Yoga on the Steps

The secret to getting a donation to your Yoga on the Steps Team

2011-10-06T09:43:00.002-04:00

This entry was written by Sandi Dennis of Washington, DC. Sandra is very excited that LBBC has selected Washington, DC to be the first city of host Yoga on the Steps for its National Expansion Initiative:

LBBC’s Yoga On The Steps® event has long been of interest to me: I grew up in Philadelphia, took art lessons at the Philadelphia Art Museum in my childhood, I’m an avid yogi, and I have worked with LBBC on policy issues in my practice as a healthcare lawyer. I had thought it would be a powerful event to participate in, but never got around to it. Well, this year, Yoga on the Steps is truly speaking to me, as it is coming to Washington, DC where I live, work, and play. And, oh yeah, last year I had breast cancer. So, actually, the event is screaming to me.

I first felt the marble-like mass above my right breast late one night in April 2010 while trying to print out my boarding pass for my early morning flight to Mexico for a week of yoga and hiking. I proceeded to print the boarding pass and googled an article that said “a moveable, marble-like mass” was likely benign.
Back at home the following week, I had a positive diagnosis for breast cancer, the day after my 55th birthday. It seemed particularly ironic that day as I was still glowing and feeling strong and zen-like, as healthy and in shape as I had ever felt. My yoga-calm quickly began to fade.
As many of you know, treatment can be devastating to one’s body and soul. For me, it was far more tolerable than I feared. I owe much of that to two things: 1) yoga and 2) supportive family, friends, and colleagues who rallied around me—and were comfortable doing so. I was very open about my diagnosis and because of that , I believe, everyone close to me was able to give me the genuine support I needed.

Yoga helped me physically and mentally. The teachings helped me accept myself as a cancer patient. Like it or not, that’s what life handed me last year and that’s what I had to deal with. On a shallower level, the studio was the one place outside of my house where I’d go wig-free—a necessity, as I practice at Down Dog Yoga in DC (a studio heated to 95ish degrees). Yes, I eagerly subject my body to that, but not my $1800 wig!

Other yogis got used to seeing me. There were many young women in the classes and hopefully they could see the ability of someone in active chemo treatment who regularly practices yoga. This was my personal way to continue living life during treatment.
At my office my cancer was headline news. One of my colleagues offered to shave his head as a way to show his support. Our two other lawyer colleagues joined in the head shaving at the office—what a show of support and solidarity for me.

How could I be distraught over my own circumstances when my colleagues were making such a sacrifice and public showing of support? Granted, at least one of them was already follicularly-challenged, but the other two had full heads of hair. I had never imagined that anyone would take an action so bold to support a colleague. I felt like the luckiest girl in the world!

Not everyone chooses to make their treatment so public and it is obviously a personal choice. There is no right or wrong decision. For me, it was really helpful. Not only did I have the support and cheerleading of many of my colleagues, I didn't have to wonder if people knew. They didn't have to wonder if I knew they knew--it was just a fact. It also made it easier to check in without needing to say much. Questions like: How are your treatments going? were one good way to check in or How are you? took on a whole new meaning in this light.

I’ve now been cancer-free for over a year (from diagnosis) and I’m in that grey area where I don’t have cancer, but I’m still a cancer patient; I’m not really sick, but still in recovery. I’m ready to move on but I still feel very connected to my breast cancer experience. What do I do with that status? Well, for now, I'm throwing a whole lot of energy into LBBC’s Yoga on the Steps.

I registered last week and was lucky to get a very generous donation (in addition to my own) within minutes of registering. I set my initial target at $1000 and surpassed it in less than two days! This motivated me to raise it to $2000, which I have also surpassed - I think I'm going for $2500 now. There's no magic in getting donations! I suggest sending an email to everyone you could think of. Tell them how much this event means to you, and how how this positive energy can help you and/or others who are healing. I do think that since I was so open about my breast cancer, people were more inspired to donate. Yoga on the Steps is helping me re-connect with what matters and the people who care. This event is the perfect way to stay in touch, stay healthy, and remember.

Make a donation to Yoga on the Steps today! Even if you don't live in the Washington, DC area, you can set up a virtual team and fundraise from wherever you are. Thank you in advance for your hardworking fundraising efforts. Proceeds from this event go directly toward education and support programs for women and families affected by breast cancer.

Yoga and breast cancer go hand-in-hand

2011-09-29T13:02:00.001-04:00

Darcie Vugrinovich, who practices yoga at Flow Yoga Center and Tranquil Space, is excited about meeting you at Freedom Plaza on October 16 for Yoga on the Steps®: Washington, DC. Here’s why!

I'm joining LBBC for Yoga on the Steps®: Washington, DC because yoga and breast cancer go hand-in-hand for me. That may sound like an odd statement, but I began practicing yoga right before I was diagnosed with late staged breast cancer. I was only 28 years old. I largely credit my ability to cope with the ups and downs that come with breast cancer (and life in general) to my yoga practice.

Like many people, I began practicing yoga as a form of exercise, but noticed somewhere along the way that yoga is so much more than practicing asanas (postures) to get physically fit - although that's one of its many benefits. Many breast cancer treatments can cause weight gain, but I have lost a few pounds and hopefully gained a little muscle, too. I love that yoga is accessible to people of all abilities, ages, and religious backgrounds. If you can breathe, then you can do yoga. Seriously.

I have brought my bald-headed, over-heated (gotta love those hot flashes), fatigued-self to the yoga mat. I think to myself, "What am I doing here?" But, even on days when it was painful for me to lie flat on my back in shavasana, I have always left my yoga mat feeling a little bit more collected, more energized, and more at peace than when I came. I have joyfully witnessed my body's ability to evolve, as I stood in headstand for the first time or simply rediscovered the challenges of a seemingly simplistic pose.

Yoga has allowed me to focus on the present moment, letting go of the ‘whys’: Why didn't I catch my breast cancer sooner? I'm no longer quite as anxious as I await the results of my latest medical test, which has been no small task for someone who literally stalks the radiology department after every scan.

I'm joining LBBC for Yoga on the Steps because I want everyone to have the opportunity to experience the joy of yoga, particularly women who have been personally affected by breast cancer. If you've never tried yoga before, you may be hesitant to begin. Acknowledge that thought and then join us anyway. I look forward to meeting you there.

Namaste.

To register for Yoga on the Steps: Washington, DC, please visit www.yogaonthesteps.org. You can participate as an individual or as part of a fundraising team. Make a donation to Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s team if you don’t want to physically participate! Funds raised at Yoga on the Steps go directly toward education and support programs for women and families affected by breast cancer.

The Rockstars of Yoga

2011-05-10T16:29:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by Randi Rentz. Randi is an individual fundraiser for Yoga on the Steps:

If you remember theY2K Revolution and fear of your computer exploding when we made it to the year, 2000, you probably remember the sudden increase in the new yoga craze, too. The yoga revolution isn’t like the '50s, where you might remember those machines where you flung a big strap around your butt, flipped a switch and jiggled away all your self-esteem. Guess what? The new century brought us a hip way to get fit that is thousands of years old. In fact, yoga is such the rage, it’s been sexified with tres chic language. Who knew that I would need a yoga dictionary to decipher words such as Bikram, Chaka and Vinyasa. I thought I was reading first names of new” rock stars,” like Cher and Madonna, not practices for purifying the soul.

Aiming to tone, firm and beautify your body, mind and soul, the so-called power of yoga workouts are knocking kickboxing out of the ring. Tired, old aerobic routines just don't measure up. (Seriously, have you ever seen Gisele Bundchen at LA Fitness?)

Celebs like Sheryl Crow, Jennifer Anniston and Jenny McCarthy have all given the yoga workout their star-studded seal of approval.

But do they work for regular people; especially people who have had breast cancer? You know, the moderately chunky (from steroids, chemo or Tamoxifen), 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60—somethings? Unable to find my groove at the gym, I was in search of something new, something to lift my spirits. I thought I would rather be waterboarded than do another spin class or the elliptical machine for 45 minutes, yet again.

I decided to live like a celebrity and try out yoga for a month to see if it did anything for me.

Luckily, I live in Philadelphia, so I didn't have to look far to find a studio that suited my needs. The one I chose was just a hop-skip from my house, so I couldn't wait to get my “stretch on” and spiritually moving. I met with “Raj,” the owner, and he walked me through the process, explaining the benefits of this type of ancient workout regime.

According to Raj, yoga goes well beyond toning and firming muscle. It also has been shown to:
• improve bone density

• accelerate weight loss

• reduce cellulite

• improve blood circulation

• decrease physical and emotional stress

• improve balance, equilibrium and dexterity

He had me at "reduces cellulite." I went to a sporting goods store to purchase my first yoga mat and water bottle. While I was at it, I purchased cute yoga outfits, too. Always a thrilling task.

Then I got a free personal training session which is a perk for any new yoga-want-to be at this studio. My trainer told me he would create a routine for me that would intrinsically help me relieve stress and worry, while at the same time learning to live in the moment, which is a major benefit for cancer patients -- and I was off. Yoga literally rocked my world. My whole body quivered and shook, and I swear I grew an inch. My lymphatic circulation was improving by the minute, as well as the continuous pain in my surgical area.

But I was determined to do more, where I squatted, lunged, plié'd, push-upped and planked my way into a major sweat.

This is why Jennifer Aniston's arms are so amazing. It was one tough workout!

After 30 days, I'm stronger, relaxed and mentally acute. But while I'm not Jennifer Anniston by a long stretch, I worked out like her for a month and feel much closer to her than I ever did before.

My conclusion about yoga is this: It's fun, it's easy, and it's up to you to decide how hard you want to make it. The best part is that I wasn't stuck doing it at some clanky meat-market gym. Serenity awaited me every time I walked through the studio.

So, if you want to exercise like Jennifer (and me), give yoga a try. And if you happen to live in Philadelphia, you could always do it at my studio. Just ask for Raj. Tell him Randi sent you.

It's not too late to make a donation for Yoga on the Steps! Our fundraising goal is $250,000. Will you help us reach our goal? We're 75 percent to our goal!

I support Yoga on the Steps because of what LBBC stands for

2011-05-03T09:30:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by Kelly Stipa. This will be Kelly's first year participating in Yoga on the Steps:

I first learned about Living Beyond Breast Cancer from one of my best friends, Gina. For the past 4 years, I’ve participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and did a lot of fundraising, but after taking the time to research and learn about LBBC, I decided to become a part of Gina’s team, the 2nd Base Brigade, and fundraise for Yoga on the Steps.

Gina and I have a very close friendship, and one thing we have in common is that someone in our lives has lived with breast cancer. Gina’s mom, Susan, is currently living with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer and both my grandmothers, Betty and Ann, fought this disease for years. My grandmother on my Dad’s side was diagnosed in 1979 and immediately had a mastectomy on her right breast. She lived a healthy life for another 25 years. My Grandmother on my Mom’s side had a different type breast cancer, and she struggled for quite a long time, which also ended with a mastectomy but 10 years later she is going strong!

When you have a family member so close to you living with breast cancer, you want to do anything you can to help them. I really love what LBBC stands for, and how 84 cents of every dollar donated goes towards education. That is almost 85%! Over the years, we’ve all donated toward research for a cure, which is something we all desperately want to find, but I’ve learned that helping to educate and improve a person’s quality of life is just as important.

In all honesty, I’ve never been a fan of yoga….at all!! In fact, Gina and I love to walk and jog every morning in our neighborhood. We do 3 miles a day faithfully. That’s one of the ways we keep ourselves healthy. But after seeing pictures from last year’s event, and hearing Gina and Susan talk about how fun and important this day is, I wanted to be a part of it with them. This will be my first time participating in an LBBC fundraising event, and I’m excited to experience it with people I love and support.

I am one of only two new members of the 2nd Base Brigade, and I’m so happy I decided to join them for Yoga on the Steps. After making phone calls, sending out emails and text messages, I’m proud to say I’ve helped our team to meet our goal of $1500, and my donations keep coming in! I’m not going to stop until I hit my personal goal of $500. Heck…let’s make it $600!

Gina (or Twin - which is our nickname for each other), and I are known for being silly and having a good time, but there are moments when we bond over the serious things that affect our lives. Gina has talked at length about how LBBC has helped her mom over the past couple years, and she is forever grateful to them. She believes this organization is what has helped Susan to stay optimistic, and continue to live a positive and exciting life. That is what we both want for ourselves if either one of us ever has to struggle with this disease personally.

Kelly (right) with her best friend, Gina (left).

In support of my grandmothers, Susan, and for all the other mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts and girlfriends that are affected by this terrible disease, I hope my fundraising efforts will help to educate these very special people living beyond breast cancer.

Do you have a special reason to fundraise? Register for Yoga on the Steps today! There is a minimum donation of $50 required for each participant to participate in the class and the event.

Share your Hero's Journey at Yoga on the Steps

2011-04-21T09:52:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by Jennifer Schelter, prominent yoga instructor who will lead over 1,000 breast cancer supporters during the yoga class for Yoga on the Steps:

Yoga on the Steps for Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) is a magical morning to share and define your "Hero’s Journey."

How do you define being the hero of your own life? Do you define it physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? What do you do on a daily basis to acknowledge your own and others heroism?

As we count down to the days before Yoga on the Steps, I invite you to awaken to your Hero’s Journey – being unstoppable in the face of life’s obstacles. We are all survivors. We all have a story to tell.

Join me on May 15th for Yoga on the Steps for LBBC, as you practice yoga and meditation and feel your own authentic definition of your hero journey.

How do every day heroes think and act? Let’s grow this conversation. Please invite your friends and family to Yoga on the Steps. More than ever we need to see ourselves and others as heroes. Do heroes write love letters? To whom would you write?

Photo Credits: Paul Rider

Can’t wait to see you at Yoga on the Steps!

For more information on Yoga on the Steps, please visit yogaonthesteps.org.

Stereotypes and yoga

2011-04-19T15:06:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by Christina Payne, LBBC's Marketing and Communications Intern:

Stereotypes are all around us. Yoga is an exercise that promotes physical and mental wellness for individuals of all races, religions and backgrounds; however, for the African-American community the practice of yoga is not always first choice of exercise even though yoga has healing benefits that have been proven to relieve stress. According to an article on clutch.com, Namaste: Yoga in the Black Community, African-Americans seem to associate the meaning and purpose behind yoga with negative views and opinions. This mindset leads to a culture that doesn’t take advantage of exploring and enjoying the benefits associated with this form of exercise.

High-profile celebrity Russell Simmons practices this form of exercise and has said “Yoga has really helped me feel more comfortable with the idea of being present, the simpliest idea of spirituality, the power of now.” And according to Beyonce, “Every time I take a yoga class, I want to cry. I don’t know if it’s because I’m relaxing, or if it’s that by the end of the class, your body can do things it couldn’t do in the beginning, so you feel accomplished and emotional. It’s therapeutic.”

Yoga on the Steps - 2009

In America, yoga is viewed as a predominately White form of fitness. It is believed that yoga is very expensive and individuals with high incomes can only afford the classes. Reports have shown that there is in fact discrimination among African-American yoga teachers and black attendees. There is a stigma in the African-American community in regards to understanding in fact what yoga really is. In 2009, Wake Forest University released study data supporting the positive impact of yoga on the emotional health of women affected by breast cancer. Yoga can be performed by people of any age or physical condition—no prior experience is necessary.

The lack of knowledge leads to confusion and pushes people away from an exercise that is very beneficial to one’s health. Claims such as “yoga is a religion” or yoga teachers of color being mistaken for assistants or receptionists are a few discrepancies that belittle what yoga is and who is associated with it.

Although the stereotypes and stigmas exist, there has been a movement of growth toward a positive perspective that defines the African-American role in yoga. For example, there are many health issues such as, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease that affect the African-American community and the use of yoga can be of great use when it comes to maintaining good health, relieving stress, and balancing physical and mental strength.

Have you ever tried yoga? Can you admit that you’ve associated the healing exercise with some of the stereotypes listed above? Living Beyond Breast Cancer challenges you to try yoga with over 1,000 breast cancer supporters on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Sunday, May 15. For more information, visit yogaonthesteps.org. The signature fundraising event encourages teams and individuals to raise money in support of LBBC’s educational programs for women and families affected by breast cancer. Register today!

Team Forever 25 Gives Hope

2011-04-13T10:51:00.001-04:00

This entry was written by Colleen Kryka, one of the Team Captains of Forever 25: The White House Black Market Team:

After my breast cancer diagnosis, everything became possible. I got the mindset, “why not, what do I have to lose?” The timing was perfect because within days I received an email alert from LBBC that White House Black Market was holding a contest for 25 breast cancer survivors. What the heck, why not? So I wrote my essay, had my husband take a photo and “click,” off it went. Little did I know - that the click of the send button would really set my new path.

I was selected and joined 24 amazing women in New York City for a real-life glamorous photo shoot. We had the full “pit crew” working on us. We were treated like super models, not like mothers, daughters or sisters playing dress-up (even though we were!). We were all little girls again, with giant smiles. We were sexy, beautiful women…not sick, scared, and diagnosed patients. Our inner beauty came through the battered outer shells. Two days of this metamorphosis forever bonded 25 women who quite frankly never would have chosen this common bond, but amazingly found strength, comfort and POWER.

Collective energy can be quite healing. So for the next 4 months we emailed, facebooked, and chatted about our next gathering. So in October White House Black Market and LBBC gathered the 25 of us once again at the Butterfly Ball. We were long-lost sisters gabbing and admiring our beautiful selves all dressed up once again by WHBM. We all danced and laughed. What an evening it was. I never realized or even thought for a moment this would be the last time all of us would be able to gather and celebrate life!

Forever 25

Vivian Rivera was also selected to participate in the photo shoot. She sang a beautiful song during her WHBM interview and LBBC asked her to perform it at the Butterfly Ball. We gave her a standing ovation. Her self-written song, “Chosen” is the voice to all of us who are choosing to win during hard times. Within weeks we heard about Vivian’s illness. Lori Baur, who was also selected to participate in the photo shoot, rallied up all 24 of us to send support, and we did. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough. By January, Vivian, our gorgeous song bird, flew to heaven. She had left a mark, touched our hearts, but also challenged my thinking once again - THIS disease is real.

Vivian Rivera leaves the crowd with a smile after performing "Chosen" at LBBC's Butterfly Ball 2010

Soon we stopped hearing as much from Lori. Although Vivian passed away from a rare brain cancer, her news was so real for Lori. Lori had been living with metastatic breast cancer for years. She and her husband went on their dream vacation to Hawaii. Very soon after their vacation, once again we got the devastating news that Lori’s breast cancer journey had come to an end.

Lori Baur and her husband at LBBC's Butterfly Ball 2010

This disease sucks in so many ways, yet I have met and became friends with some of the most incredible women. How can something so bad bring such good? That question can’t be answered - it can only be lived. That’s when Denise, another WHBM babe, reached out to me about Yoga on the Steps. There would be no better way to honor Vivian and Lori than to move to action! So we formed Forever 25, The White House Black Market Team for this May’s Philadelphia Yoga on the Steps.

Boy! WHBM stepped up to the plate once again! They are matching our donations up to 10k, making us personalized t-shirts that we can sport day-of, and providing a never-ending supply of support! We can’t bring Lori and Vivian back, but we CAN keep their spirit and the energy of that magical WHBM campaign alive. We CAN give HOPE at the end of each day - HOPE that we will enjoy our son’s next baseball game, HOPE that we will feel beautiful and sexy, HOPE that we will do more than just…survive. HOPE that we will thrive, and just like Lori and Vivian, HOPE that we will touch others and make this journey a little easier for someone else.

See you at Yoga on the Steps.

Make a donation to the Forever 25: The White House Black Market Team! You can start fundraising today! Join a team, form a team or fundraise as an individual! If you have any questions, visit yogaonthesteps.org.

Yoga is more than a pose

2011-03-10T10:39:00.003-05:00

This entry was written by Erica Bleznak of JAI! Yoga in Haverford, Pa. She lead LBBC’s first Barefoot Ball in December. Erica notes that Yoga is intertwined with many elements that encourage you to give more to your community. Start giving back to your community by participating in Yoga on the Steps!

A guiding principle of the yoga practice lays in the practice of Seva; the word Seva in Sanskrit means, “to be of service”. When people think of Yoga, they think of people stretching their bodies, or even of people standing on their heads; the posture practice of yoga, called Asana, is a very small part of the practice of Yoga. Much of the practice lays in other elements and one of those is in providing selfless service to to others. It was an honor to provide Seva in the form of leading a Barefoot Ball practice for LBBC at the Ardmore Toyota dealership last December. At our yoga studio JAI! in Haverford, we have taken the journey with many of our students who been diagnosed with breast cancer; we have traveled with them on their yoga mats from diagnosis, treatment, surgeries and recovery.

Our yoga community has been truly inspired by their tremendous courage, fortitude and strength. As Yogis we are expected that our practice moves beyond our yoga mats; we cultivate qualities of compassion so that we can move beyond our “selves” to share these gifts with others. Along with Seva, there is a behavioral code in Yoga known as the Niyamas. One of the Niyamas is Dana; Dana means to give without expecting anything in return. It is when we give without the need to be recognized or praised. You give without intentions to receive anything. In reality though, you receive the most! Know that with selfless service (Seva) and Dana (giving without the need for recognition) that you and your Yoga have broken the boundaries of just the physical practice and that now you are living your Yoga!

By participating in Yoga on the Steps, you too can perform these Yoga principles. Learn about Yoga on the Steps and register at yogaonthesteps.org.

Yoga on the Steps Website - A new way to stay connected

2011-03-07T14:52:00.000-05:00

LBBC has officially launched our new website for our signature fundraising event, Yoga on the Steps (YOTS)! This site is the newest addition to the tools we have created to make your experience with our annual fundraiser easy, exciting and efficient.

Take some time to explore the site and take advantage of all that it has to offer.

Here are some of its key features!

Find A City

This year, YOTS will take place in two cities – in Philadelphia on May 15 and in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC on October 16. Under the Find A City tab, you’ll get up-to-the-minute information on each city’s event, including times, locations, directions and other tips to make your YOTS experience as enjoyable as possible.

Fundraising

This section has everything you need to maximize your fundraising efforts for YOTS and includes a Participant Guide, fundraising Tips and Tools, sample donation ‘ask’ and ‘thank you’ letters that you can edit and personalize and the incentive items LBBC has to reward our Yoga on the Steps Fundraising All-Stars. Every participant who raises a minimum of $75 will receive a commemorative YOTS t-shirt, but I’m confident that every participant will strive for a higher fundraising goal! Shoot for $250! We’ve got what you need to make that goal a reality!

Marketplace

A great way to support LBBC’s corporate partners is to visit the YOTS Marketplace. There, you’ll find some amazing items - from yoga mats to jewelry - and with every purchase a portion of the proceeds will be contributed back to LBBC, allowing us to empower all women affected by breast cancer.

Sponsors

Events with the size and scope of YOTS could not happen without the support of national, regional and local sponsors who help us underwrite the costs associated with YOTS and who provide refreshment and entertainment for our event participants and their family and friends. Please take a moment to review all of our incredible event partners and support them in your local communities.

Of course, if you haven’t already, register for Yoga on the Steps: Philadelphia. Create a team or join us as an event participant. Every dollar you raise will continue the mission of LBBC. Please note that registration for our Washington, DC event will be open on May 1, 2011.

Finally, please make sure to “like” “Yoga on the Steps” on Facebook to swap fundraising ideas, find out about other yoga events and to chat with YOTS / LBBC supporters. If you have any questions, please contact Kevin Gianotto or Jeanne Egan at (610) 645-4567 or at kevin@lbbc.org or jeanne@lbbc.org, respectively.

We look forward to seeing you at Yoga on the Steps: Philadelphia or Yoga on the Steps: Washington, DC!

Fundraising starts off as an idea, but you can make it a reality

2011-02-22T12:29:00.000-05:00

This entry was written by Allison Wolf, member of Team Twisters. Team Twisters raised approximately $6,500 for LBBC's programs and services when they hosted a Barefoot Ball on February 13th:

The scene at the Mercedes Benz showroom in Fort Washington was not what one would typically expect to find. Upon entering a car dealership, there were no cars. Instead, yoga mats served as the mode of transportation for the day’s journey. You wouldn't find employees in suits. Instead, instructors in could be pointed out in their tutus and costume jewelry. Customers were long gone. Instead, you'd find none other than barefoot men, women and children mingling and all coming together to raise funds and awareness for Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) and their annual fundraising event, Yoga On the Steps (YOTS).

This Inaugural Barefoot Ball was the kickoff event for Team Twisters in their effort to raise $20,000, their fundraising goal for LBBC's annual Spring yoga event, Yoga on the Steps, taking place on May 15th this year. The event was a wonderful success, raising $6500! $2500 was donated by Mike Sloane, owner of Mercedes Benz Fort Washington and the remainder was donated by the 109 attendees!

It was truly an amazing sight to behold. There were dozens of caring individuals moving together in unison in a sea of multi-colored mats. Twisters’ staff of instructors was on hand for the event. Four instructors lead the hour-long class while the rest worked the room to offer adjustment and support when needed. The class culminated in a spectacular operatic performance by Natalie Levin, also an instructor at Twisters, dressed to the nines in a ball gown and full stage makeup (barefoot, of course). She performed a beautiful piece during shavasna, followed by an incredibly moving aria and then spiced things up at the end with a piece from Carmen.

The Barefoot Ball was pioneered and put together by Upper Dublin resident and yoga enthusiast Jill Miller. Jill attended a similar event, on a smaller scale, in Ardmore last year. Attending the event stirred in Jill a desire to do her part and get involved. She began by reaching out to the yoga instructors at Twisters who were more than happy to get involved. Jill was also able to seek out several sponsors: Mike Sloan of Mercedes Benz provided the venue, Dreshertown Shop and Bag provided light snacks and refreshments, Kay’s Chocolates donated sweet treats as well as Ingrid Carfagno who donated hand knit scarves to offer in exchange for cash donations, and last but not least a henna tattoo artist! Jill did have some help, the best kind, from her daughter and friends. Emily Miller, 15, organized a teen ambassador team comprised of her friends from Springside and Upper Dublin schools; they were instrumental in the day’s events, helping with registration, managing concessions and cash donations, ushering participants and setting up mats.

As mentioned earlier, this was a kickoff event; Team Twisters is still working hard to reach their goal of raising $20,000 by May 15th. May 15th marks the date of one of the world’s largest outdoor yoga classes, YOTS, where hundreds of people will gather together on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum to raise funds for LBBC’s education and support programs. Team Twisters has several fun and exciting team building events lined up as they work their way toward YOTS. Here’s a little sneak peek into the upcoming events:

• A bus painting party! The plan is to paint the entire bus pink! What better way to make an entrance than to arrive at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in a pink bus?!

• Team Twisters Evening in Ambler, a benefit event at an Ambler restaurant featuring raffles and prizes.

• An outdoor yoga class.

• A wine tasting.

Team Twisters encourages you to get involved, too! There are several different ways you can help. Join a team! Encourage your teammate to plan fundraising events like the barefoot ball! You can even participate in YOTS by simply donating online to a team or as an individual.

If you are already part of a team working towards YOTS please know that the Barefoot Ball started out as an idea, which lead to a conversation, which turned into a tremendous day as well as a great fundraising success! The sky is limit; if you can think it, you can do it! See you at YOTS!

For more information and to learn about creative ways that your team can FUNdraise for Yoga on the Steps, please contact Jeanne Egan, LBBC's Special Events Manager at jeanne@lbbc.org.

A unique touch to Yoga on the Steps each year

2011-02-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

This entry was written by Beatrice Marx, assistant yoga instructor for Yoga on the Steps:

On May 15, 2011, I will participate in Yoga on the Steps for the fourth year in a row. This May will be my fourth year as a yoga teacher, assisting Jennifer Schelter as she leads Yoga on the Steps. Every year I have been both humbled and truly amazed by the power that this outdoor yoga class gives me. Each year has had its own unique qualities as many people from all over join together as one for a common cause.

For just a few hours, everyone focuses on health and well-being for all. The event brings forth awareness because it doesn’t only cater to those affected by breast cancer, but it also creates a place for their loved ones to show support, honor and meaning. Husbands, daughters, sons and friends are all there looking on and joining the 1,200 or so other people on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum for this yoga class. I rejoice as my family and my friends bear witness to all of us taking this class together and inhaling the beautiful breath of life.

As a woman, a wife, and a mother living with breast cancer, this once-a-year event marks a measurement in my quest for peace and helps me to balance my so called “new normal” as I live day to day. I gather much needed peace as my body absorbs the sweet power of this yoga class. No one leaves untouched by this act of pure love. We all join together to stand hand-in-hand in support of one another. A sense of strength is evident as we move forward in our day to day lives.

Please join us in support in each other as we journey through life and grow as people living in peace. Om Shanti.

How will you support Yoga on the Steps? Think about creative ways to FUNdraise and register you and your team for this meaningful yoga class that supports and honors the nearly 200,000 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

New Year - New Name - Same Time - Same Place

2011-01-13T14:00:00.000-05:00

This entry was written by Lauren Ainsworth, Special Events Manger for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Lauren is excited to introduce the launch of and discuss the changes to our annual yoga event scheduled for May 15, 2011.

“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.” – Ben Franklin

I think our friend Ben Franklin could not have said it better. With regard to Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s annual yoga fundraising event on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art – we are constantly striving to improve, achieve and succeed. I feel so lucky to be leading the team that brings this amazing event to Philadelphia each spring and I always look forward to January when we launch our yoga fundraising campaign. So as we welcome the new year, I have a couple of changes to tell you about.

First of all, I am excited to introduce our new name: Yoga on the Steps for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Aside from the name change, everything else about the event will remain the same. This will still be the same event with the same purpose, mission and format. Hopefully you will hardly notice the difference as we will have a similar logo with similar printed materials and we are looking forward to a seamless rebrand. And I am guessing that many of you who are familiar with the event refer to it as “that yoga event on the steps” anyway.

It is important to mention that Jennifer Schelter will continue to lead the yoga class on the art museum steps this coming May. In addition to being the owner of Yoga Schelter in East Falls, Jennifer is also the founder of Yoga Unites®, a separate non-profit organization with a separate mission from LBBC’s. Jennifer remains an integral part of the history of this event and we are already counting down the days to practice yoga with her for the 9^th year in a row on May 15^th, 2011. Please save the date and register today: yogaonthesteps.org

Our springtime yoga event is not only a fundraiser; it is an awareness event as well. We want the world to know about what we do to help empower women affected by breast cancer. As we grow to other cities nationwide, it is important for this event to be a vehicle for LBBC to spread the word about our programs and services and not be confused with a different organization.

This leads me to my second exciting announcement! We are replicating this amazing event in Washington D.C. on October 16^th, 2011. On June 1st of this year, we will kick off our first ever Yoga on the Steps campaign in our nation’s capital and I think you’ll be seeing a lot more of Yoga on the Steps in other parts of the country over the next several years.

I hope you will help us to spread the word about this incredible event in both Philadelphia and Washington D.C. and welcome Yoga on the Steps for LBBC with open arms. If you have any questions, or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at Yoga@lbbc.org.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy new year.

Namaste

A winter yoga class to benefit LBBC: 1st Annual Barefoot Ball

2010-11-18T10:08:00.000-05:00

Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) is gearing up to host our 9th annual yoga event! We’re looking forward to seeing all of you there. You’re in for a surprise as LBBC is working tirelessly to restructure the familiar event and bring you yoga like you’ve never experienced it before! You’ve contributed to our success at last year’s Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer event and you’ve helped us raise over $200,000 for LBBC’s educational programs. LBBC feels empowered to know that dedicated people like you will help us deliver at next year’s re-modeled yoga event and help us further our mission.

To introduce LBBC’s yoga event like you’ve never seen it before, LBBC is hosting our first annual Barefoot Ball! Leave the gowns at home and grab your yoga mat for this interactive yoga class lead by JAI! Yoga’s very own instructor, Erica Taxin Blexnak. On Sunday, December 12, 2010 Ardmore Toyota will transform the car dealership into a yoga studio, lending space to LBBC from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a yoga class that anyone of any skill level can participate in. Restore your balance, relax your body and rejuvenate your spirit as you are lead in song by singer, songwriter and kirtan artist, Yvette Pecoraro! Her live performance is the perfect accent to make this event as warm, compassionate and inspiring as it’s intended to be.

Attendees of the Barefoot Ball are encouraged to make a suggested donation of $25. All proceeds from the Barefoot Ball will go directly toward LBBC’s education and support programs for women and families affected by breast cancer.

Here’s a snapshot of how your contribution helps LBBC reach women affected by breast cancer. Last Saturday, LBBC hosted our annual fall conference, News You Can Use: Breast Cancer Updates for Living Well. Over 300 people attended the conference including women affected by breast cancer, caregivers, exhibitors, healthcare providers and guest speakers. Only 19% of this conference is paid for by registration fees leaving the rest of funding to come directly from fundraising events like the yoga event and other sponsor initiatives.

For more information on the Barefoot Ball or to purchase a yoga mat to aid your practice, refer to the links provided. Feel free to share this post! See you there!

YU4LBBC fundraiser highlighted in local newspaper for contribution to the yoga community

2010-07-12T09:44:00.000-04:00

Beatrice Marx, along with her team the Wellness Warriors, raised $6,000 this year for Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Her committment to the yoga community has made her contribution to this annual event more inspiring with each year. Samantha Costa, local reporter for the Courier Post, highlighted Beatrice Marx and her endless contributions to the yoga community in "At Center Peace."

Click here to read the article.

Beatrice Marx (center) prepares to lead the largest yoga class in the city of Philadelphia.

Don't forget to pack some YOGA in your suitcase

2010-07-08T09:24:00.000-04:00

Looking forward to a relaxing vacation this summer? With blazing 100-degree temperatures, who wouldn't want to make a trip to a beach resort, relax under a palm tree, and take modest sips of a delicious Bahama Mama? Well, while you're on your way to that well-deserved trip be sure to find a comfortable and shady spot to practice yoga. Adding a yoga routine to your get-a-way will make your vacation a life-changing and spiritual experience.

Take a look at The Ultimate Guide to Yoga Travel: 100 Essential Tips, Tools, & Links and find out why yoga will make your vacation a breathtaking experience!

Jennifer’s Everyday Retreat

2010-06-28T09:19:00.000-04:00

For all of you who thought that you’d have to wait until next year’s Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer to see master yoga instructor, Jennifer Schelter, in action…you thought wrong! Jennifer is ready to make her TV debut with a new television talk show, “Jennifer’s Everyday Retreat.” Could Jennifer Schelter be selected for the “Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star” competition?

With your help, it’s possible to welcome a show that highlights and offers everyone a guide to practice the basics of health and well-being. Jennifer aims to inspire viewers and get them moving in a healthy direction today, tomorrow, and for years to come. The show entices you to try new things and be a beginner in the wonder of learning, expressing, thinking, feeling and communication. “Jennifer's Every Day Retreat” will support those who are looking to ease and relieve stress, anxiety, isolation, health-related issues and depression. It encourages balance, gratitude and fulfillment in your own skin while motivating others to share in the journey.

Please support Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer's Jennifer Schelter as she follows her dream to get her own talk show. Vote today!

Jennifer Schelter leads over 1,000 people at the largest yoga class in Philadelphia. All proceeds benefit LBBC's education and support programs.

Thank you for helping us go BEYOND our $200,000 fundraising goal

2010-06-08T10:05:00.000-04:00

Thank you for all those who helped to contribute to the lives of the 200,000 women who will be affected by breast cancer this year! Over 1,000 dedicated men, women and children followed prominent yoga instructor, Jennifer Schelter's lead and reached for the sun on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art on May 16. By then, LBBC was proud to announce that we raised over $170,000 for LBBC's education and support programs! To date, we are over our initial $200,000 goal and are estactic to announce that with the support of you, your generous donations, and our committed sponsors, we have raised over $219,000! What a success! Donations will continue to be collected until June 30th.

Help us continue to provide education and support at little to no cost by texting a small donation right from your mobile phone! Text “LBBC” to the number 20222, and a one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. Messaging and data rates apply; all charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Spread the word to your friends, family and via social networking sites.

Spread the word! Help LBBC get to $230,000! We can do it!

Team Dreams...in honor of my mom

2010-06-03T10:11:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by 15-year-old Ari Shanon, the daughter of a breast cancer survivor:

Ari's Mom, Dorel, is a breast cancer survivor and attended this year's Yoga Unites for LBBC, alongside her daughter, Ari, team captain of 'Team Dreams.'

My mom brought me to my first Yoga Unites for LBBC when I was 7 years old. I'm 15 now. When I was looking for a service project for my bat mitzvah I thought of LBBC first. The reason I chose LBBC is because my mom had breast cancer when I was six, and it was a hard time. I remember cutting off her hair with my brother at a hair-cutting party before it fell out. Even though that's one of the only memories I have of that time, I know that LBBC was extremely helpful because my mom always talks about them. I'm really grateful to them for being there for my mom. So I decided to create a team for Yoga Unites for LBBC called Team Dreams and raise money for LBBC. Ever since, I've been creating a team filled with friends and family, and friends of friends. Even people I don't know support our team, and I'm so glad and honored that they join us on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum.

Team Dreams raised over $5,000 for LBBC's education and support programs.

I really enjoyed my experiences with Yoga Unites for LBBC because, first of all, it's really cool to see so many people doing yoga together while looking out over the beautiful skyline of Philadelphia. Second of all, I love my team and they're all really great people for supporting me and LBBC, and for coming out every year. A bunch of my friends come every year and they really enjoy it. We have such a great time together. Third, the yoga is amazing. I don't usually get to do yoga during the year, though I did take a class when I was in fourth grade. During and after the Yoga Unites class I feel so strong. And I look at Jennifer and she looks really strong, and it makes me look forward to next year.

Ari (left) and her mom, Dorel, feel strong together as they practice yoga on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum.

I mostly raise money for Team Dreams by emailing friends and family over and over, and asking them to email their friends and family. I also emailed my entire school this year. A few years ago our local paper did an article about Team Dreams and Yoga Unites for LBBC, which helped raise money. My grandmother is a huge help and emails all of her friends, and she usually comes and cheers us on along with my grandfather, my Dad and my brother. (They're the official Team Dreams photographers.) I'm really lucky to be surrounded by people who want to help this cause. Each year we've raised more money than the last. This year we raised more than $5,000, which was our goal. It feels really good to raise so much money for such a great organization.

One way LBBC can get more young people involved is by getting parents to bring their children and their children's friends to Yoga Unites for LBBC. Also by trying to get high schools to organize teams to raise money. A lot of young people have family members who've been affected by breast cancer, so this would be a good group to get involved. I think once they saw how much fun it is to be at Yoga Unites for LBBC and how easy it is to raise money, they'd want to do it every year.

Yoga Unites for LBBC is a fundraising activity that is open to everyone, even young high school students like Ari. You want to share your story? Email stacia@lbbc.org. It's not too late to donate!

Last Minute Decision...No Regrets

2010-06-02T11:01:00.000-04:00

Talk about a last minute decision! LBBC caught up with Sandi Selzer who decided to come out to support the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for LBBC event just hours before the event took place! She wouldn't regret her efforts!

This entry was written by Sandi Selzer:

I wanted to share my experience and pictures from this year’s Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. I’ve heard about the event for the past two years and decided at 10pm on the Saturday night before to pack my yoga mat and take part. It was the best decision I’ve ever made! Seeing over 1,000 beautiful people doing yoga was obviously an amazing site. What I wasn’t prepared for was the incredible feeling of love, support and HOPE that surrounded us.

When we did our first pose and the clouds move away to let the sun shine on us, I realized that this was bigger than just a yoga class. I’m not a breast cancer survivor, but two of my close friends are and I will be sure to bring them with me next year. They are not “yogis,” but I will convince them that this event is more than just yoga—it’s a life changing experience. Thanks to all of you who made this happen—hope you like the pictures!

LBBC wants to hear about your experience too! Send your story to stacia@lbbc.org. Share your most fascinating, interesting or touching moment that you experienced at the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for LBBC. Thank you for your donations!

Dr. Kathryn Schmitz impressed with new yoga study

2010-05-28T09:47:00.000-04:00

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is hosting its annual meeting in one week. Over 30,000 clinicians will be in attendance at the annual meeting responding to and offering information as it relates to prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. LBBC caught up with Dr. Kathryn Schmitz who was invited to speak at the meeting. She will be presenting guidelines for exercise testing and prescription for all cancer patients based on an expert panel brought together by the American College of Sports Medicine.

“Doctors are concerned about doing the best they can for their patients. There was a time, not so many decades ago, when cancer patients didn’t live as long as they do now, so doctors were teaching ‘take it easy,’ says Dr. Kathryn Schmitz as she discusses why most doctors don’t associate exercise with being the best option for cancer patients.

Dr. Schmitz conducts research that is based on the findings of the benefits of physical activity. While she targets those who suffer from obesity, she also has extended research to women affected by breast cancer as well. She supports a new study that ASCO released that shows evidence that yoga may help cancer patients with treatment side effects.

Dr. Schmitz is impressed with the way Dr. Karen Mustian went about conducting the yoga benefits study. “What’s lovely about this study is that Karen went through the oncologists. The challenge with dealing with cancer patients is getting clinicians involved…the oncologists have to know that it’s safe,” said Dr. Schmitz. “Until we provide information to physicians that women want this, women benefit from this and women will not be harmed, nothing will change,” she says.

Dr. Mustian was the lead author in a study that revealed that yoga had sustainable benefits on sleep quality, fatigue, and overall quality of life in cancer survivors. A total of 96% of the participants of the study were women and 75% of them had breast cancer.

“People [cancer patients] are living, and for a long time, particularly breast cancer patients. It turns out the talk of ‘take it easy’ is associated with worse risk than exercise itself. In my opinion, [doctors] should stop recommending patients avoid exercise,” says Dr. Schmitz. Primarily, doctors rely on medication to assist their patients with side effects of treatment and are more reluctant to “prescribe” exercise.

According to Dr. Schmitz, doctors don’t have time to investigate and encourage their patients to explore the benefits of exercise. “Women are talking to their doctors about arm pain, scar pain, side effects, and the best ways to prevent recurrence. By the time they are done with all of what is on their agenda, the allotted time for the appointment is over or even long past. And then Doctor’s are supposed to say ‘oh, there’s an exercise program you can do?’ There just isn’t enough time,” she said.

Financial issues also factor in when doctors consider suggesting exercise programs to their patients. “Cancer patients are tapped out financially. The financial burden of cancer treatment creates stress, and on top of that, many patients have taken as much time off as they are allotted at work. On top of that, they have to PAY for yoga classes? Cost can be a real barrier,” said Dr. Schmitz.

Dr. Schmitz and a team at the University of Pennsylvania are looking into disseminating an at-home yoga work-out video for breast cancer survivors as a way to assist with the high out-of-pocket costs for those undergoing treatment.

Dr. Schmitz herself has been practicing yoga since she was in elementary school. “People who have been doing it for the longest are the least likely to say they’re good at it, including me. I’m really still just a beginner,” she ends.

Dr. Schmitz has heard from people across the world who are pleased with the programs that LBBC provides. She has even offered to help LBBC promote more physical activity programs on a day to day basis for women affected by breast cancer.

To hear about the latest findings revealed at ASCO’s annual meeting, register for LBBC’s teleconference scheduled for June 11th: Breaking News from ASCO.

Are you having trouble sleeping? Are you suffering from fatigue after treatment? Talk to your doctor about practicing yoga at your local yoga studio and about any other options that may assist with treatment side effects. Tell us what your doctor suggested on our facebook page.

Moving Meditation

2010-05-26T09:31:00.001-04:00

This entry was submitted by LBBC staff member Stacia Weaver:

Jeanne Egan vicariously lived through her grandmother’s diagnosis of breast cancer. After finding three benign tumors, the dreaded fear of being diagnosed with breast cancer had somehow become a reality. In October of 2007, Jeanne had a bilateral mastectomy which revealed that she had a 1.6 cm malignant tumor.

“I always had a fear of cancer. I always thought I would get it. It was just a part of my story,” said Jeanne.

Jeanne attended the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer event. She joined over 1,000 people as they all joined together on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to support women affected by breast cancer. But Jeanne’s presence at the event was even more significant when she learned that she was the top individual fundraiser, raising over $2,000 for LBBC’s education and support programs. It was the first year that Jeanne participated in the event and accounts the benefits of yoga to helping her heal, cope and find peace, grace and divinity.

“When I do yoga [the instructors] talk about grace. They tell you ‘you’re one with the divine. The divine is within you and there, you will have grace.’ Yoga is a moving meditation. It keeps you in the present. You’re so aware of everything in your body,” said Jeanne as she admits that she’s not afraid of recurrence. “Yoga is a big part of it,” she says.

Participating in an outdoor yoga class would have been a “no, no” for Jeanne when she first finished treatment after her 2007 diagnosis. Jeanne admits that she felt so intimated by yoga that she practiced at home with a beginner’s yoga work-out tape for about a year. However, now Jeanne practices yoga three to four times a week and admits that she can even do the advanced classes.

“Whether you’re taking a yoga class on the Art Museum steps or a yoga studio, you’re trying to achieve being one with the universe. Yoga is where I find peace,” said Jeanne.

But Jeanne also finds peace in her female support system that helped her during her breast cancer diagnosis. Jeanne’s blog, Sisterhood and Survival: A Breast Cancer Blog, is a reflection of the bond of women and the power of the female connection. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Jeanne credits her significant relationship with her women friends with helping her get through the tragic time. Her blog is a symbol that represents that “women help each other get through crisis and happy times as well.”

“The illness has changed my family,” says Jeanne, mother of two. “It was very difficult for my son. It didn’t change our relationship, but more so, our lives,” she says as she acknowledges the very women were able to step in and take action for her family during this traumatic experience. “My women friends were a web of caring, a safety net that lifted me up. We [my family] got here because of my women friends, my sisters.”

One of her ‘sisters’ attended the event with her. Jeanne and her team, “Sisterhood and Survival,” were deeply moved by master yoga instructor, Jennifer Schelter’s performance. “When Jennifer talked about love and grieving and that connection, we were crying. It’s so true. We grieve because we love. This event resonates to breast cancer survivors’ lives, recovery, and living beyond breast cancer.”

“This event is a movement,” she ends.

Did you attened LBBC's 8th Annual Yoga Unites for LBBC and you want to share your experience? Email stacia@lbbc.org. Remember, it's not too late to donate. Visit http://www.yoga4livingbeyondbreastcancer.org/.

8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer a Definite Success!

2010-05-19T14:02:00.001-04:00

This entry was written by LBBC staff member Stacia Weaver:

Over 1,000 men, women and children participated in, connected with and supported the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) partnered with Jennifer Schelter, master yoga instructor and founder of Yoga Unites as she lead the largest yoga class in the city of Philadelphia on the morning of May 16, 2010. While participants followed Jennifer’s lead, the cloudy skies transformed into bright blue skies with a hint of yellow from the bright sun. With every yoga pose, Jennifer instructed each participant to reach for the sun’s rays.

Yoga Unites for LBBC is an annual fundraising event that provides a way for individuals and teams to support women affected by breast cancer and spread the word about healthy living, while raising funds and awareness for LBBC’s education and support programs. So far, we have raised over $185,000 for our education and support programs. However, we are still receiving generous donations from the participants of the event who are dedicated to helping us reach our ambitious goal of $200,000 for the 200,000 women who will be affected by breast cancer this year.

This year, Lu Ann Cahn, NBC 10 investigative reporter was the honorary chair of the event. The 18-year breast cancer survivor put down her reporter microphone and picked up her yoga mat for the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for LBBC. She talked about her journey with breast cancer and how she, herself, is living beyond the disease. Right after the hour-long class she took the stage. She told all participants it wasn’t too late to join in on the cause if they hadn’t done so already. She urged participants to take part in LBBC’s latest text-to-give initiative and text “LBBC” to 20222 to make a $10 donation. With everyone's help, we will reach our $200,000 goal.

The therapeutic and intimate outdoor yoga class was also lead in song by Yvette Pecoraro and her talented musicians who chanted soothing lyrics that coincided with each yoga pose. Participants were instructed to close their eyes, feel and release their energy, and internalize all emotions of love. Jennifer’s grandmother died from breast cancer. Throughout her class, she expressed her love for her grandmother and explained that her grandmother is in fact one of the reasons why Yoga Unites for LBBC is a special event for her.

Philadelphia Eagles mascot, ‘Swoop’ participated in this event and helped LBBC celebrate May 16, which had formally been declared Living Beyond Breast Cancer day in the city of Philadelphia. He put his wings to work on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum with over 80 formed teams by his side.

The half-day event included an outdoor yoga class and Healthy Living Expo, where participants were engaged in informative conversations that highlighted yoga and exercise, healthful foods, natural cosmetics and goods and services to improve quality of life. Olga and Warners, one of the sponsors for the event, offered bra-fitting tips as they offered women free bras.

Click here to view pictures of the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Enter password: yogaunites.

A Reason to Celebrate

2010-05-12T13:40:00.002-04:00

This entry was written by LBBC staff member Stacia Weaver:

Robin Schoen is not comfortable using the term ‘survivor’ and admits that she “didn’t want to be a member of a group of women with breast cancer; who would?” However, she will be taking part, for the first time, in the 8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer event. “I’m looking forward to meeting more incredible women and sharing our experiences in support of one another.” One motivation: May 16th is Robin’s 54th birthday. Another, she’s a big believer in the benefits of yoga. Coincidentally, the city of Philadelphia has declared May 16th Living Beyond Breast Cancer Day.

Robin attributes much of her physical strength in coping with the treatment necessitated by her breast cancer diagnosis to the healing benefits of yoga. (She has been practicing yoga for more than 15 years, but has practiced it more consistently since 2007.) “In fact, I think the reason why I recovered so quickly following my surgery was the result of the core strength I developed from my yoga practice,” says Robin, as she describes her recovery from the mastectomy of her right breast and subsequent TRAM flap reconstruction. This surgery uses tissue and muscle mass from the abdomen to replace a removed breast.

Robin isn’t a member of one of the 80 or so teams that were formed in support of the May 16th event. “I’m not a great team player, so I decided to do this on my own,” she says. “I sent two e-mails and made a couple of personal calls, and pretty quickly received tremendous support in the form of very generous donations from my very supportive friends and family members.” To date, she has raised $2,695 for the annual fundraising event – exceeding her $2,500 goal – which will be used to advance LBBC’s work to support women whose lives have been affected by breast cancer and spread awareness of LBBC’s education and support programs.

Robin urges everyone to get involved with campaigns that deal with promoting awareness about the impacts of breast cancer. “Nearly 200,000 new cases of breast cancer are reported annually in the U.S. alone. The methods for dealing with breast cancer have significant physical and psychological impacts,” she says. “The removal of one’s breast or breasts – unlike, perhaps, the removal of an internal organ -- provokes profound responses and the people affected need and deserve attention.”

This may be what drives Robin to support LBBC rather than organizations focused on finding a cure. “With breast cancer – as with all cancers -- there are so many variables and they’re so specific, that I’m not sure a cure is possible; perhaps better, less invasive and less destructive therapies and treatments – but a cure? While driving toward these lofty goals, I think it’s important to remember to focus on providing the support needed by those who are living with breast cancer or its terrible impacts so they’re able to live their lives as unimpeded by this disease as possible.”

My Fourth Year Participating, My First as a Survivor

2010-05-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

This entry was written by Denise Portner of Elkins Park, PA:

This May will be the fourth year I’m attending the Yoga Unites for LBBC event, and I always love the feeling of camaraderie, the gentle early morning sun on our faces, the quiet of a group of hundreds during yoga together. The Healthy Living Expo is fun, the food is fresh and the coffee is delicious. But this year will be different. It will be the first one in which I am a survivor. And the lesson I’ve learned is that any one of us can go from supporter to survivor. But with the help of loved ones and an organization like LBBC, we can make it.

I had gotten involved with LBBC through my work in public relations, connecting one of my client companies to LBBC as a sponsor. The CEO has since joined LBBC’s board of directors, as has one of my law firm clients. Both are men whose wives, sisters and other relatives have had breast cancer, and they want to be involved with an organization that touches women so profoundly, through individual support, as well as the highest level of educational programming and seminars around. That’s what hooked me too.

From the start, I was impressed with how easy it was to work with Jean, Elyse, and all the staff at LBBC and how quickly they felt like friends. In the meantime, I was on my own personal journey, since my mother and aunt had both had breast cancer. After my aunt was treated, she and my mother underwent genetic testing and learned they carried the BRCA 2 mutation. My sister and I were then tested, and I learned I was BRCA 2 positive as well. In the summer of 2008, after visiting two local Family Risk Assessment centers and receiving top-notch counseling, I was giving thought as to whether to take prophylactic measures to prevent breast and ovarian cancer. I was in my mid-40s, and my mother and aunt had been diagnosed at age 60. I assumed I had time.

Last May, on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, I was a participant in Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. In our tradition, I shared the morning with my friend Risa, her daughter and mother, who is a survivor. During the program, I listened to the stories and prayed for the women who had gone through so much, and was glad to contribute to a great cause. Later in the month, I attended my 25th college reunion in New England, spent the weekend with wonderful friends, and had a great time.

But then in June, I had an MRI rather than a mammogram, because of my genetic status. It showed an area of concern that I subsequently had biopsied, and all of a sudden, and forever, I became a woman who had breast cancer.

In the year since, I have had surgery, reconstruction, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. My care at Fox Chase Cancer Center has been top notch, and thank heavens, my prognosis is good. My family and friends have been there for me, and so has LBBC. The newsletters and teleconferences are suddenly extremely relevant – as if someone is reading my mind and addressing my concerns. Jean and Elyse have reached out to me, shared their experience, and put me in touch with experts for second opinions that are leaders in the field. The silver lining during this challenging year has been the expression of love and support I have received from my family, friends and colleagues, and the time I have been able to spend with them. I realize not everyone is as fortunate. Not everyone has the network I had, the insurance I had, the access to information and the ability to process it. And alas, not everyone is married to a physician who also cooks.

So this year, I appealed to my circle to help raise funds to support women who face this diagnosis with fewer resources than I had, because getting through cancer treatment is hard enough. This year, when we gather on the steps of the majestic Philadelphia Museum of Art, overlooking our beautiful city in the Sunday morning hours, my perspective will be very different. My sense of connection to LBBC and its supporters will be stronger. My compassion for those who suffer and worry and persevere, will be top of mind. And my gratitude for having reached this day, overwhelming.

It's not too late to part-take in this year's event! Sign up now at www.yoga4livingbeyondbreastcancer.org.

A Karma Project in Honor of a Loved One

2010-05-06T14:42:00.011-04:00

Lisa O’Rear thought that participating in this year’s 8th Annual Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer was the perfect way to complete her “Karma Project.” She has only been practicing yoga for a year and is now on her way to becoming a yoga instructor. One of the requirements for her yoga-teaching course is to complete a “Karma Project,” which brings yoga into the community by volunteering.

“Breast cancer is a huge deal. It runs in my family,” said Lisa. On April 23, 2010, Lisa lost her cousin Micheline Camire Bedard to breast cancer. She had been battling the disease for two years. “When Micheline was diagnosed, it brought back painful memories for our family. “Our aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 49. Micheline was the same age when she was diagnosed,” Lisa wrote in an email.

Yoga has been a fundamental experience in Lisa’s life. She credits yoga and its benefits to the healing effects that it has had on her personal life. “Yoga teaches you about acceptance; about being content with what is and not what could be,” said Lisa.

Over 200,000 women will be affected by breast cancer this year. However, a pilot study revealed that a brief yoga class would be beneficial for combating side effects from cancer treatment. Lisa is familiar with the many aspects associated with yoga. “It allows women to be physically involved. You can sit in a chair and do yoga. It makes them [women] feel like they’re doing something. It gives them hope,” she said.

Lisa, 33, has done research about breast cancer gene testing. She believes that the more you learn about breast cancer, the more you realize that it could in fact be you. She is afraid of breast cancer and disappointed that people don’t become involved enough until it affects them. “Motivation comes from within. How could you not be a part of something that affects so many people?”

“Think about all the women you work with; about all the women you come into contact with in your daily life.” Many of those women will be diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Lisa.

Yoga Unites for LBBC will take place on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum on Sunday, May 16. Lisa’s team “MC Yoga Love” has raised $1,260 for LBBC education and support programs.

“You don’t always have the opportunity to do things like this in life. Micheline was a humble person. She was much more concerned about other people than herself. She was an inspiration,” she ends.

Would you like to share your story about participating in Yoga Unites for Living Beyond Breast Cancer? Email yarissa@lbbc.org.