Good Look At A Bad Time

InRich.com:

The best inventions often spring from real life. So when life handed Kim Newlen breast cancer, the infectiously upbeat founder of the monthly Sweet Monday ministry drew on her cancer experience to help other survivors look better than they feel.

The former teacher’s pretty, yet practical, post-surgical camisole for mastectomy, lumpectomy and reconstruction patients is called just that: Look Better Than You Feel. It has two necklines (cowel and V) and comes in three styles - white lace, black and zebra - all of which are far removed from most style-deficient medical gowns.

Fashion aside, there is substance to the recently debuted camisole that is manufactured abroad. After surgery, women can’t raise their arms, and drains hang from the surgery site. Mesh pockets underneath the top discretely hide those drains while both straps pull down easily for follow-up appointments. Newlen said this saves time and ends the chore of changing into a hospital gown.

Hidden breast pockets with easy-access side openings are also built-in for those who prefer prosthesis or foam cups or if reconstruction is not yet an option.

Newlen, who had a single mastectomy, said the camisole is a morale booster for women and their families. The mother of one said she was diagnosed three years ago on Good Friday after a routine mammogram. Treatment was to be a lumpectomy and radiation. Three days and more tests later, her doctor told her she needed a mastectomy. Through it all, Newlen continued Sweet Monday, an outreach ministry for women that she started 13 years ago while a stay-at-home mom. (Daughter Kali is 15 now.)

As with Sweet Monday, Newlen said she had plenty of help producing the camisole. A neighbor sewed the first prototype. Her brother-in-law offered his manufacturing knowledge along with various contacts. Other support came from her family and many of her doctors and nurses, who recommend the garment.