Category: blog

Nutrition Through Breast Cancer
By: Yhaimar Barile, BSN RN

In this Article:
1. Introduction: Nutrition Through Breast Cancer.
2. The Basics: Eating Well, Staying Active, and Managing your Weight
3. During Treatment: Managing Side Effects and Other Tips
4. After Treatment: Stay Strong in Recovery
5. Easy Tips to Get Started
6. In Closing
7. To Learn More

Introduction: Nutrition Through Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis changes many things in your life. Some of those
changes are how you think about the food you eat and your physical activity.
Good nutrition and staying active are important during this time.
Nutrition during cancer treatment helps your body:
 Respond better to medications
 Manage treatment side effects
 Keep your energy when you need it most

After your treatment ends, continuing to eat healthy and doing regular
activity may help reduce your risk of cancer returning. These same habits
also protect your overall health as you age. Your body may need different
things during treatment, but the goal stays the same: eat to keep your
body strong and stay as physically active as you can.
Because nourishing your body is very important during this time, your
healthcare team may include a dietitian or nutritionist (experts in food and
nutrition). They will talk to you about what is best for you to eat. Here are
some of the things they might share.

The Basics: Eating Well, Staying Active, and Managing
Your Weight
Eating different healthy foods gives your body the nutrients it needs to heal
and stay strong. Most experts recommend:
• Eat mostly plant foods: Go for colorful vegetables, fruits, whole
grains (oats or brown rice), and plant-based proteins like beans and
lentils. Add healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and olive oil. If you eat meat,
choose lean options like skinless chicken or fish.
• Cut back on certain foods: Try to limit processed foods, red and
processed meats, sugary drinks, and foods high in added sugar or salt.
If you drink alcohol, talk to your doctor. Even small amounts can raise
the risk of breast cancer returning, especially for women who’ve
already had it.
• Stay active: Movement can lift your mood and lower your risk of other
health problems. Your goal is to move your body most days. Physical
activity includes walking, stretching, dancing, or any activity you like.
You don’t have to do it all at once. Even a few minutes at a time adds
up.
• Keep a healthy weight: Some people gain weight during or after
treatment, and others might lose it. Try not to stress about it too
much. Focus on eating balanced meals and staying active when you
can. If you’re not sure what a healthy weight looks like for you, ask
your doctor or a registered dietitian who can help.

These healthy habits are a great start, but cancer treatment can bring some
ups and downs that may change how you feel and eat. Let’s look at some
ways to adjust when you’re going through treatment.
During Treatment: Managing Side Effects and Other Tips
Cancer treatment can affect how you feel about food. Some days, you may
feel too tired to eat. Other days, food might not taste right, or you may have
an upset stomach. These changes are common, and they may come and go.

Here are some ways to make eating a little easier while you’re going through
treatment:
 If you feel sick to your stomach (nausea): Try eating bland foods
like crackers, toast, noodles, or rice. Sipping ginger tea or sucking
ginger chews may also help calm nausea.
 If food doesn’t taste right: Add lemon juice, herbs, or mild
seasoning for better flavor. Sometimes, room-temperature foods may
go down easier than very cold or hot foods.
 If your mouth is sore: Go for soft foods like smoothies, oatmeal,
yogurt, or mashed potatoes. Skip salty or crunchy foods that might
hurt your mouth.
 If you’re not very hungry: Try eating small meals every couple of
hours instead of large meals. Don’t wait until you feel very hungry. It is
better to set a schedule that helps you stay nourished.
 If you’re losing weight: Add healthy calories to meals (nut butters,
avocado, or olive oil). A registered dietitian can help you find healthy
food options.
Also, keep this in mind:
 Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially
water. Some people need electrolyte drinks if they’re losing fluids from
vomiting or diarrhea. If you’re not sure about how to stay hydrated,
check with your doctor.
 Food safety is important: Some cancer treatments weaken the
immune system, which makes it easier to get sick from food. Wash
fruits and vegetables well, stay away from raw or undercooked meats
and eggs, and make sure leftovers are refrigerated.

If eating gets hard or you’re losing too much weight, don’t wait — ask your
doctor for a referral to see a dietitian who works with cancer patients. You
don’t have to figure it out alone.
Once you’ve completed your treatment, your focus will shift to healing and
staying well for the long haul. Let’s talk about what that looks like.

After Treatment: Stay Strong in Recovery
When treatment ends, your body continues to heal. What you eat and how
you take care of yourself still matters. Many survivors find that staying with
healthy habits helps them feel more in control of their recovery.

Experts suggest doing this:

Stick to a plant-based diet. Eat vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans,
and healthy fats to reduce inflammation and help your immune system. Try
to limit eating highly processed foods and added sugars.
What about eating soy products? Whole soy foods like tofu, soy milk,
and edamame are safe for most patients. If you’re not sure that eating soy
products is best for you, talk with your doctor.
Also, keep moving your body. Physical activity helps your heart, bones,
and mental health. It can also help with fatigue, sleep, and mood. Choose
something you enjoy and make it part of your routine.

Activities you can try are:
• Short daily walks
• Gentle stretching or yoga
• Gardening or light housework
• Dancing to music you like
Weight gain is common after treatment, especially if you had early
menopause or hormone therapy. If this is a concern:
• Talk with your doctor care team.
• Balance diet and physical activity
• Be patient with your body as it recovers
At first, making these changes might feel overwhelming, but healthy habits
can be more manageable with simple steps.

Easy Tips to Get Started
Here are some simple ways to begin eating better and moving more:
 Eat a vegetable or fruit at every meal and snack.
 Choose whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, or whole-wheat bread.
 Include protein from beans, eggs, poultry, or nuts.
 Drink water throughout the day.
 Take short walks or daily stretches to build movement into your
routine.
 If your appetite is low, eat small meals every few hours.
 Add calorie-rich foods like avocado, olive oil, or smoothies if you’re
losing weight.
 Ask your doctor for a referral to a dietitian if you need help with meals,
side effects, or weight changes.
Remember, you’re not alone. Your journey can be easier and more successful
with support from others.

In Closing

Taking care of your health is a lifelong journey, and you don’t have to do it
alone. Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about nutrition
during your breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. They can help
you find good information.
Whether you’re just starting treatment or if you have been in recovery for
years, small changes can make a big difference. Choose foods that nourish
your body, move your body in ways that feel good, and ask for help when
you need it. Your health matters, and support is always available to help you
feel your best— one step at a time.

To Learn More
1. American Cancer Society
– Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines for Cancer Survivors
– Can I Lower My Risk of Breast Cancer Progressing or Coming Back?
– Nutrition for People with Cancer
– Benefits of Good Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
2. Breastcancer.org
– Healthy Eating During Treatment
– Healthy Eating After Treatment
– Diet and Nutrition
– Nutrition and Breast Cancer Risk Reduction
3. Cleveland Clinic
– The Best Foods To Eat When You Have Breast Cancer
– Cancer Patient Diet Tips and Recommendations
– Nutrition Tips for Cancer Survivors
4. Johns Hopkins Medicine
– Cancer Diet: Foods to Add and Avoid During Cancer Treatment
– General Nutrition Guidelines During Cancer Treatment
– Nutrition and Cancer Survivorship
5. Mayo Clinic
– Diet Tips During Cancer Treatment
– No appetite? How to get nutrition during cancer treatment
– Mayo Clinic Minute: Plant-based diet is encouraged for patients with
cancer

Emotional Wellness & Self-Care After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
by: Yhaimar Barile, BSN RN

In This Article:
1. Introduction
2. Understanding Your Emotions
3. Coping with Anxiety and Depression
4. Navigating Body Image Changes
5. Self-Care Ideas
6. Building Your Support Network
7. Mental Health Resources and Hotlines
8. Conclusion
9. To Learn More

Introduction
Breast cancer affects many parts of your life. Whether you’ve just given a
new cancer diagnosis, you are already in treatment, or if you are in recovery,
you may go through powerful emotions that affect your life. Your emotional
health plays a big role in helping you heal through breast cancer.

Understanding Your Emotions

After diagnosis, you might have a wide range of feelings:
 Anxiety about the future
 Sadness about changes in your life
 Anger about your situation
 Fear of treatment
 Changes in how you see yourself
 Wondering, “Why me?”

These reactions are all normal. You are going through a major life change.
Your feeling may also change from day to day. One moment you might be
ready to fight the cancer; the next, you may feel overwhelmed with
uncertainty, distress, and emotional ups and downs. You may be stressed
about the medical appointments, deciding on the treatment options, or the
changes in your routine.

Some people worry that showing emotion means they’re not “strong enough”
to face cancer. The truth is exactly opposite: Getting in touch with your
feelings and getting help is real courage. All your emotions are valid
and deserve attention just like the physical symptoms.

Two of the most common emotions that you may experience during this time
are anxiety and depression.

Coping with Anxiety and Depression

Many people with breast cancer feel anxiety and depression. These mental
health challenges are common emotions for many living with breast cancer.
These feelings can show up in different ways, depending on the person and
their unique situation. Spotting and addressing anxiety and depression is an
important part of the breast cancer journey, as these feelings can impact
your well-being and quality of life.

Symptoms of Depression

Your doctor may diagnose you with depression if these symptoms happen
almost every day for more than two weeks:

 Constant worry
 Racing thoughts
 Feeling hopeless, depressed, or down
 Little interest in activities you liked
 Changes in how you sleep
 Eating too much or too little
 Trouble focusing
 Moving so slow that others notice
 Feeling disconnected from others
 Thinking about hurting yourself

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can show in a variety of ways, including:
 Nonstop worry
 Feeling on edge or nervous
 Restlessness
 Difficulty relaxing
 Easily frustrated, annoyed with others or angry
 Feeling afraid like something bad is going to happen

Anxiety and depression symptoms often overlap, so it’s important to
remember that only a doctor can diagnose anxiety or depression. Experts
suggest several ways to manage these symptoms:

Therapy: Talking with a therapist that knows oncology can help improve
your emotions. Counselors may use different types of talk therapy. Therapist
often use cognitive-behavioral therapy to help managing negative thoughts.
Some cancer centers offer counseling services specifically for patients. Ask
your doctor if you want to see a therapist.

Support Groups: Meeting others going through cancer reduces the feeling
of loneliness and isolation you may have. Support groups offer tips and
validation people who understand you. Most cancer centers can connect you
with organizations like Cancer Support Community that offer face-to-face or
online meetings.

Communication: Sharing your feelings with family and friends you trust.
Being open about your emotions can make the emotional load lighter for
you. Share how they can help you, either through practical help or just
listening. There is no need to try to “fix” everything, but just listening can
make a positive difference in how you feel.

Medication: Your doctor may suggest drugs special to help with anxiety and
depression, if your symptoms make it hard to live your life.
Ask for help soon if you feel persistent sadness that doesn’t go away,
hopelessness, thoughts of harming yourself, or if you are feeling so
emotional distress that you can’t follow your treatment. Your doctor can put
you in touch with a mental health expert who understand cancer.
Beyond the emotional and mental impact, cancer treatment can also bring
about changes to your body, impacting how you see yourself and your body
image.

Navigating Body Image Changes

Cancer treatment can cause obvious changes like losing your hair, surgery
scars, or weight changes that can affect how you see yourself. Talk to your
doctor about ways to manage these changes. If you are losing your hair
during chemotherapy, your doctor may recommend some of these options:

 Cold caps and scalp cooling to reduce hair loss if you are getting
chemotherapy
 Wigs, scarves, bandanas, turbans, or hats that match your style
If you had a mastectomy the doctor may talk to you about some of these
options:
 Breast prosthetics or reconstruction information if appropriate
 Mastectomy clothing
Self-compassion during this time is important. Your body is working hard to
heal. Programs like “Look Good Feel Better” or breast cancer survivor groups
may help you connect with others who have gone through the same. You can
share tips and encouragement.
 Talk about how treatment can affect appearance and self-image (hair
loss, scars, weight changes).
 Offer tips for coping with the disease
 Talking to your doctors about options (wigs, prosthetics, reconstruction)
 Being compassionate and patience with yourself
 Connecting with others who share similar experiences

With all the changes you may be going through, being kind to yourself will be
important. So, what are some practical ways to nurture your emotional well-
being during this time? Let’s explore some self-care ideas that can help.

Self-Care Ideas

Small daily ways to care for yourself through breast cancer can strengthen
you emotionally and improve your overall well-being. Taking to care for
yourself, can be of big support during this challenging journey. These simple
activities can help boost your mood and bring a greater sense of resilience
as you navigate the physical and emotional impacts of your breast cancer
diagnosis and treatment.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Mindful exercises is when you are relaxing
your body and your mind to help reduce stress. Special breathing methods
can lower hormones that produce stress. Here are a few mindful breathing
exercise link .

Journaling: Writing about your experiences helps getting difficult emotions
out of your mind and into paper. You don’t need to share what you write, but
the act of writing itself brings clarity to how you are feeling. Try writing
about your feelings, questions, or moments of gratitude.

Creative Expression: You don’t have to be a creative person to try any
artistic activity. When you do art, or crafts you use different parts of your
brain that help with express emotions. You can try art therapy as a creative
distraction and to help you relax. Some cancer centers offer creative arts
therapy programs. If you are interested in trying art therapy, ask your
doctor.

Gentle Movement: Moving your body can help improve your mood.
Perform activities that are okay with your level of energy (short walks or
stretching). Talk to your doctor to see what’s safe for you.
Nature Time: Spending time outside can lower stress. You can sit in a quiet
place, notice the colors in nature, listen to the birds, and feel the sun on your
skin.

Setting Boundaries: Save your energy for when you need it the most. It’s
okay to say no to activities that drain you and feel hard. You may have to
limit your time away from stressful people or difficult situations during
treatment.

Another way to take care of yourself as to get the right and helpful people
around you.

Building Your Support Network

Having strong social connections can help you feel better during cancer. Your
support team might include:
 Family and friends who provide emotional support and practical help
 Healthcare team members including nurses and social workers
 Fellow patients who understand firsthand what you’re experiencing
 Online communities that offer 24/7 support

Many cancer centers have people specially trained to connect you with
resources tailored to your needs. Survivorship programs provide guidance for
life during and after treatment.

If your natural support system is limited, organizations like Cancer Support
Community and Living Beyond Breast Cancer can link you with trained
volunteers and peer support.

Mental Health Resources and Hotlines

There are several mental health resources available to provide support
through your breast cancer journey
Immediate Help:
 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255
 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Ongoing Support:
 American Cancer Society: 1-800-227-2345 (24/7 cancer information)
 Living Beyond Breast Cancer Helpline: 1-888-753-5222
 Cancer Support Helpline: 1-888-793-9355
 NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264 (mental health support)

Conclusion
Your emotional wellness matters throughout your cancer journey. Some days
will be harder than others, but support is always available. Give yourself
permission to feel your emotions, reach out when you need help, and
practice self-care that works for you. Each small step you take to support
your emotional health contributes to your overall healing process.

To Learn More
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8125471/
American Cancer Society
 Adjusting to Life with Cancer
 Attitudes and Feelings About Cancer
 Breast Reconstruction Alternatives
 Cold Caps and Scalp Cooling
 Coping with Distress
 Emotional and Mood Changes
 Hair Loss (Alopecia)
 Hair Loss: Choosing and Wearing a Wig
 Physical Activity and the Cancer Patient
 Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation
 Providing Support
 Psychosocial Support Options for People with Cancer
 Save Complementary Methods
 Wearing a Hat
 Wearing a Scarf
 Wearing a Wig
Breastcancer.org
 How Breast Cancer Affects Mental Health
 How to Find Mental Health Support Services
 Journaling
 Scarves, Hats, and Turbans
 Taking Care of Mental Health
 Talking to Family and Friends
 Types of Mental Health Support
 Understanding Your Breast Forms
Cancer Support Community
 Cancers Support Community
Cleveland Clinic
 Wellness & Survivorship Guide (PDF)
Look Good Feel Better
 Look Good Feel Better
Mayo Clinic
 Cancer Support Center
NAMI
 NAMI HelpLine
National Library of Medicine
Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence
988 Lifeline
 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Andrea Clement

Clem Co., LLC.

Email: abc@clem.co

Phone: 678-779-7549

ART JAZZ GALA 2025: A NIGHT OF MUSIC, ART & IMPACT

An Elegant Evening to Support Breast Cancer Survivors & Families

ATLANTA, GA – I Will Survive, Inc. proudly presents the 12th Annual Art Jazz Gala 2025, a

captivating evening of live jazz, fine art, and philanthropy on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Ali

Events at Lakewood in South Fulton, Georgia. This black-tie affair will bring together

community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters to raise funds for breast cancer survivors and

their families. Over 4000 families have been supported by the programs since 2010.

Guests will experience an exquisite night featuring:

✩ Live Jazz Performances – A violinist, harpist, flutist, and saxophonist will set the tone with

mesmerizing melodies.

✩ Art Exhibition & Silent Auction – Bid on stunning artwork by Tamara Gammon, owner of

K. Alexander Galleries, and more, with exclusive luxury items in the silent auction.

✩ Wine Tasting & Gourmet Cuisine – Enjoy dinner by Leviticus Cafe with Chef Chasity,

curated wine tasting with Woman Owned Vineyard owner Dr. Darlene Williams, and passed

hors d’oeuvres.

✩ Awards Ceremony – Honoring outstanding leaders, including Pastor Jamal Bryant (New

Birth Missionary Baptist Church) and Dr. Anita Johnson (City of Hope).

✩ DJ Swaye & Entertainment – Closing the night with music and dancing.

SUPPORT A MEANINGFUL CAUSE

Proceeds from the Art Jazz Gala directly support I Will Survive, Inc.’s mission to provide

financial assistance, educational programs, and wellness resources to breast cancer warriors and

their families.

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! Secure your spot at www.IWillSurviveInc.org

Date & Location: April 26, 2025 | Ali Events at Lakewood

Sponsorship & Media Inquiries: Anisa.Palmer@iwillsurviveinc.org

Follow us on social media for updates:

Instagram: @IWillSurviveInc12 | Facebook: @IWillSurviveIncPage

Media Sponsor: Rolling Out

Join the I Will Survive, Inc. Volunteer Family and Make a Difference

At I Will Survive, Inc., we believe in the power of community, compassion, and action. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission—providing hope, support, and resources to families affected by breast cancer. Whether you’re passionate about giving back, looking to gain meaningful experience, or simply want to make a difference, we invite you to join our volunteer family.

Why Volunteer with I Will Survive, Inc.?

Volunteering with us means being part of a life-changing mission. We provide support in critical areas such as financial assistance, health education, and prevention resources to those impacted by breast cancer. As a volunteer, you will:

Be Part of Something Extraordinary – Volunteer at the Annual Art Jazz Gala!

One of our biggest and most exciting events of the year is the Annual Art Jazz Gala. This elegant evening blends art, music, and philanthropy to raise funds for our life-changing programs. Held at the Ali Event at Lakewood in South Fulton, this year’s gala promises to be an unforgettable experience—and we need dedicated volunteers like YOU to make it happen!

Volunteer Opportunities at the Art Jazz Gala:

🎟 Guest Check-In & Registration – Welcome attendees with a smile and assist with seamless event entry.📸 Photography & Social Media – Capture memorable moments and share our impact online.🎨 Silent Auction Support – Help showcase stunning artwork and manage auction bids.🍽 Event Setup & Breakdown – Ensure the venue looks spectacular and assist with cleanup.💖 Survivor & VIP Assistance – Support our honored guests and make them feel special.

How to Get Involved

Becoming a volunteer is easy! Simply visit our website and fill out the Volunteer Application Form. Whether you’re signing up for a single event or looking for ongoing opportunities, we have a role for everyone.

Sign Up Today & Be the Change!

Together, we can uplift, empower, and inspire. Join the I Will Survive, Inc. family today and be part of a mission that transforms lives.

📅 Apply now and mark your calendar for the Art Jazz Gala—we can’t wait to see you there!
Details

A Journey of Resilience: How I Will Survive, Inc. Helped a Young Mother Overcome Adversity

Life can change in an instant. For one young woman in her early 30s, the words “Stage 3 breast cancer” brought her world to a halt. As a mother of five, she was not only battling a life-threatening diagnosis but also navigating the emotional toll of her husband’s unexpected departure. The challenges ahead seemed insurmountable, but through the support of I Will Survive, Inc., her story took a hopeful turn.

The Struggles of a Brave Fighter

The diagnosis alone was overwhelming, but the financial strain compounded her struggles. Despite her determination to attend critical medical appointments, she often missed them due to a lack of funds for transportation and childcare. The fear of losing her home while battling cancer became a haunting reality as she faced mounting medical bills and the cost of raising five children on her own.

Stepping in to Make a Difference

This is where I Will Survive, Inc. came in. Recognizing the gravity of her situation, our team mobilized resources to ensure she could stay afloat. Through our comprehensive assistance programs, we provided emergency financial support to cover her rent and utilities, ensuring that she and her children had a safe place to call home.

Additionally, we worked to eliminate the barriers preventing her from receiving treatment. By arranging transportation to her medical appointments and providing support for her childcare needs, we ensured that her focus could remain on healing and recovery.

The Power of Community Support

Stories like this highlight the vital role of community-based organizations like I Will Survive, Inc. Beyond financial aid, we provided emotional support, reminding her that she was not alone in her fight. The unwavering encouragement of our team and volunteers empowered her to persevere, showing her children the true meaning of resilience.

Today, she continues her treatment journey with renewed hope. Her courage and determination inspire everyone who hears her story. At I Will Survive, Inc., we are humbled to be part of her support system, advocating for her well-being and ensuring she has the resources to rebuild her life.

Your Support Makes a Difference

This story is just one example of the countless lives we touch every day. It’s a testament to the impact of your generous donations and support. Together, we can ensure that no one faces the challenges of breast cancer alone.

Join us in our mission to save lives and inspire hope. Together, we can turn struggles into success stories, one family at a time.

In today’s digital age, social media has become an indispensable tool for fundraising. Facebook, with its vast user base, provides an excellent platform for raising awareness and collecting donations for various causes. Here, we will outline essential tips and steps to ensure your Facebook fundraiser achieves its goals.

When you purchase HER Wine, you get to support the programs of I Will Survive, Inc. Support this women-owned breast cancer survivor wine company today!

Stay connected to learn more about HER Time Away (Tours sponsored by HER Wine)

Catch us on the Kelly Clarkson Show airing May 21, NBC 10:00 am EST

I Will Survive, Inc. NAMED “2023 TOP-RATED NONPROFIT” by GreatNonprofits Award based on Community Recommendations Atlanta, GA (October 23, 2023) – I Will Survive, Inc. announced today it has been named a “2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the leading website for community recommendations of charities and nonprofits.