“Let Pink Shine” is a promise that when we light our community in pink, we shine a light of hope, strength, and unity for everyone impacted by breast cancer. Pink is a symbol that represents awareness, early detection, and the collective fight for a cure. By letting pink shine, we show our support for survivors, honor those we’ve lost, and remind our loved ones to take charge of their health. Join us as we light our community pink, whether it is a business front, a home porch, or the Lewis-Clark Valley – together, we will shine bright with hope.
PURCHASE A PINK LIGHT BULB
Join the movement by swapping your porch light for a pink bulb! Show your support for breast health awareness and honor those impacted by breast cancer. All proceeds will go to Women’s Services at TriState Health.
SCHEDULE YOUR MAMMOGRAM
Early detection saves lives, which is why annual mammograms and preventative screenings are essential. Call TriState Women’s Imaging at 509.758.4658 to schedule your mammogram. No referral is necessary to make your appointment.
To learn more and purchase light bulbs, visit TSH.org/LetPINKShine
Targeted Therapies
RECENT ADVANCES IN
BREAST CANCER TREATMENT ARE GIVING PATIENTS MORE OPTIONS AND MORE HOPE THAN EVER BEFORE.
Targeted therapies, which are designed to focus on specific traits or weaknesses in cancer cells, are helping doctors treat breast cancer more precisely and with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
At the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference, researchers shared exciting updates on several new drugs and treatment combinations that are changing how breast cancer is treated.
One major development involves a drug called inavolisib. When added to standard hormone-blocking treatments (palbociclib and fulvestrant), it helped people with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer live longer by an average of seven months while also delaying the need for chemotherapy. Inavolisib works by targeting a specific gene mutation called PIK3CA, which is found in many breast cancers.
deruxtecan (T-DXd) is now approved for patients with HER2-low tumors, offering a new option for many people who were previously considered ineligible for this kind of therapy.
Another encouraging update came from the use of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), which are special treatments that deliver cancer-fighting drugs directly to tumor cells. One such drug, datopotamab deruxtecan (brand name Datroway), was approved in early 2025 for patients with advanced hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. This drug has been shown to slow cancer growth while causing fewer harsh side effects than standard chemo.
FIGHTING TRIPLE NEGATIVE BREAST CANCER
There are positive developments for patients with triple negative breast cancer, a more aggressive form that’s harder to treat. A drug called sacituzumab govitecan (Trodelvy) continues to be a leading option, especially for those whose cancer cells carry a marker called Trop-2. Meanwhile, HER2-targeted treatments are expanding to help more patients. Originally used only for HER2-positive cancer, the drug trastuzumab
PRECISION MEDICINE
Many of these treatments are part of a growing movement called precision medicine, which matches therapies to the specific genetic makeup of each person’s cancer. Simple blood tests, sometimes called liquid biopsies, are making it easier for doctors to identify which mutations are present and choose the most effective treatment.
While targeted therapies can still cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea or low blood counts, doctors are finding better ways to manage them so patients can continue treatment with fewer interruptions.
If you’re in treatment or managing metastatic breast cancer, talk to your oncologist about whether genetic testing or clinical trials might open the door to one of these newer therapies. With more personalized options emerging, the future of breast cancer care is becoming brighter and more targeted than ever.
BEHIND MANY PATIENTS BATTLING CANCER ARE CAREGIVERS — SPOUSES, FAMILY MEMBERS, AND FRIENDS — WHO PROVIDE EMOTIONAL, PHYSICAL AND LOGISTICAL SUPPORT.
Caringthefor Caregivers
These caregivers provide physical, emotional and logistical support while often juggling their own personal and professional responsibilities.
In Jessica Baladad’s family, 14 women came down with breast cancer. She told PopSugar that, “It wasn’t until my own diagnosis that I realized the mental health part is just as important as being there for someone physically at their appointments,” she says. “It’s important to check in and ask people how they’re doing. You may see someone being strong, but you don’t know what’s in the back of their mind.”
CAREGIVER DEMOGRAPHICS
The National Cancer Institute provides the following data about informal caregivers of people with cancer: 58% are women, 88% cared for a relative, 39% lived with the person they were caring for, 50% reported high emotional stress, 25% reported high financial strain, 50% worked an average of 35 hours per week at a job while also caregiving, 72% helped with medical task, 43% said they needed help to manage physical and emotional stress.
SUPPORTING THE HELPERS
Experts and advocates emphasize the need to support caregivers, who are critical to patients’ well-being but frequently face burnout and isolation. Many find the role rewarding but it also comes with significant challenges, including emotional strain, fatigue, financial stress and feelings of isolation.
Supporting a caregiver begins with acknowledgment. A simple “How are you doing?” can go a long way. Friends and family can offer to help with errands, prepare meals, or provide respite care so the caregiver can take a break.
Health care providers can help by including caregivers in discussions, offering education and directing them to resources like support groups or counseling. Many cancer centers offer caregiver-specific programs that focus on mental health, stress management and community connection.
SELF-CARE
Self-care is also key. Caregivers are encouraged to take time for themselves, maintain hobbies, get regular exercise and accept help when offered. It’s not selfish; it’s necessary.
Technology can provide additional support. Scheduling apps, virtual support groups and online forums can help caregivers manage tasks and find community.
Local nonprofits and organizations such as CancerCare and the American Cancer Society offer helplines, financial guidance and emotional support. The National Breast Cancer Foundation has a free Cancer Caregiver Guide that they will email to those who request it.
Caregivers play a crucial role in the breast cancer journey, and their well-being directly affects the person they’re caring for.
When caregivers feel supported, they are better able to provide meaningful and sustained care.
How to Track Breast Changes Over Time
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place every October in the U.S., is a timely reminder of the importance of early detection. One proactive step women can take is learning to track changes in their breasts. Here’s an overview.
SCHEDULE IT IN
Choose a consistent time each month to do a selfexam. Many health experts recommend about a week after your period ends. If you no longer menstruate, pick a regular date each month.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
When looking in the mirror, check for changes in size, shape or skin texture. Watch for dimpling, puckering, redness or visible lumps. Raise your arms to check for asymmetry or movement changes. Then, use your fingertips in a circular motion to feel the entire breast, including underarms
and near the collarbone, for lumps or thickened areas.
RECORD IT
Record your findings in a journal or app every month. This helps identify changes over time. If anything seems unusual, contact your healthcare provider. Most breast changes aren’t cancer, but you can never be too sure.
Regular tracking empowers women to stay informed and proactive about their breast health.
Precious Gems. Precious Lives.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS | MENTAL IMPACT
Managing Fear of Recurrence
FOR MANY BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS, FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS ARE PART OF ONGOING CARE, INTENDED TO DETECT RECURRENCE EARLY AND MONITOR LONGTERM HEALTH.
For some, however, the anticipation of these routine scans triggers a powerful emotional response known as scanxiety.
Scanxiety refers to the stress, fear or anxiety that often arises in the days or weeks leading up to imaging tests such as mammograms, MRIs or CT scans. It can affect both individuals in remission and those living with metastatic disease. While these feelings are common and understandable, they can interfere with daily life, disrupt sleep and affect emotional well-being.
Symptoms of scanxiety may include insomnia, irritability, muscle tension, digestive issues, difficulty focusing and a tendency toward catastrophic thinking. Even after receiving reassuring news from a previous scan, the approach of a new appointment can reignite worries about the possibility of recurrence.
RELIEVING STRESS
Experts recommend several strategies to manage this stress. First, patients are encouraged to acknowledge the anxiety rather than suppress it. Understanding that scanxiety is a normal emotional response can help reduce shame or guilt associated with feeling fearful.
Preparation is another key tool. Marking appointments on a calendar and creating a plan for the days surrounding the scan can provide a sense of control. Activities such as walking, journaling, meditation or spending time with supportive friends can help reduce anxiety and ground the mind.
Mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioral approaches help manage stress. These may include breathing exercises, guided imagery or learning to reframe negative thoughts. Focusing on what is known rather than what is feared can reduce mental spiraling.
INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Staying informed can help reduce uncertainty. Patients are encouraged to ask their medical team what the scan will involve, how long it will take, when results will be available and how they will be communicated. Knowing what to expect can reduce surprises and set realistic timelines for when results might arrive.
Support networks are an important part of coping. Many cancer centers and nonprofit organizations offer support groups for survivors, where individuals can share their experiences and hear from others facing similar emotions. Online communities may provide a sense of connection and understanding. While the anxiety may never fully disappear, building coping mechanisms can help individuals move forward with greater peace. Scanxiety is a reminder of what survivors have endured, but it can also be an opportunity to practice self-compassion and resilience. With the right tools and support, it becomes one more challenge that can be managed on the path to healing.
Telling Your Kids You BreastHaveCancer
Have you or someone you know recently been diagnosed with breast cancer? Sharing this news with children can be challenging but approaching it with honesty and sensitivity can help them feel supported and less afraid.
CONSIDER YOUR CHILD’S AGE
The first step is to assess your child’s level of maturity and emotional development. Younger children may not understand what cancer is, so it’s best to use simple, direct language. In contrast, teenagers can grasp more complex information about cancer and may have many questions. Think about what you want to say to them and rehearse saying it. Don’t be afraid to write it down, if that helps.
BE HONEST
Avoid creating a taboo around cancer or suggesting that it should be kept a secret. Explain what cancer is, how it will be treated and what side effects you might experience. However, be mindful not to overwhelm them with too much information. Provide the basics and reassure them that you’re available to talk and answer any of their questions.
PROVIDE COMFORT
Encourage your children to express their feelings. Let them know that it’s okay to feel anger, sadness and fear. Offer reassurance and be patient, as children of all ages will need time to process the news. If you’re unsure how to approach the subject, consider asking your healthcare team for guidance. They may have useful books, videos or websites to recommend, or they can refer you to someone who can help you navigate this conversation.
This month, we encourage our patients and community to take preventive steps—for their health, their families, and their future.
442 Bryden Ave | Lewiston | (208) 746-2414
Healthy Meal Ideas
A HEALTHY DIET SUPPORTS OVERALL WELL-BEING AND CONTRIBUTES TO MANAGING TREATMENT SIDE EFFECTS FOR BREAST CANCER PATIENTS.
Here are some meal ideas focusing on nutrient-dense options.
BREAKFAST
• Dark chocolate cherry overnight oats: A convenient and delicious option packed with antioxidants like flavonoids, potentially offering anti-cancer benefits. Combine oats, cherries, walnuts, chia seeds, cacao and protein powder for added staying power.
• Poached egg and avocado breakfast salad: A satisfying and nutrient-rich salad incorporating healthy fats, protein and antioxidants.
• Scrambled tofu with greens: A savory and nutrient-dense breakfast option packed with protein and vitamins.
• Smoothie bowl: A refreshing and easy-to-digest option, especially beneficial for those with a sore mouth. Consider a non-citrus based smoothie bowl if needed, or add more liquid to make it drinkable with a straw.
LUNCH AND DINNER
• Mediterranean bowl with salmon: A healthy and flavorful dish featuring a lean protein source (salmon) along with fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and legumes, all part of the cancer-protective Mediterranean diet.
• Lentil and quinoa stew: A hearty and protein-rich option that can be made in large batches for easy meal prep.
• Chicken and rice soup: Easy to digest and comforting, this soup is a good choice for those experiencing nausea.
• Sheet pan chicken shawarma bowls: A convenient and healthy meal option, packed with protein and vegetables.
• Vegan rainbow peanut noodles: A flavorful vegan dish featuring plantbased protein sources like tofu and peanut butter.
SNACKS
• Peanut butter and jelly chia pudding: A sweet and healthy snack option.
• Almond cherry cacao trail mix: A combination of antioxidants, healthy fats and protein for a quick energy boost.
• Baked chicken pasta: A mildly flavored comfort food option. Consider omitting chili flakes if experiencing mouth sores.
• Garlic grilled shrimp with chili lime quinoa black bean salad: Combines animal and plant-based protein sources for optimal nutritional intake.
• Greek yogurt with fruit and nuts: A good source of protein and probiotics.
• Hard-boiled eggs: A quick and easy source of protein.
• Fruit and nuts: Provides fiber, vitamins and healthy fats.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Protein is crucial. It helps repair tissues and support the immune system. Sources include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, nuts and soy.
Eat frequent, small meals. This can help ensure adequate nutrient intake and manage treatment-related side effects like nausea.
Embrace fruits and vegetables. Aim for a wide variety of colorful options for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Choose whole grains. They provide fiber and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Healthy fats are important. Focus on sources like olive oil, avocado and nuts.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Consult with a registered dietitian. They can help you develop a personalized meal plan based on your individual needs and treatment.
Remember, there’s no single best diet for everyone. Focus on making healthy choices and incorporating foods you enjoy while adhering to your doctor’s recommendations.
Questions to Ask About Your MammogramFirst
Mammograms are an essential part of preventative care for women over the age of 40. Although getting your first mammogram can feel overwhelming, being well-informed can help ease your anxiety and ensure that you make the most of your appointment.
1. WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE?
Understanding what happens step by step can make the experience less intimidating. Ask how long the test will take, whether it might be uncomfortable, and what you should wear.
2.
WILL THE MAMMOGRAM BE 2D OR 3D?
Standard 2D mammograms are widely available and considered reliable for screening. A 3D mammogram can provide more detailed images and may be recommended for people with dense breast tissue.
3. WHEN
AND HOW WILL I GET MY RESULTS?
Make sure you know when to expect your results and how you’ll receive them. Your clinic may provide results by phone, mail or online portal. Ask if a follow-up appointment is necessary.
4. WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMETHING ABNORMAL IS FOUND?
It’s good to be prepared. Most abnormalities aren’t cancer, but it’s wise to know what additional steps might be needed, such as more imaging or a biopsy.
5. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE A MAMMOGRAM?
Guidelines can vary based on age, family history and risk factors. Typically, women aged 40 to 74 should have a mammogram every two years. Ask your provider for a personalized screening schedule.
Your first mammogram is a vital step toward early detection and peace of mind.
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS | EFFECTS OF DISEASE
Relationships and Intimacy
APPOINTMENTS, TREATMENTS AND PHYSICAL CHANGES.
Amid the turmoil, couples and partners frequently experience shifts in their intimate relationships, affecting emotional connection, physical closeness and the very foundation of love and support.
Many patients report a dip in sexual desire due to fatigue, body image issues and side effects such as vaginal dryness or discomfort. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology of metastatic breast cancer patients and their partners found that cumulative treatments — including surgery and early menopause — “amplify sexual changes and challenges,” causing guilt and emotional distress for both patients and partners.
Adding to the strain, partners endure their own burden. Psychosocial research reported by the National Institutes of Health highlights anxieties around sexual intimacy and communication, and describes how the looming perception of a life-limiting diagnosis adds layers of emotional complication.
CONNECTING AND GROWING
Lewiston
Yet more than pain and fear, many relationships discover resilience. A Cancer Center blog notes rebuilding intimacy begins with “patience, understanding and openness,” and suggests gently reconnecting through small acts like holding hands or giving massages before attempting sexual intercourse.
Behavioral-health projections from City of Hope Cancer Center underscore these relational challenges. Alexandra Callahan, a therapist, explains that women often experience abrupt shifts in self-image following treatment, including surgical changes, leading them to question whether their partners will still find them attractive. Cynthia Ingram, an intimacy nurse, adds: “Desire can wax and wane because of treatment … fatigue and exhaustion mean sex isn’t even on their to do list.”
COMMUNICATION AND INTERVENTION
Experts stress communication is key. Open, honest discussions allow couples to reset expectations and express needs without judgement. Health professionals encourage patients and partners to seek resources such as counseling, sexual-health specialists or support networks that help address both physical and emotional intimacy issues.
Psycho oncology research has found interventions focused on enhancing sexuality and intimacy significantly improve quality of life for both patients and their partners. Programs may include education on managing side effects like vaginal dryness, using lubricants, exploring new forms of touch and scheduling intimate time, not just intercourse.
Reconnecting may involve emotional intimacy. Post-traumatic growth studies reveal that many survivors and partners emerge with deeper appreciation for life, closer emotional bonds and renewed purpose.
Support services offer opportunities to speak with peers who have faced similar challenges. These connections can normalize experiences and inspire couple-focused healing.
As patients and partners move forward, specialists say growth is possible. With time, patience and mutual support, couples can rebuild intimacy — both physical and emotional — and emerge stronger, together.
