In her always and ever-generous spirit of giving to breast-cancer Survivors and their Supporters, Evelyn Calip, founder and president of the non-profit organization “Evelyn’s Breast Friends Forever”, hosted a “Girly Getaway” and private bra-fitting party at Ulta Beauty in Redondo Beach on April 29, 2012.  This event was just one in a continuous-event list hosted by Evelyn and her Breast Friends Forever; all of Evelyn’s events are designed to lift the spirits of breast-cancer Survivors and their Supporters by giving them a chance to have fun and relate to other Survivors and Supporters as they go through their treatment. 

Survivors, Supporters and Shoppers entered the store underneath a pink-and-white balloon arch.  The white balloons were embellished with the pink-ribbon symbol of breast-cancer awareness and survival, and the balloons were shared with children visiting the store.  “Evelyn’s Breast Friends Forever” was displayed on a pink silk banner hung across a food-laden table; local businesses had lavishly contributed sandwiches, drinks and desserts for the event. 

Survivors were fitted by a certified-bra expert for a free bra, specially made for mastectomy and reconstruction patients, and provided by Amoena.  In addition, they were treated to mini facials, color matching and the opportunity to win a goodie bag via a raffle. 

Suzan Kim, a Survivor who was diagnosed with DCIS breast cancer, is a Breast-Cancer Mentor who provides guidance to other women newly diagnosed with DCIS. She attended the event to connect with other Survivors and to ensure that she would get the correct bra fitting.  Ms. Kim, who has generously donated her hair several times to Survivors undergoing treatment, has very upbeat thoughts about her experience with breast cancer.  She enjoys being part of “the biggest Sorority in the World” – the world of Breast Cancer Survivors – and has friends who also enjoy being with Survivors.  She did not have to undergo chemo, radiation or take drugs, and she is an inspiration to others who see her as their hope that they, too, can go through treatment without any kind of chemical medication.

Debbie Parent came to enjoy Everyone’s company.  She has been to Evelyn’s events before, and simply likes being with other Survivors and their Supporters – “just to come in and do something fun”, as she put it and meet with others who “have walked in her shoes”.  When she was fitted for a bra, she decided it was so comfortable that she would buy additional bras as well!  Ms. Parent also has a very positive attitude about the entire treatment process, having undergone chemo, and feels extremely well, finishing her reconstruction on March 27, 2012.  

Griselda Olson, another Survivor, felt that under the circumstances, her treatment went very well.  Her husband, Chris, wanted her to go public with her treatment and raise awareness of her situation, so Griselda put her story on Facebook.  She now has friends coming to her, telling her how her story has helped them, and their wives and girlfriends.  Griselda enjoys coming to Evelyn’s events and doesn’t feel pressured to talk about her situation, but just enjoys herself, visiting with other Survivors and Supporters.

Keith Karmody, the manager of Ulta Beauty, hosted this event at the Ulta Redondo Beach location.  Keith, whose aunt had breast cancer, and who is actively involved with various community charities, feels that good will is generated by helping others, such as Evelyn’s Breast Friends Forever.  Mr. Karmody also assisted Evelyn by obtaining the venue for the 2011 Holiday Luncheon at Lido di Manhattan, in Manhattan Beach, and procured food and other items for the Bra Party from local businesses.

Although Evelyn tailors her events towards breast-cancer Survivors and their Supporters, anyone is welcome to attend them and be inspired by these valiant, remarkable women who can celebrate life by stepping away from their treatment for a few hours.

As Evelyn put it:

"A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds.  A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love." - Saint Basil

The attendees of Evelyn’s events deeply appreciate her efforts and friendship, and are eagerly looking forward to the next gathering of breast-cancer Survivors, Supporters and Friends.

                                                                                                       Contributed by J. A. Druschke

                                                                                                               on Behalf of Evelyn's Breast Friends Forever