The Mix: Survivor Savants
It’s not something most of us realize, but after surgeries and treatments, when breast cancer survivors go back to “normal” lives, a new set of hurdles awaits: As a result of mastectomies, chemo, and traumatic side effects such as lymphedema — a permanent, localized fluid-retaining condition — women need special post-surgical bras, skin-care products and compression garments, often for the rest of their lives. And when it comes to the available products, we’re mostly talking beige and frumpy. Luckily, Philly’s got some ladies who are making life easier — and more stylish — for survivors
By Carrie Denny
Photography by Ben LeunerWHO
Sisters Jeanette Caligiuri (left), a breast cancer survivor, and Bonnie Scalfaro (right), who, due to her family history, underwent a preventive double mastectomy.
WHAT
Opened Faith & Hope Boutique this past October in Abington, and a second location in the Rena Rowan Breast Cancer Center at HUP in February, to cater to women with breast cancer both during and after their treatment.
INSPIRATION
“We didn’t just want to provide women with the same Victoria’s Secret-type bras they wore before breast cancer — we wanted to give them a place where they walked in and felt comfortable,” says Caligiuri.
PRODUCTS
Pretty post-surgical bras and camisoles, humorous t-shirts and hats (our favorite is “No Hair Day”), specialized skin care, and Kym Handcrafted Jewelry, a line of elegant show-your-support designs created especially for the boutique.
BUY IT
At 1915 Guernsey Avenue, Abington, 215-885-1143, and Abramson Cancer Center, 14th floor, Penn Tower, 3400 Spruce Street, 215-615-3321; faithandhopeboutique.com
Faith & Hope Boutique
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