www.breastcanceralliance.org OUTLOOK NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION FALL 2015 — VOLUME 19, NUMBER 2

In This Issue LETTER FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, 1 Letter from Executive Director, YONNI WATTENMAKER Yonni Wattenmaker Dear Friends, It is my pleasure to share yet another 3 20th Annual Benefit Luncheon story with you now. Julia Tchou, MD, PhD, and Fashion Show It is hard to Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery believe that at the Abramson Cancer Center of the Benefit Speaker Andrea Mitchell 5 I am in my University of Pennsylvania, was a 2014 6 Raffle 2015 fifth year as Young Inves- Executive tigator Grant 8 Patty Steele: Director. In some recipient. I hope One Woman’s Story ways you will read her the job still report below Event Recaps 10 feels new. and feel inspired 12 Go For Pink! Every week there are new ideas to explore, and confident in new people to meet, new findings from your continued which to be inspired, and unfortunately, new support of stories of illness that darken my day. Breast Cancer In other ways it feels as if I have been Alliance. Follow us! here for my entire career, thanks to the kindness, generosity and dedication of our Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) — We are on Facebook and Twitter! remarkable volunteers and supporters. An unresolved clinical challenge Be sure to follow us so you can keep by Julia Tchou: up with all we are doing (and tell your As we near October 22, and our 20th My Research interests are driven by my friends to follow us too!) annual benefit luncheon and fashion clinical observation that women diagnosed show, I am moved by this year’s theme: with TNBC are in dire need for more “Like” us at HONOR. RECOGNIZE. EMBRACE. effective therapy. Too many of my patients www.facebook.com/ Each day we try to HONOR the work have succumbed to this breast cancer BCAgreenwich of the last 20 years and the pioneers of this subtype — and I have seen the tremendous Follow incredible organization, who helped us negative effects of this disease on both @BCAllianceCT build the well-respected foundation we the patient and her family. Despite a have become. Each day we RECOGNIZE combination of aggressive surgery, Follow @breastcanceralliance those who have survived, or lost their radiation, and chemotherapy, the disease lives to breast cancer, and appreciate reoccurs — rapidly and relentlessly. how much work still needs to be done. Each day we EMBRACE our mission Conventional chemotherapy regiments to better prevent, treat, and ultimately often become ineffective in suppressing Our Mission help to cure this disease. this aggressive breast cancer subtype. This, coupled with the fact that women The mission of the Breast Cancer Throughout the year I share the results diagnosed with TNBC are not eligible Alliance is to improve survival rates of our research grantees, highlights of to receive targeted therapies such as and quality of life for those impacted the breast surgery fellowships we fund, tamoxifen (or anastrazole), which targets by breast cancer through better and stories of women we support through the estrogen receptor, or trastuzumab, prevention, early detection, treatment our education and outreach grants. that targets the Her2-neu receptor, further and cure. To promote these goals, exacerbates the clinical need for more we invest in innovative research, effective therapies. To date, TNBC remains breast surgery fellowships, regional a clinical challenge for clinicians and education, dignified support and researchers and the solution will certainly screening for the underserved. Continued on page 2 LETTER FROM YONNI WATTENMAKER

Continued from page 1 require a collaborative, scientific effort. they can perform their tumor killing func- We have therefore assembled a team of tions. Since our clinical protocol involved BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sharon Phillips, President clinicians and scientists with the common genetic engineering and is a first-in-human Marci Barr Abbot goal of improving the treatment and study, the FDA held a public hearing of our Annie Amato Jane M. Batkin clinical outcomes of women with TNBC. clinical protocol in December 2011 and we Susan Bevan successfully defended our protocol in front Deborah G. Black Caroline Brecker Discovery of Novel Immunotherapy of a panel of breast cancer and immuno- Lynn J. Carnegie Targets for TNBC — therapy experts at the FDA. Kathy Clark Cathy T. Dann A Multidisciplinary Team Approach: Lisa Fischer Our research team leader is Carl H. June, The study schema of this clinical trial Mary K. Jeffery Ellen Keats M.D., Richard W. Vague Professor in Im- includes patients with metastatic breast Carla Kidd munotherapy and Director of Translational cancer who have tumor nodules in the Karen Lowney Dee Mayberry Medicine at the Abramson Cancer Center skin. While enrolled in the clinical trial Andrew Mitchell-Namdar of the University of Pennsylvania. I first period (60 days) the patients will not Ellen Schapps Richman Nancy Rosen met with Dr. June in April 2011 to discuss receive any other cytotoxic therapy, but Meg Russell exploring new treatment strategies for endocrine or targeted therapy is allowed. Trish Shannon Nancy Smith TNBC. Our meeting occurred just before The patient’s immune cells (T cells) will Loren Taufield his pioneering work on adoptive transfer be collected by a method known as Irene A. Waddill Lisa Walsh of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) apheresis. The isolated T cells will be Jamie Cooper Warner T cells targeting CD19 to treat patients expanded and modified in the laboratory. Jieun Wax Marylou Williams with refractory chronic lymphocytic At the end of the 3-week manufacturing Elisa Wilson lymphoma (CLL) was published in the period, the c-met CAR T cells are injected

ADVISORY COUNCIL New England Journal of Medicine. intratumorally on day-3 and the injected Cynthia G. Biondi tumor nodule is excised on day 0 (2-3 Frannie Burns Whether mesothelin or c-met were days) after the intratumoral injection. Frank Corvino Carol Crapple suitable targets for TNBC was unknown The patient is then monitored for the Nat Day at the time. We did not know if TNBC next 3 months. Patti Fast Michele Haertel expresses mesothelin or c-met and, if so, Brett Holey we did not know how often. To answer Our clinical protocol was approved to Susan Holey Polly Park Hyman these questions, we worked with our start in October 2012 and our first patient Lisa Matthews collaborating pathologist, Paul J. Zhang, was enrolled in November 2012. So far, James McArdle Patricia McLaughlin M.D., and discovered, to our pleasant we have tested the safety of this c-met Kenneth E. Mifflin surprise, that both mesothelin and c-met CAR T cells in three patients. All three Scott Mitchell Donna Moffly are expressed in the majority of TNBC patients tolerated the injection of the Betsy Donovan Nolan (over 60% of tumor tissue demonstrated c-met CAR T cells well with minimal side Indra Nooyi Maureen Perry expression for c-met or mesothelin). effects. We are poised to escalate to the Carol Santora next dose in the next three patients. Margaret Sinclair William C. Sinclair Adapting CAR T Cells Treatment Turner Smith Strategy for Breast Cancer: The next step in our clinical trial is to Peter J. Tesei Ramze Zakka Dr. June’s laboratory had already evaluate the safety of this drug in women demonstrated the effectiveness of CAR T with primary TNBC. Our goal is to use MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD K.M. Steve Lo, MD, Chair cells against solid tumors in animals this drug to create a vaccine effect so Eva Andersson-Dubin, MD by targeting c-met or mesothelin. that the patient’s immune system will be Susan K. Boolbol, MD Patrick I. Borgen, MD C-met and mesothelin’s expression in harnessed to fight TNBC. In this second Alison Estabrook, MD TNBC was able to be quickly translated step, we plan to treat a minimum of Daniel E. Fass, MD Alexandra Heerdt, MD into a pilot clinical trial, and adapted 9 patients and up to 18 patients in a period Brigid Killilea, MD for patients with metastatic breast of 2-3 years with a manufacturing cost Gregory S. LaTrenta, MD of $684,000 at a minimum. Donna-Marie Manasseh, MD cancer. The goal of our study is to use Monica Morrow, MD the patient’s own immune cells to fight Elisa Port, MD their breast cancer. The immune cells Upon completion of this pilot clinical David L. Rimm, MD, PhD Andrea Silber, MD (T cells) will be collected and genetically trial, we will have the preliminary data Barbara A. Ward, MD modified so that these cells will now necessary to help us leverage for federal Richard Zelkowitz, MD recognize c-met that are found on the funding for this innovative treatment FOUNDERS BOARD surface of tumor cells. Upon binding of strategy. I would like to thank the BCA Mary Waterman (1944-1997) Lucy Day these T cells to the tumor cells via c-met for supporting our high risk research. Susan Elia CAR, the T cells are now activated so that Without your support, we would not have Kenny King Howe Valerie Marchese accomplished as much as we have today. Cecile McCaull

2 www.breastcanceralliance.org LETTER FROM YONNI WATTENMAKER 20TH ANNUAL BENEFIT LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW

Survivor Celebration 2014

n October 22nd, Breast Cancer on the Breast Cancer Alliance website. Lucy Day, and her husband, Nat, this Alliance will be hosting its We know this will only deepen the beauty much needed escape comes complete 20th annual benefit luncheon of this truly impactful day. with roundtrip airfare from Westchester Oand fashion show. Since its Airport on JetBlue. All you’re left to do founding, BCA has awarded over $20 This year’s silent auction was inspired is pack a bag. Perhaps you’re looking million in grants in an effort to better by our theme. HONOR everything that is for a fun night out with the girls? How prevent, treat, and ultimately eradicate important to us, RECOGNIZE and about spending this disease. Due to the overwhelming EMBRACE all the beauty and good an evening with generosity and support from our donors, that life has to offer, and reflect on Bravo’s very own we funded nearly $1.6 million dollars in all the precious memories we collect Andy Cohen at grants last year alone. In honor of the first along the way. We set out to acquire a LIVE Taping 20 years, we have our sights set on pro- experiences — for you, your families, of Watch What viding $2,000,000 in grants this year! your friends. Special opportunities Happens with to bond, to grow and to create and Andy Cohen? If We believe that the significant experi- capture special memories, all while it’s a day trip you ences from our past provide clarity and supporting BCA. had in mind, hop focus for the future. At this year’s event, a train to catch a we will HONOR our history and those Here is a taste of our fabulous items: taping of the Rachael Ray Show, meet we’ve lost, RECOGNIZE the work still to In need of a getaway? Perhaps a week up with Kathie Lee and Hoda at the be done, and EMBRACE the possibility of long excursion to the fabulous Brazilian fourth hour of TODAY, or be inspired by what we can accomplish together in the Court Hotel in Palm Beach in a gorgeous a day at the Metropolitan Museum of future, so please join us. Tickets, tables, one-bedroom apartment will do the Art, or visit a private gallery-led tour and donations can be purchased online trick. Compliments of BCA founder, through the art district. at www.breastcanceralliance.org or you can call the office to request an invitation at (203) 861-0014.

To HONOR, RECOGNIZE and EMBRACE survivors, loved ones we’ve lost, and those still fighting the disease, we encourage you to participate in this year’s tribute. Your personal message, purchased through your invitation or online, will be featured at our event and on a special tribute page

Fall 2015 3 To HONOR, RECOGNIZE and EMBRACE survivors, loved ones we’ve lost, and those still fighting the disease, we encourage you to participate in this year’s tribute. Your personal message, purchased through your invitation or online, will be featured at our event and on a special tribute page on the Breast Cancer Alliance website.

If you prefer to stay in, find your center Low, or a private with a calming in-home yoga class for styling experience from you and your friends or plan a special Zang Toi. Accessorize night with the help of Chef Brian Lewis, your Home with who will provide an in-home cooking Acclaimed Decorator, class or catered event for up to 10 Amy Hirsch at Hoagland’s guests. Speaking of Chefs, if you need a of Greenwich! Shop this little relief from cooking, look no further. exquisite mainstay of the Chef Michael of Food Design is offer- Avenue, boasting fabulous ing up dinner for a family of five for four merchandise of the finest consecutive days to the highest bidder. quality, with a $2,000 shopping credit Our mouths are already watering! and one of the most sought after decorators in town by your side! Knowing how fashion forward our We have something for all! We also have supporters are, we have some fabulous, wonderful items for the men in our lives. stylish additions to our auction. Be it Must-have outings such as Legends Seats tickets to see Pamella Roland’s gorgeous to see a Yankee’s game, club seats to show at Fashion Week, a NYC shopping the Knicks, and a foursome at Oak Hill Tour with Style Room, bespoke couture Country Club in Rochester — one of the from Olivine Gabbro, a $10,000 best courses in the world. shopping spree at Shreve, Crump and We can’t forget our children, grand- children and loved little ones! The “Foot in the Door” category offers Meet the members of O.A.R. amazing resume-building opportunities with VIP concert tickets to an upcoming show of including the chance to spend the your choosing Day at Teen Vogue, shadow a fashion stylist and intern with a seasoned venture capitalist.

For the littlest kids, it’s hard to top a birthday party or playdate with a private performance from the ever popular Graham Clarke! What’s more? We have a great way for you to capture memories from the special day — a photography session with award winning children and family photographer Charisse Czaja.

The one caveat to winning these memory-making experiences? Embark on a unforgettable sailing adventure with ten friends aboard We expect pictures and lots of an historic America’s Cup Winning good stories! Racing Yacht

4 www.breastcanceralliance.org BENEFIT SPEAKER ANDREA MITCHELL We set out to acquire experiences — for you, your families, your friends. Special opportunities to bond, to grow and to create and capture special memories, all while supporting BCA.

ndrea Mitchell, NBC’s chief foreign affairs correspondent, covers foreign policy, A intelligence, and National Security issues for NBC News and MSNBC. In addition to traveling with Secretary of State John Kerry, she hosts “Andrea Mitchell Reports” on MSNBC, her daily program of political and foreign policy news. Mitchell was also a lead correspondent covering the 2012 Presidential Campaign. She is the author of Talking Back: …To Presidents, Dictators, and Assorted Scoundrels (Viking 2005), a memoir about her experiences covering five presidents, Congress, and foreign policy. Mitchell

Massimo Caronna, Jack Mitchell, joined NBC News in 1978 and previously Lynne Scalo, Bob Mitchell, served as Chief Congressional Natasha Caronna, Yonni Wattenmaker, Correspondent and Chief White House Jieun Wax, Scott Mitchell, Sharon Phillips, Lisa Fischer, Correspondent. Over the years, Andrew Mitchell-Namdar Mitchell has appeared regularly on “Meet the Press” as a panelist and substitute host.

An Emmy Award winning journalist, We thank you in advance for your Mitchell has also received the prestigious time, support, and generosity in making Goldsmith Career Award for Excellence our 20th celebration one to remember. in Journalism from the John F. Kennedy You can luckily start your bidding School of Government at Harvard today at https://breastcanceralliance. University, the National Press Foundation tofinoauctions.com/benefit2015 2010 Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism, and the Radio-Television News Directors’ Foundation Zeidenberg Award for protecting the First Amendment. Mitchell is a member of The Gridiron Club and is a trustee of the University of Penn- sylvania, as well as a board member of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and America’s Promise Alliance. She is married to former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan and resides in Washington, DC.

Fall 2015 5 BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S PARTY TIME Value: $3235 Value: $1647 Invite eleven friends to Tiffany & Co. in Let’s get this party started! Enjoy a $150 Greenwich for a delicious, freshly pre- gift certificate towards a catered party pared breakfast provided by Libby Coverly from Garden Catering, a $25 gift certifi- Cooke. This unique offering includes a cate to Greenwich Cheese Company, a Tiffany gift for you and your guests, party $100 gift card to Aux Delices, and a $50 rentals, and a flower arrangement. gift certificate for a specialty cake from Black Forest Pastry Shop to place atop GARDEN PARTY your new cake plate with matching cake Value: $4250 knife and server from Housewarmings. Treat yourself and up to thirty friends to a Entertain your guests in style with a $200 fabulous two hour cocktail party catered gift certificate from Smith Party Rentals, by Watson’s Catering. This wonderful purchases from Party, Paper and Things, package includes food, service and staff, and your new silver plated ice bucket and will be held at McArdle’s Florist and with lid and tongs from Michaelangelo Garden Center in Greenwich, CT. of Greenwich. Before you place flowers from Blooms on the table to welcome 20 BEAUTIFUL YEARS everyone, prepare for your event with Value: $2109 three private sessions at Pilates Symme- In celebration of BCA’s 20th Anniversary try, highlights, and a cut from Hopscotch Benefit Luncheon, here are 20 fabulous Salon and a manicure at Coco Nails. things for you to enjoy! Start with the megaformer class package at CST50 ON THE HOME FRONT Darien, then head to PEAU Advanced Value: $1672 Skin Care for the “Peau glow.” Continue to Let Smart Playrooms provide you with 6 shine with tanning services at Zen Bronze, hours of playroom design and organiza- and Salon O, where you can also enjoy a tion consultation (Value $900). Before makeup application before lunch at Little or after your playroom is set, use Swept Thai Kitchen. The pampering will last for Away’s cleaning services and let them weeks with 4 manicure gift certificates to clean up any crumbs from the gift certifi- Coco Nails, 4 blowouts at Maria Livesay cate to Upper Crust Bagel Co. for a dozen Salon, plus a brow tint and makeup ap- bagels a month for six months. Escape it plication at Benefit Cosmetics. Indulge all with lunch at Pasta Vera, followed by in beauty treatments of highlights and a a 60-minute massage at The Spa at Dela- haircut at Hopscotch Salon, and a haircut, mar, Southport. Afterwards, stay to enjoy condition, and blowout at Billy Magnum dinner with your $100 gift card to Artisan Salon. Go on a shopping spree with a Restaurant. $250 gift certificate to coop & spree bou- tique in downtown NYC. Wind down the evening with dinner at Applausi Osteria in Old Greenwich. Also included is a Staf- fordshire enamel pill box from Saint Clair.

6 www.breastcanceralliance.org FORE! SOPHISTICATED SOIREE RENEW AND RELAX Value: $1399 Value: $1760 Value: $2247 Grab three friends, your Nike pink sport Let The Caterers, LLC. cater an hors Use the $50 gift certificate to lululemon golf bag, and pink tees for 18 holes of golf d’oeuvres party for 20 in the comfort or $50 in gift certificates to Fleet Feet at Westchester Country Club, the home of of your own home. Pick up some pretty Stamford before getting fit at Go Figure this year’s WPGA golf tournament. Your items to compliment the decor with a $50 and Core Pilates Greenwich. Renew your- spectacular day includes greens fees, use gift certificate to Party, Paper and Things. self using a $500 gift card at Greenwich of golf cart and caddy services, followed Get styled for your soiree at Jaafar Tazi Medical Skincare and Laser Spa. Freshen by lunch in The Sports House overlook- with a manicure, pedicure, full balayage up your look with a manicure at Coco ing the beautiful course. Be“fore” the day color, and cut. Finalize your look wearing Nails and a manicure, pedicure, highlights, ends, dine at Moderne Barn with your a long fashion necklace with pink stones glaze, and cut at Jaafar Tazi. Then, head $100 gift card. from Splurge. Kennedy’s All-American back to Fleet Feet for a fitness fashion Barber Club provides shave products shopping party with nine friends. VERMONT BOUND and their 3-month “Pursuit of Happiness” Value: $1349 membership for the man in your life. DOUBLE THE FUN Stowe away for a two night midweek stay Value: $1500 in a luxurious Timberline studio at Stowe DAZZLE AND DINE Take a friend to Hopscotch where togeth- Mountain Lodge. Prior to your departure, Value: $1612 er you can enjoy full highlights and a blow- purchase $50 worth of “bound” reading Begin your day at Williams & Co. with a dry, a single process and cut, followed by material from Diane’s Books, then enjoy a manicure, pedicure, facial and massage, two $20 gift certificates at Hilltop Nails. mani/pedi at Empy’s Day Spa and a blow- and then splurge at Steven Fox Jewelers Choose which gift certificate to use mid- out at PlushBlow. with your $1,000 gift certificate. Show day, be it lunch for two at Morgan’s Fish off your refreshed self and dazzling new House or Terra. Stop into Erika Bloom PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ jewels while dining with a $100 gift card Pilates Plus for one of three private Pilates Value: $1964 from Ristorante Firenze, $150 from Boxcar sessions, then relax at Dream Spa, using a Prepare for a glamorous overnight with Cantina, and $60 from Little Thai Kitchen. $25 gift card. From there you’re off to Billy a 3 month Immersion Package at CLAY Magnum Salon for a haircut, conditioning Health Club + Spa, which includes a one PARTY IN PINK and blowout. Complete your fun day by month membership, one consultation Value: $1362 dining at Fortina with three friends. with a nutritionist, one personal training Enjoy a private shopping party with session, one Pilates session, one spa treat- your friends at Alice + Olivia. You will ment, and 5 guest passes. Pack up your receive a complimentary outfit, (value new Tory Burch “York” Tote and head to up to $465). As a bonus, you will all $20 per ticket. Winner need not the Ritz-Carlton – Westchester for the bed receive 10% off purchases that evening be present. and breakfast package for two. Includes and 10% of all proceeds will be donated to All Prizes are non-exchangeable, an overnight stay in a deluxe room with BCA! You’ll look great at the event after non-refundable for credit, and must be farmers market continental breakfast in your GLOSquad YouthBoost treatment, used within one year of event unless the lobby lounge. then haircut, conditioning and blowout otherwise stated. from Billy Magnum Salon. Pop into Ginger Please support the generous donors who IT’S A WIN WIN! Man for dinner afterwards with a $75 gift made this raffle possible. Value: $1600 card while wearing your pink wool and Enjoy a one night, a la carte midweek stay cashmere wrap and pink beaded bracelet. for two adults at Winvian Farm. Have your hair colored by Joel Warren and cut by Edward Tricomi at Warren Tricomi Salon before you go! A pink enamel bracelet from Woodrow Jewelers will surely com- pliment your new look.

Fall 2015 7 PATTY STEELE: ONE WOMAN’S STORY

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was within me, an invincible summer. — Albert Camus

hose words describe my oddly A close friend and world class psychiatrist, beautiful encounter with breast Dr. Ed Latimer, began to help me process Tcancer. I have never wanted to and deal with the fear and uncertainty. arrive at the point in life where I made a list of affirmations, poetry, and I thought I had nothing more to learn. prayers which I kept on my phone for And now I can definitively say, nothing fearful moments. My co-workers and teaches you more about yourself and bosses at CBS Radio became so close, those around you, than a close encounter giving support, love, hugs, and strength. with mortality. In June of 2014 I noticed My husband, Steve, and my 3 beautiful a small lump in my right breast. I saw my teenagers, also became closer to me ob/gyn who recommended a diagnostic than ever. I became best friends with mammogram and an ultrasound. In mid- my sister-in-law, Sheri, who became my July the doctor who looked at the ultra- head cheerleader. We all found a way I was back on the radio 2 weeks after sound said I should see a breast surgeon. to discuss it openly and even to find the surgery and shared my story with That’s when I began to suspect they were humor in it, something I can’t recommend hundreds of thousands of listeners. seeing something I hoped wasn’t there. enough. When I said I wanted to find But there was another hurdle. Although She confirmed it…and so began my jour- the Michelangelo of plastic surgeons, Dr. Port was able to remove all of the ney. My friends Trish and Scott Shannon my wonderful friend Elvis said, “Why cancer, she encouraged me to undergo 8 connected me with Yonni Wattenmaker not the Salvador Dali?” That was a rounds of preventive chemotherapy so, as at BCA, who connected me with Dr. Elisa much needed laugh. And I did find my she put it, I could be assured of living to Port at the Dubin Breast Center at Mt. Michelangelo in Dr. Adam Kolker. be 95 and minimize my chances of dealing Sinai. It was eye-opening. To find someone with this again. The chemo was so much so brilliant, so honest and diligent, and When I went in for the mastectomy more manageable than I expected. I never so caring was like surfacing for a gulp on September 16th, I was at peace. missed a day of work. I’d do the morning of air. She explained the entire process, I remember walking to the OR with show, run up to the Breast Center, plug the tests, the possibilities, and finally her Dr. Port and Dr. Kolker on either side, in for 3 hours while getting a great lunch, recommended course of action…and I laughing as we went in. I said, “I couldn’t a foot massage, and some rest, with my realized the meaning of the phrase feel safer going to sleep, looking at your husband by my side. Dr. Julie Fasano and “Knowledge is power.” faces.” A week later, Dr. Port called one the terrific nurses so completely explained evening, after the pathology came back, the process and gave so much warmth, I tried to put together a plan to deal and said, “I’m calling to tell you: live long I never felt alone or unsure. The tough- with this medically, spiritually, and and prosper, because now I know you est part was losing my hair, though some psychologically for myself and my children. will.” What a gem of a human being. would say that wasn’t such a loss.

I joke that I’ve spent my entire life apologizing for having crazy hair, and then paid 2 wonderful guys to make me a crazy wig. But the reality is, Jonathan and Robert at Angels of New York totally recreated my crazy hair, though truthfully, it’s much nicer than mine. We women really identify ourselves by our breasts and our hair and I was getting an adjustment

8 www.breastcanceralliance.org “I’m so blessed. This illness can cause such fear and devastation. But it can also give you a chance to see yourself and the people around you in a new, more powerful light.” to both. I visited Angels, pre-hair loss, The most incredible part of this story from now, you’ll be able to look back at with my cousin Kerry. They have a however, revolves around my daughter this time and know one sure thing. At 17, gorgeous salon, but when I saw the hair Kate, who turned 17 right after my surgery. you became the woman most can never swatches, I started to cry. Jonathan gave She’s always been a strong, smart young hope to be.” me a tissue and said, “Sit down. I’m gonna woman, but she’s been my rock through tell you something. I can’t stop you from this. She slept in my hospital room, spoke I’m so blessed. This illness can cause losing your hair. But I can promise you about my progress on the radio at CBS- such fear and devastation. But it can also two things. You’ll be beautiful and no one FM to Scott Shannon and our listeners, give you a chance to see yourself and the will know.” answered concerned calls, woke with me people around you in a new, more power- during the night at home, and was my ful light. The philosopher Soren Kierkeg- I tried on wigs that truly looked like constant support. And most amazing? aard said, “Life can only be understood the hair was growing out of my head! When my hair started to come out, I got backwards, but it must be lived forwards.” He explained that after the second round weepy. Kate, with a big grin said, “This is So you take the cards you’re dealt and you of chemo, my hair would start to come great, mom! It’s the last hurdle! It’s just use the knowledge the past has given you, out gradually over 4 or 5 days, which is hair. You’re gonna be healthy and your but you focus forward and you persevere exactly what happened. Understanding hair will grow back better than ever.” She until your spirit triumphs. the process really helped, and the wig then said, “You have a beautiful face and is amazing! this will be a cool new way of looking at I told Yonni I don’t see myself in pink yourself.” How did she get that smart, so for the rest of my life, though I’ll always When my own hair began to “disconnect” young? And she’s so right about looking at speak for the cause. Cancer does not however, it wasn’t pleasant. Because I yourself in a new way. Now that it’s grow- define me. It’s simply one more important have wavy hair, instead of falling out, it ing back I feel very chic with this short do. learning experience. But I’m able to make basically wrapped around itself and turned that choice because of the diligent work into dreadlocks. I got sick of it. My terrific We were supposed to go to Paris last of people who give their knowledge, time, hairdresser Wendy, at Parlor Hair in Mont- summer but postponed because of my heart, and financial support to organiza- clair, NJ, offered to open her salon one cancer. On Kate’s birthday card I wrote, tions like the Breast Cancer Alliance. Sunday morning and remove the dreads. “I know this has been a rough summer, My goal and my prayer for others, is not She did some trimming and highlighting with my illness. There’s been fear and simply to survive, but to thrive. I truly am so it looked just like me and we cried upset. We missed our trip. But 50 years and I’m so grateful. together, out of solidarity, not sadness.

A couple of favorite wig moments? “So you take the cards you’re dealt and My oncologist Dr. Fasano, was confused you use the knowledge the past has given you, when she saw me for the third infusion, thinking my hair should have already fallen but you focus forward and you perservere out. She was shocked when I lifted it to until your spirit triumphs.” show her it was a wig! My husband Steve saying, “You look so good, everyone’s gonna think you’re faking the cancer.” And finally, Jackie, a friend at work who, when she saw the new hair, said, “Wow, if I didn’t know it wasn’t you, I’d think it was you!” To which I replied, “But it is me!”

Fall 2015 9 JUNIOR FASHION SHOW

eenagers from seven different high schools in our area came together to raise awareness Tabout breast cancer and to help raise money for Breast Cancer Alliance.

We are very proud of this group, as well as the growing list of towns and schools from which they come to participate: Brunswick School, Fox Lane High School, Greenwich Academy, Greenwich High School, King Low Heywood Thomas School, Convent of the Sacred Heart, and The Stanwich School.

SPECIAL THANKS GO TO: Richards and their tireless team for hosting the event and outfitting all of the young models

Becker Salon for gorgeous hair and If you know a teenager who make up would like to get involved in the Junior Committee, Our robust Junior Committee and their please contact the BCA office co-chairs: Lynn Carnegie, Mary Jeffery, at 203.861.0014 or Dee Mayberry and Paige Montinaro for [email protected]. making it all happen

ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

New dates this year! Tuesday, November 17, 2015, Noon - 8:00pm Wednesday, November 18, 2015 9:00am - 3:00pm Greenwich Country Club 19 Doubling Road Greenwich, CT

Join us for lunch either day from 12:30-2:30pm at a cost of $50 per person. Reservations must be prepaid in advance: breastcanceralliance.org or 203-861-0014.

With 15 new exhibitors this year and over 40 vendors in total, you will have the same great shopping but with a head start on the holidays!

15% of all sales benefit BCA.

10 www.breastcanceralliance.org GOLF OUTING

n a warm Tuesday in May, the field was full at GlenArbor Golf Club as Ogolfers gathered to take a swing at breast cancer. A long drive competition and pitching contest over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres rounded out a fabulous day and helped BCA raise over $70,000 towards the funding of a breast surgery fellow for 2016.

Many thanks to all who participated, with special note of appreciation to our co-chairs: Justin and Ashleigh Nelson, Mary Quick and Jim Daras, and Suzanne and Tim Sennatt.

Next year’s event will return to GlenArbor on July 12, so be sure to mark your calendars as the spaces will fill quickly!

10TH ANNUAL WALK FOR HOPE

Walk Chairs: Caroline Brecker, Liz Bruce, Courtney Olsen, Mary Jeffery and Lisa Fleming with Grand Marshal Eddie Calle

f you want to get a crowd moving, just support we provide. It’s great to literally WE ARE THANKFUL TO OUR SPONSORS: mix some dedicated volunteers, clear, turn the town pink and see everyone out Platinum: Omnicom blue skies and one Grand Marshal’s unri- here for the right reasons.” Gold: Fleet Feet, Greenwich Hospital, PepsiCo I valed energy and you have it made! Bronze: Hat Attack/Buji Baja, The Mifflin Walkers eager to get moving were first Family, Northeast Medical Group, Richards, There was an overwhelming show of treated to breakfast, courtesy of Z Hos- Z Restaurant Group support on Sunday, April 26 as a record pitality group and PepsiCo, and a little Diamond: Baywater Properties/ number of supporters (including some Zumba warm-up by the incomparable Genovese Family dogs and a pig!) gathered together to Eddie Calle. Several groups from spon- Titanium: Bill and Fran Deutsch walk down Greenwich Avenue in shared soring companies, including Ominicom, Silver: Becker Salon, White Plains Hospital, determination to fight breast cancer. Northeast Medical Group, and Rand Williams & Company Insurance, as well as many family teams Crystal: Gells, Rand Insurance “It’s an amazing community effort,” said and hundreds of individuals of all ages, Yonni Wattenmaker, BCA’s Executive Direc- were happy to be a part of the day. As one WE ALSO APPRECIATE THOSE WHO tor. “We get hundreds of people out every walker shared, “It’s very rewarding to do it. PARTICIPATED IN OUR WELLNESS FAIR: year and raise some money for a good I want my daughter to learn about doing Beautycounter, Becker Salon, Be Shri Yoga, cause. So many of the people who come good things not just to benefit our family, CLAY Health Club and Spa, Fleet Feet, Hema out are direct beneficiaries of that work. but others.” Nambiar, Juice Press, McArdle’s Garden and Some of them are in need of the Florist Center, Tropical Smoothies, Wendy Lee Fitness and Williams & Company

Fall 2015 11 NONPROFIT US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 3798 48 Maple Avenue STAMFORD, CT Greenwich, CT 06830

SAVE THE DATE THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1

A DAY DEDICATED TO BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE ATTEND BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH GO FOR PINK IN THE TOWN OF GREENWICH

ALL DAY SHOPPING UNTIL 7PM SHOP AND AT RICHARDS UNTIL 8PM GO FOR PINK PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS WILL DONATE PROCEEDS TO BCA

JOIN BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE IN THE SUPPORT FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER GO FOR PINK • BCA FLAG RAISING CEREMONY WILL KICK OFF THE DAY LED BY FIRST SELECTMAN PETER TESEI AT TOWN HALL AT 9AM • STAMFORD HOSPITAL’S MOBILE WELLNESS CENTER WILL OFFER MAMMOGRAMS AT GREENWICH TOWN HALL BY APPOINTMENT*

FOR EVENT INFORMATION VISIT: BCAGOFORPINK.ORG *TO SCHEDULE A MAMMOGRAM: HTTPS://WWW.STAMFORDHOSPITAL.ORG/SERVICES/A-Z-LISTING/M/MOBILE-WELLNESS.ASPX