In 2017, there will be an estimated 1,688,780 new cancer cases diagnosed and 600,920 cancer deaths in the US. Our friend and breast cancer survivor Caitlin Sticka has decided to give comfort and courage to those women fighting the same fight. With Courage provides specially curated support, mentorship and care packages to make their fight a little more bearable.
Local Flow will support With Courage and Caitlin with our monthly With Courage Wednesdays. The first Wednesday of every month 20% of all proceeds will be donated in the form of Local Flow gift cards to give nutritional support as women of Yamhill County undergo treatment for breast cancer.
What is with courage and your goal with it? The why?
CS: With Courage is a program under Hope on The Hill that helps to support women during and after beast cancer treatment. It’s goals are to support, mentor and provide care packages for women going through treatment.
As much as you care to share, what is your story with cancer. How has it change your outlook on life?
CS: September 2014 I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 30. I found out that same week that I was pregnant with my 2nd daughter. She went through 5 rounds of chemo with me and also a few surgeries. I delivered her in May 2015 and then continued to finish 4 more rounds of chemo, finishing July 31st 2015. Cancer was the hardest thing I have ever been through, but it has shown me how amazing my family, friends and community are. We were overwhelmed with the support and generosity of close friends as well as complete strangers. I have made everlasting friendships with other cancer moms, these are so valuable because they are the ones I can relate to the most. Cancer has taught me to not take life for granted, it sounds cliche but when you hear those words “you have cancer” your life is forever changed. Staring death in the face is humbling and reminds one of what is important in life.
How did you view and use nutrition during your treatment?
CS: During treatment I luckily felt fairly good, I made sure to drink huge amounts of water and lived off smoothies. I didn’t do much research on cancer fighting foods at the time because it was honestly super overwhelming, but I did make sure to each tons of fruits and veggies. Now that the dust has settled I have made the time to meet with a dietician to form a plan for a diet tailored to my needs. It has helped a lot and I feel better than ever!
What will the Local Flow customers purchases be going to?
CS: By purchasing from Local Flow on With Courage Wednesday’s you will be providing gift cards for women going through breast cancer treatment. These cards will be part of the care packages that they will receive. The hope is to help them have access to healthy foods during their treatment and beyond.
Where and how can people find more information on with courage?
Visit www.hopeonthehill.org for more information! Stay tuned for a Facebook page coming soon!