My Tata Testimony

🌸 Exciting news, everyone! 🌸

I'm thrilled to announce my new affiliation with Dr. Kristi Funk's Pink Lotus Elements Store! As a breast cancer survivor and founder of My Tata Testimony, I'm passionate about supporting breast health, and this partnership is another way to offer knowledge and help. Scan the QR code or use this link (http://https//pinklot.us/mtt?r=qr) to explore these amazing products, and don’t forget to bookmark the page for future use! 🌟

Some of my personal favorites from a selection of incredible supplements and products include:

• Saffrony® Mood Support: Get Harmony with Saffrony! This clinically proven supplement is a natural, vegan and non-GMO saffron extract from stigmas containing 2% safranal, crocin and picrocrocin. It promotes healthy psychological function while supporting emotional health and mood balance as demonstrated in multiple published clinical studies
• Cosmo Companion™: Alcohol consumption blocks an enzyme called MTHFR that converts folate into its active form, methylfolate. Methylfolate repairs damaged DNA when it mutates and is a critical component for the health of every cell in your body. Cosmo Companion is an effective supplement to arm yourself against the negative effects of drinking alcohol.
• Joint Peace™: Joint Peace was developed to provide the only comprehensive and 100% plant-based joint support and relief formulation that contains the most effective ingredients validated by human clinical studies.
• Menopause Miracle: Menopause Miracle provides fast, natural and non-estrogenic menopause symptom relief for over 90% of women, backed by three randomized human studies against placebo. The patented ingredients are safe, plant-based, non-GMO and free of hormones.
• And the Best-Seller! Breasts: The Owner’s Manual from breast cancer surgeon Dr. Kristi Funk takes the broader conversation about total breast health to women everywhere with this straight-talking guide. You have power over this disease, and Dr. Funk explains why and how to use it!

In good health,

Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Wishing all My Tata Testimony supporters and followers a happy, healthy weekend! Here in Arkansas, we’re getting ready for Monday’s solar eclipse. Hot Springs is right in the path of totality, so it’s bound to be exciting! Lots of healthy snack and food choices will go with the celebration.

I'll be spending some quality time in the kitchen meal prepping for the weekend. Having nutritious whole-food options ready to go makes it so much easier to stick to an anti-cancer diet. Some of my favorite make-ahead dishes are lentil soup, quinoa veggie burgers, and overnight oats with fresh fruit.

Whatever you’re doing this weekend, eat well – be well.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Know Your Phytos

When I was reading Dr. Kristi Funk’s book (Chapter 3), I became fascinated by all the amazing plant compounds that can block cancer growth and spread. Some of the most potent ones include sulforaphane from cruciferous veggies, EGCG from green tea, genistein from soy, curcumin from turmeric, and resveratrol from red grapes.

As a cancer survivor taking charge of my own life choices for better health, making these phytonutrient rockstars a regular part of my diet is empowering. We have many plant-based food choices that actively promote health. I encourage you to find your favorites from the tables on pages 46-48 of Dr. Funk’s research.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

“I’d say the Mediterranean diet passed the longevity test with flying (antioxidant rich) colors.” (Dr. Kristi Funk)

A Mediterranean-style diet is a great template for an anti-cancer lifestyle. By emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and plant proteins like beans and nuts, you get an abundance of protective antioxidants and phytochemicals. Multiple studies show the Mediterranean diet can significantly lower breast cancer risk, especially for aggressive subtypes.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

"Your plate at any given meal should be 70 percent full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens (kale, spinach, collards), and 30 percent packed with whole grains and protein (legumes and soy)." (Dr. Kristi Funk)

According to Dr. Funk, the food we eat plays a powerful role in creating an anti-cancer environment within our bodies. One of my favorite ways to pack in the cancer-fighting plant nutrients is with a big, colorful salad! My ideal salad has a base of nutrient-dense greens like kale and arugula, topped with a rainbow of vegetables, beans, seeds, avocado, and maybe some fruit like blueberries, along with some whole grains. Eating this way helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Who wants to share their favorite salad ingredients? Keep Dr. Funk’s book handy and learn from the best! Use the QR code and order a copy directly from her site.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Preparing for Breast Surgery

As someone who has undergone a double mastectomy, I know that having an open dialogue with your surgical team is crucial. Here are some important questions to consider bringing up if you will be undergoing surgery:
• Is breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) an option for me? What are the pros and cons compared to mastectomy?
• How many surgeries like mine have you performed? What is your experience level?
• Will lymph nodes need to be removed, and what are the potential side effects?
• How long is the typical hospital stay? What can I expect for post-op care and drains/incisions?
• What will my breasts look and feel like after surgery? Will sensation be affected?
• Is breast reconstruction something I should consider? Can it be done during the initial surgery?
• What types of reconstruction might work best for my situation? Can you recommend a plastic surgeon?
• Do I need to make any medication changes or have other pre-op prep?

Don't hesitate to ask your surgeons to explain anything you don't fully understand. Bringing a loved one to take notes can also be helpful for remaining questions after appointments. Nerves can run high, so I even recorded the conversations so I could refer back to what was said.
Feeling informed about the surgical process and recovery can provide peace of mind.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Being newly diagnosed with breast cancer can feel overwhelming. You likely have many questions swirling as you try to understand your specific situation and what comes next. At My Tata Testimony, we want to help empower you to be an active partner in your care plan. In this series of posts, we look at some key questions to discuss with your oncologist as recommended by the American Cancer Society.

Getting Answers After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

🔹What type and stage of breast cancer do I have? Where exactly is the tumor located?
🔹Has the cancer spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
🔹What are the hormone receptors and HER2 status? How do these factors impact treatment?
🔹Will I need additional testing before deciding on my treatment plan?
🔹Should I consider genetic testing to understand hereditary risks?
🔹What other health professionals will be involved in my care team?

Ask about your specific cancer's grade, potential side effects, chances of survival, costs/insurance considerations, and getting copies of your medical reports.

Don't be afraid to ask as many questions as needed until you fully understand your diagnosis. Bringing a loved one to appointments and/or recording the conversation can also help ensure nothing is missed.

The first step in this journey is arming yourself with knowledge.

In good health,
Amber


mytatatestimony.com

Here's your reminder to take care of yourself, too!

As my breast cancer surgeon Dr. Funk explains, "A self-breast exam is a non-intrusive way to find breast cancer in its early stages when it is much more easily treatable. It does not involve radiation or a trip to the doctor – and is completely free – so there really is no excuse to not perform them."

In good health,
Amber

Watch Dr. Kristi Funk in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5wGb2Etsss&t=188s) giving step-by-step instructions on how to do a self-exam.

mytatatestimony.com

At My Tata Testimony, we believe in sharing knowledge to empower and uplift. Let's debunk two more common myths about hair relaxers and body art as covered in chapter 2 of Dr. Funk’s book, Breasts: The Owner’s Manual.

Hair Relaxers & Self-Care: Worried about hair relaxers? Good news! Extensive research finds no association between hair relaxer use and breast cancer risk. “Perhaps what we should be focusing on isn't straighteners specifically, but the fact that there are numerous and potentially cumulative health hazards hiding in our self-care products - particularly in African American communities. Specifically, hair products, including shampoos, conditioners, oils, dyes, relaxers, and root stimulators containing estrogens and placental extracts can mimic estrogen in our bodies so much that use of these hair products in early life has been considered a major contributor.”

Piercings and Tats Truth! Concerned about ni**le piercings and tattoos? Here's the scoop: Ni**le piercings won't cause breast cancer. Studies show they might lead to infections or challenges with breastfeeding, but no link to breast cancer.

Tattoos fall into the "not sure, probably fine" category, with no increase in breast cancer risk. While ink contains some substances, their impact on breast cancer risk is inconclusive. “…however, ink does contain phthalates, hydrocarbons, and a number of other potential carcinogens and endocrine disruptors, which, as part of a larger whole, possibly impact breast cancer risk.”

Let's spread awareness, break stigmas, and support each other in making informed decisions!

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

💕 Spread Love, Share Strength! This Valentine's Day, My Tata Testimony is sending love and support to all those affected by breast cancer. 💖 Join us in celebrating the resilience, courage, and love that unites us in the face of adversity.
🎗️ For the Fighters: You show us the true meaning of strength. Your journey inspires us every day.
🌸 For the Survivors: Your triumph is a testament to hope, resilience, and the power of love. You are our heroes.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For the Caregivers: Your unwavering support is a beacon. Your compassion is a true gift.
🌹 For Everyone: This Valentine's Day, let's spread awareness, share stories, and foster a community of love and understanding. Together, we can make a difference.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

🚫 In our continuing series on debunking breast cancer myths as covered in chapter 2 of Dr. Funk’s book, Breasts: The Owner’s Manual, we're examining two concerns that don't stand up to science:

👙 Bras Don't Cause Cancer! Whether underwire, tight, or worn for long hours, bras don't stimulate breast cancer. “Underwire bras, tight bras, sleeping in a bra, or wearing a bra more than twelve hours a day has no connection to risk.”

🌬️ Say No to Antiperspirant Fears! No need to search for natural substitutes – scientific evidence, including the FDA, disproves claims of antiperspirants causing breast cancer. No scientific evidence backs the claim that antiperspirants or deodorants cause breast cancer due to toxin buildup or aluminum exposure or parabens.

Let's separate fact from fiction and empower ourselves with accurate information.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Hello, friends! Let's address some common concerns surrounding radiation and hormone-related health worries as explained in Chapter 2 of Dr. Funk’s book.

Power Lines and Peace of Mind:
"Living near power lines can't cause cancer either." The energy they emit is too muted to harm breast DNA. Walls, cars, and objects shield and weaken this energy.

Hormone-Related Health Worries:
Rumors circulate, but evidence speaks louder! Studies show a tiny 24% increase in breast cancer risk while on OCPs.

But hold on, let's put it in perspective. For a 20-year-old, the risk is 1 in 1,567. With OCPs, the new risk becomes 1.24 in 1,567. Pretty tiny, right?

Consider your personal risks. OCPs may increase breast cancer risk, but they reduce colorectal cancer by 14% and endometrial cancer by 43%. Great news for BRCA gene mutation carriers too – OCPs reduce ovarian cancer risk without increasing breast cancer risk! Wondering about IVF? No need to fret! Despite hormone exposure, there's no strong evidence linking fertility treatments to increased breast cancer risk.

Radiation Reality Check:
"From what we can tell, mobile phones can't cause breast cancer, even if you tuck them in your bra, because they do not emit the right type of energy (or a high enough amount of energy) to damage the DNA inside breast cells."

At My Tata Testimony, we provide you with accurate information. Knowledge is your superpower! Share this post to spread awareness and keep the conversation going.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Welcome, friends! Today we're setting the record straight on a commonly asked question: Do breast implants increase your risk of breast cancer?

In Chapter 2 of Dr. Kristi Funk’s book, Breasts: The Owner’s Manual, she addresses this question and other concerns.

Breast Implants ≠ Breast Cancer
Whether saline or silicone, above or below your chest muscle, decades old or brand new, textured or smooth, round or shaped, implants do not cause breast cancer. In fact, a study of 3,139 women who got an augmentation between 1953 and 1980 shows that, after an average of 15.5 years, these women have 31 percent less breast cancer than would be expected. And this isn't the only such study. A meta-analysis of seventeen studies also showed a significant decrease in cancer incidence among those with cosmetic implants by one-third.”

Dr. Funk goes on to say that while this data suggests that implants may lower the risk of breast cancer, this may be linked to other factors like lower BMI and childbirth before 30. Also, it's important to note that implants can make cancer detection more difficult. If you have implants, be sure to have regular and rigorous screenings to stay proactive!

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

🍏✨ Diet Matters for Breast Health! As Dr. Kristi Funk says in Chapter 2 of her book about debunking myths, the fact is that your diet matters – a lot!

“Frankly, one of the most dangerous falsehoods circulating out there states that your diet doesn't impact breast health, which is completely bananas and wrong. What you put into your body influences estrogen levels, inflammation, blood vessel formation, cellular function, and destructive free radicals, to name a few cancer-related processes.”

Let's break free from myths and make informed choices for our breast health!

☕ Coffee Lovers Rejoice! Contrary to belief, no evidence links coffee to breast cancer. Sip your sacred cup of joe worry-free!

🧀 Dairy Dilemma Debunked! No, dairy doesn't cause breast cancer. But it's a saturated fat source, so be mindful. Dr. Funk guides us through the data in Chapter 2.

🍋 Acidic Foods Myth Busted! The idea that acidic foods cause breast cancer? Not true! Our body tightly regulates pH balance. Low pH foods won't create a cancer-friendly environment.

In good health,
Amber


mytatatestimony.com

In Chapter 2 of Dr. Kristi Funk’s book, Breasts: The Owner’s Manual, she discusses and clarifies some common myths and misconceptions. One often misunderstood statistic is that all women have a 1 in 8 chance of getting breast cancer - one of the most commonly quoted statistics in circulation.

Dr. Funk explains, “While it's correct, truth be told, you don't walk around every day of your life with 1 in 8 odds of getting breast cancer! If that were true, you'd probably have cancer by next month. Breast cancer risk increases as you get older. A woman's chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer during her twenties is 1 in 1,567 (not 1 in 8); in her thirties, 1 in 220; forties, 1 in 68; fifties, 1 in 43; sixties, 1 in 29; seventies, 1 in 25; finally, the oft-quoted 1 in 8 as a cumulative lifetime risk once she hits eighty.”

Knowledge is power. Let’s all make sure we examine and understand the science behind the data to better inform our choices and options.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

🌸 Embrace 2024 with Six Powerful Goals for Breast Health! 🌸

Feel it on the First: Commit to self-awareness! Take a moment on the first of each month to perform a breast self-exam. Early detection is key!

Exercise for Empowerment: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or hitting the gym, let movement be a celebration of your strength!

Limit Alcohol, Amplify Health: Moderation is key! Be mindful of alcohol consumption as it can impact breast health. Opt for alternatives and toast to your well-being.

Unlock Answers with Genetic Testing: Knowledge is power! Consider genetic testing to understand your unique risk factors and empower yourself with information.

Nourish with a Plant-Based Diet: Fuel your body with the goodness of plants! A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health and may reduce cancer risk.

Yearly Mammograms for Peace of Mind: Prioritize your well-being by scheduling regular mammograms. Early detection saves lives – make it a non-negotiable part of your healthcare routine!

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

🎗️✨ Welcoming the New Year with hope, resilience, and a heart full of gratitude! 🌟

🌺🕊️ This year, let's continue spreading awareness, sharing stories, and supporting one another so that our My Tata Testimony community continues to be a source of strength, love, and inspiration.

💖✨ Wishing everyone a Happy New Year filled with good health, joy, and countless moments of love. May 2024 be a year of breakthroughs, healing, and continued solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.

🌈🌟 Thank you for being a vital part of our mission. Together, we will keep creating awareness and making a difference in lives touched by breast cancer.

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

🎀Wishing you Hope, Healing, and Holidays full of Love! 🎄💕

My Tata Testimony sends warm wishes to our incredible community. May the magic of the holidays bring comfort to those facing the challenges of breast cancer and inspire us all to cherish the moments that truly matter.

Together, we are a testament to the power of hope and the importance of sharing our stories. As we reflect on the strides we've made and the battles we've faced, let's remember that every day is an opportunity to make a difference.

Sending you love, light, and warm wishes for a joyful holiday season! 🕊️🎁 Thank you for being a part of the My Tata Testimony family.

In good health,
Amber



mytatatestimony.com

🎀Last-Minute Gift Alert!

Give the gift of empowerment and knowledge this holiday season with "Breasts: The Owner's Manual" by my breast cancer surgeon and friend, Dr. Kristi Funk! 🎁📖

Looking for that perfect, thoughtful present? Look no further! Dr. Kristi Funk's insightful book is a treasure trove of information, offering guidance on breast health, prevention, and empowerment.

In the spirit of spreading awareness and supporting each other, "Breasts: The Owner's Manual" makes a meaningful gift for the people you care about. 🎀💕 It's a journey through breast health, demystifying the complexities and empowering us with knowledge to take charge of our well-being.

🛍️ Find it at your local bookstore or order online for a gift that keeps on giving! 🌐✨ Because knowledge is the greatest gift of all, and what better way to show you care than by promoting health and wellness? Together, we can make a difference!

In good health,
Amber

mytatatestimony.com

Knowledge is Empowerment! Did you know that less than 10% of breast cancers are hereditary? Let's break down the myth that all breast cancers are solely genetic.

FACT: The majority of breast cancers are influenced by various factors, including lifestyle, diet, and environment, for example. This means we have the power to reduce our risk through awareness and positive habits.

Our mission at My Tata Testimony goes beyond raising awareness; we're committed to empowering everyone with the knowledge to make informed choices about their health. Regular screenings, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed may be key steps towards prevention.

Share this post to spread the word and empower your loved ones! Together, we can create a world where breast cancer is not only detected early but possibly prevented. Let's take charge of our health and support each other on this journey.

In good health,
Amber



mytatatestimony.com

One of my go-to people for natural, holistic cancer healing is Chris Wark. Chris was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2003, at 26 years old. After surgery, he opted out of chemotherapy and used nutrition and natural therapies to heal. His book Chris Beat Cancer: A Comprehensive Plan for Healing Naturally, is a National Bestseller. Another of his books, Beat Cancer Kitchen: My New Recipe Book, is a great resource on eating a cancer-prevention, healthy plant-based diet and includes his Giant Cancer-Fighting Salad recipe, consisting of raw organic vegetables, sprouts, nuts, seeds, and homemade dressing. This salad is super healthy and delicious. Visit Chris Wark’s website to learn more.

In good health,

Amber



mytatatestimony.com

Remember to take care of yourself, too, this busy holiday season! As my breast cancer surgeon Dr. Funk explains, "A self-breast exam is a non-intrusive way to find breast cancer in its early stages when it is much more easily treatable. It does not involve radiation or a trip to the doctor – and is completely free – so there really is no excuse to not perform them."
In good health,
Amber
Watch Dr. Kristi Funk in this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5wGb2Etsss&t=188s) giving step-by-step instructions on how to do a self-exam.

mytatatestimony.com

Many of us enjoy a glass of wine or two, but as I mentioned in previous posts, Dr. Kristi Funk, my breast cancer surgeon, recommends limiting alcohol consumption to aid in cancer prevention. If you do drink occasionally, it is important to know that alcohol can reduce a vital enzyme called MTHFR, which is responsible for converting folate into its active form, methylfolate. To aid in protection, taking Cosmo Companion could be a helpful option.

What's In Cosmo Companion?
Bioactive Methylfolate replenishes what alcohol takes away.
15 potent botanicals for liver support and detoxification.
Perfect for casual drinkers and regular alcohol consumers.
Ideal for those with an MTHFR gene mutation or variation.
Reduces alcohol-induced nutrient deficiency.
Supports cellular health and proper cell regeneration.
Promotes alcohol metabolism and glucose stability.
Free of estrogen & hormones. Vegan, Non-GMO, Soy-Free & Gluten-Free.

The unique formulation ensures you enjoy your drink responsibly while safeguarding your cellular health. Use the QR code to visit Dr. Funk’s Pink Lotus website.

In good health,
Amber

I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all the wonderful people who have supported My Tata Testimony - our friends, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters. As we look back at the success of our second annual October Breast Cancer Awareness campaign, this Thanksgiving reminds us of the power of unity in overcoming challenges.

We are truly grateful for the support and care we receive from our community. On this day of thanks, we send you our warmest wishes for love, comfort, and healing. Your presence in the MyTata Testimony family is a blessing, and we hope you have a day filled with gratitude and happiness.

In good health,

Amber

As I have discussed previously, I had a type of cancer known as lobular breast cancer. I had DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) on my right side and the beginning stages of lobular on my left showed up after pathology. Lobular breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that begins in the lobules, which are the glands that produce breast milk. It's the second most common type of breast cancer after ductal carcinoma.

My Tata Testimony is all about education and awareness, so I want to again mention risk factors and prevention strategies for breast cancer in general. As we learned from Dr. Kristi Funk, only 10% of breast cancers are genetic, so there is good reason to take all of the following into account.

Risk Factors
• Age: Risk increases with age. The majority of breast cancer cases occur in women over 50.
• Personal History: Previous cases of breast cancer or certain non-cancerous breast diseases can increase the risk.
• Family History: Having close relatives (mother, sister, daughter) who've had breast cancer can increase the risk, especially if diagnosed at a young age.
• Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, etc.) can significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. Remember to also ask your doctor to test for the CDH1 gene for stomach cancer as it is directly related to lobular breast cancer.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of HRT can slightly increase the risk.
• Reproductive History: Starting menstruation before age 12, reaching menopause after 55, or never having children may slightly increase the risk.

Detection and Prevention:
• Regular Screening: Mammograms are essential for early detection. Women aged 40 and older should have regular mammograms. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
• Breast Self-Exams: Regularly examining your breasts and being aware of any changes or lumps is important. If you notice anything unusual, consult a healthcare professional.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking. A plant-based diet may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Know Your Family History: If there's a history of breast cancer in your family, discuss this with your doctor to assess your personal risk and potential preventive measures.
• Genetic Testing: If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, genetic counseling and testing can help determine if you carry genetic mutations that increase the risk.
• Breastfeeding: There's evidence to suggest that breastfeeding may slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Hormone Therapy: Discuss the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy with your doctor if it's necessary.

In good health,

Amber