WHAT IS THE SQUAD?
The “Cancer Journey Supporters Squad” is a group of cancer survivors and caregivers from different backgrounds and experiences. La Roche-Posay meets with the Squad on a monthly basis to discuss the cancer community needs and review various oncology projects and initiatives to ensure that they are impactful to the cancer community.
SQUAD BIOS
Click through to learn more about each of our squad members
Relationship with cancer:
Breast Cancer Survivor
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
Anthelios Tinted SPF
Words you would like to share with someone who is going through cancer and/or someone who is acting as caregiver for their loved one:
Cancer can feel like it steals all the control you have in your life but you are still in control of your mind, your compassion, your spirit and what you choose to make of this difficult time. Try to show yourself grace as you navigate this challenge and look for the small moments of joy and comfort you can find alone and with your loved ones.
Share a message you would like to send to your support system during your cancer journey:
Sometimes support isn't about doing something but simply about being there! Your presence, your kind words and your hugs can make the world of difference to someone going through cancer.
Relationship with cancer:
Ovarian Cancer & Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
ALL of the products but love the eye creams, lotions, body wash because my skin is dry and is experiencing hormonal changes. I have a lot of acne like bumps on my legs. My eyes are dry and need extra moisture.
Share an empowering moment or memory during your cancer journey:
The moment I stepped on the dance floor in front of the Dancing with the Stars judges and turned on my superpower. Cancer gave me the courage to try new things, compete in Latin ballroom, and do things out of my comfort zone. Anything is possible when you put your mindset to it.
Share a message you would like to send to your support system during your cancer journey:
Follow people who lift you up, not focus on the negative.
Relationship with cancer:
Pancreatic Cancer, Endometrial Cancer
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
I can't limit it to 1! Lipikar Wash AP+, Thermal Spring Water, Toleriane Ultra Eye cream & Double Repair Moisturizer, Anthelios 60 sunscreen.
Share an empowering moment or memory during your cancer journey:
After 4 years of chemo, surgeries, complications and unimaginable side effects, I was told nothing more could be done, "get your affairs in order; you have 3-6 months to live." Another doctor prescribed a new treatment which was to be administered in the hospital 2x daily for 30 days. I learned to administer this myself and travel rather than spend my remaining days in a dreary hospital. Early one morning, I decided to ride my bike up a Colorado mountain starting at 8,000ft. The IV was delivering the treatment which I adhered to my waist, arm and shoulder while I rode my bike up to an altitude of 11,000ft for 2 hours. I followed this with shots I administered to myself by the side of the road (using a bear proof trash container as a table!). I thought, is this how my doctor would like me to administer the treatment? Probably not. But I believed I was careful, conscientious, and most importantly living my life. I did not give up! We can't do anything about the length of our lives, but we can do something about the width and depth. That was 11 years ago; I have not been on any drugs since!
Relationship with cancer:
Breast Cancer, Leukemia Caregiver
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
This is a trick question because how does one truly pick a favorite! I love so many things! I suppose if I am forced to choose, the Thermal Spring Water facial mist. It is so refreshing. Even a quick misting during the day is enough to bring a smile on my face.
Words you would like to share with someone who is going through cancer and/or someone who is acting as caregiver for their loved one:
To loved ones: Don't ghost. Meaning don't bail on your person.
Share an empowering moment or memory during your cancer journey:
The moments that most stick with me and when people who have followed my journey/ follow me on social media share how something I’ve shared has given the encouragement to advocate for themselves, or reminders to find joy in little moments.
Relationship with cancer:
Ovarian Cancer, Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer (TP53)
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
Hydrating Cleanser, Lipikar Balm, Sunscreen!
Share an empowering moment or memory during your cancer journey:
I loved taking control and shaving my head before it fell out
Words you would like to share with someone who is going through cancer and/or someone who is acting as caregiver for their loved one:
Don't let cancer stop you from living.
Relationship with cancer:
Breast Cancer
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
Lipakar AP+M Cream, Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen, Toleriane Foaming Cleanser
Words you would like to share with someone who is going through cancer and/or someone who is acting as caregiver for their loved one:
Be hopeful, hope means different things to different people, people can hope for many things while facing cancer. Simply be hopeful.
Share a message you would like to send to your support system during your cancer journey:
I am most thankful for my faith and family, my supportive husband Bill, my loving children Erin, Bill, Bob, Katie (my personal RN), Kelsey, Mark, and Brittany. My precious grandchildren, Savannah, Sadie, Connor, Ben, and Kaeden. Thank you for recognizing that I am not cancer, and caring enough to appreciate my strength, thank you for making me laugh and thank you most for loving me through it all.
Relationship with cancer:
Breast Cancer
Favorite La Roche-Posay product:
I cannot live without my Effaclar Clay Mask, Toleriane Foaming Cleanser, Hyalu B5 Serum, Lipikar AP+M Cream, and Lipikar Wash AP+!
Words you would like to share with someone who is going through cancer and/or someone who is acting as caregiver for their loved one:
Your cancer story and journey belongs to you, don't let what you read on the internet make you lose hope #TheirStoryIsntYourStory
Is there a recent accomplishment / achievement that you would like to share:
This year marks 4 years for me as a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor!
OUR PARTNERSHIP
The Squad has co-created, reviewed and provided feedback for various La Roche-Posay oncology materials and resources. Below are some of the key programs that have been touched on by the Squad.
ONCOLOGY SAMPLE KIT AND PATIENT BROCHURE
"Caring For Your Skin When Facing Cancer" premium La Roche-Posay sample kits and patient brochures are delivered to our oncology institutional partners for direct patient distribution and assistance.
