www.womanthismonth.com Digital Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES BREAST CANCER AWARENESS October 2019 | Issue 199 FITNESS Getting back in the zone FOOD Fabulously Fishy HOMES Big ideas for small spaces FASHION AUTUMN/WINTER TRENDS REPORT New Research Tales of Hope Screening Offers Think Pink Events Bahrain Edition
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October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 4 For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail [email protected]. The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at [email protected]. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. FASHION 9-14 Trends Report: A/W 2019’s hottest looks 15 News: Goss from around the industry FEATURE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS 20-21 Professor Ghufran Ahmed Jassim: Acting for Change 22-23 Joanne Lund: Surviving and Thriving 24 Bahrain Cancer Care: Helping Hands 25 Amal Jaffar: A Positive Attitude 26 Offers: Great deals on screening + Think Pink events BEAUTY 28 Essentials: The latest goodies on the beauty counters 29 Styling: Hair Extensions 101 30 Trends: Fall make-up looks 32 News: Latest industry happenings LIFESTYLE 33 Fitness: Getting back to a routine 34 Wellbeing: Dealing with the psychological effects of breast cancer 35 Wellbeing News: Information on the latest developments 36-37 Homes: Maximising your space 38 Food: Fishy flavours from Razan Al Arabi 40 Opinion: Pria Masson Tanwar 41 Opinion: Ouiam Charkani El Hassani 42 In Her Shoes: Dr Roshni Rajan 10 36 OCTOBER 20 41 Scan the codes for information from our advertisers 30 Reef Clubhouse Al-Haddad-Motors Bahrain Specialist Hospital swiss-belresidences Ambassdor Stores
A study* on 56,198 Bahrainis, revealed that 2% of newborns suffer from sickle-cell anemia, 18% have sickle-cell traits, and 24% are thalassemia carriers. From management of anemia to platelet diseases, bleeding and coagulation disorders, rest assured, Bahrain Specialist Hospital has years of expertise to handle it. * Source: Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal www.bsh.com.bh 17812000 56,198 REASONS TO VISIT BSH FOR A SICKLE CELL ANEMIA CHECK-UP
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 6 It’s that time of year again when not only does it, finally, start getting cooler, thank goodness, but, also, the whole island goes pink crazy in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month. In doing our bit, I was lucky enough to meet some fantastic women who’ve not only survived the disease but are thriving and helping others along the way. There’s Joanne, who was so determined that the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group should keep going when its founder left the island that she took over as admin herself! And Amal, diagnosed just two weeks after her wedding and now giving talks and writing about her experience. I also met Professor Ghufran Ahmed Jassim, whose doctoral research has led to an important genetic study. The thing these and every other woman I and the team have spoken to for this feature – some shared their experiences but weren’t included – had the same message: “Check, check, check!” Breast cancer is very treatable but the earlier it’s caught, the better. Lumps aren’t always cancer, but they ALWAYS need to be checked. Carry out self-examinations, sign-up for a regular mammogram – you can find details of special offers for October in our big feature – and check-out your insurance situation. If you’re non-Bahraini, it is almost certain you will need to pay for treatment! Aside from all that, October is also the month when we take our biannual look at the latest new season’s fashions. Fernanda has come up with eight of the hottest trends for the season and Behnaz turned her eye to catwalk make-up trends to see what we will all be putting on our faces in the coming months. With so many of us lamenting ever-increasing bills and thinking about downsizing, we’ve used this month’s Homes pages to look at storage solutions for small spaces – some of them look so good you might want to grab them even if you’re not spatially challenged. And as always, we have our usual round-ups of news from the worlds of fashion and beauty as well as opinions, food and more, let us know via social media if you think there’s anything else we should be covering. Happy reading! chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors BEHNAZ SANJANA FERNANDA LANGHAMMER OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI PRIA MASSON TANWAR print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics HATEM MONEM media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media manager Farheen AHmed [email protected] photography editor MUNA YOUSEF photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ W.L.L., BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2017© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 Woman This Month is here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Bahrain office address Red House Marketing P. O. Box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: [email protected] website: www.womanthismonth.com Published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing P. O. Box 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain October 2019, Issue 199 On the cover: AW19 Trends EDITOR’S NOTE The only women's magazine distributed with the GDN Liz Loves I’m coveting the scaled-down version of Givenchy’s iconic Mini Mystic handbag which was revealed along with next year’s pre-spring collection. And, of course, it has to be pink! And, who could fail to be impressed with the new colour-added Wings Embrace designs from Garrard? Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director
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There were trends galore on the runways for the coming season, from soft, silky textures to eye-popping neons and over-the-top checks. It’s possible to say that there is rarely anything new in the world of fashion, but rather reimaginings of decades and styles that have gone before. However, each season, the designers put their own interpretation on those time-honoured themes helping us fall in love all over again with the simple plaid or shiny, skinskimming satin. Our fashion expert, Fernanda Langhammer, has taken a look at what’s on offer – and what, in a slightly toneddown incarnation, will soon be on the shelves. Make sure you check out her top trends before you head to the mall. www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 9 FASHION | trend
October 2019 10 FASHION | trends It’s that time of the year again when we dust-off jackets and coats ready for the cold season ahead. The fact that our little island doesn’t freeze over is no excuse to forsake the embrace of the thick, quilty cover-up trend. Puffy outwear is a winter staple, choose a unique piece as your winter companion. It will probably end up being your favourite oversized item this season. Our expert, Fernanda Langhammer, has been scanning the shows and store rails to bring you the new season’s hottest trends. Trends Smart touch. Add a quilted handbag for a laid-back add-on. Wrap Up Warm The hourglass silhouette is a fantastic way to achieve a proportional look, whatever your body type. It helps add a feminine touch to loose tops and can also create a great contrast to your lower half. Puffy coats are also on trend this season, to make them look even cooler, nip the waist with a large strap! Looking for an extra feature? Belt bags add another role to this already functional accessory, you get yourself a small carrier into the bargain. Dress to impress. Wear your belt on top of your suit jacket for a sure-fire office look. Elegantly Waisted www.womanthismonth.com Dries van Noten CH Carolina Herrera H&M Givenchy Ellery Moncler Genius Philipp Plein H&M GANT Paule Ka Topshop Dune London GANT Debenhams Zara
www.womanthismonth.com 11 October 2019 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Rasasi Mystical Journey Rasasi held a mystical opening event to discover Eid scents at its new branch in Seef Mall Farewell Party Sucurine along with her family and friends held a farewell party at their residence with live band “Crossroads“ to bid goodbye before settling down in London after 19 years in Bahrain LAGOON BEACH | FLOATING RESTAURANT & LOUNGES | EVENTS VENUE | RESTAURANTS | SPA | HEALTH CLUB PARADISE FOUND IN THE HEART OF MANAMA The Reef Clubhouse and Lagoon Beach offers an exclusive retreat on the purpose-built Reef Island. The clubhouse aims to be a vibrant hub of luxury lifestyle amenities including facilities for dining, well-being, leisure, socialising and relaxation as well as a playroom with great kids‘ facilities. MEMBERSHIP PLANS AND DAY PASSES FOR BEACH ACCESS ARE AVAILABLE. To share the fun with us, please call: +973 77 900 700 or +973 33 587 310 Reef Clubhouse Bahrain ReefClubhouseBah
FASHION | trends October 2019 12 The greyer days of winter should be lit up with a touch of fluorescent magic. This trend draws inspiration from the 1980s with a siren call for attention. Phosphorescent yellow, pink, green and orange are the designers’ faves, but bright blues and intense reds are also in the game. If you don’t feel comfortable going all-out dayglo, look for a bright accessory to shine discreetly. Ready to shock. Mix and match different acid tones from tops to shoes for an electric look. Neon Pop Once again designers in all four fashion capitals were in love with the multiple shades of purple, from pale lavender to deep plum. At first sight, the colour might not seem to be the most flattering, but when combined with other unusual shades such as burgundy or pistachio, it makes a really eye-catching choice. Fashionista mode on! How about going head-to-toe monochrome with inspiration from Kate Spade and Tom Ford. Purple Reign www.womanthismonth.com Saint Laurent Marks & Spencer Paul Smith BY FAR Lanvin Tom Ford Kate Spade Next Lipsy Valentino Versace Purificacion Garcia Moynat Next M&Co Accessorize
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 13 FASHION | trends Evening gowns and elegance are what come to mind when we talk about satin and silk. The lustrous fabrics have a classic property, uplifting any piece they are paired with. When looking for something sophisticated, give preference to satin; silk might be a bit softer, but it comes with a cost to the environment. Satin is a weave and gives the same poshness and wow effect. And, as it is a bit more structured, tailored pieces are best made with it. This metallic shade is not shy and designers weren’t afraid to use it from head to toe in their catwalk shows. We’re talking full-on 24k-dipped looks! It does work for a black tie-event, but, for an everyday look, a shiny, knitted top, as spotted at Altuzarra, or Bershka’s slick sneakers can both do the job. All about the feeling. Want to add wow factor to an old pair of jeans? Team with a satin suit jacket and highheeled sandals for a jaw-dropping effect. To the core. Go for bright yellow gold to be spot on trend! Super Silky Gold Digger Versace Mango Moschino Altuzarra Celine Dorothy Perkins Prabal Gurung Brandon Maxwell Paule Ka H&M Zara Chloè Dorothy Perkins Aspinal of London Bershka Zara
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 14 FASHION | trends Plaids are a common pattern during the colder days of the year. Designers never seem to get tired of this motif, even though it’s just simple lines and specific colour repetition. However, the attraction could be its potential for variation and its interesting composition when paired with other designs that keep it alive in each year’s autumn and winter collections. It’s a key element in any girl’s closet. Effortless wardrobe. Combine different check designs with a similar colour palette for a stylish final look. Essential Stencil Floral patterns are spring made, but designers can’t get enough of them. This season, they opted for the real-flower experience. Dries Van Noten printed the blossoms from his garden onto his garments for incredible visuals. Stems, leaves and textured petals preserve the hyper-realistic feeling, escaping the boredom of this potentially tired motif. Roses are the most popular pick, bringing their florets and thorns with them. Winter mood. Choose a botanic pattern with a dark background to tune in to the new season. Floral Bouquets Lanvin Paul Smith Lipsy Prada Alexander McQueen Oasis Ellery Marks & Spencer GANT Matalan Charles & Keith Dolce & Gabbana Paul Smith Dries Van Noten
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 news 15 NOW ONLINE Massimo Dutti has announced the launch of its first online store in the UAE - www. massimodutti.com and its mobile app, available on Google Play and Apple App Store. To offer the brand’s regional customers easy access to discover the Massimo Dutti World. An English and Arabic interface is offered, to ensure everyone can browse through their favourite pieces with ease. The platforms will showcase the complete range of items for women and men, identical to the collections at its physical stores, in addition to the children’s collection. And the digital platforms allow customers to interact with the products in an intuitive way, thanks to the different sections and categories. PASSION FOR VINTAGE RIXO unveiled a See Now, Buy Now collection, a limited-edition range of exclusive styles available to buy on rixo. co.uk from the moment it debuted at London Fashion Week. Going ‘Back to the Garden’, the collection is filled with ombre colour fades, handpainted psychedelic butterflies, paisley prints and golden embellishment. Oversized sleeves, scallop edging and floatier Woodstock-inspired shapes are juxtaposed against more structured minis, feel-good flares and sharp lapels reminiscent of the swinging ‘60s. Two charities will get donations from each item sold and shoppers can choose which to support. ECO CONSCIOUS Diesel has joined forces with CocaCola to create a collaborative clothing line made with recycled materials. Called (Re)Collection, the range incorporates recycled PET, derived from plastic bottles and recycled cotton, into beautifully crafted garments, giving a fresh and modern sensibility to Diesel’s casualwear aesthetic. Paired with the recognition and popularity of CocaCola, the project aims to raise awareness on the value of recycling, showing consumers the many uses of discarded plastic. (Re) Collection features 12 key pieces designed to be seasonless. The collaborative line can only be accessed through scanning any recycling logo worldwide to see a hidden section of Diesel's website, where the collection can then be shopped. FRAGRANT CHAINS Perfume vial necklaces are Celine’s new cult accessory. The brand’s artistic, creative and image director, Hedi Slimane, has expanded on the accessories the Celine woman should have in her arsenal, particularly, the jewellery. The house’s spring/summer 2020 show saw handfuls of gold tasselled necklaces to throw on and stack, and a perfume vial strung around a singular chain, hanging off a naval-grazing neck charm. The miniature bottles hold the first fragrances to come out of the Celine Haute Parfumerie in 50 years. The bottle-shaped vials chime with the complex characterisation of Slimane’s Celine woman. CROWNING GLORY World-renowned luxury Lebanese jeweller, Mouawad, has entered a partnership to create crowns for The Miss Universe Organization, which will see winners of its three prestigious pageants, Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA, honoured with Mouawad-crafted headpieces. The first official Miss Universe Diamond Crown by Mouawad will make its debut at the 68th annual Miss Universe competition, where the 2018 title holder, Catriona Gray, will crown her successor. Mouawad is delighted to bring its savoir faire to these internationally renowned events and to craft exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces befitting modern-day royalty.
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 16 showcase FEMALE-CHEFS BREAKING NORMS IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY Hosts Please give us a peek into your professional background. I graduated from Ibn Khuldoon National School in 2008 and went to the University of Kent in Canterbury, where I received my Law degree. I moved to London straight afterwards and received my Patisserie Diploma from Le Cordon Bleu. I practised law in Bahrain for about four years before deciding to completely switch careers and open up The Cooking Studio. What drew you to the food industry? I have always enjoyed cooking and baking. I actually started experimenting in the kitchen on my own at the young age of nine. There’s something very satisfying in turning simple ingredients into something delicious that makes people happy. How would you describe your professional journey this far? It has been a blend of exciting and stressful. Owning and growing a business is not an easy task especially when it’s something you’re very passionate about. However, seeing people learn as I’m teaching them and realising how much fun baking can be makes it all worthwhile. What is most satisfying about your work? The smile on my customers’ faces and their compliments. It’s also always an amazing feeling at the end of a class when someone looks at their cake and says: “I can’t believe I made this!”. What has it taken you to break the mould of men being masters of a commercial kitchen? Essential traits required to head a commercial kitchen are strength, character, stamina and the ability to guide a team. I don’t see how these traits are only found in men. How do you support other women? The Cooking Studio currently consists of an all-female staff. We find that working with female employees is not only more efficient, but we have also become great friends which makes working together a lot of fun. What do you believe are the special strengths of a woman? Women are strong, dedicated and amazing at multitasking. What would you say to women wanting to have their own business in the food industry? I’d say to them that there isn’t anything you cannot do, whatever anyone may think or say. It will be difficult, it will be tiring, and your schedule will be the opposite to everyone around you. But if you love it, if you are passionate about it, it won’t matter because you will enjoy every second of it. CHEF SARA ALKOHEJI Co-Owner of The Cooking Studio CHEF SUSY MASSETI Executive Chef, Fish Bone and Eat'sy Please tell us a bit about your professional background and where you are from. I started my career quite early in my grandmother’s family restaurant in Milan, Italy. After working in Europe, I worked in the USA for over 10 years opening and managing stand-alone restaurants and my flight catering company. In the Middle East, my repertoire includes working at five-star hotels and as a personal chef for VIP dignitaries. I formerly managed Masso, a fine-dining contemporary Italian restaurant and The Orangery, a Middle Eastern-influenced café, tea room and
showcase www.womanthismonth.com For inquiries please contact the brand managers via email: [email protected] or on whatsapp 34 422-227 / 33 282-228 AREEJ MATOOQ Lifestyle Blogger and Recipe Developer patisserie. I now run Fishbone in Bahrain and Eat'sy in Khobar. I am into food and beverage consulting across the Gulf region and have three more projects in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain due to open by the end of 2019. What drew you to the food industry? I would say that was destiny. How would you describe your professional journey this far? It has been fantastic, exciting, memorable, extremely gruelling and highly successful in spite of, or thanks to, failures and mistakes. What have been your greatest professional challenges? To be seen as a chef, not a “female chef”. What has it taken you to break the mould of men being masters of a commercial kitchen? By disregarding this idea! I ignore the idea that only men are seen as masters in the kitchen, as they have never been the only ones ruling commercial kitchens. What do you take most pride in while serving customers your food? The passion, research and the attention I pay to source the ingredients that I use. What are you most proud of? I am proud of having 'conquered' people that I have the joy to now call my friends. What would you say to women wanting to have their own restaurants? Go girl! But be humble. Learn your craft first. Keep your head down while learning and learn only from the best, but ultimately trust your guts and go for it! What would you advise women? I’d tell them to be determined, to be selfcentred, to be aggressive even, never to talk themselves down! What do you believe are the special strengths of a woman? Commitment; we were born to be committed, to be focused and to be self-reliant. How do you overcome challenges? By knowing deep inside that, as women, we are better, we are stronger and we will succeed. And if we don’t, that we have learned a very precious lesson. Please tell us a bit about your professional background and where you are from. I hold a master’s degree in media studies. I fell in love with the art of cooking early on in childhood, and my background in media helped catalyse my social media presence as a healthy lifestyle blogger and recipe developer. As my passion for cooking grew to become a personal calling, I enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in London to enhance my cooking skills and immersed myself into French cuisine. I attend cooking classes in every country I visit so to learn more about its unique food cultures and techniques. I am currently studying for a diploma in nutrition from the Future Fit Academy in the UK for a more in-depth understanding of health and nutrition. I host cooking classes and demos for children and adults, sharing posts of my creative recipes that include healthy alternatives to the foods we all love, as well as posting my kids’ healthy lunch boxes daily on Instagram. In my mission to spread awareness of a healthy lifestyle, I have participated in events like Food Is Culture, Bahrain Summer Festival 2018, and Youth City 2030 in 2019. What are you most proud of? Seeing other women being inspired to lead healthy lifestyles and noticing the change in their lives, seeing many of my recipes trending, my advice being followed and receiving ‘thank you’ messages makes me fly every day. How do you overcome challenges at work? By being well organised, planning well my day, week, month and beyond. As they say, failing to plan is planning to fail. What makes women different? Nowadays, a woman assumes many roles in life - that of wife, mother and employee. Despite this, she thrives and achieves success in whatever she involves herself with. What would you advise women? I would advise women to take care of their health by maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle. This will reflect positively on their overall wellbeing, which will help them in nurturing their families well. How do you support other women? As a healthy lifestyle blogger, through my social media accounts I help women, specially mothers, in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for them and their families by creating easy, healthy recipes, and suggesting healthy alternative ingredients for popular dishes. October 2019 17
18 October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY AWA September Meeting American Women’s Association held its September meeting at Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain The BBBF Poppy Ball in conjunction with the bba Win two British Airways Business Class return tickets to London Tickets can be purchased from the following outlets by cash or cheque, payable to Bahrain British Business Forum: British Club Reception – 1772-8245 Bahrain Rugby Football Club Reception – 1769-5809 Dilmun Club – 1769-0926 For more details or to reserve a table contact the BBBF Office Email bbbfevents@ batelco.com.bh or telephone 1781-3488 FRIDAY 15th of November from 7pm GULF hotel BAHRAIN AL DANA BALLROOM Tickets: BD35 members and non-members DRESS code: formal Join us with VIP Guests of Honour ‘The Chelsea Pensioners’ In support of The Chelsea Pensioners Appeal Mother and Child Welfare Society – Bahrain
October is all about ‘the girls’ as many of us affectionately refer to our boobs. It’s about checking ourselves and getting ourselves checked. And, in the unlikely event we find something wrong, it’s about dealing with it; putting a treatment plan in place and, really, just coping as best we can. Thanks to a long-running campaign to get people talking about breast cancer, awareness has been on the rise worldwide for several years. And this year, for the first time, we’ve found brave ladies in Bahrain who are prepared to go public with their stories in the hope of encouraging others and opening up discussion on the disease which is still, to a degree, avoided in the local population. Over the following pages you’ll meet them as well as an inspiring medic who’s very definitely doing her bit to battle breast cancer in Bahraini women. The resounding message from all of them is that checking is what saves lives. And, though free screening is available for some, others have to pay, so, we’ve also put together a round-up of hospitals which are offering special deals on screening this month to make an essential a bit more affordable. LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE GIRLS www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 19 FEATURE | breast cancer awareness
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 20 FEATURE | breast cancer awareness An Associate Professor in Family Medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Bahrain, Prof Ghufran has almost an alphabet of letters after her name and is passionate about women’s health in general and breast cancer among the Bahraini population in particular. Formerly a General Practitioner (GP) she made the move into academia after several years working in clinics in the public health system. She carried out studies into breast cancer in Arab women as part of her PhD and her research threw up some surprising and disturbing results – which have since prompted action. SURPRISING REVELATIONS Prof Ghufran explains: “My study ran in three parts. The first was the quality of life for Bahraini women with breast cancer. We found that women here get breast cancer at a younger age than in the West, perhaps 10 years younger! That’s why our screening programme starts at 40, because here women are likelier to present at 40 than at 50 and it is often at an advanced stage. “There is not yet any indication of why this is the case so we have started a genetic study. It is not BRCA 1 and 2 [the recognised gene mutations that are likely to lead to breast cancer], in fact this genetic factor is relatively rare in the Bahraini population; so, we are looking for something else that these cancers have in common. The genetic study is running over two years with around six months left to go. “Quality of life is definitely affected by a woman’s age. For example, when women are diagnosed younger, there may be issues of fertility; there may also be different cultural and religious factors affecting patients, such as husbands being responsible for decisions about their wives’ health, without being fully aware of their impact. “Women may also be fearful of the intimate nature of the cancer and all of these may be reasons for the advanced stages of presentation. The more advanced the disease is at diagnosis, the less the chance of survival. “For this reason, it’s important to talk about and raise awareness of breast cancer. By saying it out loud, we draw attention to it.” ASKING PERTINENT QUESTIONS The second part of her study took a more detailed approach in asking women to talk about how the disease was affecting them. “Sometimes people throw up concerns that might not be medically obvious,” says Prof Ghufran. “This is important in gaining an understanding of how people are feeling about the disease within themselves.” Results showed women had three leading concerns: issues of sexuality and body image; concern over dealing with children, how to break the news etc; and the issue of power in making their own decisions – this was underlying and had not really been expressed publically before. “It told us that there needed to be much more discussion with patients and their families about both the disease and the treatment, side effects and suchlike,” says the professor. A HOLISTIC APPROACH The third part of the study was the need to gather higher quality evidence in looking at the effectiveness of psychological ACTING FOR CHANGE After her PhD studies revealed some surprising results about breast cancer among Bahraini women, Professor Ghufran Ahmed Jassim, has helped set studies in progress to improve treatment.
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 21 FEATURE | breast cancer awareness intervention – different types of counselling – what type and format is helpful; and is it helpful or not? Prof Ghufran explains: “We looked at a huge range of published material and the results of studies and then came up with conclusions for physicians to use in their practice. “There is very little psychological intervention in this region, so, we thought that we should look at it and have something to take to the authorities. We found that a very specific type of counselling, CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) – based on the way you think and thus behave – was the best in affecting the psychological state and led to a decrease in depression and anxiety and increased quality of life. However, psychological intervention had inconclusive results in prolonging life. “From that study, we got what we needed to talk to the authorities. The National Oncology Centre has moved to King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) and we are discussing, with them, the possibility of having a full team involved in patient care so that patients can get a holistic approach to the disease.” ONGOING CAMPAIGNS Several years on from her PhD study, Prof Ghufran is still very much involved in women’s health and as well as doing genetic analysis from the ongoing study, she has now turned her attention to another female cancer, that of the cervix. “This is the only type of cancer that can be prevented by the use of a simple vaccine [the HPV vaccine] but it is not available here except in the private hospitals. The Ministry of Health has requested the findings of our study, which we provided to them in an attempt to the convince the authorities to introduce it.” She also started the first Well Woman Clinic at KHUH, the first in the public sector – it began with just four patients a day but now it’s up to 30! And, the professor adds that it’s not just about gynae matters but all sorts of issues concerning women.
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 22 SURVIVING AND THRIVING Joanne Lund not only survived breast cancer but has gone on to help other women affected by the disease. She shares her story. When were you first diagnosed and how – self exam, mammogram etc. How did you feel? I was diagnosed in New Zealand in May 2008. I was 46 and had received an invite for a free mammogram, part of a screening programme. I had a recall as they had found something suspicious on the mammogram but I wasn’t afraid as I had no symptoms. They performed an ultrasound guided core biopsy which showed that it was cancer. The tumour was a very aggressive grade three but thankfully, at 13mm, was quite small. As it was deep inside the lower breast it was not palpable, so I was unable to detect it by self-examination. I was diagnosed with ER/ PR Positive infiltrating ductal carcinoma. I was shell shocked and in disbelief. I didn’t feel ill and I couldn’t feel the lump... so how could I have cancer? That moment is still frozen in time for me and was one of the worst days of my life. It wasn’t until we left the clinic that I actually broke down crying. I felt as if there was something foreign in my body and I wanted it gone. My husband – who had attended the clinic with me – reassured me that everything was going to be ok; he was my rock. How did you deal with it; telling family, kids etc? Our first priority was to identify what we needed to do, who we should contact medically and who to seek advice from. My husband rang my family overseas to tell them the news, as I was too upset. My son was 10 years old at the time, so, we decided that we would sit him down and tell him gently that I had a lump in the breast that had to be removed. We didn’t want to hide anything from him, as children are very perceptive. However, we didn’t mention the word cancer. What came next and has the cancer had a lasting effect? I had my lumpectomy 10 days after my diagnosis and then a course of radiotherapy. I was put on a hormone therapy drug called Tamoxifen, which I took for 10 years to prevent the breast cancer from coming back. I have been clear for 11 years and four months! For the first few years I thought about my breast cancer daily. It was hard to forget it as it was such a rollercoaster ride (and still is every time I attend my annual check-up!). But finally, there came a time that I realised I hadn’t thought about breast cancer for a whole day, then a week and then I knew I was healing. Please tell us about your cancer support work in Bahrain. The day after I received my last radiation treatment in New Zealand, I flew to Bahrain as my husband had just started a new job. Overnight my whole support network of friends and doctors had disappeared and I felt alone. So, I reached out to a small group of wonderful ladies who had formed the Breast Cancer Support Group. We met weekly and during those first few meetings there were plenty of tears! I needed to let go of the emotion I was holding in and it felt so good to talk to other ladies who had been down a similar path to myself. After the organiser left for Australia, I was adamant that the group should continue. Feeling eager to help and comfort other newly diagnosed ladies, I became the coordinator of the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group and set up a confidential WhatsApp group. It’s made up of some amazingly supportive and inspirational survivors who offer tips on overcoming side effects of treatment, who pick you up when you’re feeling down. The aim is for ladies to know that we are here to listen without judgement, offer emotional support when you need it, help answer your questions and ultimately empower you. We are so lucky to also have some trained FEATURE | breast cancer awareness
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 23 FEATURE | breast cancer awareness therapists supporting the group. Tracey Burrows (a yoga and Ayurveda coach and wellness expert) dedicates her time every Monday morning to offer a wonderful ‘Relaxation and Healing Circle’ class in Saar. It’s a gentle movement class where she teaches us breathing techniques to ease anxiety plus meditations to calm the mind. This wonderful class is open to all ladies who need it and is free. In 2017, Tracey and I set up the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support and Wellness Group Facebook page with inspirational quotes and information about breast cancer, wellness and events. What would be your message to women in general and those facing a recent breast cancer diagnosis in particular? My message to women is to remember that ‘early detection and treatment increases the chances of success and ultimately survival’. I want to shout this from the highest roof top! Therefore, it’s vital that you get your regular mammogram done as recommended by your doctor. Remember, I could not feel or see my lump. The mammogram saved my life! Also, self-check your breasts and armpits monthly, I can’t stress this enough. If you feel any lump, have any discharge from the nipple, dimpling of the skin, a rash or change in appearance of the nipple, contact your doctor straight away. Most lumps are benign. Think Pink has an excellent App for your phone called iCheck and it takes you through all the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and even a tutorial of how to check your breast correctly. Check it out! If you do receive a breast cancer diagnosis, your aim should be to get a treatment plan in place as soon as possible. Take a family member or friend with you to your appointment for support. Often the information given is too much to take in when you are worried. Write a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as: ‘What side effects will I get from the treatment?’ and ’Is there anything I can do to help the treatment work better?’ Another thing to point out is the importance, certainly for expats, of health insurance. A friend was recently forced to return to her home country for treatment having discovered the cost of chemotherapy here would be tens of thousands of dinars. How do you feel moving forward? My life – and my family’s – was turned upside down when I first received my diagnosis and my life isn’t the same as it was before. My priorities changed and I remember writing a bucket list – afraid that I might not be able to accomplish it. Time seemed so much more precious and I felt gratitude like I have never done before. I have found a greater appreciation for the little things in life, like the smell of the flowers in my garden, the sounds of the birds and, especially, dancing to music at my NIA class – this is my ‘therapy’. I don’t take things for granted. I try to live life to the full and love to plan holidays. I have learnt to say no and put myself first more than I ever used to. And I surround myself with positive people. I try to make healthy choices, exercise five times a week, meditate and practise breathing techniques which helps me in times of stress. I have learnt that life is precious and I have found an inner strength that I never knew existed before cancer. I am happy with the ‘new’ me and try to live each day with intention and a smile on my face! The radiotherapy left my skin red and quite raw; it felt sunburnt. I was advised to use a gentle unperfumed cleanser (organic if possible and paraben free) to avoid irritating the skin further. I bought a pure (98 per cent) aloe vera gel too, which I applied to the sore areas to soothe my skin. I avoided swimming pools and any extremes of temperature and always wore cotton next to my skin. Luckily the side effects lasted just a couple of weeks. I do have some thickening of the skin on the side which received radiotherapy. My body tolerated Tamoxifen well, although I did have some mild aches and pains and hot flushes. I kept a cold flannel in a small cool box beside my bed to apply to my forehead when I felt a hot flush occurring. I also bought a small hand fan which I took everywhere and was even seen with my hands in an ice bucket to try and cool myself down! Treatment Tips Please reach out to Joanne if you need any further information about the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group: 39 567-322.
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 24 The Bahrain Cancer Society (BCS) was formally registered in 1991 as a non-profit, civil society with the aim of supporting those afflicted by any form of cancer by a group of patients, their families, doctors and volunteers. “Members of the board of directors are predominantly medical professionals, along with some lay people,” says Ahmed. “Our group of volunteers helps out with planning and organising various events that we undertake to spread education and awareness about the disease.” “Who hasn’t been affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly?” says Denise, speaking of the basic purpose of the BCS. “Our work helps make things a little easier for sufferers and their families, offering them financial assistance, sound advice on treatments, medical equipment and an empathetic ear. Being a cancer survivor myself, I can say that the fear and lack of knowledge when you get that diagnosis is one of the biggest challenges to overcome. What is chemotherapy like? How does one feel after radiation? Speaking to someone who’s gone through it is reassuring.” BCS volunteers have their hands full with various activities and events lined up this month. Ahmed says: “Every October we have a month-long, nation-wide breast cancer awareness campaign. It includes easy-to- understand, educational lectures delivered to secondary schools, universities, corporates, banks and social organisations. Our teams communicate in Arabic, English, as well as in Hindi, where required. “Our campaign’s major event is the annual walkathon, which will be taking place on Friday, October 25, in the Seef district this year. The main objective is to deliver the message of the importance of early detection and regular screening to everyone in the community. It is what can save lives. In addition, we encourage people to live a healthy lifestyle - exercise, a good diet and avoiding junk food and smoking. Denise continues: “Many schools and social organisations participate in this fun day for a good cause. We distribute pamphlets about breast cancer and screening and sell little knick-knacks like pink ribbon pins for a nominal price, proceeds of which go towards breast cancer support.” The awareness is not only targeted to women, but also the men in society. “When men realise the importance of what we are saying, they pass it on to their wives, mothers, sisters and daughters,” says Ahmed. BCS spearheads the ‘Manama Pink City’ campaign, where several buildings in the capital, including all the important landmark structures, are lit up in pink to mark Breast Cancer Awareness month. Other organisations choose to collaborate with the BCS to hold fund-raising events to underline this issue and donate the proceeds to the cause. Free breast cancer screenings for Bahraini nationals are available at government hospitals like Salmaniya Medical Complex and King Hamad University Hospital, as well as health centres around the island. Treasurer Ahmed Ali Al Nowakhda and volunteer Denise Almeer tell Behnaz Sanjana what the Bahrain Cancer Society has planned for the month earmarked for Breast Cancer Awareness. FEATURE | breast cancer awareness
www.womanthismonth.com October 2019 25 A POSITIVE ATTITUDE In May last year, just two weeks after her wedding, Bahraini Amal Jaffar was diagnosed with breast cancer! A year on, and with treatment completed, she talks not of devastation but rather an opportunity to nurture herself. Amal is 37 years old, a veggie/vegan, yoga-teaching, non-smoker and the picture of health. And yet, she was facing triple negative breast cancer – a tumour that’s not hormone related – it’s relatively rare, only 10-20 per cent of all breast cancers, and can be aggressive. She says: “I actually found the lump in February but it took me that long to get a diagnosis because it wasn’t easy to find information about where to go in the public sector. I had previously worked in the corporate world and always had health insurance through my employer. So, I didn’t have cover when I found the lump and the process was a bit confusing. “Eventually I had a private ultrasound and was recommended to have a biopsy at King Hamad University Hospital. That’s what diagnosed the cancer. I was told about treatment options but, to be honest, I felt a bit rushed – up to that point, it had all been ‘take your time, it’s OK’ and I had a wedding to organise, so I was distracted, but, once the diagnosis was in, everything became much more urgent.” A second opinion from an expert in Berlin confirmed the diagnosis and it was decided to begin chemotherapy straight away, before removing the lump, as this type of cancer often responds particularly well to drugs. “One thing the doctor in Germany did was told me about nurses who were still working while undergoing treatment for breast cancer,” says Amal. “This was hugely comforting and I thought ‘if they can do it, I can too’.” A lumpectomy came next followed by radiotherapy and throughout it all she was supported by her husband, family and the Bahrain Breast Cancer Support Group, whose members and organisers she cannot praise highly enough. One aspect of the treatment Amal was not prepared for was being put into a temporary induced menopause in order to protect her ovaries and lessen the chances of infertility – the newlywed was and is keen to have children in the future. She says: “There were hot flushes and night sweats and, of course, I had just got married and intimacy was affected. It sounds strange but I also missed menstruation, it’s always been a part of my body that I’ve been very in tune with as part of my femininity.” Another troubling aspect was the potential hair loss through her treatment. “I used to have very big hair,” she says, with a smile. “I cut it short before the first chemo treatment. Within weeks, it had begun to fall out and I was fed up with seeing bits of hair all over the house. I went into the bathroom and pulled out the rest and then my husband came in and shaved my head! “When we first had the diagnosis confirmed, he told me ‘we will take it one day at a time’. That meant being present, which I have practised through my yoga for the last eight years. Looking back now, I think the cancer and treatment has helped me evolve. “The day I was diagnosed, I cried for about half an hour. Then I was reminded that life gives us challenges and tasks and that something good can come out of them. I felt like this was a task I had been given; that it would slowly help me grow and heal. “I felt, towards the end of the chemo, that it was a chance for rebirth. Somehow, I was lighter and more in touch with my inner strength in a graceful way. “People talk about cancer warriors, but I don’t like that aggressive way of expressing it; rather, I felt that it was just a very small part of me and I wanted to be compassionate to myself and use it as an opportunity to nurture myself rather than declaring war against my body. “These are lessons I have taken forward; they are ingrained in me now. I find that the journey has allowed me to find confidence in my identity, stand up gracefully for my inner truth and follow my intuition.” FEATURE | breast cancer awareness
October 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 26 We’ve rounded up some of the hospitals across the island that are offering special screening deals throughout October. BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL This popular multifunctional health facility in the heart of Juffair has a range of offers running throughout October. A breast ultrasound, mammography and consultation costs BD40. A mammography and consultation package is available at BD30 and ultrasound with consultation costs BD22. The hospital will also have a number of off-site events during the month, at which attendees will receive vouchers. Call 17 812-000. ROYAL BAHRAIN HOSPITAL This hospital is popular with residents and expats for the wide range of up-to-date medical amenities it provides. The healthcare facility offers a special breast cancer screen package, which will include a breast ultrasound along with a consultation with a female general surgeon, priced at BD25. Call 17 246-800. AMERICAN MISSION HOSPITAL One of Bahrain’s oldest private medical facilities is known to cater to people from all walks of life. To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the hospital will offer a breast cancer screening package from October 1-31. Ladies will go through a mammogram and breast ultrasound, that together cost BD40. All females over 40 years of age can take advantage of this special package. Furthermore, every year during October American Mission Hospital conducts several free breast cancer screening and awareness events around the Kingdom. Call 17 248-117. IBN AL-NAFEES HOSPITAL This multi-speciality hospital in Mahooz offers a breast ultrasound and mammogram followed by a consultation with Dr A Nabi Al-Aradi, who is a consultant general and laparoscopic surgeon, all for BD55. Call 17 828-282. STANFORD MEDICAL CENTRE Located along the row of various medical centres in Zinj, Standford Medical Centre has a special package women can take advantage of in the month of October. The initial consultation with the doctor is available at a special price of BD12. A breast ultrasound will cost BD20, while a package of ultrasound and mammogram is priced at only BD30. Call 17 252-456. ROYAL HOSPITAL FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN This sprawling new healthcare facility in Riffa gives women an incentive to get themselves checked at competitive prices. The hospital offers a comprehensive breast package, which includes consultation with a doctor, breast ultrasound and bilateral mammography of both breasts. This service bundle costs BD40. The breast ultrasound package includes an ultrasound and a doctor’s consultation for BD25. Call 17 759-999. When? October 4 Event? Annual Awareness Ride hosted by Harley Davidson Venue? Harley Dealership Budaiya Highway Open to all motorbikes and leaving and returning to the dealership this event sees riders from across the island and Saudi coming together, decked out in pink and taking to the roads around the island to raise awareness of the disease. Call 17 599-006. When? October 8 Event? Harbour Gate Bake Sale Venue? Harbour Gate, Bahrain Financial Harbour Cakes, cakes and more cakes and an excuse to indulge while raising cash for a great cause. Dig deep and tuck in. Call 17 102-600. When? October 11 Event? Rock Me Pink Concert Venue? Sherlock Holmes Running from midday to 7pm there’ll be a variety of local acts to enjoy and entry proceeds go to the charity. Entry BD2 per person. Call 17 713-000. When? October 17 Event? Pink Beach Party Venue? The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Head to The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s private island for an evening of fun with a DJ, open buffet and beverage bar from 8pm to 11pm. Tickets are BD25 for members and hotel guests, and BD35 for non-members, inclusive of food. Call 17 580-000. When? October 25 Event? Pink Pony Day Venue? MHR (Muharraq Riding School) Running from 4pm-7pm, kids can join in an afternoon of grooming, riding and games at just 1BD per person. Call 39 858-770 or 33 090-088. When? October 26 Venue? Ambassadors’ 4th Annual Horse Parade Venue? TBC Horse and pony owners get together for an awareness-raising ride with everyone kitted out in pink shirts and even the equines joining in. Registration is BD7 (with conditions) and there are limited spaces available, so make sure to sign-up early. Call 39 858-770 or 33 090-088. FEATURE | breast cancer awareness THINK PINK EVENTS
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