In Memory of Jane Anella Smith

Jane,
You have touched so many lives with your beautiful energy and positive outlook on life. In this big world you may have been one person, but to those whose hearts you touched, you were the world. Your memory will live on in our hearts forever and we will miss you always!
Love, Your Friends of the Healing Consciousness Foundation

Iris Bernstein

I live in Newtown with my wonderful family, my husband Michael and my fabulous seven-year-old daughter Ali. I was diagnosed with breast cancer last November at the age of 40. A few months prior to my diagnosis I had genetic testing due to my family history and found out that I was positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation. This meant that I was high risk for both breast and ovarian cancer. Soon after, I had a suspicious mammogram, biopsy, and sure enough, I had breast cancer, and have had several surgeries and reconstruction. I have been so blessed with amazing, talented, and caring doctors (thank you Dr. DuPree, Dr. Scarlett, and Dr. Harvey). I have stayed positive throughout this journey and I have met so many wonderful people along the way. I have made very special friends who I love dearly and feel so lucky to have. I feel good, I feel happy, and I am enjoying my life one day at a time...Life is Precious.

Sandra Beckhoff

I was born in Connecticut and moved from Key West, Florida, to Doylestown in 1992. I received a BSN from Temple University and work for Johnson & Johnson as a medical safety writer. I married Hank in 1998 and although we have no children, we have an awesome kitty names LuLu. I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in December 2005 at the age of 37, and underwent chemotherapy and a double mastectomy with wonderful reconstruction (thanks, Dr. Lam!). I enjoy yoga, music, reading, singing really loud, the beach, bike riding, walking, champagne, blue Herons, massages, facials, laughing till I cry and talking...talking...talking. I am grateful for the angels in my life, namely my husband, family, friends—old and new—co-workers, and my nurses and doctors.

Anne Clark

On August 16, 2005, at the age of 43, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy and the start of reconstructive surgery after receiving a diagnosis of DCIS. A discomforting thickening in my left breast led me to persist in getting a clear diagnosis. You do not have to have a lump to have breast cancer. Trust your intuition. With the strength and encouragement of my husband, Mark, and my two sons, Matthew and Stephen, came hope. With the care of Dr. DuPree and Dr. Lam came healing. I have been so endowed with the blessings of a compassionate family, guardian angels I call Mom and Dad, supportive friends, and now a network of “breast friends.” Having breast cancer was a life-affirming challenge, a challenge I am grateful to have faced. The journey taken has given me so much more than the little that was lost.

Julie Corridan

I was born and raised in Colorado where I enjoyed skiing, cartwheels and life with five brothers and sisters. After twenty straight Colorado Rockies winters, I opted for the University of Hawaii on an exchange program where I landed an athletic training scholarship. I quickly fell in love with the islands, the people, the culture, and my future husband, Shawn. I received my Bachelor of Education Degree, taught briefly, then decided to pursue a career with the airlines. Twenty-two years later, I am still flying high with Continental. Three years ago turbulence came in the form of a breast cancer diagnosis. I did not panic. Instead, I reached back into my past—a quarter century in fact—and called my dear friend from my days at the University of Hawaii, a beer swilling, pizza slinging, airplane flying, hula dancing, wild and crazy gal named Beth Baughman (aka Dr. Beth DuPree). Beth and Joe immediately opened their home to Shawn and me and with Beth’s guidance and expertise and the support of her entire family, I met breast cancer head on and came through the other side with flying colors. I am currently living along the sunny waterways of Florida’s Indian River where I fish, watch dolphins and manatees, and treasure each and every glorious sunset.

Zorica Fitzpatrick

Shortly after my 45th birthday in May of 2006, I discovered a small lump on my right breast. This was the beginning of a series of events that changed my life forever. I underwent a full course of treatments that involved numerous surgeries and Chemotherapy. I lost my hair and survived some unexpected complications. Despite it all, I am grateful to God for the strength he gave me and for my family and friends who stood by me and supported me. I’m especially grateful to my doctors, Dr. Beth DuPree, Dr. Kevin Fox, and Dr. Robert Skalicky, who provided me with the best care both physically and emotionally.

Julia Goldberg

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer just over five years ago. Thankfully, I was in Stage 1 but opted to have bilateral mastectomies due to the aggressive nature of my particular tumor cell type. My lymph nodes were negative and I received chemotherapy with no radiation. My family consists of my husband, Fred, my 16-year-old son Jesse, and my 12-year-old daughter Aly. With the exception of Aly, we were the “bald family” that summer five years ago as my husband and son chose to shave their heads in a gesture of solidarity! I am currently on a pill called Aromacin daily and so far, so good. I am an RN and I work part time at DSI of Bucks County in the perioperative area. I am thrilled to be able to assure my breast cancer patients that there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel. I am a volunteer for Reach to Recovery (a branch of the American Cancer Society offering support to breast cancer patients), and I have spoken to groups of women in the community and to high school students about the importance of breast self exam and early detection.

Becky Gabrielle

At 31 years old and married just seven months, I was in the best shape of my life; exercised four times a week, rarely had a drink, never smoked and found a lump one day while showering. I went to my GYN and got a mammogram and ultrasound and nothing showed up. Still, I persisted after being told to leave it alone by two doctors and had a needle biopsy that came back malignant. I had a lumpectomy, radiation, and chemotherapy. During that time, the hardest emotion I dealt with was the disappointment that I might not be able to have children. I truly believed I would be all right, since I found the lump at Stage 1, but I was nervous about the effects of the chemotherapy on my ability to have children. But I was truly blessed since I am now a twelve year survivor with three beautiful children. Although my battle with breast cancer was a difficult time in my life, it has made me who I am today and I feel that I got more out of the fight than it took from me. Breast cancer is an awful disease that takes the lives of too many wonderful people. I look forward to the day when we no longer battle this disease.

Lee Judge

I am a 28-year-old mother of two who lives in Jackson, Wyoming, and I’m modeling for you tonight only because our beloved Beth DuPree guilted me into it. I may have enjoyed working as a “plus size” model this evening if Beth hadn’t invited the jock crew from York Suburban High School! I promise that when I am safely back in Wyoming, I’ll send Beth the therapy bills... OK—just kidding—here’s the real one... I’m a breast cancer warrior from Jackson, and when I was first diagnosed six years ago, Dr. Beth DuPree was my guiding light in prescribing treatments and direction. That I am here today to walk the runway is a testament to Beth’s never ending supply of love and devotion to her patients and friends. When not modeling the latest fashions, I, along with my husband, TJ, are the proud parents of two active kids. Tanner, 13, spent the summer calf tying to get in shape for football season, while Sydney, 11, was the Teton County Rodeo PeeWee Princess and spent her free time barrel racing at the rodeo. The Judge family lives by the motto “cowboy up” and spending time in the great outdoors is the best therapy we know for rejuvenating the soul.

Margaret Kennedy

In July of 2001, when I was just learning to adjust to “empty next syndrome” another life altering event occurred in my life. Being an Oncology Critical Care Nurse, “cancer” was not a stranger to me, but having a personal diagnosis of breast cancer was something I had no time for in my life’s agenda. Breast cancer meant putting everything on hold and mustering up more strength, wisdom, courage, and faith than I’ve ever wanted to in order to ensure my longevity in this world. I had no time for any “why’s?” I only had energy for “how to” and move forward. I learned all about holistic medicine, Reiki, massage, and the importance of laughter, humor and a stress free lifestyle. Breast cancer challenges and changes all those that touch your life and teaches all involved about the quality of life, how precious time is and prioritizing. Breast cancer taught me to stay and live in the moment and the importance of living each day to the fullest. My two adult sons tell me breast cancer gave me a good looking rack! I say it brought me much love, laughter, tears, family and friends and many adventures. Today I hope some of my invaluable lessons help others to survive this devastating disease. In the meantime I volunteer with “Casting for Recover,” an organization that takes breast cancer survivors fly fishing. I also do “Reach to Recovery” and I donated my hair to Locks of Love. I participated in Susan B. Komen’s Race for the Cure, and I’m involved with several cancer support groups. I’m also a Supervisor at DSI of Bucks County.

Sylvia Lacey

I am a grateful patient and friend of Dr. Beth DuPree and Dr. Robert Skalicky, and it is a please to come from Cincinnati, Ohio, to join this year’s fashion show. I am a happy and healthy two-year survivor of Stage III ductal carcinoma following mastectomy with reconstruction, chemotherapy, and radiation. I’m also a loving mother and wife, and excited to announce that I am now also a new grandmother to 7-week-old Mackenzi Marie! Happily retired from working as an office manager for a family physician, I will be rejoining the working world in a year to help my daughter, Erica, and son-in-law, Christopher, establish their Dermatology and Otolaryngology practices. My husband, Jeff, and I look forward to permanent retirement in beautiful Palm Coast, Florida.

Karen Lyons

In June of 2006, I finished out the school year knowing that I would not be coming back to my third grade classroom until September of 2007. I was taking my first sabbatical in 26 years of teaching. I was looking forward to rest, rejuvenation, and maybe a dance class or two. Two months later, during a routine mammogram, I was told of five suspicious spots in my breasts. Four of them were benign and one was cancer. I knew, then, that fate had played a part in the decision to take this particular year off. I came to the offices of Dr. Beth DuPree and began treatment with her wonderful associate, Dr. Stacy Krisher. In November, Dr. Krisher did a bilateral mastectomy, followed by reconstructive surgery with the equally wonderful Dr. Ben Lam. I could not have gotten through this without all of you. Thank you for all of your TLC. Not only had I found three terrific physicians, whom I know consider my friends, but I knew that I would never look at life the same way again. Cancer brought me worry and some tough times, but it also brought me many gifts. All of the beautiful survivors that I have met, befriended and respect so much; the friends and colleagues who rallied around me; my mother who took such good care of me, my two beautiful daughters and son-in-law who were always there, and my husband Mike who was and continues to be my rock, support, and as always the most attentive, gentle person I know. You are the loves of my life and the reason I made it through. Thank you all.

Joan McDevitt

I am 45 years old and was diagnosed with breast cancer in January of this year. Since then, I have had a bilateral mastectomy followed by reconstruction (my last surgery was August 30th–yeah!). Although it is not a path I would have chosen, I have come to embrace it. In doing so, my life has become so full and I feel incredibly blessed. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the people that have supported me and continue to do so. Much love and thanks to Dr. Beth DuPree, Dr. Ben Lam, and all of their support staff. To my husband, Brian; son, Michael, and daughter, Kelly, I love you more than you’ll ever know. To my family and friends, especially my yoga family, I am here today because of your unconditional love and support.

Dina M. Melendez

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at 28 years old and had a mastectomy with reconstruction and chemotherapy. I have been married for 18 years to my wonderful and supportive husband, Michael, and we have two children, a 14-year-old daughter, Nicole (before BC), and a 6-year-old son, Matthew (after BC). This past December I was graciously able to celebrate my 40th birthday with family and friends. I have been blessed to be a breast cancer survivor for 12 years and counting...everyday being a gift. I have been very lucky to have wonderful support from my doctors and their medical teams through the years as well, and they are forever friends. Breast Cancer has most definitely been an experience for me that had created a positive outlook on life and the people in it. I am very appreciative to have the opportunity to be a part of a beautiful celebration to benefit other women and their experiences with breast cancer.

Diane Schroeder

I live in Reading, and I’m the mother of two children, ages 16 and 14. In 1989, I began my personal journey with cancer. My mother, at the age of 50, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Sheer determination, skillful physicians, and the will of God enabled her to overcome this disease. Some 12 years later the disease struck again when my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. His recovery was slow, but mercifully he survived. Then in 2004, I was the next victim of this family of nine children when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Surgery and subsequent treatment were integrated into my daily work schedule so that it wouldn’t interfere with the challenges of my life. My connection to Dr. Beth DuPree was initiated during that time as Beth offered guidance and direction to me and my husband, Brad, who was a childhood friend of Beth’s. That bond would strengthen when Brad was shockingly diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer one year to the day that I finished radiation treatment. Beth was unrelenting in searching for alternatives to the limited choices available for advanced caner patients. Dr. DuPree is one of those rare physicians that truly embody the meaning of “exceptional.” Although Brad recently lost his battle with this awful disease, it was not without courage to pursue every option available to him, which would not have been possible without the help of people like Dr. DuPree.

Karen Norris

I’m originally from Lancaster and now live in Newtown. Being diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago was a very overwhelming experience. I have learned that when we accept the challenges that God gives us in the journey of life, we can overcome them. I have discovered that I am strong and powerful. I have learned the meaning of compassion. I look at people in all walks of life with very different challenges and find that I can connect with them in a way that was not possible before my diagnosis. I have realized the power of being positive. It is such a valuable weapon. God has chosen me to experience some very valuable lessons. I am a much better individual, and for that I am grateful.

Jane Anella Smith

Three years ago I was told I had middle stage breast cancer. From day one I refused to let this cancer control my life or my future. I took control of my situation, my treatments, my life, and my future. My sincerest thanks to Dr. Beth DuPree and her staff for their compassionate care in helping me stay focused on my healing. My name is Jane Anelia Smith and I want to stay alive...I will survive...I am a survivor.

Kristen Studer

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 36. At this point, I am a three and a half year survivor and very happy to be here—alive! I owe so much gratitude to my team of doctors, Dr. Beth DuPree, who was not only my surgeon, but also an amazing friend, Dr. Ben Lam, who I thank for being the perfectionist that he is, and Dr. Kevin Fox, who made me feel I was in the very best hands! I know that surgery, chemotherapy and radiation saved my life, but I also truly believe that the power of love is a true healer. I had such an amazing support network of friends and family that carried me through a very difficult period in my life. Every day I am thankful for everything these people did for me. I am blessed with a wonderful family—my husband, Rick, and three children, Eric (11), Kate (9), and Annie (5).

Tiffany Thomas-Smith

I am a family law attorney in Bucks County and also a wife, mother of two young boys, Miles and Luke, and a cancer survivor. I earned a BA in History from Duke University and attended Howard University School of Law in Washington, DC, with a J.D. in 1996. We moved to Bucks County in 2002 from Washington, DC. Then in March of 2004, I was fortunate enough to meet with Dr. Stacy Krisher who diagnosed my breast cancer. In May of that year, Dr. DuPree performed a mastectomy and removed two nodes. Dr. Ben Lam performed post-surgery reconstruction. Dr. Robert Reilly put me on a course of chemotherapy, which was followed by radiation treatment, and I returned to work. I have since modified my schedule to create a better work/life balance. My priority is to spend time with my family and to make contributions to the community, including serving as a Vice Chair on the Board of the Comprehensive Breast Care Institute and a member of the Healing Consciousness Foundation.

Cheryl Weiss

Hi, I’m Zsa Zsa - aka Cheryl. I am 56 years old, have three children, three grandbabies, and I have been married to the same man for 36 years. My journey began a few weeks after I turned 50 with a positive mammogram. I was referred to Dr. Beth DuPree and to Dr. Rob Skalicky. Two weeks after my diagnosis, my husband was diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer, also by Beth. It is now five years later and we are both doing well. We had an amazing support team with our family and friends and I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything as it made me the strong confident woman I am today.

Joann Whalen

I have a great marriage, two beautiful sons, and a wonderful life. I was truly blessed. Then eight and a half years ago I was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. At the time, I thought my wonderful life was over. I was wrong! My life continues to be filled with joy. The accomplishments of my sons bring me great happiness. My husband’s retirement has allowed us to spend more time together. My son’s recent marriage has given me a beautiful daughter. I continue to love teaching my students, and I so enjoy my workouts and ballet classes. I know that God has never stopped blessing me. Deus vobis omnibus hodie et cotidie perfecte incipere donet! Ex animo.

Deb Yamashita

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on St. Patty’s Day in 2004 and had my lumpectomy/axillary lymph node surgery on April 15th. I am eternally grateful to Dr. DuPree and her staff. Because of Dr. DuPree’s excellent care and positive attitude, I was able to do an 8K walk two days after my surgery and the 10 mile Broad Street Run race two weeks later. I am an extremely lucky breast cancer survivor. I became engaged at Le Louvre Art Museum in Paris last year to my handsome knight-in-shing-armor. George helped me every day through my surgeries and all my chemo and radiation treatments, never failing to be there for me when I was scared or feeling down. I have two beautiful teenage daughters (15 and 17) who not only are great students and athletes, but I am most proud that they are wonderful people. As the oldest of six children, I am bless with a wonderful family. My family has a history of breast cancer--I caught mine early as my tumor size was extremely small and was never detected by my mammograms. I hope that the Comprehensive Breast Care Institute will provide the outstanding level of care and emotional support that I was able to receive to many more women.