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Explain reconstruction to adolescent girl?

Page last modified on: August 15, 2008
Question from Karla: I have finished chemo and radiation treatment. I have begun the breast reconstruction process. Are there any issues unique to my 13-year-old adolescent girl?
Answers —Joan Hermann, L.S.W.: I think moms should explain to their 13-year-olds that some women want reconstruction so that they can kind of feel whole again, while to others it doesn't really matter. "I've decided I need to do this for myself, so I can feel like me again."
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: You may also suggest to your daughter that you think it would be fun if she went out shopping for underwear with you. Again, look for opportunities to have fun, to balance out these serious conversations. Tonight, we are talking about many tough issues, but there really is room for growth in your relationship with your children that can be a very special, meaningful, and joyous experience.

On Wednesday, August 16, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Kids and Mom's Breast Cancer. Joan Hermann, L.S.W. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about talking to your kids about breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Joan Hermann, L.S.W. is the director of social work services at the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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