Sometimes a Spirit is Renewed from the Outside In

Lynn Ables

Three years ago, Lynn Ables learned her cancer was so aggressive she would need intensive chemotherapy and surgery to remove her breasts and lymph nodes. For a full-time pediatrician, wife and mother of five young children – a 6-year-old, 3-year-old twins and 1-year-old twins – the news was overwhelming.

Fortunately, the team at Loyola’s Coleman Foundation Image Renewal Center, a peaceful, spa-like oasis located within the Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, helped Lynn maintain her spirit each step of the way. “They traveled alongside me on my cancer journey, helping me overcome some of the hurdles I faced,” Lynn said. “They lightened my load and helped me smile again.”

Lynn learned about the center during her orientation class before chemotherapy. “We were told we’d probably lose our hair,” Lynn remembered, “but that the Image Renewal Center could help us. My cosmetologist at the center said, ‘Don’t worry, we’re going to make you look pretty.’ Together we chose my first wig and head scarves. She was fun and helped me to be proactive.”

The emotional, spiritual and moral support patients receive from the staff is an important part of the healing process. Loyola personnel understand that a patient’s psychosomatic comfort often is the difference between battling on and surrendering.

“The staff always welcomed me with a smile, an uplifting spirit and a hot drink,” Lynn said. “They were a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day, providing useful information and moral support. When I was struggling to accept my cancer diagnosis, I spoke to the social worker. I think everyone at the center is genuine and kind-hearted, every one of them.”

After her double mastectomy in May 2007, Lynn faced the dilemma shared by many breast surgery patients. “I decided not to have reconstructive surgery. Instead I went with a mastectomy bra and prosthesis that look very natural. I don’t wear them often, but it’s nice to know I have them.” Lynn also received personally fitted compression sleeves to help with her post-surgical care. She describes the services she received from the nurse educator at the center as “invaluable.”

The Image Renewal Center team members are skillful listeners who help patients find tranquility during difficult times.

“There were two things I always looked forward to – seeing the friendly faces at the renewal center and treating myself to a coffee mocha there. These may seem silly, but they were very important to me. And now, when I’m healthier, they’re still important.”

For more information or to make an appointment at the Coleman Foundation Image Renewal Center, please call (888) LUHS-888 and ask for the CAN-HELP cancer information service.