Surviving In Style

MICHELE RIDDER
(Diagnosed at age 39)
Currently working toward health.

“I would love for there to be a cure before my daughter is old enough to worry about going through it,” says Michele. That’s why she has participated in three clinical studies so far. Not only is she doing everything possible for her own health, she is actively contributing to the research and development that will help other women in the future.

Fashions provided by Wild at Heart

GILDA WAREN
(Diagnosed at age 38)
Two year survivor.

“Don’t give up or think it’s over,” Gilda advises other women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. “Fight for your family. Fight for your kids. Fight for yourself, but never give up.” Gilda, who moved to Wichita from Mexico in 1989, began volunteering with Café Con Leche last spring. For the past eight years, this organization has provided health information on cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to the Hispanic community in Wichita. Because she is bilingual, Gilda is able to insure that language is not a barrier to quality medical care.

Fashions provided by Eccentricity

LENA YOUNG
(Diagnosed at age 47)
Six year survivor.

Lena works with both men and women in the community as a volunteer for Witnessing in the Heartland. This grassroots organization works to increase awareness, knowledge, screening and early detection behaviors in the African American community to reduce the morbidity and mortality rates from breast and cervical cancer. “You have to be your own best advocate when it comes to your health,” says Lena. “You wouldn’t let some cashier give you the wrong change in the store, so why would you short change yourself when you go to the doctor? You have to stand up for yourself.”

Fashions provided by Aspen Boutique

DEBI KRUSE
(Diagnosed at age 41)
Sixteen year survivor.

“We all are susceptible to cancer,” Debi says. “The key is to keep our immunity strong to help fight off the cancer cells and keep them from invading our bodies.” That’s why it is so important to stay healthy by exercising, eating properly, avoiding behaviors and habits that will put you at risk and reducing the stress in your life. She is also a firm believer in the power of a positive attitude. “Never leave the house without makeup and participate in positive activities,” she advises women in treatment. “If you take care of your appearance and do fun things, you will feel better.”

Fashions provided by K-Lane’s