Pink Ribbon Testimonials

"On the first visit to meet with my surgeon at Columbia Presbyterian hospital, while still in a state of shock over my diagnosis, I was presented with a bag by the Libby Ross Foundation that contained support information that proved to be invaluable. The book, Be a Survivor, contained the most helpful information of any texts I read during the process of trying to understand what I was facing, and what all the confusing medical terms meant. I still refer to the book for explanations offered in simple, plain language, and am very grateful that someone went to the effort of giving it, as a gift, to me. My friends commented that I seemed to know more about my condition than others they had known, and my reply was that in addition to the information provided by the medical staff, I had been able to learn more broadly about cancer and its treatment because of the excellent source book I was referring to. Because my chemo was a mild drug regime that did not cause hair loss, I did not need the silk pillow, but thought it was a very special gift to offer a bit of pampering when it was needed. I still use the pretty journal, which was useful as being something to use specifically for the purpose of writing about the experience of breast cancer. I continue to put it to use.

The other value of having been given the bag, was that it was useful for putting other brochures and pamphlets related to breast cancer into one easy to get to, convenient place. It serves as a reminder now that someone cared enough to think about the details involved with breast cancer, and providing valuable, as well as comforting, items that conveyed a much needed sense of support during a very vulnerable, upsetting time. I wish to thank the Libby Ross Foundation for the effort they made on behalf of the women in the Women at Risk program.

"I was so grateful for that bag. My son has now taken possession of the little pillows & uses them for his stuffed friends. I can't tell you how helpful those pillows were to me. I used them nearly 24/7 for at least one month after my mastectomy. & knowing that they were made by people who either were once in my situation or just cared enough to help out someone whose whole life changed so drastically made it feel even more special. I also wore the t-shirt all the time. I wasn't sure what to expect after surgery, so having these supplies was so helpful & made my life a bit easier. I even wore the t-shirts throughout my radiation under my other shirts so the ointment didn't ruin my shirts.

I used all the supplies given to me and felt special that I was part of a community of women who cared about other women so much. I must admit that once I no longer needed any of the supplies in that bag, my son took most of the stuff. It helped him imagine that he had a part of my illness and recovery in a playful way. I hope all is well for you and thanks again for the bag & all your help and advice. That binder you gave me was also very helpful. Just the sheets with the stretches alone was hugely helpful. I didn't know what to do until you gave that info to me."

Thanks again, Karin Pagan

Yoga Program Testimonials

I just want to say thank you so much for extending the incredible Yoga Program! It has made such a difference in my life. No other program works to make yoga as user friendly. I could never believe I could enjoy yoga as much as I do. I am fairly inflexible and have shoulder problems. The teachers and assistants manage to use props to help me and others to enjoy the benefits of the poses. I have been to other yoga classes - they do not compare. Nowhere is the compassion and desire to help more evident than at your program. If this program didn't exist in New York City, I would not do yoga. I always feel so good mentally and physically after the class. I am thrilled to know it will be offered weekly! You really are offering a respite for me and other cancer patients. - Billie S.

I have gained so much from taking part in this retreat. Realizing that you are not alone, and the hope of a bright future from seeing so many "long term" survivors as well...Encouragement to start taking time to care for yourself, and maintain a healthy / enjoyable lifestyle that will encourage continued healing - both physically and mentally...Inspiration to get out and try to find ways to support / help others in their journey. - Christie K.

It is very hard to say what the best part of the retreat was, but probably the collegiality amongst the participants. But if all of the other pieces were not there, it wouldn't have happened. I loved every minute of it ~ but the staff and participants touched my heart. It is an experience that will be kept forever in my memory. I have never been treated so well, met such wonderful, brave, funny women. I have never laughed so much about breast cancer. I left feeling less like an "oddball" and more like others. I left feeling like sharing my disease rather than hiding it from others.
-Becky B.

The entire retreat was amazing! But the love, compassion and caring that was shown by all of the people there - administrative and participant was overwhelming! I have made a lot of new 'forever friends', learned that a lot of the issues that I face are very common. The retreat was a First Class event and the opportunity of a lifetime. It has permanently changed my life and I cherish every second that I spent there. 
- Beverly S.

The best part of the retreat was the opportunity to be with other women who understand the devastation and rebirth of breast cancer. Through this experience, I have begun to make peace with my cancer. - Joanne P.

Having "an away weekend" just for me was wonderful! This "time away" from home, family, friends, work and my routines gave me the mental space to feel things that I don't usually have time to feel. --'In the silence of not doing I begin to know how I feel'-I love that saying (not sure who said it)-but it rang so true for me that weekend. - Kelley M.