Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 3, 2019

KH . ORG 7 What Does it Mean? HER2-positive. HER2 is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells in the body. HER2-positive cancers are often more aggressive than other types of breast cancer. Targeted therapy drugs are available to shut down the HER2 protein, thus slowing its growth and killing these cancer cells. Estrogen receptor positive. This type of breast cancer has receptors that allow the cancer cells to use estrogen to grow. Hormonal therapy can block the growth of these cancer cells. Chicks ’n’ Chaps Benefits Local Cancer Patients The 11 th annual Chicks ’n’ Chaps event is Friday, Aug. 23, at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds. Chicks ’n’ Chaps is a women-only rodeo clinic held in conjunction with Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night at the North Idaho State Fair and Gem State Stampede. Through a hands-on clinic, participants get a basic tutorial of the seven events of professional rodeo. Proceeds benefit the North Idaho Fair Foundation and the Kootenai Health Foundation. Last year, Chicks ’n’ Chaps raised $15,791 for the Cancer Patient Support Fund. Learn more and register at northidahostatefair.com . “When I first moved to Idaho, I was staying with my son and his family. While I loved living with them, being in a home with small children doesn’t always promote a restful and restorative atmosphere,” she said. “Walden House was so welcoming. The volunteers at the house were instrumental during the first part of my treatment. We bonded with the other people staying in the house, and everyone supported each other.” Support when it counts Throughout the course of her treatment, Kirstie expanded her support network. She worked with social workers to navigate the health care system and billing process and received visits from her family and friends. “At some point all of my family members and friends from across the country came to visit and support me,” Kirstie said. “Then later in my treatment, I discovered the women’s cancer support group and have been attending ever since.” The women’s cancer support group meets weekly at Kootenai Clinic Cancer Services in Post Falls. The group is open to all women who have experienced a cancer diagnosis. Group members have a variety of cancer types and range from women who are newly diagnosed to others who are well in remission. A similar group for both men and women is also available. “I enjoy running the women’s support group,” said Travis Geib, Kootenai Clinic Cancer Services social worker. “Everyone’s journey through cancer is unique. The support group provides patients an opportunity to engage with others that have a shared experience. The support and kindness members provide each other—both inside and outside the clinic—is an amazing thing. Sometimes we have potlucks and guest speakers to provide members education about topics of interest.” Kirstie feels good about her care plan moving forward and is thankful for the support she’s received from her care team and family. She hopes women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are able to find the support system they need. “I would tell any woman facing a breast cancer diagnosis a few things I’ve learned,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to cry, take comfort in those who love you and ask for help when you need it. Lean on your care team to provide the answers to your questions and, above all else, fight like hell.” Reeling from a recent diagnosis? Kootenai Clinic Cancer Services is here to help you through your cancer journey. Visit KH.org/cancer or call (208) 625-4700 .