Many of the eco-friendly products you’ll find on the Solutions web site were discovered by Cheryl, one of our buyers. She’s convinced that products that are healthier for the earth are healthier for us, too.
Cheryl was diagnosed with breast cancer in April of 2003. Like most people who receive the news they have cancer, she was shocked – in part because there was no history of breast cancer in her family.

“I was amazed to learn only fifteen percent of those diagnosed with breast cancer actually have a family history of the disease,” she says.

Now cancer-free, Cheryl makes her own health a high priority. “I’m much more aware of my diet than I used to be, and try to make wiser choices in both what I eat and what chemicals I expose myself to.”

Despite her busy schedule, Cheryl also makes sure to include exercise in her routine, taking part in a strength-training class geared toward cancer survivors, practicing yoga and going for walks.

“Your mental state can have a big effect on the outcome, so it’s important to maintain a positive outlook,” Cheryl observes. “I encourage women in my situation to keep their energy level up with exercise, do things they enjoy, and take advantage of the resources available.”

Such resources, Cheryl points out, can include support groups.

“Many hospitals can refer you to a group,” she says. “And if there isn’t one in your community, there are plenty of online groups you can join.”

She also urges women with breast cancer to let their loved ones help them.

“Your friends and family want to help, so let them,” Cheryl adds. “Be specific about how they can help, because they may not know what you need. For instance, if you want help with dinners or shopping, let people know.”

Cheryl also strongly recommends mammograms for women over forty. Thanks to organizations like Susan G. Komen for the Cure, eligible women needn’t fear the expense.

“I was 40 when my doctor referred me for my first mammogram,” she says. “I wasn’t working at the time, so figured I could put it off. After all, I’d only just turned 40, and I had no family history of the disease. But my doctor told me I could get a free mammogram through Susan G. Komen.”

Thanks to her doctor’s referral and to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Cheryl’s cancer was caught early.

“It was my first mammogram, and it probably saved my life,” she says simply.

As a Solutions buyer, it gives Cheryl special pleasure to recommend products that support breast cancer awareness, make life easier for cancer patients, or are just better for your health. Here are some of her favorites:

Miracle Cloth –
A best-selling Solutions product for many years, this microfiber cleaning cloth cleans with plain water – no cleaning chemicals needed! Health-conscious Cheryl loves its eco-friendly features.

“Our habits – the food we eat, the products we use – can have major ramifications for our health,” she says. “I love that this cloth eliminates the need to use harsh cleaners. A great, all-purpose cleaning cloth…I even keep one in the car to clean the inside of the windshield!”

Smart Pad – “This practical product has two sticky sides,” says Cheryl. “I keep one on my fridge and use it to hang up plastic grocery bags to air-dry before I reuse them. And for every pink Smart Pad sold, a donation is made to help in the fight against breast cancer!”

For more information about breast cancer or to make a personal donation, visit http://ww5.komen.org/.

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