2014-09 Lydia's Style Magazine

THE PHOTOS FROM OUR NORTHERN COLORADO SOCIAL SCENE!

ANNUAL BREAST CANCER ISSUE

We've got spirit, how about you?

Women are usually the people in the family who make sure that everyone takes care of themselves and gets the health care they need. That's why we want you to have the information you need to make positive changes in your life and the lives of your families-and have some fun while

you're at it. Become a member of the "Spirit of Women" program. You'll stay up-todate on the latest news about total well-being for mind, body and spirit. Members enjoy entertaining events, discounts at select businesses, and will also receive a subscription to Spirit Magazine. Lifetime Membership is $20 and is complementary to women 65 and older. Ready to join 1 Call or visit us on the web.

p~ ~

Banner Health®

North Colorado Medical Center• (970) 392-2222 • BannerHealth.com/NCMCSpirit McKee Medical Center• (970) 203-6631 • BannerHealth.com/McKeeSpirit

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1 Q Q% of the proceeds from the sale of the

Arms of Strength Bracelet from Sather's Leading Jewelers during September

' ALEX AND ANI' (+)ENERGY

will be presented to the

Lydia Dody Hope Lives Breast Cancer Support Center

The graceful starfish is a regenerative creature, consistently growing and transforming

Offer Valid ONLY at:

whenever necessary. Courageously it moves forward through both

calm and troubled waters.

$28.00 Each

.Jatfiers LEADING JEWELERS

The Diamond Tower I 300 East Foothills Pkwy., Fort Collins I SathersJewelers.com ®Ii~ BJ

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Richard Alessi, MD

Kevin Bachus, MD

Douglas Beard, MD

Jeffrey Chapman, MD

Beverly Donnelley, MD

Christopher Eriksen, MD

Warren James, MD Angela King, MD Susan Haney, MD

Mark Loury, MD

Kara Micetich, MD Philip Priebe, MD

Brad Runyan, MD

Elizabeth Serniak, MD

Bruce Smith, MD

J. Bradley Stern, MD Kevin Tool, MD

Christopher Tsoi, MD

Donn Turner, MD

Maude Vance, MD

Tim Wirt, MDEmily Webb, DPM

Our physician owners are credentialed and board certified to comply with AAAHC standards, and are the same physicians you would see

in a hospital setting. They prefer to perform outpatient procedures in Surgery Center of Fort Collins’ compassionate, high-quality,

and economical environment.

Nicole Roberson, MD

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERYSUPPORTING WOMEN IN THEIR

JOURNEY TO GOOD HEALTH

GYNECOLOGICAL SURGEONS FROM THE WOMEN’S CLINIC OF NORTHERN COLORADO

1100 E. Prospect Rd. • Fort Collins, CO 80525 • 970-494-4800 • www.surgerycenterftcollins.com

T

HE

LYD

IA D

ODY BREAST CANCER SUPPORT CENTER

Proud Supporters of Hope Lives

GYN/INFERTILITY AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN CENTER FOR

REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE, PC

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AMERICKS lOOBEST HOSPITALS™

2014

~ ~ McKee Medical Center Banner Health• North Colorado Medical Center

North Colorado Medical Center 1801 16th St,. Greeley• (970) 352-4121

www.BannerHealth .com/NCMC

McKee Medical Center 2000 Boise Ave, Loveland • (970) 669-4640

www.BannerHealth .com/McKee

http://www.bannerhealth.com/Locations/Colorado/McKee+Medical+Center/_McKee+Medical+Center+Home.htm

Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital (NCRH} is designed solely for the provision of SPECIALIZED rehabilitative care and is the only FREESTANDING acute rehabilitation hospital serving northern Colorado. YOU HAVE A CHOICE and NOT ALL rehabilitation providers are the same. Our physician-led clinical care team provides COMPREHENSIVE physical medicine and rehabilitation services designed to help patients return home at their highest level of independence. Our exclusive rehabilitation hospital features include:

• Physiatrist-Led Multi-Disciplinary Team

• Certified Rehabilitation Nurses

• 24-Hour Nursing Care

• On-Site Pharmacy

• 6,000 Square Foot Therapy Gym

• Aquatic Therapy Pool

• 40 PRIVATE Rooms

• NORTHERN COLORADO .,-=--,· REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

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THE VOICE OF NORTHERN COLORADO FOR

30 YEARS.sty le media and design, inc.

| 970.226.6400 |w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m

w w w. m e d i c a l a n d w e l l n e s s . c o m

PUBLISHER Lydia Dody | [email protected] EDITOR Angeline Grenz

[email protected] DIRECTOR Scott Prosser

SENIOR DESIGNER Lisa GouldDIGITAL DIRECTOR / BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Austin Lamb | [email protected] SALES EXECUTIVES

Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226Debra Davis (917) 334-6912 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400

David Knight (970) 619-9846Elaine Ryan (970) 541-4915

OFFICE MANAGER/ABOUT TOWN EDITOR Ina Szwec | [email protected]

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Karla VigilCIRCULATION MANAGER Trisha Milton

PHOTOGRAPHER Marcus Edwards Photography

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSBridget Eldridge

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSMalini Bartels, Kyle Eustice, Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Brad Shannon, Elissa J. Tivona, Michelle Venus

AFFILIATIONSFort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce

Greeley Chamber of CommerceLoveland Chamber of Commerce

2014 STYLE MAGAZINESJanuary-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

Magazine and McKee Medical Center & North Colorado Medical Center Medical Directory

February-StyleMarch-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

April-StyleMay-StyleJune-Style

July-Northern Colorado Medical & WellnessAugust-Style

September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer StyleOctober-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

November-Holiday StyleDecember-Best Of & Winter Activities Style

Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. Free magazines are available at nearly 300 locations throughout Northern Colorado.

For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 226-6400, ext. 208. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: [email protected]

©2014 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.

8 Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

http://www.pedersentoyota.com/

http://thrive.kaiserpermanente.org/?kp_shortcut_referrer=kp.org%2Fcolorado

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM READERS. SEND YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS TO:

[email protected]: 970.226.6400, ext.215

Fax: 970.226.6427www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

OUR ADVERTISING CHOICE I wanted you to know that as we planned our marketing budget, we chose advertising in Style

magazines as our only print media. You reach out to our customers; I know we are seen when we advertise. It is the only media where we get direct feedback! We love Style!

Thank you for supporting the Symphony!

Carrie Newman, Executive Director, Fort Collins Symphony

BEST BREAKFASTS FEEDBACKI enjoy Style Magazine each month. Because

I like breakfast out, I looked right away at the results of the "Best Breakfasts." Most of the places are excellent, but in a league of its own is La Creperie, which has a new location on College Avenue. It has everything—atmosphere, great service and excellent food, plus it's a shame to leave without visiting the bakery!

Thanks for a fun addition to the magazine with a pizza poll coming up.

Marty Marsh

(Editor’s Note: Marty, we definitely love La Crepe-rie, too! In fact, if we were to add a category—Best Bakery, Most Authentic Experience—they would win hands down!)

Read the August Style Magazine. Loved the cover. I was very surprised at the restaurant picks. Ate once at Snooze, will never go again. Beer is terrible, too. Just ate at Lucille's on Friday for breakfast, very disappointed with flavorless shrimp on a pile of gooey spinach. Daughters love the sweet stuff and biscuits. Silver Grill, really? Doug's Diner does feed the family, if you like potatoes. Do they have a liquor license yet?

What happened to the Backporch Cafe? Great food, great value, great drinks, great outdoor seating. Easy to ride your bike to, and out of the way when stuff is going down in Old Town. Also was very curious who created the list. Another out of the way fave—Western Ridge in Livermore.

Nancy, Fort Collins resident for 23 years

While reading the latest Style magazine, I noticed the 'favorite breakfast places' did not include Rainbow Cafe on Laurel. I am a longtime devotee of the Rainbow (try the melted brie with toasted cibatta, apple slices and grapes!). In the past two years they have been very busy upgrad-ing their outdoor area. Wonderful herbs, raised beds of veggies. And a good space between tables to enjoy the surprisingly peaceful surround-ings without being included in your neighbor's conversation.

Do consider an article on the Rainbow. Cosy indoors in winter but a wonderful, tranquil sur-prise in the summer.

Best wishes,Barbara Mitchell

LOVED THE ARTICLEThe response to the article in the magazine

has been terrific (“Garden Sweet’s Farm Stand,” August 2014).

Ryan WilsonGarden Sweet Farm


http://maximumboutique.com/

11Style 2014

IN!iPIRE others and JOIN the ...

At Gallegos Sanitation Inc. (GSI) we know that all types of cancer can affect our community, our families and our customers. We want to have a part in keeping this issue at the forefront of the minds of people within our community.

Through our Think Pink Cancer Awareness Program, you can

help one of these great organizations in the fight against cancer:

•Hope Lives! Breast Cancer Support Center and • NEW Poudre Valley Hospital Cancer Center

Call us today for details!

http://km2farms.org/

http://gsiwaste.com/

Women’s Health & Breast Cancer

On the Cover: Model Monique Osterfelt celebrates life, recovery and family as one

of our lovely breast cancer survivor models. Fashion courtesy of Chico’s Fort Collins. Cover photography by Marcus Edwards

Photography.

20 « CHAMPIONS OF HOPE

24 « THE THREADS THAT CONNECT US

« MENOPAUSE—FACT V. FICTION3326 « COPING WITH CAREGIVER STRESS

36 « DON’T BE NERVOUS, NEUROPATHY IS TREATABLE

40 « MEET THE MODELS

64 « BOUNDLESS LANE HOME TRULY KNOWS NO BOUNDS

42 « FASHION: STRENGTH, SUPPORT & SISTERHOOD

DEPARTMENTS

10 « FROM OUR READERS

14 « PUBLISHER’S LETTER

76 « ABOUT TOWN

» TEE OFF FOR KIDS» YAPPY HOUR» GARDEN PARTY» 2014 STATE OF THE COMMUNITY» REALITIES CUP» LINDENMEIER: ANCIENT LIVES, ANCIENT DREAMS SYMPOSIUM» PRAIRIE DOG CLASSIC» GOLF CLASSIC» BOCCE Y BELLA SERA» AN ARABIAN NIGHT

16 « STYLE FILES: WHAT STYLE IS RAVING ABOUT THIS MONTH.

22 « BUSINESS PROFILE: BULLHIDE 4X4

23 « BUSINESS PROFILE: SUNSPIRIT WELLNESS SERVICES

FEATURES

70 « TRAVEL: BE DELIGHTED BY BERTHOUD


TO STRETCH YOUR LEGS, ·- ·· cu~ ·-saECIALIS'IS "' SU'GGESi· -- ,_•, -·



There was a sisterhood and immediate common bond of breast cancer we all shared that special day when we gathered at my home to celebrate life. Eighteen beautiful women were pampered and made to feel beautiful to be photographed for the pages of this issue. It was a long-antici-pated day of celebration—generous salons and makeup artists pampered the women, fashion stores helped select just the right look for the photo shoot and our committee was there to make it a memorable day. We enjoyed mimosas as we danced and cheered each woman being photographed. We all celebrated being women, shared our stories, supported each other, laughed and offered hope and encouragement. Our special bond was evident; we had gathered to celebrate the preciousness of life.

Each year Style invites breast cancer survivors to share with us their story, the challenges, the heartaches and the victories of their diagnosis and journey. These women are all ages, all stages and of all backgrounds. Despite these differences, they had one thing in common: they had all encountered breast cancer and as survivors now had a deeper appreciation of life. Some of the women were still in treatment, some just start-ing to recover and others already victorious over cancer and leading a normal life. But one thing for sure, these women were changed forever and their lives would never be the same.

As you read their stories, you’ll see how they confronted their challenges, faced their fears and gathered their strength through tears and heartaches to move forward and survive. These women are courageous, strong, positive, inspira-tional, loving and most of all, are living with a new [email protected]

appreciation for each day and with a new set of priorities. Thank you to each of these awesome women for openly sharing their own personal story. May their stories uplift, empower and encourage any newly diagnosed woman and give her inspira-tion, courage and hope.

Most of our survivor stories speak about the deep gratitude they have for their families and friends who provided them enormous support and help during their journey. These caregivers provide the essential physical, emotional and day-to-day practical support to those who are stricken with any illness and that unselfish work can take its toll on them. Read “Coping with Caregiver Stress: How to Prevent Burnout” to pick up tips on how caregivers can keep healthy themselves.

As you browse this issue, enjoy reading about Catherine Giglio in “The Threads that Connect Us” to learn how she has taken tragedy in her life and turned it into a positive and inspiring mission. We thank her for her warm heart and giving spirit.

Over the years I have openly shared my personal journey with breast cancer. Through it I found my passion was to help women faced with this same diagnosis. In 2001, I started a not-for-profit, Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Sup-port Center whose mission is to help women in Northern Colorado who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Now as a 13-year survivor myself, I am passionate about serving these women through our Complementary Care Program, which pro-vides free services to improve healing, recovery and quality of life during treatment and for six months after. Since the beginning, Hope Lives has provided over 17,500 free services to women in Northern Colorado. Services such as free wigs, nutritional counseling, acupuncture, lymphedema massage, couples counseling and lifestyle support such as house cleaning, errand assistance, meal preparation and more. These services are gener-ally not covered by insurance but are extremely important to improve a woman’s healing and recovery during treatment.

Every year, the annual Hope Lives! Celebrat-ing Life in the Pink benefit gala brings together people from our communities to celebrate life and raise money to provide funds for this important cause. This year the 14th annual Gala will be held October 25 at the Embassy Suites in Loveland. Individual tickets and corporate table sponsor-ships are still available. I invite you to join us for this inspirational evening of celebration. Call (970) 225-6200 or visit www.hopelives.org.

It takes a community of caring people to support this worthwhile cause and I am very grateful to the many people who contribute as service providers, volunteers, sponsors and donors. I deeply thank each of you for your generous contributions of time and support. We will continue to serve these women and support this cause until a cure is found.

Blessings and gratitude to each of you,

Inspiring Stories

http://downtownfortcollins.com/arts-culture

PAUL PLETKA

"HORSE CHIEF WITH THE PEOPLE"

#22/50 3-COLOR STONE LITHOGRAPH, HAND COLORED WATERCOLOR BY ARTIST

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FOR ADDITIONAL ART PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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Files

Take a HikeA crater on Mars? Nope. This is a view of Chasm Lake at the base of Long’s Peak, taken

at 2:25 p.m. on July 13. If you are one of the many Coloradans who keep saying, “I have lived here for 10 years and have never been to [insert beautiful local attraction here],” stop making excuses. September brings cooler temperatures and the opportunity to explore our beautiful state.

Start with the hike to Chasm Lake. This 8.4 mile round trip hike has a 2,400-foot elevation gain and is considered a medium to strenuous hike. Plan on at least 5 to 6 hours for the trail, depending on your level of fitness. Arrive early to get a good parking spot and bring lots of water, but leave the dog at home.

Looking for something a little easier or with a bit more challenge, take a look at www.protrails.com. Just plug in the type of trail you are looking for and get moving.

Style would love to hear about your favorite hike. Send us the info and pictures to [email protected]. Yours may just be featured in the magazine! This photo was taken by Scott Prosser. Follow him on Instagram at scottprosser.

Experience


don't miss

on the web now

Loveland Oktoberfest is all grown up, with a bigger venue and even more fun. This year the festival organizers are partnering with Clear Channel Media + Entertainment, Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson and Visit Loveland to offer up big entertainment and great local brews.

Oktoberfest will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 20 at Thunder Mountain Harley Davidson. The family-friendly event will include food vendors, artisan items for sale, live music and local craft beer.

At 4 p.m. gates to the Thunder Mountain Amphitheatre open for the evening’s concert lineup, featuring the Flobots, The Epilogues and Proverbial. Tickets for the evening con-cert can be purchased at Thunder Mountain Harley-Davidson, all Loveland and Fort Collins King Soopers locations, the Loveland Visitors Center, Grimm Brothers Brewhouse or online at LovelandOktoberfest.org.

Proceeds from the event benefit Colorado Youth Outdoors, a non-profit that connects kids and parents through hands-on outdoor experiences.

10 Ways to Help a Friend with Cancer By Malini Bartels

Conventional ways to help out a friend diagnosed with cancer may not work for everyone. While you may have the best inten-tions for your loved ones during this sensitive time, it can take a unique approach to sup-port an individual in need in ways that can truly benefit them and lessen their burden. Sometimes an out-of-the-box idea is just what the patient needs.

Read more at www.stylemagazinecolorado.com.

17Style 2014

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18Home Stale BANK

https://www.homestatebank.com/

Benefiting women diagnosed with breast cancer in Northern Colorado

Saturday - October 25, 2014 - 5:30 pm· Embassy Suites, Loveland

Individual Tickets $150 • Corporate Table $2000 Purchase Online At HopeLives.org or call at 970-225-6200

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WIND Enterprises

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Advanced Energy • Advanced Medical Imaging • Affordable Roofing • Allura Skin, Laser & Wellness Clinic/Gallegos Sanitation• Atrium Health Spa• Tom & Mel isa Bjorklund

D&D Painting • Dr. Beverly Donnelley • Family & Cosmetic Dentistry• First National Bank• Fort Collins Mortgage• Harmony Hand & Physical Therapy • Heath Construction

Herbert M. Stains Contractor Inc. • H&M Enterprises LLC • Kaiser Permanente • Markley Motors • Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies • Richardson Foundation

Smart Document Management • Timberline Church • University of Colorado Health• Waterpik

http://www.hopelives.org/

Style Magazine salutes the recipients of Hope Lives! The Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center’s 2014 Champions of Hope Awards. We celebrate these tireless individuals for their unceasing commitment and service to the mothers, daughters, wives and sisters of Northern Colorado who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thank you for your generous support of Hope Lives.

Champions

Hopeof

2014 HonoreesCare Provider HonoreeAbby Charpentier, Licensed Esthetician Permanent Makeup ArtistVogue Laser Clinic

“My mother is a two-time breast cancer survivor and my brother, Scott, and I wanted to honor her by helping the Hope Lives! Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Support Center to help all women. Vogue Laser Clinic has supported me for seven years in every event or advertising

or makeup session, even opening their doors to offer free wigs to any woman who needed it.

“I have been able to touch hundreds of women in this community via Hope Lives, permanent makeup, makeup for shows, the magazine, etc. Each one of these women makes me feel blessed that it is not my journey but proud to be a woman and know that they will overcome any circumstance that they face with courage and heart.”

Volunteer Honoree Mary Rutledge, Program CoordinatorB.A.S.E. Camp

“I became inspired to join the Hope Lives family in 2011 when I was a client and a model. Through my experience of receiving services and joining the sisterhood of models I knew that my road to recovery had to include giving back to this amazing organization and the women of Northern Colorado. In 2013 I took on the honorable role of Model Committee Chair. I work closely with Hope Lives clients

and models for the Style Magazine Breast Cancer issues. Along with an amazing committee, we work tirelessly to ensure our ladies feel pampered and have the best time ever—they deserve to feel beautiful inside and out! We truly celebrate LIFE! In the spring of 2014 I was invited to join the Hope Lives Board.

“I have a family history of breast cancer. I lost my grandmother, Grace, to breast cancer and my aunt, Kathy, is a survivor. I was diagnosed at 31. After undergoing two years of treatment I continuously find strength in helping other women diagnosed to feel empowered and beautiful again.

“I am continuously humbled by stories I hear about the trials and tribulations women face upon their own diagnosis. With Hope Lives, the road is easier; with the sisterhood you don't have to travel the road alone. I will always be grateful for what being a part of Hope Lives has offered me and I am truly honored to receive this award. I know my grandma Grace would be very proud of me!”

“I became aware of Hope Lives shortly after moving to Loveland six years ago to start as a general surgeon with Loveland Surgical Associates. Lydia’s personal story of courage, strength and kindness was resonating through the community, and was in some ways parallel to my journey. I grew up in

Europe (Czechoslovakia and Germany), and came to the United States with two suitcases at age 19. Being diagnosed with breast cancer is a very trying, personal and stressful time in a woman’s life, affecting more than just her, but also having a lasting and profound effect on her family and friends. I was about 8 years old when my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Oh, times have changed since then! She was too afraid to talk about her diagnosis; she received the care recommended by her doctor then—mastectomy and chemotherapy—given to women with the diagnosis without any personalization of treatment.

“I will never forget her taking me to the Dresden Zoo, reaching into her bra behind her prosthesis, where she carried a wallet and treats for me to feed to the monkeys. She always made the best of her situation. Today, I help women navigate the wide range of much more sophisticated treatment options, and I strive to help them make the most educated and personalized selection for their individual circumstances. Laughing and maintaining a positive outlook throughout the process makes the road to survivorship easier to travel. I am grateful for the opportunity to help these brave women on their journey.”

Medical Honoree Karin Schmidova, M.D., FACS, General SurgeonBanner Health/Banner Medical Group

“Growing up in local business teaches you to give back to the community you live in. My forefathers were amazing examples of that. Our company is 105 years old this year so it is in our DNA for sure.

“When I attended a Hope Lives Gala 13 years ago there was a presentation featuring the voices of children and spouses over the PA system as their mother/wife walked out on

stage. These women were at different stages in their fight for their lives. I started looking around the room at all the women realizing each one of us could potentially be on that stage. Each one of us is a mother, a sister, a daughter or a wife. I started to weep uncontrollably right there at my table and vowed to step up our participation in supporting the women in our community that are hurting and struggling to live. That night changed me forever.

“Since our participation with Hope Lives, we have had countless people come into our showroom and share their breast cancer stories, some of them survivors, some still fighting and also many were the families and friends of those stricken. They speak of the renewed hope and encouragement they have gained knowing that an entire community was supporting them financially, spiritually and emotionally. Hope Lives is exactly the support these men and women need.”

Community Honoree Julie Sather-BrowneSather’s Leading Jewelers


Maximizing Care ThroughAccurate Diagnosis

Serving patients across the rocky mountain region for more than 35 years

Christopher Bee, MD Cory Dunn, MD

Providing unrivaled comprehensive diagnostic services to our community

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21Style 2014

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Susan Butters, co-owner of Bullhide 4x4

business profile

Co-owning Bullhide 4x4 was not in Susan’s original plan. As a student at Colorado State University, she studied human resources and continued on that path for several years. In 1990, she met Iowa native Scott Butters. Scott was already involved in the automotive industry and after they married, it was only a matter of time before Susan hopped on board.

But leaving the Fort Collins area was non-negotiable. “For us, staying in the area was a simple decision based on Fort Collins and the community,” Butters explains. “It was one of our agreements. I said, ‘Do not make me move. I will

do anything, but we have to figure out how to stay in Colorado.’ He wanted to stay too, so it worked out great.”

The Butters opened their first business in 1996. Initially, they only provided Bullhide Liner, a custom sprayed, permanent polyurethane bedliner for various types of trucks, Jeeps and trailers. As the business grew, they realized the need for more space. In 2003, the Butters moved the business to a larger location on South College Avenue.

Business increased considerably and the But-ters decided to diversify the company. Rather than

just provide the bedliner, they opted to carry a variety of accessories for a cache of vehicles. They stock all of the top brands and are able to ship truck, SUV and car accessories anywhere inside the United States.

“It kind of morphed into more and more accessories,” she says. “There wasn’t much competition and there was a need for us to provide even more product lines and services, as well as handle maintenance and repair. The 4x4 industry needed us, too. We knew it was the perfect time to go for it.”

Over 15,000 trucks in Northern Colorado

When Susan Butters picks up the phone, her infectious energy easily jumps through the receiver. As a mother, wife and co-owner of Bullhide 4x4, the Fort Collins native

is used to being pulled in 30 different directions at any given moment.

By Kyle Eustice

Family Matters:Bullhide 4x4—Built on Integrity


By Angeline Grenz

Sunspirit Wellness ServicesWellness Coaching That Motivates

Alene Nitzky has made her career focused around helping people gain better health, first as a personal trainer and educator, and later as a critical care and

oncology nurse. Her new calling has merged the three; she now helps people access wellness by providing individual health coaching with a focus on cancer patients.

business profile

During her many years as an RN, Nitzky rec-ognized a gap in care for her oncology patients. Often, once treatment was done, the patient was left in a vulnerable state. Their cancer may be gone, but they were still in a state of com-promised health.

“A patient may finish their treatment, but they are exhausted. It takes time for them to return to the life they had before. I can fill that gap,” she says.

Nitzky does this by working with each of her clients one-on-one to return to a state of optimal wellness. “I look at all the different aspects of their lives, see what’s going on and help them to get to the point where they know what to do to move forward and be healthy.”

She takes a look at lifestyle: how much and what type of exercise her clients are getting; what are the foods they are eating; how are they spending their leisure time; and are they having healthy relationships with the people in their lives? “I even ask what things they are spending their money and time on that do not contribute to their overall health.”

Once Nitzky has examined their current state of health and lifestyle, she helps her clients build realistic goals, set at three months and six months post-treatment. “It takes six months to a year to establish healthy habits.”

Nitzky touts the remarkable benefits of exer-cise with her clients in restoring function and independence. “Often doctors are hesitant to recommend exercise. But research shows the health benefits of exercise in preventing recur-rences.” She says it is especially beneficial for her clients to regain balance and flexibility through appropriate types of exercise, along with aerobic and strength training.

Nitzky also visits clients in their homes, making her services convenient. She works with the patient’s physician so the approach works in

conjunction with their current medical treatment. Nitzky also provides her services to the patient’s

primary caregiver at no extra cost. “Often, they need it just as much as the client does. I treat both of them as a unit.”

Kate B. was one of Nitzky’s initial clients. Kate was diagnosed with two different cancers at the same time, making her treatment complex. She added Sunspirit to her overall treatment approach. “Alene was a wonderful listener. She gave me the information to understand what was happening to me with chemotherapy and radiation, what to expect in the future and how to get better. She was so supportive,” Kate recalls. Nutrition and exercise were included in Kate’s coaching, but it was Nitzky’s oncology background that really made the difference in her treatment plan. “She was a gift in my life and an nice addition to my overall treatment because she could understand the complexity of my treatment. And visiting her wasn’t like ‘going to the doctor.’ I am cancer free now and back 100 percent."

While cancer patients are Nitzky’s specialty, she works with people of all levels of health. To the general patient, she can help with weight control solutions, attaining a healthy midlife, and assist those battling stress, fatigue and other chronic conditions. She even works with endurance athletes to attain better health.

“Everyone can have a better quality of life,” she says. “When people see how much better they feel, it is a complete eye opener for them.”

For a free initial consultation, contactSunspirit at (970) 372-7330 or visitwww.sunspiritwellnesservices.com.

Angeline Grenz is managing editor for Lydia’s Style Magazine.

and surrounding areas have been sprayed with the Bullhide liner. However, it’s no longer the major part of their business. Accessories such as wheels, tires, bug shields, lift kits and other after-market products make up the bulk of the business. Maintenance and repair are also large components. “We are a total full-service 4x4 store—we service all makes and models of vehicles,” says Susan.

The Butters’ attribute their business philosophy of honesty and integrity as one of the reasons for Bullhide 4x4’s continued success. “It’s the crux of Bullhide 4x4,” says Susan. Additionally, employees at Bullhide 4x4 are committed to making any truck or automobile look incredible and run flawlessly. As a family owned business with 10 employees, these values are integral to its success.

“Our every day kind of mission and philoso-phy is that we want to be someone that you can trust,” she says. “We’re not here to gouge a customer and make a huge profit margin. We want to make it affordable, but still make a good living and provide a good living for our employees. Honesty and integrity are huge for us. We expect that from our employees and it is how we treat our customers. That’s how we maintain our business.

“We care for every person that walks in our door,” she adds. “Every person has a specific need, desire and budget. We try to address each one on a personal level and provide them with what they need—not what’s the most expensive. We’ve been here for a long time and we plan on being here a lot longer.”

The Butters also support several non-profits in Larimer County, including Larimer County Child Advocacy Center, 3Hopeful Hearts and Adopt-A-Family.

“Our shop employees adopt one or two fami-lies every year at Christmastime to supply neces-sities and gifts to those who are less fortunate,” she explains. “We also take donations from our customers for the Giving Tree of Adopt-A-Family.” As if that’s not enough, the Butters also give to Larimer County Food Bank, Foothills Gateway, Finally Home Foundation, Serve 6.8, Soldiers Cry and the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, further evidence of their dedication to their community.

The Butters have two children, Trevor and Megan. With her husband doing all of the down-and-dirty work, Butters is able to run the market-ing, hiring and advertising side of things. It’s a marriage that clearly works well in all arenas.

For more information, visit Bullhide 4x4 at 5817 S. College Avenue, www.bullhide4x4.

com, or call (970) 224-2288.

Kyle Eustice relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spend-ing four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she couldn’t wait to get back to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Ghet-toblaster, and many others.

23Style 2014

By Michelle Venus

The Threads That Connect Us

The sun pours through the windows of artist Catherine Giglio's north Fort Collins studio. It shines upon a large canvas—a work in progress—leaning against

the wall. Tubes and bottles of paints are stored neatly nearby, allowing the painter/mother/wife to choose

the perfect color as inspiration strikes.


Mostly abstract water and skyscapes, Cath-erine's paintings all have a common thread: a figurative red thread that slides across each image. In some of them, it's subtle and the viewer has to look closely to find it. In others, it's a bold state-ment. But regardless of how significant it is, the red thread is always there. There's an important reason why Catherine adds this element to each work she completes.

"I can't imagine not being an artist," says Catherine. "My hands have to be busy; that takes me to a calm place, which I can't get to from any other path. It's a way for me to find some peace and some good in this crazy world."

Crazy is something Catherine knows about. Three years ago, after she and her family had been living in Fort Collins for a year, dear friends from their old Colorado Springs neighborhood suffered a horrible tragedy. Alex Constantinides, his wife Laurel and their three Asian-born adopted

An invisible thread connects those

who are destined to meet; regardless

of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but will

never break.

daughters, Hannah, Zoe and Lucy were swept away in their camper van during a flash flood in Saratoga, Wyoming. Alex managed to pull himself free from the van as it washed 75 yards down a rain-swollen, rushing stream. But Laurel and the girls perished that dark night.

"We went to the memorial service down in the Springs," muses Catherine. "Each program had a red thread in the corner. There is a Chinese tradi-tion that says we are all connected to every person we ever meet by an invisible red thread. Even if you meet that person for just five minutes, you're connected for the rest of your life. The threads may tangle or stretch, but they will never break.

"Painting helped me process my grief. They (the Constantinides) were our neighbors. Their three girls played with my three boys—we walked to school together in the mornings and then home again in the afternoon. Laurel was my friend...it

was so difficult after losing them. I found myself painting red threads into my paintings in remem-brance." she explains.

The story behind the red threads has touched many people: people who struggle with their own loss of a loved one. A woman in North Carolina found Catherine's Facebook artist's page and purchased a painting that helped her heal after losing her mother-in-law to cancer. It's hanging where she sees it everyday, and the tranquility of the landscape brings her peace while reminding her of the love and happy times they shared.

A portion of every sale goes to support The Never Alone Foundation, started by Alex to con-tinue Laurel's work as an adoption social worker. Never Alone helps families shoulder the financial burden of international adoption, as well as helping with medical expenses incurred when adopting special-needs children. Additionally, Never Alone provides unique post-placement services and

support that help children with adoption challenges "to be born in their parent's hearts."

The loss of the Constantinides family isn't the only tragedy that inspires Catherine's paintings. Her sister, Christina, is battling Stage 4 breast cancer "with faith, grace and a wonderful sense of humor," says Catherine. "I told her I wanted to donate money from the sale of my paintings to a nonprofit supporting breast cancer research and she told me that while that is important, what helped her most was the support she received from an organization that helped with daily life issues and chores—doing laundry, running errands, those tasks that need to be done, but are so hard to take care of when you're not well."

Catherine looked locally for such a nonprofit and found Hope Lives! Breast Cancer Support Center, founded by Lydia Dody right here in Fort Collins. Hope Lives provides women in the

post-diagnosis phase of breast cancer with services through its Complementary Care Program. The program consists of many supportive modalities that can help a woman through her medical treat-ments to heal and recover more quickly on several levels—physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Hope Lives' mission is to provide those touched by breast cancer the support, knowledge and care needed to complement their medical treatment. The organization fulfills this mission by paying for complementary care services and by educating Northern Colorado residents—with or without a cancer diagnosis—about the many available avenues of cancer support. The Complemen-tary Care Program brings the resources of over 30 cancer-related service and support providers straight to women putting all their energies toward overcoming breast cancer. Hope Lives ensures that these women receive post-diagnosis sup-port and care including lifestyle support such as

housecleaning, and emotional support such as family and couples counseling.

Twenty percent of the sale of every painting and print is donated between the Hope Lives and Never Alone foundations. "This is how I can give back," says Catherine. "I can't change that Laurel and her girls are gone forever. I can't always be with my sister; she lives too far away. But this, this I can do."

Catherine's fingers slide along the red thread bracelet she's worn for the past three years. "This is about the twentieth red thread I've worn since Laurel and the girls died," she says. "It's a constant visual reminder that we are all connected. All of us. Forever."

Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

25Style 2014

By Elissa J. Tivona

Coping with Caregiver Stress: How to prevent burnoutOf course you love Dad despite his Alzheimer’s, or Aunt Dolores suffering breast cancer, or Cousin Rachel diagnosed with MS. But when you become the primary caregiver for someone with a chronic illness or debilitating condition, the stress makes it easy to become “ill” yourself. Coping with the stressors of caring for a stricken loved one requires practical and timely strategies that allow you to care for others, while making sure that you maintain your own health as well.

Today, many individuals live longer in fluctuat-ing circumstances, requiring families to adapt. Fortunately, Behavioral Medicine Specialists like Abbie Miller, a licensed clinical psychologist with Kaiser Permanente, offer compassionate counsel. She suggests sensible guidelines to help you establish a new normal that prioritizes your needs as a caregiver alongside the needs of those you are caring for.

Recognize when stress is taking over.Miller says, “Caregiver stress is one of the most

challenging forms of stress. It is very important to recognize the effects…so you don’t neglect your own needs while caring for someone else.”

If you find yourself struggling in any of the areas below, you are at risk for caregiver stress and eventual burnout:

• Do you find yourself feeling more “emo-tional,” being quicker to tears, or having a “shorter fuse?”

• Are you more forgetful, disorganized, or unable to complete even simple tasks?


• Do you find yourself feeling chronically fatigued, lacking the energy to complete your basic responsibilities?

• Are you overly pre-occupied, suffering prolonged bouts of resentment, anxiety or tension?

• Are you overcome with sadness, helpless-ness or hopelessness?

• Have sleep habits changed significantly: either difficulty falling or staying asleep or needing to sleep excessively?

• Do you notice changes in your eating habits—neglecting to eat meals or over-eating—that has been significant enough to cause changes in your weight?

• Are you apathetic or uninterested in doing things you used to enjoy?

• Is it difficult to relax or enjoy activities that you used to enjoy?

• Are you experiencing more frequent illnesses, accidents, pain, or physical changes?

• Do you find yourself turning to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with the stress of caregiving?

Any of these changes in demeanor or behavior signal the need to re-evaluate your caregiving routines. The strategies below help break the spiral leading to despair and burnout.

The ABC’s

A. ALWAYS prioritize your health. Schedule activities essential to your own health maintenance and treat these appointments as non-negotiable. Remember, you must take care of yourself in order to be a good caregiver to others.

Physical: Miller emphasizes that food, rest and exercise are the foundation of wellbeing. “Without these in place … you will not feel or function well day to day.”

Food: Make sure you eat consistently, but do not overeat. Give your body the gift of good nutrition. Enjoy more fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats.

Sleep: Caregiving can rob you of restorative sleep. Strategies to get on track include having regular bedtimes, pre-bed relaxation routines and eliminating distractions in the evening to help your body wind down for the 7 or 8 hours you need.

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Move: Do your best to exercise daily, even if it’s just going outside for a walk. That half hour of movement, with sunlight on your face, will boost your energy level, enhance your mood and contribute to more restful sleep.

Emotional: Fun: Helpguide.org reports that laughter is indeed the best medicine. “Laughter is a power-ful antidote to stress, pain and conflict. Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh.” Doctors recommend a belly laugh at least once a day!

Friendship: Resist the urge to isolate under stress. Instead, seek social support. Stay con-nected with family members and friends. If you’re comfortable, vent your emotional chal-lenges, or simply use social time to escape. Either way, connections and outings with meaningful friends help you normalize and restore perspective.

Mental: Occupy your mind with pursuits you love: Hobbies, interests and curiosity are life-lines. The Internet can provide ways to keep current even when time is limited. Learn some-thing new, and share it with others.

Spiritual: A few quiet moments—even 10 minutes—can help you release tension. Dis-cover what works for you: Meditation, yoga, nature, prayer, deep breathing, even pastoral counseling all help to strengthen resilience.

B. BE pro-active about getting help. Ask and accept. No one can manage all the responsibilities of caregiving without regular breaks or assistance. Do not try to handle everything alone.

Friends and Family membersVocalize needs to nearby friends and family. Many people welcome opportunities to help and will gladly run errands, bring a meal, or look after your loved one to give you some relief. Keep a list of helpful tasks that others can easily manage. You will have many chances to pay it forward in the future.

Respite Care and Other Programs. Learn the resources and services available in your community. Respite care is defined as “providing the care recipient with planned temporary care to allow the caregiver relief from daily responsibilities.” Often healthcare providers or care managers can point you to respite programs, either in-home or facility-based. When you’re overwhelmed, using these resources may be the most responsible choice.

Professionals and Support GroupsIf you experience periods of emotional despair, seek immediate professional help. Many of


http://www.frpmedicine.com/

Abbie MillerLicensed Clinical Psychologist

Kaiser Permanente

these episodes are temporary and may pass with expert support. Professionals can also help you find caregiver support groups. Joining condition-specific support groups is often the best way to deal with common emotions like feeling lonely, angry or overwhelmed. Support group members also frequently share medical advances or insights that can ease caregiving burdens.

C. COMPASSION, be gentle with yourself

Illness and aging are part of the lifecycle for everyone. At some point we all travel down the road you are traveling now, and each of us will need patience and understanding to adjust to changing realities and to be able to integrate new knowledge.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if negative thoughts or bad patterns occasionally set in. That’s natural! Simply try to remember the tenderness and love you know you have inside. Then, resolve to give the ABC’s another try.

Elissa J. Tivona is a freelance writer and international educator based in Fort Collins.

29Style 2014

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TRANSIT CENTER MAX STATION PARKING

DOWNTOWN STATIONS (MOUNTAIN, OLIVE, MULBERRY)

DRAKE STATION

LAUREL STATION SWALLOW STATION

PROSPECT STATION TROUTMAN STATION

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UNIVERSITY STATION HORSETOOTH STATION

Downtown Olive StationInternational Appetite130 W Olive St.Fort Collins, CO 80524970-237-5699

1

Horsetooth StationSigns by Tomorrow3525 S Mason St.Fort Collins, CO 80525970-282-0460

2

Downtown Transit CenterFort Collins Museumof Discovery408 Mason Ct.Fort Collins, CO 80524970-221-6738

3

Laurel StationThe Mayor of Old Town632 S Mason St.Fort Collins, CO 80524970-682-2410

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Let everyone

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DISCOVERY DASH

FCMoD will host its inaugural Discovery Dash, an exciting fundraising event featuring a scavenger hunt, lots of delicious food and drink, and entertainment.

September 13th, 2014, 4:30pm At the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

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By Michelle Venus

Think you have the scoop on menopause? There are plenty of wrong ideas floating around out there. Take this quick quiz, and see if you have the 4-1-1.

Menopause— Fact v. Fiction

Menopause. It's something every woman experiences. For some, it's a natural transition from one stage of life to another. For others, menopause and the time leading up to it, called perimenopause, can be difficult to manage. The best first step in going through this inevitable change is to understand what it's all about.

PerimenopauseBefore menopause there is perimenopause.

It's when a woman's ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. (Estrogen is composed of several different hormones that play an important role in a woman's sexual development and reproduction.) It typically starts in a woman's 40's, but can begin as early as her 30's or

1 - Menopause is: A - A disease or medical condition.B - Those darned hot flashes.C - No menstrual periods for 12 consecu-

tive months.D - Mood swings, insomnia, lack of libido. 2 - The average age menopause starts is: A - 62B - 49C - 51D - 55

3 - The most characteristic symptom of menopause is:

A - Memory Loss.B - Those darned hot flashes.C - It depends on the woman.D - Memory Loss. Oh, wait. That was A.

4 - Approximately 15 percent of post-menopausal women can still become pregnant:

A - No. No, no, no, no, no.B - Yes. Surprise!

33Style 2014

Sukhi Khera, M.D.Kaiser Permanente

even her 20's in rare cases.Perimenopause can last for as little as a few

months or as long as 10 years; the average length is four years. It lasts until a woman reaches full menopause—when the ovaries stop releasing eggs altogether and the woman hasn't menstruated for 12 consecutive months.

Symptoms vary from woman to woman but can include breast tenderness, irregular periods, lowered libido, fatigue, those darned hot flashes, vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex, trouble sleeping, mood swings, a feeling of urgency to urinate and leakage during coughing, sneezing or laughing.

Irregular periods during perimenopause are not uncommon. However, don't discount other menstrual abnormalities as a normal course of nature. If you experience heavy bleeding accompanied by clots, periods lasting longer than usual, spotting between periods or after intercourse or a shorter duration between periods, it's best to consult your physician to rule out other medical conditions such as hormonal imbalance, fibroids, blood clot-ting problems or, rarely, cancer. Dr. Sukhi Khera, a physician with Kaiser Permanente Colorado, says, "It's important for a woman to see her doctor if she's experiencing pain or very unusual bleeding. We want to make sure that what she is experiencing is actually perimenopause and not another, potentially very serious, medical condition."

And while postmenopausal women cannot become pregnant, it's not unusual for an ‘oops’ to occur in perimenopausal women, especially when periods are far apart. It's best to maintain regular contraceptive practices unless you really do want another little one in your family.

MenopauseIf perimenopause is the time leading up

to menopause, what then, is menopause? "Menopause occurs when 12 consecutive months have passed since you've gotten your last period," explains Dr. Khera.

So it's been a year since you last menstru-ated. Now what? What can you expect from your body? After all, this is what you can expect for the rest of your life.

Like perimenopause, symptoms include mood swings, vaginal dryness, sleep disrup-tions, hot flashes and night sweats. The exact cause of hot flashes—that quick feeling of heat, often accompanied by sweating and a red, flushed face—is still not known, though there is speculation that they may have some-thing to do with circulation changes. Unfor-tunately, there is no way to predict when one will spring up on you. And the sad news is that they often last for years, sometimes for the rest of your life.

"There are ways to lessen the severity of hot flashes," says Dr. Khera. "Avoiding triggers

such as caffeine, alcohol, stress, spicy foods, heat and cigarette smoking can help. Some studies indicate that increasing soy intake may be helpful."

Other things you can do to keep hot flashes at bay include:

• Stay cool. Keep your bedroom cool at night. Use fans during the day and ceiling fans at night. Wear light layers of clothes with natural fibers such as cotton.

• Try deep, slow abdominal breathing (six to eight breaths per minute). Practice deep breathing for 15 minutes in the morning, 15 minutes in the evening and at the onset of hot flashes.

• Massage.

• Acupuncture.

• Meditation.

• Exercise daily. A minimum of 30 minutes of activity is recommended. Walking, swimming, yoga and bicycling are all good choices.

• Try chill pillows. Laying your head on cooler pillows at night might be help-ful. If you're considering purchasing a memory foam mattress topper, check for a cooling feature as they can retain body heat, which can make sleep more difficult and uncomfortable.

To help with mood swings, consider joining a support group or meeting up with friends to talk about what you're going through. This is where relaxation techniques such as meditation, massage and yoga can make an enormous difference. Regular exercise is helpful as well.

Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse are helped with a variety of over the counter creams and lubricants. This is where experi-mentation to find the right product for you and your partner could result in a whole lot of fun.

What about hormone replacement ther-apy (HRT)? "We encourage people to make lifestyle changes first," says Dr. Khera. "For more extreme cases, where none of these things make a difference with their symp-toms, we would want to look at prescribing medications."

Short-term HRT—less than five years—often prevents hot flashes in many women. Plus, it can help other symptoms of menopause, including vaginal dryness and mood disorders. Keep in mind that when you stop taking HRT, the hot flashes may come back. Short-term HRT carries some risks, including blood clots and gallbladder inflammation.

Herbal remedies such as black cohosh, which is derived from a species of buttercup, may be beneficial. But studies have had mixed results on whether black cohosh is effective in reducing hot flashes. Some studies indicate it may help with mild hot flashes and night sweats for short-term treatment and may lower blood pressure as well. Evening primrose oil may mitigate menopausal symptoms, as well as adding higher doses of vitamins D and E. "But the data just doesn't support the efficacy of herbal remedies," says Dr. Khera.

Michelle Venus is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins.

Answers:

1- C2- D3- C4- A


35Style 2014

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Nurse Megan Anderson preps Dr. Barry Thompson for his neuropathy treatment at the Neuropathy Center at Spine Correction Center of the Rockes.

Regardless of the initial cause, the symptoms are quite consistent. They range from a tingling sensation in the hands and feet to burning pain to a complete loss of sensation and/or a loss of dexterity. It is these symptoms that the Neuropathy Center and Spine Correction Center of the Rockies seek to treat.

Fort Collins resident Barry Thompson, Ph.D., was diagnosed with multiple myeloma on Decem-ber 31, 2012. He initially sought treatment at Poudre Valley Radiation Oncology and began chemotherapy two weeks after his diagnosis, which continued through July 2013.

“It was terrible,” Dr. Thompson recalls. “I didn’t lose my hair, but I lost about 60 lbs. and it affected my diet. I couldn’t have milk, eggs, cheese or yogurt, otherwise I would get sick. I couldn’t sleep for more than two hours. But I was getting great results in terms of the cancer, so I thought I was getting through my treatment pretty well. They told me in the beginning that some of the symptoms were neuropathy, but I didn’t pay much attention to it until May 2013.

I got mine below both knees, right down to my feet. It got progressively worse, but there was nothing they could do until I finished my course of treatment.”

Dr. Thompson sought treatment at the Neu-ropathy Center at Spine Correction Center of the Rockies. It is an integrated physical medicine clinic that specializes in the treatment of scoliosis, herniated discs, migraines, back pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel and, its newest division, neuropathy.

The clinic uses up to a seven-step process to treat neuropathy. Some of the treatment proto-cols include consultation, examination, X-rays, nerve conduction velocity testing, injections, cold laser, neuromuscular re-education/whole body vibration, chiropractic manipulation/rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments. Luckily, Dr. Thompson noticed his symptoms early and began his eight-week treatment in August 2013.

“I started feeling tingling and burning in my feet,” Dr. Thompson explains. “It was like little pricks on the bottom of my feet. It wasn’t terribly sore at first, but then it got worse as it moved up

By Kyle EusticeDon't Be Nervous,Neuropathy Symptons are Treatable

It is estimated that over 20 million Americans suffer from neuropathy, a condition that many people don’t fully understand. Neuropathy refers to diseases or dysfunction in any nerves outside of the central nervous system. There are several different variations of neuropathy, including peripheral, cranial, automatic, diabetic and focal. It can come on suddenly or gradually and most often, injuries, infections and even vitamin deficiency are major catalysts.


Spine Correction Center’s multi-faceted approach to treat neuropathy has patients experiencing marked improvement in their

neuropathy symptoms.

my legs. By the end of my chemotherapy it felt like I was walking on hot coals. The only thing my oncologist could do was treat the symptoms with very strong medicine so I went in to see the clinicians at Spine Correction Center.”

The staff at the Spine Correction Center did a scan of Dr. Thompson’s legs to find out where the burning sensations were worse and used it as a map to determine where to begin treatment. He then came in twice a week and received three injections, typically in each calf. The injection is administered into the nerve sites, not the actual nerve. It helps bring oxygen and blood flow to the affected area, which helps heal numbness, pain or the pins and needles sensation that are commonly associated with neuropathy. Combined with the laser treatment, which also increases blood flow and oxygen to the nerves, the protocal is extremely helpful in calming the symptoms. For the first two weeks, Dr. Thompson was still in pain, but by the third week, the changes were dramatic.

“I went from a nine out of 10 pain down to a two,” he says. “I didn’t want to stop. I went another five weeks and there were marginal improvements. Now the most I feel is my foot will occasionally feel like it’s asleep, but that only happens once or twice a week. My oncologist is going to start recommending this treatment to other patients. I was very, very happy with the results. It’s a permanent fix once you’re done. Dr. Michael Farrell, a doctor on staff, thinks the reason mine was so successful was because they got it very early and treated it aggressively.”

Dr. Thompson is convinced the neuropathic treatments can work for other people, too. The alternative is to take medicine to treat the

37Style 2014

http://cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=117


pain, but then the neuropathy never goes away, he says.

“I am where I was before I got the cancer in terms of the neuropathy,” Dr. Thompson says. “The neuropathic treatment was a miracle. There are great people at the Spine Correction Center and it’s a caring, peaceful environment. I would encourage people to not wait. The clinic here is fantastic and the treatment definitely works. For me, it was like a one-stop health shop. Coming here was like my oasis, my sanctuary. It truly was.”

The Neuropathy Center located at Spine Cor-rection Center of the Rockies is based in Fort Collins. The clinicians operate as a team, seeking to help patients with non-invasive strategies. To find out more, contact them at (970) 226-1117 or visit www.spinecorrectioncenter.com.

Kyle Eustice relocated to Fort Collins from her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After spending four years living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, she couldn’t wait to get back to the mountain region. She is a regular contributor to Thrasher Skateboarding Magazine, Wax Poetics, Ghettoblaster, and many others.

Laser treatment is one technique used to treat neuropathy symptoms at Spine

Correction Center.

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3939Style 2014

AT CNS, WE ARE COMMITTED TO HELPING INDIVIDUALS WORK PAST OBSTACLES TO REGAIN PURPOSE, MEANING, AND INDEPENDENCE. TRUST YOUR REHABILITATION TO THE EXPERTS AT CNS.

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http://www.orthohealth.com/

Dianne ColeDianne is a master gardener. She enjoys spending

time with her grandkids, Keegan, Ainslee, Sage and Kaia. She is also learning to quilt.

“It was a magical day. Danielle Miller at Green Ivy did a fabulous job on my hair. Adriana was a wonderful makeup artist. I loved my clothes from Chico’s so much I purchased them. Thanks so much Lydia and the Marys and my soul sisters for a wonderful experience. Marcus rocks! He took the ‘scary’ out of the photo shoot.”

Bev BishopBev has four grown children and six grandchildren.

She is a preschool coordinator for BASE Camp. She loves to read, walk, sew, bowl and spend time with her family and friends.

“It was such a fun week! I normally don’t like to clothes shop, but what fun I had at Macy’s. Thanks to Michelle for help in finding all the extras: jewelry, shoes and handbag. I love the way Debra J. styled my hair; I have found a new stylist. I haven’t worn makeup for 20 years. What fun it was to get all dolled up. I didn’t even recognize myself. I felt pretty!”

Andrea HardyAndrea is married to Taylor and they have one child,

Kaylon, age 7. Andrea is an audiologist at Hearing Rehab Center. She enjoys spending time with family, scrapbook-ing and enjoying good food.

“I’ve never felt so glamorous! I’ve never had my makeup done professionally before, so the whole day made me feel like a pinup. Everyone has been so great! Encouraging, loving and supportive. The photo shoot has definitely been the best part. What a great, amazing, strong group of women.”

Heather Coleman

Heather is married to Bill; they have a dog named Bleue and a cat named Pea. She a product manager for First National Bank and enjoys snowboarding, gardening and riding bikes around Old Town.

“The hair was my favorite part. Larisa at O'Hana Salon patiently spent five and a half hours putting hot pink streaks in my hair, and I love how it looks. Dora Grace had so many beautiful dresses it was hard to choose. Putting it all together with the makeup was such a treat.”

Sarah CatlinSarah is married to Joe. She is an accounting-finance

manager for Engineering Analytics. She enjoys anything outdoors—hiking, camping, running. She also enjoys yoga, reading and traveling.

“I have never dyed my hair so it was so fun to try a bright color and new style. The photo shoot was amaz-ing, to be surrounded by so many fabulous women. The entire process was so much fun and was great to make so many new friends.”

Carol LopezCarol has a grown son, James, and a second son,

Chris, who passed away at age 21. She is a planning and analysis analyst for State Farm Insurance. She enjoys dancing, especially tap, listening to the Blues, walking and laughing with friends.

“Wow! What a wonderful experience. Alison at Green Ivy cut and colored my hair so beautifully. Amy from Sephora did a wonderful job on my makeup and the clothes at Madd Style are awesome. I haven’t felt this special in a long time. Thanks, Hope Lives.”

Laurie Whitten BowersLaurie is mother to Emma, age 13. She is in human

resources and enjoys hiking, camping, travel and spend-ing time with her daughter.

“I had a wonderful time this week. It was so nice to be pampered and feel pretty. I thought my dress was gorgeous. My hair stylist, Melany, and my makeup artist, Kassi, both made me feel beautiful.”

Marti KunterMarti has been married to Larry for 45 years. They

have two grown children, Victoria and Charity, and four grandchildren. She is retired and enjoys gardening, bells, the Lowrey organ, traveling, and seeing family and friends.

“This has been a magical week, trying on clothes and makeup (which I’ve never done). The photo shoot was a wonderful experience with so much laughter and activity. The wonderful people that helped me were just awesome. It was a great time I’ll never forget.”

Meet the Models


Stephanie McCormickStephanie has been married to John for 25 years.

They have two horses and two dogs. She is a billing assistant for the Wick & Trautwein Law Firm. She enjoys horseback riding, scrapbooking and scuba diving.

“I had a blast! I felt pampered and special and met a lot of neat women. I made new friends who I will be happy to support with love and friendship in their time of need! I had a great time inspiring everyone as we posed for pictures.”

Teri OlsonTeri has been married to Steven for 29 years. They

have three grown children, Todd, Lisa and Brenda. She is an RN at UCHealth and Front Range Community College and enjoys scrapbooking, hiking and reading.

“This was fun and exciting! I found an outfit that I love. I felt powerful and pretty. Kim at Hues Salon did an awesome job; I’ve found a new friend and hairstyl-ist. Makeup done by someone else, Stephanie from Sephora, was great. I felt totally cared for, especially by Lydia and all my sisters.”

Echo Strong

Echo is married to Robin and they have two sons, Cooper, age 12, and Reese, age 10. She is a stay-at -home mom and enjoys being with her family, hiking, Pilates, reading and sports.

“Amazing! Having Kim at Hues Salon was a won-derful experience. I would recommend her for sure! Everyone at Chico’s was very helpful and made the fitting fun. And to top it off, at the photo shoot, Kassi from Sephora made me look beautiful. Thank you all!”

Monica PollenMonica is married to Tom Pollen and they have a

5-year-old son, Matthew. She is an operations manager at HMS Contractors. She enjoys Pure Barre classes, traveling with her husband and weekend getaways with her girlfriends.

“The photo shoot day was so much fun, having my makeup done and putting on my pretty blue dress. I felt so beautiful.”

Sarah PerkinsSarah has been married to Michael for 26 years. She

is an ESL teacher for Thompson School District. Sarah enjoys knitting, and she is learning to spin her own yarn. She is also a gardener.

“I loved trying on the clothes—it was a chance to try something different, and I discovered I could wear skinny jeans and look good in them! My hair was beautiful and the makeup was fun—another step out of my comfort zone. Every one did a fantastic job and made me feel very special!”

Monique Osterfelt

Monique is married to Peter and they have four children: Luke, Nick, Lindsey and Lorien. She is an RN at The Youth Clinic and enjoys exercise, reading, gar-dening, biking and doing anything with her daughters.

“Jacelyn at Gallipot Salon gave me a fun new color and stylish cut. The ladies at Chico’s took the time to find just the right outfit for me. Amy from Sephora provided my gorgeous makeup. I just can’t tell you how beautiful I felt! A special thanks to Marcus, our photographer! Thank you all for such a perfect day.”

Karen WeitkunatKaren enjoys gardening, both vegetable and “happy

flowers for a colorful summer.” As a former English teacher, books are an important part of her life, and she enjoys reading and sharing the stories.

“I never got to be Cinderella and dress for the Ball, so the entire week has been a princess party. Begin-ning with Mary at Macy’s adorning me in sparkling clothing and jewels, and ending with Debra at Clipso styling my hair. I have felt so much beauty, love and encouragement from the Hope Lives sisterhood. Thank you for making me feel special.”

Beverly Garber McKenzieBeverly has three grown children, Courtney, Nynah

and Kyrsten. She owns Espresso People and Bammy’s Gourmet Cookie Dough. She enjoys snow skiing, boat-ing, gardening, cooking and baking.

“I had the best time of my life. I have never had professional hair or makeup done. Debra J. at Clipso was awesome and Steph from Sephora did a great job. Susan at Lady Gaia was great, and I love the styles she carries. I truly felt like a princess. Thank you, Hope Lives.”

Hillary SiebelsHillary is the Ambassador of Libations/manager of

Café Vino. She enjoys yoga, meditation, paddle board-ing, hiking, camping, live music and collecting wine.

“It has meant so much to me to know that I am not alone in this fight! I was shocked to meet my makeup artist for the photo shoot—she had a preventative mastectomy and hysterectomy because of the BRAC1 positive gene. She was the first person other than my family that I have met who is also BRAC1 positive. I am grateful for these friendships and connections.”

Kate McMillen

Kate has one grown son, Ethan. She is a special education teacher. She enjoys reading, singing and taking long walks on the beach.

“This was an amazing experience! I did the shoot in 1999 and had a blast. Being with this wonderful group of women was inspiring. It was fun to have my makeup done and I loved modeling bald. Thanks to our marvel-ous mentors for making this such a memorable time!”

Models

41Style 2014

Photography by Marcus Edwards. Art Direction by Lydia Dody

Makeup by Dagon Rose, independent artist; Adriana Weaver, Prima Body Wear at the Opera Galleria, Fort Collins; Kassi Rankin, Stephanie Tafoya and

Amy Hobbs at Sephora, Front Range Village, Fort Collins.

Hair by Debra J of Debra J Styles, Clipso in Fort Collins; Jacelyn Cody and Nicky Alderson, Gallipott Salon in Fort Collins; Alison Fincham, Allison Tiller/Trygestad and Danielle Miller, Green Ivy Hair & Nail Studio in Loveland; Kim Hughes, Hues Salon in Fort Collins; and Melany Beirne, Larisa Meiers and

Brittany Williams, O'Hana Salon in Fort Collins.

STEPHANIE MCCORMICKMy father’s side of the family has a strong history of breast cancer. My mother’s side

of the family has none at all. My father was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1986. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 64. Yes… men can get this disease too. My half sister, Paula (his other daughter), was diagnosed after him and passed away in October 2010 at age 46. My father’s sister also had it and passed away at age 46. I never really thought about the health history of our family, but after Paula’s passing, my mother urged me to talk with my doctors about it. It was suggested that I go see Dr. Wing and Dr. Medgyesy at Front Range Cancer Specialists to discuss my family history in depth

and maybe get genetic testing done. Even though the testing I did was negative for carrying the breast cancer gene, I was still at high risk. An annual MRI, along

with a mammogram, was added to my physical every year. The first MRI that I had in 2012 showed some “suspicious looking tissue”

that the doctors wanted to look at by doing an ultrasound. The radiologist didn’t like the looks of things and referred me to Dr. Dickinson for a consult. I then followed up again with Dr. Wing and Dr. Medgyesy to discuss my options further. My options were to have a needle biopsy done surgically (due to the fact the tissue was very deep within the chest wall), which could lead

Stephanie dances to the beat in her stylish Free People black jean jacket with knit sleeves, $148,

worn over coral tank top, $38, and Not Your Daughter’s black Jeans, $48. Wide western belt

with silver buckle, $46, adds the snappy style. Courtesy of Cloz to Home, Loveland.


CONT. TO PG 54

Beverly shows off her playful side in her colorful Amman poly blend Bohemian mini dress, $159. Tagua bright coral bone and bead neck-lace, $29, matching earrings, $19,

and wooden bead and bronze wrap bracelet, $12, complete the look.

Courtesy of Lady Gaia, Fort Collins.

Hillary dances to the music in a dark jade wash Karlita blazer, $79, over

Lysse’ black ankle leggings, $68, and reversible black lace camisole,

$49. Sissle hook cream belt with wooden buckle, $34, brown Tagua necklace with turtle pendant, $39,

and Tourq bola tagua necklace, $39, add the fun. Courtesy Lady

Gaia, Fort Collins.

43Style 2014

BEVERLY GARBER MCKENZIEI was finally at a point in life where I

was able to start living a little for myself. I had reconnected with a great guy, Rich, at my 40th reunion last summer and my three girls were on their own. I've raised my daughters alone since they were ages 4 and 5. They are now 20 (twins) and

21. I played the role of mom and dad, spending the better part of my 40s

and 50s raising them; their father had ended his life when the girls

were in middle school. I am self-sufficient and taught my girls to be so as well. They have all

worked in my espresso catering busi-ness and are still involved part-time. But having two feisty redheads and one older daughter and working hard while self-employed wasn't easy. My long distance relation-

ship was awesome and I planned on spending part of the summer in

Wisconsin playing. So there I was, finally a little time for me, and then...

I woke up one morning in March with a pain in the right breast and an unfa-miliar lump. It did not feel the same as the fibrocystic lumps and bumps that I have felt throughout my life. I decided to wait a little longer to make sure it wasn't just a change from my increase in caffeine. I will never understand how the body knows to alert you with "signs"

but my chest started itching and was red and warm within a week. I started researching breast cancer and knew,

that it was time to see the doctor.

HILLARY SIEBELSThere are times in life when you think you are doing everything right. You have prepared and

planned, and everything seems to be unfolding just as expected. However, there is nothing that can prepare you for the day the doctor utters the word "cancer." In a split second your world shifts. What once mattered deeply is no longer important. It is difficult to explain, but the words, “You have breast cancer,” make the world seem very complicated, yet so simple, almost simultaneously.

This journey started 11 years ago when my mother and her younger sister where diagnosed with breast cancer on the same day. Their two other sisters had been diagnosed with the disease years before that, so the fact that all four sisters were diagnosed left no doubt that something other than a family resemblance was at work. My grandfather had two sisters that both died in the 1950s. They were in their 30s and one died of breast cancer, the other of ovarian cancer. We also learned that his mother died mysteriously on the operating table when they were attempting to remove a tumor in her uterus.

CONT. TO PG 54

CONT. TO PG 54

CAROL LOPEZYou are looking at a 14-year survivor. Yay! At the age of 35 I found a lump under

my arm, which felt different than several cysts I had in my fibrocystic breast. I had a mammogram but they couldn’t see anything but the cyst. I went to see my surgeon and he drained the cysts in his office. However, the one under my arm was more difficult to get to and he felt he needed the assistance of ultrasound. So we decided to just leave it, feeling fairly sure it was a cyst. As months went by that lump kept bothering me (more mentally than physically) so I decided I would have it drained. Under ultrasound they found it wasn’t a cyst. I remember feeling dizzy knowing what this probably meant. The doctors still weren’t sure it was cancer so I went in for another mammogram and then a needle biopsy. At the age of 36 (in March 2000) all my fears became reality; it was cancer: ductal carcinoma. Wow, really?! How do I tell my folks and my kids? My boys were 10 and 13 at the time. My oldest thought we were having a baby. Imagine thinking that, and then finding out your mom has cancer.

I felt lost and scared. I never thought cancer would take my life, my mother had kidney cancer and survived, and I knew I would too. She was my inspiration. The next step was to talk to my surgeon. I thought I might need a lumpectomy but he suggested a bilateral mastectomy. I was mad, how could he suggest such a thing? I’m young, it couldn’t be that bad, could it? After much thought, I decided to

have the bilateral mastectomy because it was difficult to detect the cancer I already had so I would always be worried about more cancer. A week later

I had a bilateral skin-saving mastectomy and immediate recon-struction. I thank God I had the bilateral mastectomy because I had another tumor in the same breast on the opposite side that wasn’t detected in any of my tests.

My parents retired right before I was diagnosed and were a tremendous help to my family and me. It wasn’t easy for me to let others

help but I learned to let go and accepted the help. They stayed with my boys while I was in the hospital, cooked, cleaned, did laundry and took me to chemotherapy. As a matter of fact, for my first chemo I wasn’t sure what to expect and was very appre-hensive. My dad found a joke book in the doctor’s office and he read jokes and we did a lot of laughing. I am so grateful for my wonderful parents. My husband was also a great caregiver; I had to have EPO shots while going through chemo to help build my red blood cells and he gave them to me. I swear I could feel the love in those shots.

The most difficult part for me was chemo and losing my hair. I had trouble with the chemo more mentally than physically. However, three days after each treatment I would feel the worst physically and I would tell my husband that I wasn’t going to do another one. Again, the loving man he is would say “Okay, honey, whatever you want to do I will support you.” He knew I would do it; it was just something I needed to say and feel for a day or two. Many women embrace losing their hair, I didn’t. It was a difficult experience for me but wigs, scarves and hats helped.

The prayers, compassion and love my friends and family gave me were overwhelm-ingly wonderful and kept me strong. The beautiful women I have met through this sisterhood touch my heart so deeply. My husband was diagnosed with head and neck

Carol looks sensational in her fire engine red faux leather crop jacket with silver hardware, $70, accents a black and lattice print hi-low

hemmed ruffled trim maxi dress, $70. Wide black stretch belt features a butterfly clasp, $18, and chandelier earrings, $14, adds a sense of

style. Courtesy of Madd Style, Fort Collins.

CONT. TO PG 56


Echo is style savvy in her lively watermelon mesh sweater, $89, with match-ing tank, $25, worn over indigo denim slimming ankle jeans, $99. Black and white belt, $69, disk drop earrings, $25, and Jody bangle bracelet, $39, add

playful accents. Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

Monique sports a winning ensemble in her smart purple rayon tunic with roll sleeves, $79, worn over black knit stretch leggings, $59. Purple swirl and animal

print scarf, $45, wide black leather slouch belt with silver buckle, $59, long silver circle necklace, $39, and silver hoop clip-on earrings, $25 finish the snappy look.

Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

ECHO STRONGI was diagnosed with HER2/neu breast cancer in June 2013 after finding a lump during a self

breast exam. Initially I was numb and then my reaction was—what caused this? What about my children and husband? And then—now what do we do? Thank you, Dr. Podhajsky, for consoling me, talking me through this and starting me on the right path.

Breast cancer has “recreated” me in many ways. Though physically you inevitably become different due to surgery, chemo and radiation, mentally it’s a rollercoaster with so many ups and downs. Yes, all of those things were hard and impacted me deeply but my faith blossomed and is even stronger than ever and I’m thankful for that.

I had so much support and, ironically, never felt so alone. I was completely overwhelmed. The education you get is one you could never be prepared for. Before all of this, I didn’t even know there were different types of breast cancer. There was so much information, and in such a short amount of time. I had to make decisions about my treatment and surgeries while processing all this information and worrying about my family and how it was affecting them.

Thank you to all my family and friends who rallied around me during this time. The meals, gifts, support, prayers, sitting with me at chemo, taking care of my kids and loving me—you mean

MONIQUE OSTERFELTLast spring was the beginning of my journey. I had felt a burning sensation under my left arm, and

as I was massaging it I found a lump in my left breast. At the time I wasn’t really concerned because I had been diagnosed with fibrocystic breasts and thought it was just one of my many lumps. With encouragement from my husband (thank the Lord), I made an appointment for a mammogram. My baseline mammogram two years prior had been normal, so I wasn’t too worried.

On the day of my diagnostic mammogram (a mammogram coupled with an ultrasound) the ultrasound took too long. I remember thinking, “This is not good…”

I was diagnosed with breast cancer May 2013. I did not have a family history of breast cancer and my genetic testing revealed that I did not have the BRCA1, BRCA2 genes. As many of you can imagine, I ran the full gamut of emotions: shock, fear, disbelief, sadness, panic, etc. I thought, “What are my children going to do?”

So full of emotion, I was able to share my diagnosis with my personal trainer, Kelly Cole. That night he dropped off a card reminding me who I am and where I get my strength from—God! That was a major turning point for me in my journey. Something clicked that day, and I am happy to say the rest of my journey was graced with hope, faith, fight and a sense of peace.

CONT. TO PG 56

CONT. TO PG 56

45Style 2014

KAREN WEITKUNATLife is a road we travel and each fork in the road leads each of us to

a different destination. In 2011, I decided to travel the road to public service, and in April I was successfully elected as the Mayor of Fort Collins.

What an incredible honor and privilege! Being Mayor is a highly visible position, requiring countless hours of public appearances at com-munity celebrations, charitable events, video recordings and Tuesday City Council TV broadcastings.

It was hectic, and I rationalized that I was too busy to take the time for my annual mammogram. Besides, after 25 years of normal, routine mammograms and no family history of breast cancer, it wasn’t an issue. However, I did succumb to the logic of “one-more-time” and scheduled. Needless to say, when the call came that there was an abnormality and I needed to be rechecked, I was shocked and truly

believed it was in error. What followed was a surreal journey down an unplanned fork in the road.

In August, a mere four months after my election as Mayor, I was undergoing a lumpectomy to remove a 1.2 cm. cancerous growth in my right breast. Fortunately, my lymph nodes were clean, and after healing I began eights weeks of conventional

radiation therapy in October.Given the very public and highly visible nature of my position, I

chose to be silent and private about my cancer except for immediate family and only very intimate friends.

My strength and wellness came from the medical team of knowledge-able, innovative, personable and compassionate physicians, surgeon, oncologist and radiologist, and the staff who coordinate all services with a plan to treat the entire person beyond the medical machinery, technology and pills. Their positive assurances and confident optimism made the road to recovery less rocky and even delightful, with a happy decorated cake celebrating life after radiation.

Throughout the past three years, I still find the experience surreal and unbelievable. If I did not see the telltale tattoos marking the area of radiation or pop a white pill daily, I would not know I have traveled the road to breast cancer survivorship. I do know there is healing, there is hope and there is wellness.

It is time to break my silence and publically share my story of the reality of breast cancer in our community. Every year over 200 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Larimer County and your Mayor is one of them. It is very real. It is very personal.

If I could place a road sign along the path of each woman’s road to continued health and wellness, the message would flash in neon pink: Take the time to have your annual breast screening!

Karen is having fun in her JM Collection floral on black tunic with sparkling rhinestone neckline, $64, worn over flattering

black Style & Co palazzo pants, $56. Snazzy Guess stretch rhine-stone bracelet, $35, Alfani drop rhinestone and jet earrings,

$22, and Style & Co. black rhinestone accented ballet flats, $49, add the shine. Courtesy of Macy’s Fort Collins.


Marti is ready to dance in the rain in her JM Collection water resistant royal blue jacket, $84.50, topping Style & Co. pocket gray tee, $15, and indigo stretch crop

jean, $30. Fuchsia scarf with sequins, $27, multi colored glass rope necklace, $32, and gold drop earrings, $20, from Style & Co. Propose Pixie Clarks fuchsia

flats, $80. Courtesy of Macy’s Fort Collins.

Teri feels the music in her smart art deco brightly colored ¾ sleeve tunic, $25, worn over black stretch evening palazzo pants, $37. Teal crinkle scarf, $18, drop circle silver earrings, $14, and geometric silver bracelet, $15, add the finishing touch. Courtesy of Madd Style, Fort Collins.

MARTI KUNTERIt was November 23, 2010. My life changed forever on that day. That was the day that I had

a biopsy for breast cancer. The verdict was in: invasive ductile carcinoma. My world became a blur of tears, fear, anxiety, disbelief and doubt. Two surgeries followed. Those days and many afterward are just vague memories of fear, pain and questions. I completed radiation and was finished with the active treatment of the disease. I have the greatest admiration, gratitude and thankfulness toward the medical staff that helped me and still does. The doctors and their staff are truly invested in making you well.

There, I was a cured cancer patient called survivor. Now I begin the period in my life of heal-ing my soul. Cancer is such a threatening and fearful disease. Breast cancer not only attacked my body but also my soul. Many times my journey with cancer was a very rough road. The fatigue, the soreness of the incisions and radiation were almost overwhelming. The inhibitor drug I take daily has side effects that are noteworthy and more manageable some days than others. My determination to conquer cancer gets more purposeful daily. Even on the days

TERI OLSONThe impact of cancer really began for me in 2004 when my oldest stepdaughter was

diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma. Over the ensuing three years, she exemplified grace during a battle with a painful and disfiguring disease. Her ability to embrace life, how she treasured her family and the enthusiasm with which she greeted each new day challenged each of us. The question crossed my mind more than once, how would I react if I were in Lisa’s shoes? Little did I know, it wouldn’t be long before I found out.

On February 8, 2010, I began my own cancer journey. On that day I had what I assumed was a routine annual mammogram from which a small suspicious area was noted. A diagnostic mammogram followed on February 10, then a biopsy on February 15. On Feb-ruary 17, my family doctor called instead of the nurse and I knew the verdict before she told me. I had breast cancer. While my head was spinning, I was more concerned about my husband. He had been through so much with his daughter’s battle with cancer that I didn’t want him to think we were headed down that same path again, so I played down the seriousness of the diagnosis. I did such a good job that he wasn’t quite sure how to respond to the diagnosis or treatment plan. My stoic efforts came undone when one day

CONT. TO PG 56

CONT. TO PG 57

47Style 2014

HEATHER COLEMANWhen I found a lump in my breast in November 2009, I was 31, had

no family history and I let the Internet convince me it wasn’t cancer, so I put off having it checked. My then boyfriend (now husband) Bill and I were in the process of buying our first home so I reasoned that I had other things to worry about. When I finally decided to have it checked months later, my doctor indicated that it was probably nothing based on my age but that I should have an ultrasound to be sure. As soon as the technician finished the ultrasound the radiologist told me it looked concerning and he was pretty sure it was cancer. One of the radiologist’s first questions for me was, “Do you have family around?” He mentioned that I was in for a long, tough battle and he wanted to make sure I wouldn’t be doing it alone. Because all of my family was at least 1,000 miles away at the time (New Hampshire and California), I responded, “No, but I have an amaz-ing group of close friends,” who I knew would support me through this.

Following my Stage 3 diagnosis in March 2010, the battle consumed my life for an entire year. It was a myriad of appointments, surgery, chemo, physical therapy, Herceptin, radiation and, finally, Tamoxifen. From the beginning, I focused on being positive and knowing that I would beat this. I refused to be sick and I wasn’t. I was able to work through the whole process, which provided a nice escape from treatment. I could not have asked for a better team of doctors to guide me through this crazy process. I truly believe I owe my life to Dr. Medgyesy, Dr. Dickinson, Dr. Lisella and Dr. Gonyon, as well as all the amazing nurses, especially Karen. When I finished active treatment, I was actually sad that I would no longer see the amazing medical staff every week.

Bill was there for me every step of the way. We both work for First National Bank and we have a very supportive and accommodating man-agement that allowed Bill to be at every one of my appointments and treatments. I can’t imagine having gone through this without him. He was my hairstylist when I couldn’t raise my arms high enough to do my own hair. He was my chef, making sure I wasn’t putting anything bad into my body, because that’s how he could make a difference. Of course, he was also my chauffeur and note-taker, when needed, for each of my 137 appointments. Most importantly, he was my rock, he let me cry when I needed to, he reminded me to be positive if I forgot, he made me get off the couch when I was feeling lazy and he loved me through all of it includ-ing the baldness, drains, hot flashes and the rest of the not so pleasant stuff that comes along with cancer and treatment.

My family was also hugely supportive even though they were so far away. My mom spent so much time in Colorado in 2010 that she even joked about buying a house in our neighborhood. This was also when I realized I was truly part of Bill’s family; they were so supportive and caring through my journey. My friends, just as I expected, were there for me throughout the whole process, too. At the very beginning I invited all my close friends over for a game night so that I could tell them about my diagnosis in person. They expected that Bill and I were going to announce

Heather is sophisticated in her figure flattering lace overlay with key-hole open back cocktail dress in charcoal gray, with

black and pink ribbon tie at the waist, $204. Crystal bead and pearl necklace, and matching earring set $60. Courtesy of Dora

Grace, Fort Collins.

CONT. TO PG 58


Dianne keeps time to the music in her novelty foiled metallic gold and blue jacket, $129, worn over gold metallic tank, $45, and indigo brushed denim slimming tapered leg ankle pants,

$99. Paige single strand long necklace, $45, layers with an illu-sion necklace, $45, and coordinates with hoop earrings, $20.

Courtesy of Chico’s, Fort Collins.

Sarah struts her sassy style in her Free People heather and dark blue cowl sweater, $78, worn over flattering Not Your Daughters blue legging jeans, $110. Silver chain necklace, $22, chunky silver and black leather necklace, $35, silver bead brace-let, $12, and silver chain earrings, $12, finish the look. Courtesy of Cloz to Home, Loveland.

DIANNE COLEJune 14, 2011, was my first day as a breast cancer survivor. I discovered a lump in my left breast

during a self-exam. My family doctor referred me to have a mammogram and ultrasound. I chose to have a lumpectomy (rather than a needle biopsy) believing that the fibrous tumor would be removed and the problem would be solved. I was shocked when the lab results confirmed cancer. My whole world stopped spinning when I heard the word, cancer. Luckily, my children, Todd and Happy, were with me for every appointment and procedure, listening, advocating, encouraging, crying and laughing with me. Their love and support is a blessing that cannot be described.

Initially, I told no one except my Mom and my children. I think I believed that if I didn't tell anyone or say it out loud, maybe it was not true. My mom, Kathleen Davis, is a 23-year breast cancer survivor and is a great role model for this wild ride. She lives near me and has always been available to care for and encourage me. I did not ever believe I would die, but I was terrified of the unknown. Everyday, something would make me cry. It didn't matter if they were happy tears or sad. And everyday something would make me laugh. Humor helped save my life. I still cry at the drop of a hat, but that may be because I am living with a greater sense of presence. I just

SARAH PERKINSMy cancer story is really a story about thankfulness. Above all, I am thankful

for the 19 years I have enjoyed since my diagnosis. But during those 19 years, and especially during the time following my diagnosis, I have had many blessings to be thankful for.

When I first felt the lump in my breast I really wasn’t worried. I figured it was a cyst, no big deal. I followed through with a visit to my doctor, and then to the surgeon she recommended. It wasn’t until he tried to aspirate the cyst without success that I thought maybe I should be concerned. The next step was a biopsy, done under anesthesia. When I woke up, the surgeon told me, “I’m very sorry, the tumor was malignant.”

The following weeks were busy with surgery, tests and doctor appointments. My first visit to the oncologist overwhelmed me with information—it was a fast growing tumor, four positive lymph nodes, Stage 3A, double negative. He described an experimental treatment done through the University of Colorado. I so clearly remember him telling me, “If you were my daughter, I would recommend this

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49Style 2014

KATE MCMILLENMy journey has been a bit longer than most, and 2013

was a very tough year. In February 2013, I lost my best friend and lover of six years at age 52 to a staph infec-tion that took over his body. Then in April 2013, my boss called me into his office to tell me I was not being rehired at my teaching position, more than likely due to my 27 years of teaching that made me a high-priced teacher. As if this was not enough, another challenge entered my path. On June 1, 2013, I had a massive right brain stroke. Lucky to be alive and having very few residual effects, I was so grateful for the skill and expertise of a wonderful surgeon St. Anthony’s Central Trauma Center in Lakewood. I was grateful to be recovering from the stroke.

I have two wonderful sisters, Margaret and Cory, who live in my home state of Pennsylvania. Cory surprised me with a ticket to fly back home to be with the family for Christmas. I was so excited. I missed everyone so much. All was good until just before I left I felt hardness in my left breast. I immediately did a breast exam and discovered a large mass. I remember looking upward and saying, “Really?” I knew in my heart it was cancer. There is a saying that bad things happen in three’s, well this was my fourth strike!

So I went to Pennsylvania for 10 days and told no one until I could tell both of my sisters together. My mother survived breast cancer at 55 in her right breast and lived to be 90. Cory was diagnosed two years ago in her right breast and because of our history she had a double mastectomy and is doing well today. Do we see a pattern here?

I came back to Fort Collins and called Dr. Hayes, my gynecologist. I was sent for an ultrasound biopsy and to see Dr. Anne Kanard. I was diagnosed with Invasive Mammary Carcinoma (ductal) breast cancer on Janu-ary 29, 2014. As I said before, I was not surprised the diagnosis was cancer; I just hoped it wasn’t. I felt like, “Okay, this is just one more thing! God is trying to tell me something.” I was scared but I knew in my heart that I could beat this. I was tested for the BRAC1 gene and was negative.

My sister could not come out to help because she broke her femur bone in three places while on a trip

Kate is ready for a night on the town in her flirty black SL Fashions mini sheath with layered fringe and bolero jacket

with bead accent, $129. Courtesy David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.

CONT. TO PG 58


Monica sports her sassy style in a royal blue poly spandex fit and flare mini dress from Eight Sixty, $108. Triple strand tri

color necklace, $24, and matching earrings, $6, add a splash of color. Courtesy of Magnolia Moon, Fort Collins.

Bev is ready for the evening in her dazzling JM Collection geo-pop royal blue and purple tunic top, $47, over Style & Co comfort black palazzo pants, $56. Royal blue drop earrings from 2028, $18, Charter Club Greek Key royal bracelet, $24. Charter Club silver stretch bracelet, $24, and M. Haskell royal blue brace-let, $28.50. Style & Co. black ballet flat with rhinestones, $49, and silver sequin clutch, $27. Courtesy of Macy’s, Fort Collins.

MONICA POLLENIn December 2002, I was diagnosed with melanoma cancer. In December 2003, I was

diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and in December 2013, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Needless to say December is not my favorite month.

In November 2013, I went in for my annual breast exam, thinking nothing of it (it was November) when the doctor said she felt a mass and wanted me to have a mammogram. A week later—after three mammograms—during what I thought to be a routine ultra sound (albeit 40 minutes), the tech excused herself. Since I have had an ultra sound of my breasts done before, I knew that the tech should be walking back in and telling me everything is fine. Instead, she said, “Monica, I brought doctor so and so in…” That’s when I got scared.

Two biopsies later (all around Thanksgiving, of course), the final results came in on December 5. I had breast cancer. So, what now? I’m a planner and needless to say breast cancer was not on the agenda for 2014. After getting a second opinion, I decided to have a double mastec-tomy. February 3, 2014, would be the surgery date. I felt very lucky that I was only going to need surgery to remove the cancer because they caught it very early on.

I was super busy the month of January. I completed a Pure Barre challenge, went to Dallas for the spring season CAbi convention, and then jetted off to Southern California to celebrate

BEV BISHOPMike, my husband, was diagnosed with a rare cancer in 2003 and started a long five-

year battle. As a caregiver, you have cancer, too. You encourage, stay positive, take notes and listen. You’re at doctor’s appointments, treatments and hospital stays—all the ups and downs. Cancer takes over your whole world. My Mike lost his battle in January 2008.

Life as I knew it then was over. A huge void hit me. Those few months were very, very hard. Slowly things were returning to somewhat normal—so I thought. My own journey started in the fall of 2013.

In October 2011, after a routine mammogram, a questionable spot was found. A biopsy was performed, but I was sure I had nothing to worry about. God doesn’t give you any more than you can handle. There is no family history. I was faithful at self-exams and yearly mammograms. I was sure it was nothing so I was going to go to my doctor’s appointment alone. Bless my daughters; Kim and Karrie met to support me. Thank God they did. We just melted into tears. This couldn’t be happening to our family again. Before we left the office, Kim, who worked at the Cancer Center, called them and we went right there. Things were moving very fast. I met with Dr. Sorensen; he recommended a surgeon and we went

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51Style 2014

52 LAURIE WHITTEN BOWERSI don’t often celebrate birthdays. However, the prior five years had

been pretty rough, so last year I decided I would. If I was going to celebrate it, I was going to do it right. It was my 40th birthday after all. I flew to L.A. for the week and spent my birthday at Disneyland. The post on my Facebook page read “40 is the new 30! Start of a new and much better decade! I can’t wait!”

I was diagnosed with cancer within two months of that post.My cancer journey started in my bed one night. As I did every

night, I laid down on my side with arm under my head. That night, I felt a large lump under my breast. I truly thought that it was one of my dog’s toy balls was underneath me. I reached down to pull it out and realized that it wasn’t a toy; it was a large lump in my breast. One I had never felt in that position until that night.

Until the day I was diagnosed—throughout all of these happen-ings—I held out some minor hope. My lump hurt. It was very painful, actually. Everyone kept telling me, over and over that if it hurts is isn’t cancer. It also was not a “lump” per se. It was more of a large mass; another reason everyone also kept telling me meant it wasn’t cancer. I can’t tell you how many times my friends told me those things. I wanted so much to believe them. Of course, they were wrong.

But as much I wanted to believe them, I just knew. From the minute I reached under my breast and didn’t find my dog’s play ball, I knew exactly what was going on. That is why I was not surprised when the actual notification came. I received my diagnosis over the telephone. It was more of a relief, a confirmation, to hear it at that point. How-ever, that doesn’t mean that it made it any easier to hear. Hearing the words, “It is cancer,” is a world-changer. I didn’t have time to process; I was on my way out the door to my surgeon’s appointment.

When I think about my cancer diagnosis, what I really remember is hearing the words “you have cancer,” then walking back into my home after that appointment. I remember walking through each room on the way to my bedroom and thinking, “I have all of these things. I am surrounded by nice things for which I’ve worked a hor-ribly stressful job that required me to travel almost constantly. And they don’t mean anything. I want my time back; I want to spend it with my 12-year-old daughter, instead of surrounding myself with material things.”

I had Stage 3 Invasive Lobular Carcinoma, which was also in my lymph nodes. I saw it as something inside of me that was just going

Laurie is celebrating life dancing in her dressy A-line short beige cocktail dress with black lace overlay, ribbon tie and

tulle hem from Betsy & Adam, $159. DB Studio black plume headband, $10, adds a playful touch. Courtesy of David’s

Bridal, Fort Collins.

CONT. TO PG 60


53Andrea celebrates in her sexy plum strapless gown with feminine hi-low chiffon overskirt, $149. Courtesy of David’s Bridal, Fort Collins.

Sarah flows to the music in her feminine coral halter styled chiffon cock-tail dress with twist waist detail, $200. Chandelier rhinestone earrings, $40, add sparkle. Courtesy of Dora Grace, Fort Collins.

ANDREA HARDYWhere do you think you’ll be when you get a call that will forever change your

life? For me, it was the Albertson’s parking lot. I was trying to get groceries before a predicted “Snowmageddon” blizzard when my doctor’s office called with the news. To be honest, I knew in my gut what he would say well before that fated day—March 8, 2013. I knew as soon as I felt the lumps in my breast and lymph node that something was terribly wrong. I was just 38 years old with no history of breast cancer in my family, and now here I was, facing Stage 3 HER2+ breast cancer. Somehow I still had to pull myself together and pick up groceries that afternoon. I am sure I looked like a crazed maniac, throwing things in my shopping basket, thinking of ways to tell my husband and son I had cancer. There is no good or kind way to break that news to someone you love, especially your 6 year old.

When I think about my journey now, the word that comes to mind is “gift.” Not the word that most people think of, right? Sure, I was tired, nauseated, bloated and all those other things you feel when you’re being pumped full of poison and steroids every week. It wasn’t easy working full time during 20 rounds of chemo, 25 rounds of radiation and recovery from a mastectomy that had some complications. I learned things about myself, my husband, my family and my friends that I wouldn’t have known had

SARAH CATLINI was diagnosed with breast cancer on April 2, 2013, two months before my

wedding day. I felt a lump in my right breast and immediately went to the doctor. One of my best friends had breast cancer already, so I knew it could happen when you are young. I never imagined each of us would be diagnosed when we were both 31 years old. My diagnosis was Stage 1, Grade 3.

I met with Dr. Medgyesy (my oncologist) and Dr. Dickinson (my surgeon) and we made a game plan. They are both the most amazing doctors. I would do chemotherapy first then have a bilateral mastectomy. I would do one drug combination every two weeks for eight weeks followed by another combination once a week for 12 weeks.

Dr. Medgyesy worked my chemotherapy treatments around the wedding so I would feel good on the wedding day. I didn’t want to change anything for the wedding since it was something positive to focus on during treatment. When I lost my hair, I purchased a great wig that we colored to match my original hair and found an incredible stylist who styled the wig perfectly on the wedding day so you couldn’t even tell in the wedding pictures that it wasn’t my natural hair. The wedding was wonderful and I married the most amazing, supportive man who has helped me through every twist, turn and emotion during this process. Wedding planning can be stressful even without a cancer diagnosis so we had quite the wedding experience. Soon after the wedding I had an ultrasound to measure the size of the tumor, which had shrunk (I couldn’t even feel it anymore). That was great news but by the time I

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53Style 2014

to a double mastectomy, or just do the double mastectomy and lower my chances of developing breast cancer since I was high risk.

After discussing my options with my husband, John, and my doctors, I chose to go the route of the double mastectomy. This decision was not made easily. It was going to be a big change not only physically, but little did I know, mentally. It took me a very long time to tell anyone I was doing this. I didn’t even want to have anyone ask me questions or try to explain why I was doing this when I wasn’t even diagnosed with cancer. I kept questioning myself, “Am I really making the right decision for me?” Dr. Dickinson performed my surgery January 2013. The tissue was sent off and came back positive for cancer. I was pretty shocked and scared now. This diagnosis involved four more surgeries and reconstruc-tion with Dr. Tsoi to get rid of the cancer that was silently lurking within me. By taking these aggressive steps, I was fortunate enough not to have to go through chemo, radiation or any other treatments, and we got it before it spread to any of my lymph nodes. Four months after my diagnosis, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, which was caught early enough to do minimal treatment and she is cancer free as well. This just reaffirmed that the decision I had made was the best one. Who knows where I would be today if none of this would have happened and the cancer was not discovered until much later? God was definitely watching out for my mother and me.

I think about how lucky I am every single day and how important my family, friends and the enjoyment of the simple things in life should be. I love the saying, “Take each other for better or worse, but NEVER for granted,” because a life can certainly change in an instant! Thankfully, the recent change that happened in my life turned out well. I cannot say enough “I love you and thank yous” to every single person (I hope you know who you are) that was there for me, showing me their support and helping me through this part of my life.

STEPHANIE MCCORMICK CONT. FROM PG 42

HILLARY SIEBELS CONT. FROM PG 43

BEVERLY GARBER MCKENZIE CONT. FROM PG 43

At this point, the family got involved with a genetic study at Creighton University where they studied our family’s DNA, searching for the BRAC 1 and 2 genes that are linked to breast cancer. All four sisters were found to be BRAC 1 positive, which meant that each of their offspring had a 50/50 chance of being positive. I found out I was positive with BRAC 1 in 2005. I was 26.

I experienced a lot of fear and confusion in those first years after diagnosis. I knew I was positive, but didn’t know what to do and was terrified that my insurance would be dropped. After the passing of the Affordable Care Act with its provision that insurance companies could not deny coverage for preexisting condi-tions, I went to a genetic counselor. She was kind, but stern. She informed me that women with the gene had an 87 percent chance of developing breast cancer against the 8 percent

chance for the general population, and a 45 percent chance of ovarian cancer against the less than 1 percent chance for the general population. For me, breast cancer wasn't a matter of if; it was a matter of when.

The stars aligned in 2013. My significant other was aware of my risks and wanted to support me in any way he could. I had sold my house, which set me on a good financial path. I had also begun having issues with polyps and cysts rupturing on my ovaries. Month after month I was experiencing an unbelievable amount of pain. I think it was the universe attempting to wake me up and tell me the time was now. That July, at 34, I elected to have a full hysterectomy. I forfeited my ability to bear children and had to come to terms with early onset menopause. I was removing parts that some people viewed as my womanhood. These were not easy decisions—they were very personal—but I felt they were necessary to my survival. I went through an unexpected grieving process, mourning the loss of my ability to have children even though I had set this idea aside years ago when I realized I couldn’t knowingly take the chance I would pass this gene to my offspring. It was a hard surgery and came with complications, but with the support of my loved ones I made it through and dramatically reduced my risk for ovarian cancer.

January 2014 came quickly and once I recov-ered from the hysterectomy, I would move for-ward with preventative mastectomies. February 11 was the day of my surgery. I would be out of work through March but back by mid-April, just in time to take my veteran staff on a weeklong trip to Italy to visit wineries and tour the coun-try. The plan was that I would work for a few months while my tissue expanders were filled, and then be off for the month of July after my final implant surgery. Then I could finally say, "Kiss my ass, cancer! I beat you to the punch!"

Unfortunately, I received a call from my surgeon on Valentine's Day that changed my well-made plans. They had sent my breast tissue to the lab for testing and found a ½-inch tumor in my left breast. I remember screaming, "Goddamnit," and starting to cry. My mother came running. I looked at her and said, "They found cancer." The doctor was still talking, but I couldn't hear anything he said. I passed the phone to her and continued to sob. The rest of that day is completely wiped from my memory.

The next month was a whirlwind of appoint-ments followed by agonizing waits: waiting for a plan, waiting to know if it had spread to my lymph nodes, waiting to know if this was going to kill me. It was torture. All I wanted was for a plan to be decided upon so I could move on with my life.

It was decided I would undergo one more surgery to remove lymph nodes to determine if the cancer has spread. This surgery scared me more than the previous two. I was terrified of lymphedema; I had seen my mother and aunt grapple with its debilitating side effects. Days after the surgery I was called into the doctor’s office to get the results. They had removed 13 lymph nodes of which one was affected. The doctor went on to say how fortunate I was.

However, that one lymph node confirmed that this was a fast-growing and aggressive cancer.

The anger quickly faded and I decided to face cancer head on. I was 35 years old. I had my entire life to look forward to. Although I had elected to do the surgeries preventatively so that I wouldn’t have to deal with cancer, life had a different plan for me. My diagnosis with breast cancer left me with two choices: I could feel sorry for myself, as if I was a victim. Or I could face the facts and face this head on, with bravery, courage, humor and an optimistic attitude.

Don’t get me wrong, there are moments when I am sad or frustrated, but a victim I am not. No one deserves cancer. And it’s true; it’s not fair, but cancer happens. I was not the first woman to go through breast cancer and I will not be the last. However, facing my gene head on allowed me to make some drastic and dif-ficult decisions and, although those decisions did not prevent my breast cancer, they did save my life and for that I am grateful. I hope by sharing my story, it gives other women with a strong family history or the BRACC genes the motivation to be proactive and realize that time is of the essence in order to prevent cancer and quite possibly save their life, too.

I had a normal diagnostic mammogram but the ultrasound was positive for a mass. The biopsy was positive. The day before Good Friday I got the call. YOU HAVE CANCER. I was in Wisconsin visiting Rich. It felt like a train ran me over. We cried, talked a lot and slept very little. What would this do to my new relationship, my daughters, how would I keep working? It was like a machine gun firing questions at me like bullets.

Being at high risk, I tested for the BRCA and was terrified for two weeks waiting for results, not knowing if it would be a lumpectomy or bilateral mastectomy. The BRCA came back negative and I was so grateful—relieved more for my girls than myself. I had a lumpectomy. The biopsy of the two lymph nodes came back, one positive and one negative. That meant I needed chemo. Oh my God, could someone stop this carnival ride? I just need to have my strength back; I wanted to be back to normal.

As much as I didn't appreciate the pain, the most difficult part was the wait—for ultrasound results, BRCA results, biopsy results, pathology results and lymph node pathology. I am not good at waiting. I am impatient. I already felt this cancer had taken complete control of my life. I actually had to run my espresso and bakery business around the schedule cancer signed me up for. The anxiety of the wait was the worst part.

The chemotherapy started on June 10. It seemed pretty easy—the first three rounds, anyways. I opted for every other week chemo with Neulasta injections. I would not have to lose my hair, which was a huge fear of mine. Today I am heading toward round five of eight. This last one kicked my butt. When you think about how toxic chemo is, it makes me chuckle as it negates all of those organic veggies I have been buying. It is difficult to accept the fact that


www.kp.org/colorado

something meant to save your life is taking away so much of your life at the same time—your freedom, summer fun, energy, laughter, healthy cells and immune system. The fatigue at times is unbearable. I questioned why I spent 59 years trying to be healthy. I didn't like that the nurses dressed from head to toe to protect them from the poison they were running thru my veins. After my chemo, I will receive 33 radiation blasts and oral meds for 10 years.

But as they say, stay strong and don't give up. I am still early enough in this battle to be humbled by the whole experience. I am reminded to stay positive and kick cancer’s butt. I admit I asked, "Why me?" but I have realized that is an empty and selfish way to feel. I have learned from this experience that the world is full of great people. I have learned to be myself, to stand up for myself and that life isn't all about work. There is a huge world to see and I need to figure out how to see it all. I am journeying into a whole new life starting at 59. Material things are not as important now.

Friends, family, the offers for help, meals, rides, etc. is amazing. My long-distance boy-friend continues to be by my side with hours of phone time, through the ups and downs. One of my daughters is running the company; one daughter sits with me during chemo and the daughter who lives with me has to deal with me on the bad days.

Today I was pampered, spoiled and I laughed for about six hours while modeling for Hope Lives and the breast cancer edition of Style Magazine. I have never met such an amazing group of women from all walks of life. The volunteers are amazing. Lydia is exception-ally warm and gracious. The conversations flowed so easily. They were all willing to share their experiences while dancing and having pictures taken.

I have never known how to slow down and smell the roses. I am learning how to now. It is baby steps—I have a long way to go but the journey I am on will be fought with everything I have in me. I am strong, I am loved and I will try to enjoy every breath I take for the rest of my life.

CAROL LOPEZ CONT. FROM PG 44

ECHO STRONG CONT. FROM PG 45

cancer a year after my diagnosis, so I know both sides of dealing with cancer and it gives me a different perspective. My gift from this experience is to help others through their cancer journeys. My poor boys had to deal with both their parents having cancer and losing their paternal grandmother to lung cancer. I wished someone would’ve suggested counseling for them. We talked to them about our cancers but I think they wanted to be strong for us and didn’t express their fears, so I think talking to someone out-side the family would have been beneficial.

For someone newly diagnosed, don’t compare your story to anyone else’s, just use him or her as inspiration. Everyone has his or her own personal story and there is no right or wrong way to handle this thing called cancer.

the world to me. And Monique, I couldn’t have done this without you. Loving you.

We are lucky enough to live in Northern Colorado, where excellent care is available. I was fortunate enough to be referred to a great group of doctors who include Dr. Medgyesy, Dr. Pettine, Dr. Tsoi and Dr. Petit. I am so grateful for all of you. A million thank yous to you all for the wonderful care you and your staff provide. My radiation techs were so kind and my chemo nurses—Cathy, Kate, Karen, Janeane and Anna—you lovely ladies are angels here on earth.

This was a defining moment in my life but not one I’m going to let define me. I’m a mom to two smart, kind-hearted, beautiful children and wife to a loving, supportive, caring husband. Thank you, Robin, Cooper and Reese for being so brave, having the courage to go on this journey with me and letting me draw strength from you during this time. I love you all more than you know. You make my heart smile.

With all I learned over the past year, what I want to remember the most is to keep perspective on what is important in my life and to be there for others. A friend of mine sent this to me in the very beginning and I try to remember this: Take it one day at a time, be kinder than necessary, everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle, live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and pray continually. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” So let’s dance!

MONIQUE OSTERFELT CONT. FROM PG 45

MARTI KUNTER CONT. FROM PG 47

I made decisions for my treatment and myself. Even though only one of my breasts had cancer, I elected to have a double mastectomy. I had two of the most amazing doctors, Dr. Dickinson and Dr. Boustred, who performed my surgery. So thankful for them and their expertise! It was then I found out I had Stage 2B breast cancer. My amazing oncologist, Dr. Medgyesy, designed my chemotherapy plan that included 20 weeks of chemo. I am so thankful for her and the wonderful nurses that took such expert and loving care of me during that part of my journey. Each person worked to make any side effects I might encounter more tolerable. After chemo, I had 28 days of radiation therapy from Dr. Petit. Yet another amazing doctor and staff that took such gentle care of me during that part of my treatment. Thank you to each and every one of you! You've blessed me in more ways than I can communicate and I am forever grateful for you.

It’s important for me to also mention the people who were on the other side of my journey, my family and friends. In trying to write my story, I find it hard to encompass

how each person has touched my life during this journey. It is a challenge to express how thankful I am for every act of kindness that was bestowed on to me. If someone can have a good experience going through breast cancer, I must be that person because both my family and friends continually lifted me up throughout my experience.

First of all, I am grateful for my family. Having two parents that would do anything for you is a tremendous blessing! Having a sister who would buzz your hair before it falls out was a moment I will treasure forever. I have a very loving husband who was my rock. He let me have my moments of doubt and rebound a second later, thinking I could conquer the world. He weathered this journey with me and I feel so thankful I could rely on him. My two daughters are amazing and took such good care of me. There were times this last year that I wondered if they should be taking care of me—I’m their mother after all—and my job is to do that for them. Still, my daughter Lindsey would empty my drains after my surgery and re-dress my bandages for me. My daughter, Lorien, would lay my head in her lap and massage me whispering, “You are precious,” in my ear when I was tired. I am humbled by their show of love for me!

Second of all, I am grateful for my friends. I am fortunate to work at The Youth Clinic as a registered nurse and to have such amazing friends there! It’s not very common for your place of business to rally such a show of sup-port, from the doctors to the business office, and all of the ladies I work with on the floor; I have never felt such affirmation. I am grateful to have been able to keep working in a safe environment during my fight against cancer. I remember telling them I could physically feel all of the prayers everyone was sending to God. Thank you for your unconditional love and support! I am truly blessed!

And finally, I have a special friend who joined me in this journey finding out her diagnosis just a month after mine. What a comfort to have her to lean on, to laugh with, to cry with, to be bald with! She echoed her strength and love to me throughout this entire journey!

This last year has been an amazing one! I will cherish all of these memories for a lifetime!

that I wonder why I do this, I am committed to complete the treatment. My faith has a new role in my life. I look at my family, my friends and those I meet in a whole new way. I am forever thankful to my husband, Larry, my daughters, Victoria and Charity, and their families, our friends and our church for their care—just being there, their encouragement and the many prayers. I have grandchildren who are teaching me anew about the simple joys in life: a pile of sand, a stick, a water puddle and the wonderful glow of Christmas lights. I am in process of reshaping my life to appreciate things that God has given me. I have had a new relationship with my God and Savior. Daily I thank the Lord for the life I have. I am learning that quality of life is a greater

I don’t know what tomorrow will bring so I try to live each day to the fullest, tell people how I feel about them and laugh a lot.


57

TERI OLSON CONT. FROM PG 47

priority than length of life—even though the prognosis is a long life. The new song from the Newsboys, “I want to live with abandon,” is where I am. The freedom to enjoy life to the fullest, like in the movie Frozen, “Let It Go!”

The opportunity to be a part of Hope Lives is a wonderful, magical and almost princess-like experience. I deeply hope that my being involved in this grand Gala will enable me to speak to others about breast cancer and to encourage women and men to get themselves checked, and be habitual about their own health. I want to encourage those who have breast cancer or are in treatment to reach out to get help including meals, someone to talk to, a clean house, prayer, transportation and encouragement.

My life has been permanently changed. The tears come quickly on many occasions: hear-ing my husband say he loves me, my daugh-ters calling me on the phone saying they just wanted to chat, the joy that my grandchildren give us is what I value most. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of life.

he left the house without kissing me goodbye, which he seldom does. I chased him down the stairs and dissolved in tears as I told him I really needed him to be by my side through whatever the future held. That cleared the air and opened the door for him to be my comforter.

We had a trip to Germany planned in June to celebrate our 25th anniversary so I had a bit of a timeline. After I saw Dr. Medgyesy, I made an appointment with Dr. Chiavetta to do the lumpectomy (partial mastectomy sounds much more severe). I went to his office, planner in hand, to discuss my options. My surgery was March 22 and I saw Dr. Petit on March 25, again with planner in hand. Dr. Petit was (and is) amazing! He acted like I was his only patient and took all the time I needed to answer my questions and be sure I understood all my options. My first question was, did I really need the radiation because it was such a “little” cancer? He said I could choose not to, but his gut said I should. Rather reluctantly, I decided to go with his gut so then we looked at timelines. My radiation treatments would be done the day before we left for Germany. He thought I might be too tired so he suggested I try a shorter version tried in Europe with good results. The last week had longer, stronger treatment times, but he felt it would work. I said I really could deal with the tiredness—or even give up the trip for my health’s sake. He said that wasn’t necessary, so we made our plans.

I started radiation on May 4 and was done June 1. Dr. Petit’s recommendation was to do my usual schedule as much as possible so I did. Most people didn’t even know I was going through treatment. Friends and family were so supportive. I feel I breezed through it. I took my vitamins and I prayed through every treatment from start to finish. I asked God for the radiation to do its job, but not harm any organs.

I feel richly blessed. On my last day of treat-ment, Dr. Petit told me I was done with this

57Style 2014

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58cancer—to go live my life looking forward. I am attempting to do just that. God has given me one life to live and I want to live it to the fullest. I have asked God for wisdom to know His plan for me related to this breast cancer experience. So far it has been to quietly help others who have also been diagnosed. Being a part of Hope Lives gives me an opportunity to touch others in other ways—to give hope. We all navigate our paths a little differently, but we who have gone before can help with information and love to give others hope that they, too, can come through this and thrive.

HEATHER COLEMAN CONT. FROM PG 48

that we were engaged. Unfortunately, that was not the news I shared that night, but they handled it amazingly. However, to this day our group of friends is still skeptical when someone suggests a game night.

The breast cancer experience has been the most scary and amazing time in my life. I knew I was loved, but I had no idea how much. People I hadn’t spoken to in years wrote to me to tell me they were thinking of me and sending me their love. Even random strangers would hug me or tell me I was beautiful or give me a coupon for a free drink on an airplane. It was eye opening to see life from such a different perspective, and see how much people care, even strangers. I didn’t understand at the beginning how much breast cancer would change my life. But, it did change my life in ways I never expected. It showed me just how tough, focused and deeply determined I can be. I now try to approach every goal I set for myself in life with the same determination I had for beating cancer—there’s nothing I can’t do!

DIANNE COLE CONT. FROM PG 49

SARAH PERKINS CONT. FROM PG 49

KATE MCMILLEN CONT. FROM PG 50

wipe my eyes and carry on.After research, I formed my perfect medical

team: oncologist Dr. Anne Kanard, radiation oncologist Dr. Josh Pettit and plastic surgeon Dr. Denis Gonyon. The time had come to stop stalling and go forward. Cancer was real, even if I didn’t say it out loud. I chose to have a bilateral mastectomy by Dr. Michael Peetz in August 2011 with reconstruction at a later date. The lab results confirmed Stage 3 cancer with one lymph node affected.

I had four months of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation. I developed lymphedema in my right arm. Jeff Eagan, oncology physical therapist, set me up with an exercise program to keep me focused and healthy during my treatments. Exercise and attitude were key to my successful treatment plan. I am very grateful for the acupuncture sessions with Gary Liscum provided by Hope Lives.

Besides the hair loss, fear, sickness and other expected side effects of cancer treatments, I encountered some very unexpected challenges. As women, we are accustomed to being the caregivers and nurturers. We are the ones that DO. Suddenly, I was on the opposite side of that fence. I was the receiver of help rather than

the giver. It was very hard for me to accept. I felt helpless, weakened and demoralized. Patti Friedland, from the Patient Navigators, and Marianne Pearson, oncology social worker, helped me through this giant emotional hurdle and many other challenges.

Cancer is one of life’s greatest challenges, with blessings in disguise. I have been cared for by so many wonderful professionals. The survivors, the facilitators and speakers who attend the Breast Cancer Support Group at UCHealth Cancer Center provide strength, information and inspiration. During my treat-ments, I was like a sponge at these meetings, soaking up all of the experiences of my sisters. Now I attend hoping I can be a survivor who supports others. The journey is never over, but the road gets easier. The Survivorship classes at the hospital helped remind me that cancer is what I had, not who I am. Last year I attended the Courageous Women, Fearless Living retreat at Shambhala Mountain Center. I met and made friends with women from across the nation in an environment that supports and empowers women touched by cancer.

I have amazing friends, neighbors and family. My family—Keegan, Ainslee, Sage, Kaia, Teresa, Lance and David—are always near to cheer me on. My best friend, Barb, was my “normal” friend, reminding me of the person I am beyond my diagnosis. Friends and family told me how beautiful I was every time they saw me, even bald. Friends sent funny hats and cheerful flow-ers; neighbors brought me food and cleaned the snow from my driveway. People, both near and far, gave me encouragement, positive thoughts and prayers. The universe has been very good to me.

Now I am a 3+ year survivor. Every day, I get stronger and healthier. I am more aware of each precious day. I have made many new friends. I trust and listen to my intuition more. I am less critical, especially of myself. I am more grateful. I laugh more. I still cry. I live more. I try more new things. I survived cancer. If I can do that, I can do anything!

treatment.” I followed his advice and began the chemotherapy leading up to a stem cell transplant at CU.

This is when the blessings began pouring in. In addition to the constant prayer from my church family, my friends organized meals for chemo days. They came and cleaned our apartment. They drove me to appointments. They bought me pretty scarves and hats. I stayed with them in Denver and they visited me in the hospital. People I didn’t know took me into their lives with hugs and hope-filled words. I was encouraged by the woman who told me many times, “Just think, by this time next year it will be all over and you will be your healthy self again!” Her words directed my focus away from the anxiety and discomfort I was feeling and onto a healthy future. Another friend wrote in a note, “During the times when you feel that you have lost faith, don’t worry, I will have faith for both of us.”

Doctors, nurses and lab techs were kind and understanding as they worked so hard to care for me during all the ups and downs of chemo. They gave their best. Although they were profes-sional, I understood that I was more than just a patient to them. I saw their emotions, and felt deeply cared for. I chose to supplement my treatment with acupuncture and Chinese herbs. The woman I saw had never had a client with breast cancer, but she searched out appropriate treatments. The herbs she gave me to support my immune system were pretty unpleasant tasting—but I stayed well through my months of chemo and low white cell counts.

My family pitched in as well. My sister in law, an RN, understood the gravity of the diagnosis. She dropped everything and flew out with her 6-month-old so that I could meet him—just in case. How wonderful that I was able to attend his high school graduation last summer! I shared my oncologist with my dad, who was being treated for a blood disorder. My husband put aside his own plans and was always at my side—chief cook and bottle washer! I think the caregivers have it the worst. My husband worried about me constantly, put up with my sick and crabby days, was always at my beck and call. I could not have survived without him.

During the difficult days of chemo, stem cell transplant and radiation, it was hard to picture the future. Cancer gave me an opportunity to learn thankfulness. Nineteen years later, I am still grateful for the love and care shown to me.

to Cancun. My niece, Barb, was able to come from Seattle for the first week of chemo and has been a godsend ever since. My treatment was to be chemotherapy for four months, every other Monday, and then surgery. I had the “bad” chemo first (is there a good one?). This one kicked my butt. The third round put me in the hospital for five days. It was the only time I felt like I might die. However, that was not an option for me; I beat the stroke and I will beat this! Next, I received Taxol for two months, which was not as bad. I am happy to report that the chemo worked! My tumor is pretty much gone. I was scheduled for a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery on July 30. My surgeon was Dr. Heisel and my plastic surgeon was Dr. Boustred.

My inspiration has been my 23-year-old son, Ethan. He has been there for me every day, through all of this. This has been very rough on him and he has had to grow up a lot. He stays with me when I need someone overnight and if it weren’t for him I would not have had the procedure at St. Anthony’s. He is an amazing young man. He has been very positive through-out this journey. He works at the King Soopers on Timberline and I have to give a shout out to the staff there. They have been unbelievably supportive of both of us!

I also have had great support from my family, friends and Hope Lives. I couldn’t have gotten through this without their emotional support and rides to chemo and doctor appointments. My friends Jan, who is a nurse, and Joy really


59MONICA POLLEN CONT. FROM PG 51

helped me to keep a positive attitude with our morning talks. Facebook has kept me in touch with friends that I grew up with. One of my col-lege friends saw something I posted and got in touch with me to tell me she is a survivor. She lives in California and came to see me! We hadn’t seen each other in 10 years. My friend Jill, who I’ve known since birth, is coming from South Carolina to stay with me the week after surgery. I have two childhood friends—Marty in Denver and Jan in Vail—who came to see me after the stroke and after my diagnosis to support me.

Being the beach person that I am, I need to be near water. I have two very special friends,

Carmen and Toni, who have allowed me to be a guest at their pool for the past two sum-mers. The sun and their friendship have helped me through some very dark days.

Life is fragile and unpredictable. Having a positive attitude is everything when you go through this! Many people have asked me how I have coped with the events of the past year and I just say I don’t like the alternative. I can’t forget to mention the most important inspira-tion and that is my belief in God. My journey is not quite finished but I am confident that God has a special plan for my life; I just can’t wait to see what it is!

my Grandmother’s 80th birthday. Before I knew it, the morning of surgery had arrived. As I waved good-bye to my husband, Tom, seeing the tears swell up in his eyes broke my heart. He has been my rock through every illness and has always been so supportive. When we said our vows almost 10 years ago he really meant in sickness and in health, because he definitely drew the short end of the stick with me in the health department.

After surgery I was working from home plan-ning my CAbi season and trying to remember that I needed to take it easy, which was the hardest part for me because in my mind my journey with cancer was over, so let’s keep moving forward. When it was time for my follow up, I was not nervous because the doctors had already told me they caught the cancer super early. But instead, the doctor said that she was sorry but the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes and that I would need chemotherapy treatment. And, with the doses I would be receiving, it was certain I would lose my hair. Well that was not in the plan. I had not told my 4-year-old, Matthew, that I had breast cancer. I told him mommy had booboos and needed to heal. But chemotherapy was a whole new ball game. You don’t get to plan how you’re going to feel (and I’m a planner), or what horrible side effects you may have. It may seem trivial to some (but will make sense to all those that have experienced the side effects of chemo) that I was annoyed that I was going to lose my hair. I had just grown my hair out, had gotten beyond that awkward stage of wanting to chop it all off, and was at that glorious stage of absolutely loving it and now I was being told that I was going to lose it.

Well then, this is the hand that I was dealt

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60

so let’s plan this out. I was going to have che-motherapy treatments every 21 days for a total of four treatments. “I can do that,” I thought. I was proactive and had a “Shave Your Head” party. What could have been a somber occa-sion turned out to be an awesome day. My son told me I looked beautiful bald, so I embraced it. From that day forward, I felt empowered and liberated.

I went to my treatments, but I also went back to work. I ran a 5k (not intentionally, I was running after Matthew). I wanted to complete my 100th Pure Barre class, which I did on my last day of chemo. And, I also had the best season of my CAbi career. When you are given a cancer diagnosis you can either let cancer be your life or you can choose to live your life. No apologies here cancer, my life is not stopping for you.

I feel so blessed to have had my amazing family and friends support me through this long and sometimes difficult journey. I couldn’t have made it through this chapter of my life without them. And on June 25, 2014, I was given the news every cancer patient wants to hear. I am cancer FREE.

BEV BISHOP CONT. FROM PG 51

and set up an appointment. The surgery was successful—Stage 1, caught early. No lymph nodes were affected. My treatment included six weeks of radiation therapy. I am three and a half years into my five years of taking Arimidex. My experience seemed so easy compared to what we went through three years earlier with my husband.

I would come home from work and radia-tion treatments exhausted and take a nap. The hardest part was coming home to an empty house. I was angry that Mike wasn’t here for me, and guilty because what I was going through didn’t come close to the hell Mike went through. I had to shake those feelings and take care of me.

I couldn't have done that without the love and support of my friends and family. My kids: Jason and wife Misti, Kim and husband Kyle, Karrie and husband Bill, and Jordan and wife Tish, and my grandchildren Wyatt, Morgan, Madyson, Weston, Walker and Hallie. I love you all! Big hugs to my fantastic friends; you know who you are. A special thank you to Dr. Sorensen, and blessings to my pastor, Doug Burdette. Love and thanks everyone!

P.S. Mary K., you rock, girl! Thanks so much for making me step outside of the box! It has been an experience I will never forget. Hugs.

LAURA WHITTEN BOWERS CONT. FROM PG 52

to have to leave. No question. I will make it gone. I told my oncologist to give me everything she possibly could. I was also accepted into a clinical trial. After that first appointment discussing treatment, I told the dear friend who was at Disney with me on my 40th birthday what the oncologist said. My friend calculated out all of the treatment

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ANDREA HARDY CONT. FROM PG 53

times and schedules, and said “Well, this year will just have to be the year of cancer, then start over again on your next birthday.”

In November of last year, I had a double mastectomy, radical on one side. I then had 20 weeks of chemo. After that 28 consecutive days of radiation. I will be on a “chemo pill” medication for 10 years. I just completed my radiation early this month. Yesterday I had my final primary treatment visit with my oncologist. I will continue the clinical trial for a year. My future prognosis is hopeful. What side effects I’m continu-ing to have are being addressed and/or will diminish over time. I even received the news this morning that my cancer markers are within normal range.

Which reminds me; the year of cancer is officially over. I am typing this story on my 41st birthday. I hear 41 is the new 31! The start of a new and much better year! I can’t wait! I now know just how precious every minute of every day of that year will be. And how much I will be sure to enjoy every one of them.

we not been faced with my mortality. I learned that a sense of humor and a good belly laugh will get you through anything, even cancer. I learned that it’s okay to be a goofball, especially while hooked up to an IV pole. I learned that my faith was much stronger than I thought it was. I found the most comfort in Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Being strong and courageous wasn’t easy, but knowing I had the power to beat this beast made the journey a little easier on those bad days. I wouldn’t wish cancer on my worst enemy. But, I am so very grateful for all the blessings that have come out of those awful words no one wants to hear.

I could not have made it without my incredible group of physicians, dubbed “Team Hardy”—Dr. Brown, Dr. Pettine, Dr. Lisella and Dr. Tsoi. My clinical trial coordinator, Jenny, was an angel and walked through each step with my family and me. The nurses at the infusion center were so incredibly kind. My husband and I celebrated 10 years of marriage in the midst of this fight, and we now truly understand the meaning of “in sickness and health.” I cannot wait to see what other exciting adventures we will have together. Most importantly, I am not just a survivor—I am thriving! I feel better now than I have felt in years, and I am thankful for every single moment I have. Cancer may have tried to take me down, but it did not succeed!

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SARAH CATLIN CONT. FROM PG 53

finished the second chemotherapy I could feel the tumor again. I then had a biopsy, which showed growth and live cancer.

Because of the unexpected growth we made a new game plan. I would have a lumpectomy instead of a bilateral mastectomy so that I would have a quicker recovery and we could do additional chemotherapy and then radiation. The tumor doubled from its original size by the time I had the lumpectomy. My diagnosis was changed to Stage 2 and this is when I really learned about how aggressive my cancer was as Grade 3. Being Stage 1 originally sounded like the most positive news in this situation but the aggressive nature of the cancer had become obvious. This next chemotherapy really slowed me down. The treatments were six hours a day, five days in a row with a two-week break in between for a total of 12 weeks.

I was still able to exercise and work full time during the first two chemotherapies, even while planning a wedding. During this chemotherapy it was difficult to do simple activities. I really enjoy running and exercising so it was chal-lenging to not be active. I worked from home a lot. I work for a wonderful company and for awesome people who were supportive during the entire process. Even during the tough weeks I chose to keep a positive outlook and each day found a reason to smile. My friends were amazing during this time too, driving me to and from appointments, sitting with me during treatments, cooking us dinner and entertaining me with girls’ nights. They kept me sane! Once I got to the end of chemotherapy, Dr. Lisella (my radiation oncologist) joined my dream team trio of doctors. I had what I thought was some odd feeling scar tissue after my lumpectomy that we had to investigate before radiation. It turned out to be cancer not scar tissue. The surgeon had gotten clear margins during the lumpectomy so it was shocking to find cancer again.

The game plan took yet another turn. Local control needed to be achieved so I had a mas-tectomy on my right side. I needed the quickest recovery in order to have radiation treatment as soon as possible. Since I was run down from chemotherapy, I was not able to have a bilateral mastectomy or reconstruction surgery at that time. During radiation, I began to feel better but still had a long road ahead to regain full strength. It was a weird mix of emotions being frustrated struggling with wanting to do everything I did before while at the same time being so elated that I was feeling better.

After a full year of treatment, I finished radiation on April 25, 2014. I had made it through 36 chemotherapy treatments, nine surgical procedures, three blood transfusions and 33 days of radiation! And all during my first year of marriage! My husband and I went back to our wedding location in California in June for our one-year wedding anniversary. We had so much to celebrate! Going through the cancer journey together has made us even stronger and we now know we can face any-thing together.

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BOUNDLESS LANE HOME TRULY KNOWS NO BOUNDSBy Brad Shannon

Unique home in Timnath’s WildWing is a showstopper.

From every angle, inside and out, the Rasmussen home on Boundless Lane in Timnath’s WildWing development is impressive; and that’s just the way Margie Rasmussen wanted it. “If I don’t have it, they don’t make it,” she

notes while giving a tour of her home.From the automated gate guarding the expan-

sive driveway that leads to the front door and massive 1,900-square-foot, seven-car garage, to the lightning rods atop the concrete tile roof with copper accents, to the swimming pool and expansive views of Timnath Reservoir and the Front Range toward the west, everything about the property suggests quality and tradition. Add in five fireplaces, a wine cellar, a Control4 home automation system, a whole-house vacuum system and more, and the Rasmussen estate, which some refer to as “The Castle” because of its stonework and architectural details, sets itself apart as a jewel on the prairie.

The home is a testament to Mrs. Rasmussen’s determination to bring her dream of a large home to life, despite the health challenges she and her husband Gary have faced. The vision was to have all the amenities she and Gary could want, including conveniences that would make their golden years more comfortable and convenient. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with breast cancer during the initial stages of construction, though her treatment was success-ful. After that, Mr. Rasmussen’s failing health prevented him from moving in to share the massive layout with his wife.

“I don’t really travel much anymore, and I wanted a place where I could entertain family, have guests and be comfortable. I also wanted a place where Gary and I would have the amenities we needed to stay here as long as we could,” Rasmussen shares, and notes that she chose the walk-in bath tub and elevator between the main floor and walk-out basement with her husband in mind.

When her desire to add a pool for her hus-band to her previous home ran into resistance, she decided to start over from scratch. After procuring a one-acre waterside lot, Rasmussen selected a Donald Gardner plan of about 8,000 square feet called “Heatherstone.” She worked with Jon Rentfrow of Rentfrow Design, who purchased rights to the plan and then made some modifications, adding about 1,000 square feet to the main level and nearly 2,000 square feet to the overall plan, because, quite simply, Mrs. Rasmussen likes big houses. About 2,000 square feet, on the north and south ends of the lower level, remain unfinished.

The building process began in January 2013, and was complete in December 2013. The luxury home was built by Schroetlin Custom Homes. Mike Schroetlin, owner, and his interior designer, Shannon Carlson, worked diligently with Mrs. Rasmussen throughout the entire process, includ-ing decorating and appointing the home.

The front features modest landscaping and a bronze sculpture of children fishing. The back centers around a swimming pool with salt water purification system housed in its own stone-faced outbuilding and a stone wall surround that matches the house. The main level deck

65

Mike Schroetlin, Schroetlin Custom Homes, helped homeowner Margie Rasmussen attain her dream of owning a large home equipped

with all the bells and whistles.

and poolside patio offer striking views of the reservoir and the mountains.

While the sheer scale of the place is striking, once the impression its mass makes begins to fade, the myriad details of the home start to sink in. For those who appreciate craftsmanship, there are items small and large to take in around every corner. The drywall, tile and carpentry are all highly detailed and immaculately finished.

Mrs. Rasmussen’s love of chandeliers is appar-ent throughout, with many of the large fixtures accompanied by custom ceiling recesses and halo lighting. Her office features a massive floor-to-ceiling walnut bookcase, complete with a library ladder to provide access to the upper shelves. Marble tile with intricate inlays grace the entry foyer and master bath. Equally detailed custom tile work appears in the kitchen and baths. The owner’s affinity for basin sinks is also clear, with a solid brass bowl and another covered with small squares of mother of pearl.

The professional kitchen features a full pro-fessional range, an in-wall double oven, and a built-in commercial refrigerator/freezer. The large pantry features another full-sized Samsung smart refrigerator, a favorite of Mrs. Rasmussen from her previous residence.

The home acts as an impressive showcase for an extensive art collection, including oil paintings and a number of bronze sculptures, from life size figures to tabletop western subjects, along with a Yamaha Grand Disklavier Piano and a second digital piano. A sweeping curved staircase with custom railing ushers visitors to the lower level, where a full bar, wine cellar and professional billiard table await, along with a collection of western saddles from the Rasmussen’s time as ranchers and equestrians, and an exercise room.

Rasmussen is quick and generous with her praise of Schroetlin Custom Homes, especially Mike, his interior designers and his subcontrac-tors. “They were all just splendid to work with,” she notes. “I must admit, given some of the health problems my husband and I were facing, I was not the easiest to work with at times. They persevered, gave me all the individual assistance I needed, and gave me a home that I love.”

Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland.


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Hidden in plain sight, Berthoud has much to offer the day tripper;

there’s even an historic bed and breakfast

should you choose to spend the night.


travel

By Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer

Photo courtesy of Blair Wacha.

Located just 29 miles south of Fort Collins, Berthoud may seem like a quiet bedroom com-munity. While it does resemble a charming Norman Rockwell painting, it’s definitely not boring. In fact, this small slice of Americana has a lively downtown that’s growing livelier every year.

Date night in BerthoudFor couples looking to recreate the Lady &

the Tramp romance, try Nonna Bella Country Italian Restaurant. Opened several years ago, the restaurant has become popular with local diners who rave about the lobster bisque and line up for the restaurant’s monthly “date night” featuring a multiple course meal for couples.

If a laid back, beery kind of evening is more your style, head to City Star Brewing, an award winning brewery. In the past, Berthoud’s streets were empty after 6 p.m., but today, downtown comes alive in the evening, and most of the foot traffic is headed towards City Star.

A variety of restaurants deliver to City Star, but nothing goes better with a Six Shooter American Pale Ale than a pizza. Just a block away from the brewery, the Brick Oven Pizza’s staff has worn a path from their front door to City Star’s over the last several years.

If you love exploring new craft beers, check out the town’s newest brewery, Berthoud Brew-ing. With their agricultural theme, the brew-ery honors the town’s past and present as the “Garden Spot” of Colorado.

Grab the gals & head to BerthoudWhile the town is mall-free, Berthoud offers a

nice variety of interesting, locally owned shops. It’s the perfect place to visit with your gal pals; make an afternoon of it or schedule an overnight stay at the historic Berthoud Inn.

Enjoy a pedicure at Brookside Gardens Spa & Salon, and while your nails are drying you can browse L&M Garden Center next door. From bird baths to fairy garden accessories, L&M is a distinctive shopping experience.

Next, head for downtown, just a half mile away. There are several shops all within easy walking distance, in fact all of downtown Ber-thoud is walkable, so park the car and explore by foot. Stop by the Berthoud Chamber of Commerce at 428 Mountain Avenue to grab a historic walking tour guide for a more in depth look into the town’s historic buildings.

Wishful Living, next door to City Star Brew-ing, has wonderful items for your home; it’s an interior designers’ dream find and don’t miss Indigo Sky Trading Co. This boutique offers an eclectic array of crafts by local artisans, antiques and collectables. And be sure to stop at Berthoud Drug. This quintessential small town pharmacy offers much more than just prescriptions.

It’s worth making the short, but scenic walk down to D’s Boutique, located inside Renaze Day Spa on the corner of Mountain Avenue and 7th Street. The only new clothing store in town, D’s Boutique offers fashions you won’t find at your average chain store and accessories that will be the envy of your friends.

On your way to D’s, take a stroll around Fickel Park and admire the statues and the beautiful

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After the Storm – RecoveryThe period following a natural disaster can

be disorienting and dangerous. Below are a few tips that may help relieve some of the un-certainty and help you stay safe, secure your property, and begin the claims process in the aftermath of a major event.

• Use your emergency water or boil tap water before drinking until you are told the water supply is safe. Food that came in contact with water may be contaminated and should be discarded.

• Visually inspect your home for structural damage and take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. For example, board up holes with plywood and cover leaks with plastic sheeting.

• If a major disaster was declared for your area, federal housing assistance may be avail-able. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers post-disaster housing programs. Otherwise, organizations such as the American Red Cross may offer help.

• Your insurer will require you to document any damage to your property and provide receipts for recovery-related expenses. Be sure to save all receipts for home repairs, vehicle towing and repairs, temporary housing, meals, and other living expenses. Also, photograph and list all damaged, spoiled, or contaminated items, including quantity, description, and age.

71Style 2014

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historic homes surrounding this treed park. This is where the Norman Rockwell painting really comes alive.

When your feet need a rest, stop in for cock-tails at KJ Wood Distillers, a craft distillery also located in downtown. Opened last year, this family owned operation serves up gin, vodka and whiskey cocktails in a rustic, yet chic tast-ing room.

A fun-filled family afternoon in BerthoudBerthoud is the sort of town where kids

don’t skip school because someone will likely see them and tell their mother. Families love the town’s many parks and the old fashion city pool. A visit here with the kids is a trip back in time, when the simple life really was much simpler.

Berthoud has parks to explore, a local Farmers Market on Saturdays and then there’s the Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum. The museum occupies two buildings and the grounds feature several other structures including a working observatory, a settler’s cabin, an old barn and an original one-room schoolhouse.

There are actually two observatories in Ber-thoud. The Little Thompson Observatory oper-ates the one on the grounds of the high school, and there is no charge to access the telescope during their regularly scheduled public nights. When weather cooperates, each session includes

a guided tour of the sky using their 18” tele-scope. Visit StarKids.org to learn more.

Don’t leave town without visiting one of Colorado’s oldest A&W’s Restaurants. You can pull into their old fashion drive up, or head inside to cool off with an authentic root beer float. This is definitely a kid-approved activity.

A popular Berthoud event for families is Okto-berfest. Held on the first Saturday of October, this is the most authentic Oktoberfest in Northern Colorado and it is a tribute to the many German farmers who have lived and worked in the area.

German music, German food and professional German dancers are all part of the fun under the giant trees in Fickel Park. This free event is in its fourth year, and with its family-friendly atmosphere it has quickly become one of the town’s most eagerly anticipated festivals.

Whether you want to shop, drink award-winning microbrews or you just want to lounge in a lovely tree lined park for an afternoon, Berthoud has got you covered.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a freelance writer specializing in Colorado travel. She has been a longtime reporter at the Berthoud Weekly Surveyor. She’s also the founder of HeidiTown.com, celebrating Colorado travel and festivals.


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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

September 6 Old Town Car Show presented by

Heilbrun’s NAPAHundreds of great hot-rods, vintage cars and classic trucks will be on display in

Downtown Fort Collins! This event is free for spectators, open to all ages and to be shared

by the community. Come enjoy live music, downtown shopping, fabulous restaurants

and a beer garden in historic Old Town!

September 19 & 20

FORToberfestCelebrating Everything Fort Collins! This

year’s Downtown Fort Collins’s Oktoberfest, “FORToberfest”, has an impressive music

lineup and brings together this end of summer celebration. The city’s music scene,

rich history of beer brewing, and outdoor festival culture help give character to the

Downtown area and to Fort Collins

What Is FORToberfest?FORToberfest is the Fort Collins version

of Oktoberfest taking place on September 19 and 20 in Old Town. You won’t find any lederhosen or oompah music, but you will find plenty of Fort Collins beer, 14 great Colorado bands and bicycles! It’s a patio style celebration where you’ll be invited to enjoy a pint or a taster tray or try something tasty from the best of Fort Collins food trucks! It’s about celebrating all things Fort Collins as only people in the Choice City can!

Our headliner on Saturday, September 20 at 9 p.m. is Romeo Delight “The Ultimate Van Halen Tribute Band” specializing in performing with the same energy, songs, look and exact sound that made Van Halen famous!

And, you won’t want to miss Friday night’s headliner, Young Ancients, whose musical roots intertwine in an inspired blend of blues, folk-rock, soul, gospel, Native Americana and New Orleans R&B.

Fort Collins-based Better Than Bacon will take the stage at 6 p.m. on Friday. This trio is moving the Rocky Mountains with a throwback formula: good old-fashioned rock, funk and blues sautéed with sizzling guitar, soulful vocal melodies and a thump-ing rhythm section to match any mood.

Come down early on Friday. Swedish born Sofie Reed will kick things off belting out her bluesy soulful sound while she plays her McSpadden Mountain Dulcimer.

On Saturday, September 20 you’ll find two stages for your musical enjoyment. Things will kick off on the Main Stage at 11 a.m.

with Eef and The Blues Express; they create a contemporary groovy blues sound that will make you want to dance!

Next on the Main Stage you’ll get to hear Knocean belting out some straight-from-the Island Reggae. Then the Burroughs from Greeley will knock your socks off with some old Stevie Wonder and other Motown Hits with some Louie Armstrong and Etta James thrown in just for kicks!

Fort Collins own Shatterproof will blow you away with their violin-based alternative rock with pop and punk influences. They’ve got a unique and entertaining stage show with a head-banging violinist.

Ryan Chrys and The Rough Cuts bring a new energy to country music and delight fans who love the heroes and outlaws of old. Influenced by the songs and personalities of legends like Waylon, Willie and Johnny Cash and driven with a deep love for blazing guitars, gritty lap steel and lightning fiddle, the band is a beacon for the next generation of classic country hearts.

The Straight Up Dance Party will start at Old Town Square Stage at noon on Saturday. Things will get started with Blue Canyon Boys from Lyons. They’ll be followed by Choice City Seven, Whiskey Blanket, Futaba and the day will close out with the fun funky sounds of Soul School.

Hop on your bike or ride the MAX and get down to FORToberfest in Old Town for a uniquely Fort Collins celebration of bands, bikes and beer!

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June 26 :: The Hixon Home :: Fort CollinsMore than 150 Project Self-Sufficiency (PS-S) supporters, staff and board members gathered in the beautiful gardens at Carol Ann & Gary Hixon's home, to honor

and celebrate changing the lives of single parents and their children with the support and partnership of the community and generous donors. The evening

included touching testimonies about the positive impact PS-S has had on the lives of both current and past PS-S participants. Photos courtesy of Sandberg Photography.

June 21 :: Twin Rivers Park Amphitheatre :: GreeleyLive rhythm and blues music and wine and beer tastings provided a fun start to the official first day of summer as friends and families gathered for the 4th annual Yappy Hour. The evening in the park brought together 150 community supporters for an enjoyable time and helped to raise funds for The Humane Society of Weld County, a community-supported nonprofit shelter, and their mission of promotion of the humane treatment of animals through care, advocacy and education.

Carol Kennedy, Linda Clark Scott & Jeni Makinen, Laurie Hansen, Karen & Paul Thayer

Larry Selzle, Deborah Sergesketter,Elaine Hicks, Barb Hines

June 13 :: Mariana Butte Golf Course :: LovelandOver 100 golfers in a two-person shotgun scramble format played a rousing afternoon of golf under perfect Colorado skies to support Loveland Parks and Recreation Foundation Recreational Scholarship Program. Men’s, women’s and mixed teams provided friendly competition and helped to raise $9,000 for Youth Recreation Scholarships. Over the last 24 years, some 7,000 scholarships totaling more than $218,000 have been awarded to local families to enable youth to participate in recreation programs.

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June 26 :: Embassy Suites :: LovelandThe 12th annual State of the Community presented by United Way of Larimer County celebrated the collective movement of people and organizations committed to change. More than 800 attendees heard from keynote speaker Bill Crim with United Way of Salt Lake on the success of one community using collective impact to solve big problems and how Larimer County can do the same. The luncheon also included the Community Hero Awards and The Matthews House was spotlighted for collective impact in action. Photos courtesy of zebrajellyfish.com.

Annette Geiselman, Hannah Tinklenberg, Nina Bodenhamer, Kim Lehman

July 21 :: Ptarmigan Country Club :: Fort CollinsThe rolling greens at this Jack Nicklaus Signature Championship golf course awaited more than 132 golfers and sponsors as they arrived to vie for the coveted Realities Cup. Realities Cup Golf Girls greeted players at all 18 holes at the sold-out event and an international banquet concluded play. More than $30,000 was raised for Realities For Children and the local children they serve who have been victims of abuse or neglect. Photos courtesy of Craig Vollmer Photography and Eunique Images.

Cheryl Olson, Kathy Phifer, Glenn Good, Patrick Brady, Gordan Thibedeau

Mason MitchellWinner of Closet to the

Bag contest

Steve Nguyen, Randy Lana, Dave Weigand, Brian Lacy Joe Dollarhide, Craig Valenti, Brooke Andrews, Mehgan Peters,Joe Nugent, Matt Brunk

Laurel Carter, Mike Demma, Carol AgueroPaula Edwards, Ray Caraway, Dave Edwards

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July 27 :: Fort Collins Museum of Discovery :: Fort CollinsRotary Club of Fort Collins (1918 Club) in conjunction with the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery (FCMD) presented a special fundraising event to support the marking of the 80th anniversary of the Lindenmeier excavation. Guest speaker Brian Carroll lectured to the 80 guests in attendance about the historical significance of the archeological discovery from the 1930s, located in Northern Colorado on property now called Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. Proceeds from the event benefit in part the City’s Natural Areas, the FCMD for the Lindenmeier: Ancient Lives, Ancient Dreams Symposium scheduled for October, and Rotary Charities.

Charlie Peterson, Judy Boggs

July 28 :: Greeley Country Club :: GreeleyA record-setting group of 63 four-person teams enjoyed a day of golf at the 18th Annual Greeley Chamber of Commerce Prairie Dog Classic Golf Tournament. Teams composed of many of Gree-ley’s business leaders teed off for both morning and afternoon flights on a course with more than 2,000 mature trees that added challenge and excitement to the play. A reception with awards presentation followed. Proceeds from the golfing event will help support Greeley Chamber of Com-merce programs.

Scott McPherson, Dan Dennie, Gene Haffner

Marty Van Raadhoven, Jen McGlue, Kathy Arias, Scott James

Joey Penfold, Randy & Nicole Watkins, Joe Dollarhide, Jake Dollarhide

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81Style 2014

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August 4 :: Fort Collins Country Club :: Fort CollinsPerfect weather greeted Fort Collins Chamber members as they enjoyed a great day of golf and camaraderie at the annual Golf Classic. Thirty-five teams of four players fin-ished the afternoon tour-nament in record time on the park-like course. Golf-ers were treated to prizes and activities at each hole, capping the event off with a dinner, awards ceremony and great environment for networking. Proceeds of the event will benefit ad-vocacy work of the Fort Collins Chamber of Com-merce.

Brittanie Sharp, Brandon McDermott, Kristen Bernhardt, Brandon Tompkins

Team FirstBank

Joe Nugent, Mark Smith, Eric Knotts, Matt Brunk Team Workspace Innovations-First Place Winners

Matt Rutledge, Cindy Stansfield, Steve Stansfield, Evan HyattTeam Pathways Hospice-Third Place Winners

August 9 :: Larimer County Child Advocacy Center :: Fort Collins Skill, strategy and luck were part of the formula at this lively 13th annual event. Sixty teams rolled or threw bocce and pallino balls for points in this ancient Italian game of lawn bowling, modified for American conditions. Festivities included an authentic Italian dinner, live music, a guest speaker and a silent auction. More than $50,000 was raised to benefit Larimer County Children’s Advocacy Center, whose mission is to reduce trauma to children during child abuse investigations.

Brent Behler, Luke Birky, Nick Cummings, Brian Hardouin First Place Finishers - Team Nebraska Curlers

Dennis Kling, Alexis, Chris, Kristin Kling

Keith Froelich, Bridget Froelich, Shannon Ratliff, Yvonne Ratliff, Julie Crane,Mike Crane, Stacey Pearson, Aaron Pearson

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AN ARABIAN NIGHT

August 10 :: The McQueen Home :: LovelandNearly 80 donors and supporters joined for a festive summer fundraising evening of picnicking and musical theater at the McQueen Home. Performed by Loveland Opera Theatre (LOT) soloists, guests were treated to a variety of musical theatre songs featuring selections from Kismet. Proceeds from the event will help with LOT’s February 2015 production of Kismet and to further LOT’s mission to offer outstanding operatic performances in our community.

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2014-09 Lydia's Style Magazine