The Herald, Sharon, Pa.

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September 29, 2009

Dee Somich's cards offer "Wreath of Hope"

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

FARRELL — In Cindy Hanna’s opinion, Dolores “Dee” Somich of Farrell practically walks on water.

Ms. Somich designed “Wreath of Hope” cards as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and UPMC’s Medical Equipment Recycling Program, which Ms. Hanna coordinates.

“When someone receives a card, they know someone cares about them, and also get the message to get a mammogram,” said Ms. Hanna, who herself has battled the disease.

“Whatever money (Ms. Somich) makes with the cards, she gives to ACS,” said Ms. Hanna.

Kevin McDermont of Minuteman Press in Hermitage has given invaluable assistance with the cards, Ms. Hanna said. “They designed, printed and shrink-wrapped the cards for free,” she said.

Ms. Somich said she began by making pins for the Greenville Relay for Life, but wanted to incorporate the pink ribbon international symbol for breast cancer awareness into a design.

What she came up with for the notecards not only incorporates the pink ribbon for health, but also flowers for hope and white dots for happiness.

“Dee credits the American Cancer Society with helping her to cope with her illness,” said Ms. Hanna.

“When diagnosed, she immediately called the cancer society with a lot of questions. They assisted her with prescriptions and also introduced her to the Reach to Recovery program which allows breast cancer survivors to connect with newly diagnosed patients. Dee has found support from many sources and considers the American Cancer Society a lifeline.”



Ms. Somich was diagnosed with HER2 breast cancer in 2002 at age 58.

“I have been in treatment ever since 2002,” she said. “I’ve had surgery radiation, chemotherapy and was doing better. Then I had more surgery and chemo basically for seven years. I’m on oral chemo now and take the new drug Receptin.”

Though she deals with side effects of the drugs, Ms. Somich said she feels good. “I’m able to do things around the house,” she said.



“Wreath of Hope” cards can be ordered through Ms. Hanna at 724-983-8737. They also will be available in the lobby shop of UPMC Horizon in Farrell and in UPMC Horizon’s Womancare Center in Hermitage. A package of 10 costs $10.

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