Baptist Health Women's Resource Center: Look Good, Feel Better

Grant Award Amount: $9,400

Since 1999, the BAPTIST HEALTH Women’s Resource Center has provided over thousands of women and their families with support through the Positive Appearance Center (PAC). PAC serves 500 women annually. At the PAC, women have a place to access the latest in medical information via internet at the computer station, receive professional consultation regarding their treatment and through the “Look Good Feel Better” program, improve their outward appearance through the purchase of wigs, scarves and other enhancements. Studies show that women who receive this type of support feel better, look better and live better. There is a connection between body and mind. The American Cancer Society reported in 2006 that 69% of women with cancer said their appearance changed during treatment, resulting in a temporary depression which can adversely impact the outcome of the cancer treatments. The study maintained that appearance affects the patients’ overall sense of well-being, which affects their health. Approximately 45 women are being served monthly and as of this date 15 women have been turned away due to lack of funds. This is not acceptable at BH and we must do everything possible to provide care for all patients who need our help. The BH Positive Appearance Center requested funds to purchase 230 post-surgical kits and 125 wigs, for approximately 355 women in 2009 for the “Look Good Feel Better” Program.