Beyond the diagnosis – a personal of healing

For many women navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, the physical surgery is only the beginning of a complex emotional and rehabilitation journey.

Post-mastectomy recovery often brings profound changes to a woman’s body confidence, posture, and self-esteem.

However, specialised post operative care – delivered with compassion and technical expertise – is helping local women regain their balance, comfort, and dignity.

Adelma Toogood, a medical orthotist and prosthetist based in Southernwood, says post-cancer care extends far beyond medical devices.

It is about treating the whole person behind the diagnosis.

She says’ her practice’s work is about so much more than providing a breast prosthesis, a mastectomy bra, or a compression garment.

It is about caring for the person wearing it, understanding the tears hidden behind a brave smile, and offering support during a deeply personal stage of life.

External breast prostheses, lightweight post-operative forms, and specialised mastectomy bras play a vital role in both physical rehabilitation and mental health.

A properly fitted breast prosthesis restores the natural shape under clothing, while balancing body weight across the shoulders and spine.

For women who have undergone a unilateral mastectomy, this proper weight distribution is
essential to prevent uneven strain on the neck, back, and shoulders. Unlike off-the-shelf undergarments, mastectomy bras feature discreet internal pockets that hold prostheses securely in place.

Designed with soft fabrics, wider straps, and specialised seams, they protect sensitive scar
tissue while offering complete support during activities.

For patients facing lymphedema – a condition causing fluid accumulation and painful swelling in the arm or hand following lymph node removal – custom-fitted compression garments and sleeves provide essential fluid management and relief.

Recognising that a cancer diagnosis places immense financial strain on families,
Toogood’s practice works directly with patients to navigate the complex medical aid claims process.

Where financial hardship or lack of comprehensive medical cover is a concern, the practice encourages open discussion to explore affordable care pathways.

“The goal is to ensure that financial uncertainty does not prevent any woman from seeking advice and exploring specialised care. “Every patient deserves to be treated with compassion and respect, with the reassurance that her individual financial and personal needs will be considered,” Toogood says.

To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the practice has actively engaged in local community initiatives across Buffalo City.

On October 10, the practice joined the “One Among Millions” breast cancer awareness event organised by The Marketing Designer team, providing vital education on post mastectomy products and funding avenues.

The practice also actively collects gently used bras and breast forms for The BCA Hope
Project, which is run by East Coast Radiology mammographers and distributes items through St Bernard’s Hospice to underprivileged women.

Additionally, the team is participating in a community Spin-aThon on Saturday, October 24 to raise awareness about early detection and the importance of regular mammograms.

Throughout October, every woman attending a post mastectomy fitting consultation
receives a special gift to remind her that she is valued and supported.

The core message to every woman facing breast cancer is that she is so much more than her diagnosis and does not have to walk this journey alone.