroupFirst Baptist Church of Springdale1709 Johnson RoadSpringdale, AR 72762(479) 751-4523
TEXARKANASusan G. Komen for the Cure Texarkana Affiliate P.O. Box 6085Texarkana, TX 75505(903) 791-9585komentexarkana.org
Support Groups continued
Breckenridge Village • Little Rock501-227-5537 • barbaragraves.com
SWIMWEAR 2010
6 0 . OCTOBER 2009
breasts, spit & tearsThe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is cooking up
new and innovative ways to test for the breast cancer gene.
Research projects “Spit for the Cure” and “Tears for Life” involve the
collection of saliva and tear samples from thousands of participants across
the state to create a DNA database for future breast cancer studies. So far
more than 10,000 women have submitted saliva samples to the “Spit for the
Cure” project, which was developed by UAMS scientist, Susan Kadlubar,
Ph.D., (above right) and Director of Breast Surgical Oncology Dr. V. Suzanne
Klimberg (above left), who also works on the “Tears for Life” program. The two
women came up with the brilliant “Spit for the Cure” during a car ride back
from Memphis, and it has since taken off.
“We have collected spit samples from every county in Arkansas,” Klimberg
said. “That kind of participation is unheard of. When you look at who is spitting
— everyone is spitting — it’s not one particular group. We have a good
number of minorities, lots of African Americans and Hispanic women. Most
research groups have to try very hard to get minorities to participate.”
Participants are asked to answer a short questionnaire and indicate if they
would be willing to participate in follow-up studies. All information is, of course,
kept confidential.
“We take the spit and tear samples and study the proteins, [looking for
those] that are common to breast cancer. Through these tests, we ultimately
hope to create an at-home breast cancer test that is much like an at-home
pregnancy test. Too many women don’t find breast cancer tumors until it is
large, and that’s too late. The average size of a lump is 2 centimeters; we
want to reduce that,” Klimberg said.
The home test would be more cost efficient as well as more available.
Many women say they do not get breast exams, because they do not have
time to get a mammogram or transportation to a doctor’s office. Klimberg
hopes to have the technology developed within two to five years.
Recruiters for “Spit for the Cure” will be available at the Race for the
Cure on Oct. 17, 2009. Look for the “Spit for the Cure” tent on Race Day to
participate in this exciting study. For more info, log onto uamshealth.com.
Vaccine is Almost a Reality A breast cancer vaccine to
prevent a second occurrence
of the potentially-deadly disease
could be literally placed in the
hands of doctors within days. Dr.
Thomas Kieber-Emmons (pictured
above), a professor of pathology
at the University of Arkansas for
Medical Sciences, is awaiting
approval from the FDA.
“This vaccine can be thought
of a prophylactic. It will be used
by high-risk women who have
had breast cancer and who have
been surgically cured to prevent a
recurrence,” Kieber-Emmons said.
The vaccine may also be used
therapeutically to target metastatic
disease, which is when a tumor
disseminates through the body,
which can be lethal.
“The vaccine, in our view, will
help ‘mop up’ cancer cells that
remain after a patient undergoes
radiation and follow-up treatments.”
The hospital has already
received requests from women
who want to participate in the
initial study. Kieber–Emmons, an
admitted perfectionist, is excited
and, at the same time, cautious.
“Who is that woman, the first one
who will receive the vaccine? I
dream about her. I worry about
her safety and wellbeing. I’m 99.9
percent confident that it will work,
but I worry,” he pondered aloud.
His passion and concern cause
him to become emotional. “Who is
this pioneer going to be?” For more
info log onto uamshealth.com.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UAMS
PHOTO: UAMS
AYMAG.COM . 6 1
6 2 . OCTOBER 2009
1920 NORTH GRANTLITTLE ROCK
501.663.2388
PATRICIA BROWN,
executive director of the
Fort Smith Classic and
the brains behind their
new event Pink on the
Links, traveled a long
and weary road to get
to where she is today.
Her battle with breast
cancer began in 2005,
while she was out of
town working with
John Daly at a celebrity
golf event. She felt
a tingling sensation in her right breast and pain in
her armpit. She thought perhaps she had pulled a muscle, but scheduled an
appointment with her physician anyway. After an examination, her doctor told her
it was nothing to worry about and she left his office feeling great relief. Within three
months Brown’s nipple started hurting as well. She returned to the doctor, who, with
one look, knew it was cancer.
“The look of the breast had drastically changed. He just looked at my breast and
knew without any exam. He preformed a series of tests, and by the end of the day
the news that it was cancer was certain,” Brown, pictued above center, said.
She underwent surgery, followed by eight rounds of chemotherapy and
radiation. All the while her friends did their best to keep her spirits up.
“I have terrific and creative friends,” she said. “One day, after my hair began to
fall out, they all showed up at my house in crazy multi-colored wigs, and when I
opened the door they said ‘and you think you are having a bad hair day!’ We would
dress up like we were going to a fancy cocktail party and go to my chemotherapy
treatments.”
Having cancer was an eye-opening experience for Brown. She learned many
things, not only about herself, but also about those around her. “Cancer does two
things: It cleans out your closet of creepy people, because creepy people don’t like
to help, and it also allows warm and creative people to come into your life … even
some you never realized cared so much.”
Brown describes her battle with cancer as the most physically-challenging,
painful and depressing years of her life, but also thinks of them as the best years
of her life. “I had many prayers answered during this time and grew so much
spiritually.”
In January 2006, she was cleared of cancer. Once Brown was back on her feet
she started thinking of ways she could help spread the word about breast cancer.
“I wanted to take the experience I had and make it fun and give back beyond
just myself. People just don’t know about breast cancer unless they have been
through it. It is scary, but can be less so … if you decide that’s how it’s going to be.”
Through her association with the Fort Smith Classic, Brown came up with the
idea for Pink on the Links. The inaugural event was held June 19 and was a major
success. It is a fun way to integrate golf and the battle against breast cancer and
was the biggest day of attendance during the Classic. The pros dressed in pink
from shorts to socks, shoes and hair coloring, and events included: a fashion
show; the Pink Zone, featuring health and beauty tips, women’s sports apparel and
games; a luncheon; and Par-Tee Pink at the 19th hole. Ticket proceeds benefited
the Ozark Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Log onto fortsmithclassic.com to learn more about this great event that started
with one woman’s battle with breast cancer.
AYMAG.COM . 6 3
6 4 . OCTOBER 2009
WHEN BOOTS BARNETT WARRICK WAS DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER, she worried not only about her health, but also about the effect it would have on her new marriage to husband Alan.
“My biggest fear was that he would withdraw from me,” she said, “but he gave me complete support.”
Not all women get the support they need, and not all marriages survive as the Warrick’s has. The stress of dealing with breast cancer — or any kind of cancer — can be overwhelming, and even the strongest marriages can become strained. Ideally, couples learn to communicate their fears and needs so that their relationship not only endures, but also grows stronger as a result.
The Warricks joined several central Arkansas couples and individuals to discuss their experiences with breast cancer on a video that Baptist Health gives newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients. The video is simply titled, “An Intimate Conversation with Survivors of Breast Cancer and their Loved Ones.”
“Alan [Warrick] saw a real need for husbands and partners to take a more active and
supportive role in their partner’s treatment,” said Elise Siegler, director of annual and major gifts at the Baptist Health Foundation. “The couples discuss their fears, what they would have done or said differently … what inspired them the most. The discussions are intimate, and [the couples are] very real about their own personal situations.”
The video was produced last year through the Boots Barnett Warrick Breast Cancer Support Program, which Alan established in his wife’s honor. Baptist Health will distribute about 250 copies of the DVD this year. The Arkansas Affiliate Susan G. Komen for the Cure will distribute 1,000 copies of the videos through the breast cancer survivor kits given to new patients at breast centers, doctors’ offices, hospitals and clinics around the state, according to Sherrye McBryde, executive director of the Arkansas Affiliate Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
On the video, Alan says he learned to accept his wife’s diagnosis as one of life’s challenges. “I said to myself this is part of my commitment; this is part of my vows, but most importantly, it was my deep, abiding love for her, to stand next to her and help her navigate
a difficult challenge,” he said. “I knew we could do it together.”
Shana and Dwayne Wilson also speak candidly about how breast cancer challenged their relationship. “I knew it would be a turbulent time,” Dwayne said. “I needed to hear from her what was going on in her mind, what was going on in her heart.”
Shana describes how she needed her husband to listen.
“I needed to feel secure intimately with him. I needed to know that though my body was changing, he was not going to feel differently about me.”
Karen and John Carroll also prepared for the ups and downs.
“We reassured ourselves and again maintained the focus that we are going to communicate through this whole process,” John said. “There’s going to be good days, we know, and there’s going to be bad days, we know.”
Dr. Karen Kozlowski, a gynecologist and a two-time breast cancer survivor, dealt with her disease by working. After being treated in 1997, she returned to work within two weeks. “That was part of what I needed to do to heal
Intimate ConversationsFive couples share their breast cancer experience in effort to help others weather the storm.BY TRACY COURAGE • PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY LIGHT PRODUCTIONS
W(From left) Alan and Boots Barnett Warrick; Karen and John Carroll; Sandra and Charles McFadden; Dr. Karen Kozlowski; Dwayne and Shana Wilson; and Dr. Al and Cathy Alexander.
AYMAG.COM . 6 5
11525 Cantrell Rd. Ste. 610 • Next to FRESH MARKET • Little Rock, AR 72212 • 501.375.7820
myself,” she recalled. The second time, though, she faced a more
aggressive cancer, and her doctor forced her to take time off. Kozlowski also speaks of her decision to delay breast reconstruction surgery until she was certain her body was cancer-free.
For Dr. Al and Cathy Alexander, surviving cancer required teamwork.
“You have to lean on each other and depend on each other, but you also have to lean on your family, your friends and most importantly, your faith,” said Al Alexander, a radiologist, who discovered his wife’s cancer while looking at an X-ray.
“Of course your self-esteem is going to be challenged," Cathy said. “If you handle it correctly, it can strengthen your marriage.”
Sandra McFadden of Little Rock, an eight-year cancer survivor, credits her late husband, Charles, with helping her regain her health. She recalls feeling “sad and angry” when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“I felt like I had done everything right. I exercised. I tried to eat right,” she said. “I just asked ‘Why? Why me?’ The answer I got was, ‘Because you can handle it. You’ll be OK.’”
For six months, she forced herself to slow down to focus on her health. She read, exercised, meditated, and drew strength from her spirituality and from Charles, her husband of 48 years.
“I wanted her to know that I loved her no matter what, that [breast cancer] was not just hers — but ours — to overcome,” Charles McFadden said, on the video.
Sandra did overcome her cancer. Her husband, who received a heart transplant 13 years ago, died of kidney complications in January, just a few months after the videotaping.
“I’m so grateful for the time we had together,” Sandra said, recently. “We were there for each other. I helped him, and he helped me.”
6 6 . OCTOBER 2009
JANET CARSON is surrounded almost
daily by nature’s splendor. Carson
works for the University of Arkansas
Cooperative Extension Service as an
extension horticulture specialist; she
hosts “The Garden Show with Janet
Carson” on KARN and twice a week
appears on KARK’s “From the Garden”
segment. She’s living her life’s dream.
“I love plants. I like being outside,
and I always wanted a job that
wouldn’t require me to sit behind a
desk everyday,” Carson said.
Just as the flowers and plants
Carson loves have a genetic history,
so do we. Carson’s genetic history
contains several cancers — her
mother Nancy Biermann had three
types of cancer and her father
Elmer Biermann has battled the disease
twice; and three of her four grandparents died of cancer. So when Carson found a
lump in her breast in December 2006, she “just knew” it was cancer. She received her
diagnosis the next month.
“I decided to wait a bit. My mother had just died [though she’d battled breast cancer,
it did not cause her death]; my father was sick at the time,” Carson said. “So I thought I’d
wait.”
Because of her family history, Carson visited a geneticist who found she has the
CHEK2 gene. Individuals who have this gene are more prone to breast, colon, kidney
and thyroid cancer, Carson said. Further, though her mother had breast cancer, it’s
Carson’s father who has the CHEK2 gene; he battled breast cancer and underwent a
mastectomy. Coincidentally, each of their right breasts was affected.
“I found the lump, researched it online — I research everything ad nauseam — I even
diagnosed myself and … I was right,” Carson said, matter-of-factly. One would expect
her to be anxious, after all, a few weeks passed between her discovery of the lump and
her diagnostic visit. “I don’t worry; but I did get stressed when the doctors began to
plan treatment. They planned to ‘throw the book at me’ with chemotherapy. So, I kept a
journal.”
And she kept her schedule. In a fashion true to Carson’s ‘no fuss, no muss’
approach, she and her husband went for her biopsy and soon afterward told her family.
“My biggest concern was my father. He said, ‘oh, no,’; he was very positive, but it
was a tough year,” Carson said. She and husband Clay also used humor to make it
through tough times. “I remember, the night of my biopsy, I asked my husband for a
glass of water. He looked at me, questioningly. I said, ‘do I really have to get up? I may
have breast cancer.’”
“You have to laugh everyday. I did not want to become the disease … just someone
who had it. In fact, when I sent the e-mail telling everyone about my diagnosis, I referred
to it as a bump in the road,” Carson said. She found her “work family” to be very
supportive. “Everyone just sort of rallied around me.”
Carson underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery; she did not
have to undergo chemotherapy as her breast cancer was found early and had not
affected any nodes. This was a relief for Carson, who witnessed the ravaging effect early
forms of chemotherapy had on her mother, and feels that worry and negativity should not
rule one’s life.
“You simply cannot let cancer rule your life. It’s important live fully and to have fun
everyday.”
Local artist and breast cancer survivor
VICKI KOVALESKI has donated two beautiful
watercolor paintings to help our cause to find a
cure for breast cancer. One will be auctioned
off at Runway for a Cause, and the other will
be available for bidding on eBay afterwards.
Though the subject of the paintings — a
group of local survivors of breast cancer —
are the same, Kovaleski created two versions,
one she thought of in a more literal way, the
other in a more spiritual.
Her first painting depicts the women at
the finish of their journey across a major
local landmark — The Big Dam Bridge. “The
symbolism here is that these women have
been through it all and made it to the finish
line. They are empowered now, they have
gone through the battle and are back and
ready for anything,” Kovaleski said.
Once she completed the first piece she
didn’t feel that her work was quite finished.
“I wanted to do another one that had a more
spiritual feeling as a tribute to Vicki Vowell, who
started this whole thing.”
The second painting shows the same
women in more of an abstract sense. Their
faces are harder to recognize, and there is
no background. “These women could be
any women who have battled breast cancer.
Someone could look at it and say ‘oh that
looks like my mother, or sister, or wife. It
speaks to any survivor,” Kovaleski said.
Her good friend and Runway committee
member, Evelyn Menz, approached her to
donate a painting. These two women were
brought together nine years ago. “Evelyn was
the best cheerleader. Her big cause is Runway
and donating these paintings is a way for me
to let her know I appreciate her.”
To learn more about Kovaleski log onto
kovaleskistudio.com. To bid on her painting,
log onto aymag.com/go/runway and follow the
link to the eBay auction.
worth a thousand words
AYMAG.COM . 6 7
A Dedication To The Fight Against Breast Cancer From Active Years Magazine
Charming Accessories Keep You
PRETTY IN PINK
Sophisticated Survivors:REAL FASHION FOR
REAL WOMEN
hopeFaces of
Survivors and the City 2003 1
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We don’t have to rely on luck — breast cancer will be defeated! Since 2002, AY staff, a dedicated team of volunteers and an assembly of brave breast cancer survivors have joined forces to bring Arkansas’ largest, most successful fundraising luncheon/fashion show. This year, we’re pulling out all the stops to raise $140,000 to aid four worthy organizations to “shake up” cancer, so the answer to “Will we find a cure for cancer in this lifetime?” is: It is decidedly so!
Magic Eight Ball
2002Runway to the CureChair: Shirley DavisAmount raised: $37,531
2003 Runway to the CureCo-chairs: Evelyn Menz and Becky BienAmount raised: $64,863
2004Runway for a CauseChair: Mimi San PedroAmount raised: $104,461
2005 Runway for a CauseChair: Cindy PughAmount raised: $108,875
2006Runway for a CauseChair: Linda NewbernAmount raised: $130,489
2007Runway for a CauseChair: Penny BurkhalterAmount raised: $136,035
2008Runway for a CauseChair: Pam DrillingAmount raised: $134,625
2009Runway for a CauseChair: Kristi MoodyGoal: $140,000+