Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day Event Oct. 18

CINCINNATI—The UC Cancer Institute’s Breast Cancer Center will hold a reception celebrating National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, at the Center for Women’s Cancer, located on the third floor of the UC Health Barrett Cancer Center, 234 Goodman Dr.

The event, aimed at women who have undergone mastectomy and breast reconstruction or have questions about it along with their friends and families, will offer a chance for attendees to learn more about options for breast reconstruction, interact with breast cancer and reconstruction support groups, enjoy light refreshments and enter into a free basket giveaway.  

Organizations such as Knitted Knockers, the American Cancer Society, the Pink Ribbon Girls and implant manufacturers, with samples of silicone implants, will be represented, among others.

Additionally, UC Health’s Cathy Fricke will be available to answer questions. Fricke has special training and certification in oncology esthetics. She is also a permanent make-up and tattoo artist.

"Recent data released by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality showed that the rate of women undergoing mastectomies in the United States has increased 36 percent between 2005 and 2013, and a number of those women are choosing to undergo reconstruction,” says Elyse Lower, MD, professor in the UC College of Medicine, director of the UC Cancer Institute's Comprehensive Breast Cancer Center and a UC Health oncologist. "There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer reconstruction, and we’re happy to offer this opportunity to shed light on this topic to help women make decisions and enhance their understanding.”

Valet parking will be available for attendees. For more information or to RSVP, contact Kelly Carroll or call 513-558-2030.