Why Prioritizing Your Wellbeing in September Matters

Look Good Feel Better: Empowering Cancer Patients to Face the Challenges with Confidence

A Story of Resilience and Strength

For Bridget, a passionate cyclist and avid athlete, life was centered around competitive sport and overall well-being. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year. Bridget’s diagnosis was a complete surprise to her, as she had not been diligently checking her breasts. Thankfully, her prognosis was excellent, but the emotional toll was significant.

As a single mother of two children, Bridget found it incredibly challenging to be strong for her kids while also struggling to come to terms with her diagnosis. Despite the hardships, Bridget managed to find a “new normal” with the help of modern-day treatments and support systems.

Look Good Feel Better: A Tool for Cancer Care

One of the invaluable resources in Bridget’s cancer-care kit is Look Good Feel Better. This free program offers practical skills and strategies to empower cancer patients to manage the physical, psychological, and social impacts of their treatment. The program includes face-to-face and virtual workshops, as well as home-delivered confidence kits.

Skincare sessions provide valuable information on soothing dryness and managing sun sensitivity, while make-up classes offer tips for addressing redness, sallowness, and even drawing on eyebrows and eyelashes. Headwear tutorials are also provided to help participants navigate scarf styling and wig selection. Additionally, virtual workshops offer effective strategies to improve fitness, mobility, and mental well-being.

An Advocate for Looking Good and Feeling Better

Bridget is a strong advocate for the Look Good Feel Better program. She firmly believes in the motto “look good, feel better” and emphasizes the positive impact of a confident presentation on one’s mindset. Bridget is not alone in her experience, as a global survey of 26,000 Look Good Feel Better participants revealed that 96% of them reported an improvement in their self-image, and 97% found support through their participation.

Among the valuable tips Bridget received during the program, she highlights the importance of sun care, as chemotherapy can affect the skin’s natural sun protection ability. Additionally, she learned that her bald, patchy head lacked oil production, leading to dryness. Understanding these processes better instilled optimism in Bridget and helped her manage the stages of regrowth.

Feel Better Month: Supporting Cancer Patients

This September marks Feel Better Month, a perfect opportunity to support cancer patients on their journey to confidence. Look Good Feel Better aims to reach thousands of cancer patients in the coming year, ensuring that 92% of participants feel confident in their appearance. Compared to a pre-workshop confidence level of 50%, this statistic reflects the significant positive impact of the program.

During Feel Better Month, David Jones and Myer are joining forces to support Look Good Feel Better. For every lipstick and lip gloss sold, $1 will be donated to the program. Individuals can also contribute by hosting fundraisers, making donations, and spreading the word on social media, tagging @lgfbaustralia and using the hashtag #FeelBetterMonth2023.

A Venue for Learning and Growth

Look Good Feel Better is open to any adult or teenager undergoing treatment for any type of cancer. With a range of curated, expert-led virtual workshops available, participants can gain insights on topics such as hair loss, regrowth, and coloring; nail care; dealing with “scanxiety”; and scar and lymphatic massage.

By purchasing lipsticks and lip glosses at David Jones and Myer during Feel Better Month, individuals are not only enhancing their own beauty but also helping Australians facing cancer with confidence.

Editorial: The Importance of Prioritizing Wellness in the Face of Adversity

Anchoring Your Life amidst Challenges

Bridget’s story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to anchor our lives around wellness and prioritize self-care. Despite the rollercoaster of emotions accompanying her breast cancer diagnosis, Bridget maintained her commitment to her children, work, exercise, and overall well-being. Her ability to find a “new normal” demonstrates the power of resilience and the importance of self-improvement and personal growth.

A Positive Mindset and Confidence in Appearance

Look Good Feel Better plays a crucial role in empowering cancer patients to maintain a positive mindset and confidence in their appearance. By equipping individuals with practical skills and strategies, the program helps alleviate some of the physical and psychological impacts of cancer treatment. The emphasis on skincare, makeup, and headwear tutorials, along with the opportunity to connect with others who understand the journey, fosters a sense of community and support.

Supporting Cancer Patients in Feel Better Month

Feel Better Month provides an opportunity for the broader community to show support for cancer patients. The partnership between David Jones, Myer, and Look Good Feel Better demonstrates a commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing cancer. By purchasing a lipstick or lip gloss, individuals can contribute to the program’s invaluable work and help cancer patients regain their confidence.

Advice: Taking Steps Towards Wellness

Prioritizing Self-Care

Bridget’s story reminds us of the importance of prioritizing self-care, especially during challenging times. Making time for rest, recovery, exercise, and healthy eating can contribute to both physical and mental well-being. By establishing self-care routines and seeking support from programs like Look Good Feel Better, individuals can navigate difficult journeys with grace and resilience.

Embracing Support Networks

Support networks play a crucial role in helping individuals face challenging circumstances. Bridget’s positive experience with Look Good Feel Better highlights the benefits of connecting with others who share similar experiences. Whether it be through programs, support groups, or the broader community, embracing support networks can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

Giving Back to the Community

Feel Better Month serves as a reminder of the power of collective action. Supporting initiatives like Look Good Feel Better through donations, fundraisers, and social media engagement allows the broader community to join hands and make a meaningful impact. By giving back, we not only support cancer patients but also foster a culture of empathy and support.

In conclusion, through her journey with breast cancer, Bridget exemplifies the strength and resilience necessary to navigate difficult circumstances. Look Good Feel Better provides cancer patients with the tools and support to face the physical and psychological challenges of treatment with confidence and grace. With Feel Better Month as an opportunity to show support, let us prioritize wellness, embrace support networks, and give back to the community.