Eight Medical Professionals To Speak at Free Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop on Saturday, May 12, 2012, in Silver Spring, Maryland

The 11th Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, featuring 8 medical professional speakers, will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Holy Cross Hospital, 1500 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, MD, in the First Floor Professional and Community Education Center off the main lobby. This free event is sponsored by the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org) and is open to everyone interested in thyroid cancer.

Speakers include:

  • Andrew J. Bauer, M.D., Endocrinologist, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, and The Thyroid Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
  • Jacqueline Jonklaas, M.D., Endocrinologist, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
  • Arjun Joshi, M.D., Otolaryngologist, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC
  • Gigi Meinecke, D.M.D., F.A.G.D., Dentist, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, Baltimore, MD
  • Katy Pincus, Pharm.D., B.C.P.S., Pharmacist, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD
  • Ralph P. Tufano, M.D., Otolaryngologist, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
  • Vijay M Varma, M.D., Nuclear Medicine Physician, Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, Rockville, MD
  • Jason Wexler, M.D., Endocrinologist, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC

The workshop is a free day of education and support for people at all stages of thyroid cancer testing, treatment, and follow-up. Caregivers, friends, and everyone interested are invited to come and learn from experts and learn and share with other thyroid cancer survivors and families.

Program topics include Thyroid Cancer Questions & Answers, Follow-Up in the First Year and Over Your Lifetime, Surgery, Using I-131, Thyrogen, Thyroid Cancer in Children and Teens, Coping with a Recent Diagnosis, Dental Issues, Thyroid Hormone Replacement and Other Medication Issues, Support Group Roundtables, Coping Skills, and Complementary Approaches to Well-Being. Resource tables with free educational and support materials will be available to attendees.

Attendees may come for part or all of the day. Register either on our website, or onsite on the day of the workshop. For more information, e-mail Washington_DC@thyca.org or thyca@thyca.org or phone 301-493-8810. Visit ThyCa’s web site www.thyca.org for further details about the speakers, program, and meeting rooms.

The workshop is hosted and organized by ThyCa Baltimore Support Group, ThyCa Northern Virginia Support Group, ThyCa Rockville Support Group, and ThyCa Washington, DC Support Group.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. www.thyca.org is an international nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. For more information e-mail to: thyca@thyca.org; write to: PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545; call toll-free: 1-877-588-7904; or visit our website.

In This Issue:

New Article Puts Spotlight on Thyroid Cancer

A new article highlights thyroid cancer, neck checks for early detection, and ThyCa support groups. The article notes that thyroid cancer is the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women in the United States. The author is Stacey Thureen, Boston Thyroid Health Examiner. Read it here: http://www.examiner.com/article/thyca-groups-provide-support-for-fastest-growing-cancer-u-s

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Thank You to our Medical Advisors

Thank you for your wonderful commitment to patient well-being. Our Medical Advisory Council of 34 world recognized experts in thyroid cancer provide valuable counsel and support our goals in education, treatment and research. Over 50 additional distinguished specialists provide ongoing review and input for our web site and materials. Visit our Medical Advisors page for more information. Thank you again!

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Blind Baseball Fan Tours 30 Ballparks, Raises Thyroid Cancer Awareness

Reggie Deal, a thyroid cancer survivor, continues his tour of all 30 Major League Ballparks in 30 days. At the San Francisco Giants Stadium, the scoreboard lit up with the message “A Giant Welcome to Reggie Deal and www.thyca.org.” In a video interview, you can see the Neck Check shirt that Reggie wears for thyroid cancer awareness. Read more at www.thyca.org/news/reggie0512/. Thank you, Reggie!

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Letters Come from around the World

People in 96 countries around the world are using ThyCa services, and more people find ThyCa every day. Our web site www.thyca.org provides information in English, Chinese, Spanish, and French. A few recent e-mails:

  • From Utah…
    My boyfriend was diagnosed this week and his thyroidectomy has been scheduled. Clearly, there is no time to waste when it comes to garnering as much information as possible. I’ve been very thankful for your website in these last few days and have found it to be a great resource.

  • From a physician in Seattle, Washington…
    Thank you for your wonderful work! A number of my patients have requested the AACE neck check cards — could you mail me a bulk supply? Would love any brochures you have on thyroid cancer as well!

  • From Louisiana…
    I belong to a non-profit organization… We are in the process of organizing & hosting our 2nd annual “Cancer Awareness” program within our small community… The purpose of voicing this awareness is to embrace & support the battle our people may be going through during a stressed time. Not only with themselves but ones that are caretakers & love ones as well…We greatly appreciate the opportunity for you to help us put this information out to the public eye.

  • From a thyroid cancer survivor…
    I found your cookbook to be very helpful. Thank you.
    From a Texas physicians’ group…
    I’m on the management team at our Medical Center Department of Otolaryngology. We currently have the brochure featuring Catherine Bell, however, we are running low. We would love to have more of them.

  • From Pennsylvania…
    The company that I work for has an annual wellness program. This year as part of that program we would like to include an activity surrounding Thyroid Cancer Awareness in the month of September. One of our managers had her thyroid out last year.

  • From Cairo, Egypt…
    Thank you very much for this great work. You are doing a very good thing. I am a physician and a last year resident in endocrinology. I am very interesting in thyroid cancer and I really want to help my patients and to be a good endocrinologist, mainly in the field of thyroid cancer. I will be very grateful if you send to me free materials, mainly those about fine needle aspiration.

  • From a Caregiver…
    My wife is preparing for an RAI body scan 8 days from today, and I have found the 
    cookbook very helpful.

  • From Ohio…
    May we please have 50 patient packets for our radiation/oncology physicians to offer patients and families?

  • From Washington…
    Could you please send free awareness materials to pass out. My information is as follows. I was newly and by accident diagnosed with papillary carcinoma. …I would like to pass info out so people know that this is a very real thing that can happen and what to check for and expect.]

  • From a Massachusetts physicians’ office…
    Could you please mail me the following and any other info you would like. We are gathering information to put together a packet to hand out to our patients.

  • From Arizona…
    Some friends and I are organizing a thyroid cancer fundraiser and are hoping to obtain some Neck Check cards to give out as part of the event.

  • From a California physicians’ group…
    We would love to receive materials for our patients.

  • From Delaware…
    My daughter is two years clear of thyroid cancer. When she has to go on the low iodine diet each year before the I-131 scan, we plan it out from the cookbook.

  • From Texas…
    I was wondering how I can get the free materials that are available in bulk for a community awareness event.

  • From New Jersey…
    We are a state hospital that provides care to a diverse, but very poor community with a great deal of need in understanding their diagnoses. Our patient population’s primary insurance is charity care. We are in the process of putting together a resource/library with all types of cancer related education information that would be made available to them. At this time, I am writing to ask your assistance in providing us with as much free information as you can possibly provide.

  • From West Virginia…
    I would like some of the free brochures to hand out at my daughter’s high school, she was diagnosed two years ago and still fighting this battle, please send as many as possible for a high school.

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Coming Events—Workshops, Webinars, Support Groups, and More

  • Every Week:
    You’re invited to Thyroid Cancer Support Group Meetings in dozens of locations. The complete schedule is here. If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa support group. Just e-mail to us at support_coord@thyca.org.

  • Every Day:
    Listen/Watch Anytime: Free Webinars with Thyroid Cancer Experts:
    1. Papillary Follicular Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
    2. Papillary/Follicular Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
    3. Medullary Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
    4. Medullary Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
    5. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
    6. Pediatric Thyroid Cancer

  • May 25, 2012. World Thyroid Day—for all thyroid diseases. Supported by American Thyroid Association, European Thyroid Association, the Asia & Oceania Thyroid Association, and the Latin American Thyroid Society, ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, and other organizations.

  • Tuesday, May 29, 2012. Free Cancer Legal Rights Conference. Key information from attorneys, for patients and caregivers, about legal issues, rights, and resources for cancer patients related to insurance, employment, disability issues, and more. Location: Boston, Massachusetts. Sponsored by the Cancer Legal Resource Center. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is pleased to partner with CLRC in this event.

  • Thursday, Friday, Saturday, June 7 – 9, 2012. 6th International Hypoparathyroidism Patient Conference. Rockville, Maryland. Sponsored by the Hypoparathyroidism Association

  • Friday, June 8, 2012, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Penn’s Focus on Thyroid Cancer Conferencesponsored by the Abramson Cancer Center. Free. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

  • Saturday, June 23, 2012. Free Northern California/Bay Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. From 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Stanford University Cancer Center, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 875 Blake Wilbur, Stanford, CA. Details and free registration on our Conferences page.

  • Saturday, July 21, 2012. Free 4th Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. Starts at 9 a.m. at Medical Center Plano, Building III – 3rd Floor Auditorium, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano (Dallas), TX. Details and free registration on our Conferences page.

  • September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, Worldwide, sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Get free materials! Find out how to partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Visit www.thyca.org/how-to-help/awareness/

  • October 19 – 21, 2012. The 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. Location: Chicago, Illinois. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Details atwww.thyca.org/support/conferences/

  • October 20, 2012. The 11th Annual Dinner/Auction to Support Thyroid Cancer Research. Location: Chicago, Illinois. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Details atwww.thyca.org/support/conferences/

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Thyrogen Supply Situation Continues To Improve

On May 23, 2012, Genzyme sent an update to ThyCa and reported that the supply of Thyrogen is increasing. Genzyme reports that the “primary focus continues to be restoring uninterrupted supply,” and anticipates that there will be “sufficient supply to meet all patient demand globally in 2013.” The complete update is now posted on www.thyca.org, on the right side of the home page and in the Thyrogen section of the Links list.

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From Thyroid Cancer Patient to Workshop Panelist—Kristi Thacker’s Story

Kristi spoke at the Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. Here’s Kristi’s story

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Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Christina B. of Maryland

Aunt Jan’s Everyday Mayonnaise
(blender recipe)

Put in a blender, cover and mix:

2 egg whites (or 1 egg if off the low-iodine diet)
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon noniodized salt
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
1/4 cup oil

Keep the blender running. Remove cap.
Add 3 Tablespoons lemon juice, slowly.
Add 1/2 cup oil, s-l-o-w-l-y, a teaspoon at a time. 
Mayo should be thick.

A shake of curry, turmeric, or paprika will add flavor.

Christina writes, “This was my Aunt Jan’s recipe that she used for years with her kids. She would make a batch and put it in a store-bought mayonnaise jar and her kids never knew the difference.”

“Thank you for this wonderful recipe book! It was immensely helpful.”

Thank you, Christina, for contributing this recipe. We will include it in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.

Free and Downloadable

Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.

The Cookbook is also available in:

Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.

This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.

If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.

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ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription

By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.

The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.

We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.

If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today: www.thyca.org/support/guestbook/

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Get News Updates — Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

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Join Us, Become a Member

Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.

Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.

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Every Day

Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support, in the time you give and in financial contributions, is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.

It only takes a minute to volunteer your time by e-mailing to volunteer@thyca.org or to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.

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About ThyCa NEWS NOTES

Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org.

Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.

Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Christina B., Leah Guljord, Pat Paillard, Barb Statas, Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.

The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.orgcall toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.

The 8th Annual Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., at the Country Club Hotel, 301 Carol Road, Lake Ozark, Missouri. This free event is sponsored by the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org) and is open to everyone interested in thyroid cancer.

The workshop is a free day of education and support for people at all stages of thyroid cancer testing, treatment, and follow-up. Caregivers, friends, and everyone interested are welcomed to come and learn from physicians and other specialists, and to learn and share with other thyroid cancer survivors and families.

Speakers include:

  • Jeffrey B. Jorgensen, M.D., Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgery; Assistant Professor, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO
  • Uzma Khan, M.D., Endocrinologist, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Cosmopolitan International Diabetes and Endocrinology Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
  • J. B. Svoboda, M.D., Endocrinologist, Adult Medicine & Endocrinology Specialists, Regional Services Cox Health, Springfield, MO
  • Debbie Ritchie, R.N., Advanced ENT Nurse Practitioner, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
  • Plus Edie Dodson, Genzyme, as well as a Thyroid Cancer Survivor Panel

Topics include the ABC’s of Thyroid Cancer: An Overview of Thyroid Cancer, Thyroid Surgery: Improving Medical and Cosmetic Outcomes, Living with Thyroid Cancer & Long-Term Medical Considerations, How and When Do I Take My Thyroid Medicine, and more.

For nurses, Nursing Contact Hours will be offered. Free neck checks are available.

Attendees may come for all or part of the day. Walk-in attendees are welcome. Register either online in advance on our website (use the form in the Workshops section or onsite at the workshop).

Hotel rooms at the Country Club Hotel are available to workshop attendees for $89 plus tax. Free parking is available at the hotel.

For more workshop information, e-mail Central-MO@thyca.org or thyca@thyca.org, or visit ThyCa’s web site.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is an international nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. For more information e-mail: to thyca@thyca.org; write to PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545; call toll-free: 1-877-588-7904; or visit our website.

In This Issue:

Cancer Pain Survey Seeks Your Input

Can You Give15 Minutes of Your Time for a Survey?
Share Your Experiences with Cancer Pain With Us.

If you have ever experienced intense flares of cancer pain, we want to hear from you. Help us understand cancer pain so that we can learn how to help you and thousands of other cancer patients/survivors suffering from pain. ThyCa and other leading cancer patient advocacy groups are conducting this survey.

Click on either of the links below to take our brief Breaking Through survey on breakthrough pain in cancer — short, sudden flares of intense pain that occur on top of background cancer pain.

http://www.thyca.org/surveys/painsurvey2012/

https://www.visioncriticalsurveys.com/skin/breakingthrough/thyca.html

It will only take a few minutes of your time. But your help now can go a long way to raise awareness about cancer pain. So please, take the survey!

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Free Workshops Coming Soon

You’re invited! You may register either in advance, using the online registration form, or onsite on the day of the workshop. We welcome walk-in attendees to all ThyCa meetings.

  • Vineland, New Jersey – Saturday, April 21, 2012
    New Jersey and Philadelphia Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00p.m. Physician speakers and more. Organized and hosted by the ThyCa support groups in the area, including ThyCa NW Philadelphia, ThyCa Philadelphia, ThyCa Southern New Jersey, and ThyCa Jersey Shore University Medical Center Support Groups. Workshop details are on our Conferencespage.

  • Osage Beach, Missouri – Saturday, April 21, 2012
    8th Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The confirmed speakers include two endocrinologists, a surgeon, a nurse practitioner, thyroid cancer survivors, and more. Details are on our Conferences page.

  • Silver Spring, Maryland — Saturday, May 12, 2012
    11th Annual Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The 8 confirmed medical professional speakers include 2 endocrinologists, 2 surgeons, a nuclear medicine physician, a medical oncologist, a dentist, and a pharmacist. This meeting is organized and hosted by the ThyCa support groups in the area, including: Baltimore, Northern Virginia, Rockville, and Silver Spring.

  • Stanford, California — Saturday, June 23, 2012.
    Northern California/Bay Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The confirmed speakers include 6 physicians from Stanford University Cancer Center. Details are on ourConferences page.

  • Texas — July date to be announced.
    Texas Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. Details to be posted on our Conferences page.

  • Also, Every Week:
    You’re invited to Thyroid Cancer Support Group meetings in numerous locations. The complete schedule is here: page: www.thyca.org/sg/. If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa support group. Just e-mail to us atsupport_coord@thyca.org.

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Baseball Fan to Tour the Major Leagues, Raise Awareness of Thyroid Cancer

Congratulations to Reggie Deal of Wyoming, who, starting in late April, will visit and attend games in all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums during the course of his 30-day tour. Reggie is a thyroid cancer survivor, originally from Texas, who is an educator with a background in youth issues and counseling. He also is blind.

Reggie is taking this opportunity to raise awareness of thyroid cancer and the importance of early detection through neck checks, because thyroid cancer is usually treatable when found early. We are pleased to provide materials to support Reggie in this important effort. We will share more of Reggie’s story in a future ewsletter and on our web site. Thank you, Reggie!

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More Support Groups Started

New local support groups are beginning in California this month. Thank you very much to the wonderful volunteers who have started these groups.

For details about all the 90-plus local ThyCa Support Groups, and their meeting schedules, go to our Support Groups page.

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Free Cancer Legal Rights Conference Planned for May 29, 2012

On May 29, 2012, in Boston, Massachusetts, learn about legal issues for cancer patients and your rights related to insurance, employment, disability, and more. Attorneys will give information for patients and caregivers, about legal issues and resources. Sponsor is the Cancer Legal Resource Center.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is pleased to partner with CLRC in this event. Details are at cancerrightsconference.org. ThyCa is also pleased to announce that speakers from the Cancer Legal Rights Center will participate in the program at the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in Chicago, Illinois, on October 19 – 21, 2012.

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Hypoparathyoidism Association Conference To Be Held in June

On June 7 – 9, 2012, the nonprofit Hypoparathyroidism Association will hold the 6th International Hypoparathyroidism Patient Conference in Rockville, Maryland. ThyCa is pleased to collaborate with the Hypoparathyroidism toward our mutual goal of reducing post-surgical hypoparathyroidism.

We are also pleased that once again, speakers from the Hypoparathyroidism Association will lead sessions on hypoparathyroidism, and coping with it, at the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in Chicago, Illinois.

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A Letter to ThyCa

“Good morning! Last week, a patient brought us the booklet Thyroid Cancer Basics she’d gotten from ThyCa. Our docs think this is a terrific source of information! We explored your website and saw the Low Iodine Cookbook as well.”

“We are a group of Endocrinologists and treat many patients with thyroid cancer. We’d love to receive copies of these booklets in bulk so we can share them with our patients. We’d like both the Basics and Cookbook, if possible. I’m not sure how many you can send, but we’d go through 50 of each within a couple of months. However we’ll be thankful for any you can send.”

(Editor’s Note: ThyCa is pleased to mail free copies of our materials, including Thyroid Cancer Basics and the Low-Iodine Cookbook, to medical professionals as well as individuals anywhere in the world. For medical professionals, just e-mail to thyca@thyca.org. For patients and caregivers, the fastest way to receive materials is to sign up through our free Guestbook.

These helpful books are also available for downloading fromour website, free of charge.

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Web Pages Discuss Thyroid Hormones

Thyroid hormone replacement in thyroid cancer care — this new page on ThyCa’s web site has helpful information on thyroid hormones: www.thyca.org/pap-fol/more/hormones/

On the Know Your Pills page, you’ll find more about thyroid hormone replacement for people with thyroid cancer.

You’ll find further details in the free handbook Thyroid Cancer Basics . Or ask us to mail you this handbook, plus our free information packet. Just send us your mailing address along with your request, through ourGuestbook.

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Dance Event Fills Room!

Congratulations to Christine Ciletti and the other ThyCa South Florida Support Group volunteers, and thank you to the Busy Body Fitness Center, for your dance aerobics afternoon in Boca Raton, Florida, to raise awareness and funds for thyroid cancer research. Your event was a big success and raised over $1,700 for ThyCa’s Thyroid Cancer Research Fund!

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You’re Invited To Partner in Awareness

You’re invited to partner with ThyCa in year-round awareness campaigns and in the worldwide observance Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. We are happy to send free materials and outreach tips to help you. Visit our Raise Awareness page to find out more.

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ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription

By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.

The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.

We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.

If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.

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Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Jamie G.

Better For You Tortillas

Use the same ingredients from the cracker recipe on p. 91 of the ThyCa Low-Iodine Cookbook:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons vegetable oil/olive oil
1/4 cup warm water

  1. Combine flour, salt, and vegetable oil until well mixed.
  2. Then slowly add warm water as you knead the dough. Dough should hold together but should not be sticky
  3. Make dough into about 4 balls (2 to 3 inches in diameter)
  4. Place each dough ball on a lightly floured cutting board and roll out with a lightly floured rolling pin.
  5. Roll dough out about ¼ inch thick. Tortillas may not be perfect circles.
  6. Using a skillet or griddle on medium to high heat, cook each tortilla (approximately 20 seconds each side). You will start seeing bubbles rise in the middle. When this happens, flip to the other side. You will see slight browned/burned spots. This is good!

Jamie writes: For one who loves New Mexican food this diet was difficult for me. This is my 2nd time on this diet and my husband and I found a way to still make some of my favorites! This tortilla recipe is a lifesaver and so easy to make. This is great for making breakfast burritos (if you can get your tortillas big enough) or breakfast tacos!

Thanks for such a helpful cookbook!

Editor’s Notes:

Dishes in ThyCa’s free Low-Iodine Cookbook that include tortillas or tortilla chips include Fajitas, (p. 31), Tacos (p. 31), Pork Carnitas & Soft Tacos with Salsa Fresco (P. 51), Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup (p. 61), Meal ideas (p. 78), Meals and Snacks for Children and Teens (p. 79), Guacamole Dip with Tortilla Chips (p. 81), Pico de Gallo (p. 81), Tostadas (p. 82), other dips, and Ole Omelet (p. 87).

Thank you, Jamie, for contributing this recipe. We will include it in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.

Free and Downloadable

Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.

The Cookbook is also available in:

Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.

This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.

If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.

top of page

Join Us, Become a Member

Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.

Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.

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Follow ThyCa on Facebook and Twitter

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Every Day

Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.

It only takes a minute to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.

top of page

About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page: www.thyca.org/news/newsletters/.

Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.

Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Junet H., Pat Paillard, Barbara Statas, Cherry Wunderlich,and Gary Bloom.

The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non- profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals.

Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.

In This Issue:

Family in Philippines Tells Their Thyroid Cancer StoryBy Junet H.

My son Luke was diagnosed with metastatic papillary thyroid cancer a few years ago and our world stopped…we were at a loss. He was only 6 years and 9 months old.

We also heard the familiar line that thyroid cancer was the easiest form of cancer to cure but in Luke’s case, it was not. Thyroid cancer in children is very rare here in the Philippines.

Having the fear of discovering worse things, I was not brave enough to search the Internet when we first heard about his cancer. I was only encouraged to do so because our oncologist had been doing the same (Luke was her first thyroid cancer case). She even printed some articles from the Pediatric ThyCa web site and gave them to me.

When I sent my first post to the Pediatric ThyCa Online Support Group, I received lots of replies from moms in just an hour.

I couldn’t describe how this made me feel. It was overwhelming. I had been searching for a pediatric support group here in our country, but there was none.

Finally, there were these moms who didn’t even know me but could fully understood how I felt. Their replies to all my questions served as a guide for our journey. Their thoughts about surgeons, endos, the low-iodine diet, radioactive iodine, and a lot more helped me and my husband in various decisions we had to make concerning Luke’s case. The ThyCa Pediatric Online Support Group also helped me to be in contact with the ThyCa Cebu City, Philippines, Support Group (although most members from the group are adult).

I am particularly thankful to Lauri for being my far-away friend. She always finds time for me. Whenever we have a problem with Luke’s treatment, she will contact some doctors and ask for information.

I am also thankful to the pediatric thyroid cancer specialists in the United States for graciously giving information, through Lauri. There are also volunteers who gave help when we first tried the low-iodine diet and who patiently answered my questions regarding radioactive iodine.

We are still fighting the battle against thyroid cancer. We still encounter complications and problems along our way, but because of the help of the Pediatric ThyCa Online Support Group, and our family, friends, and community here in Philippines, our burdens are less heavy. Someday, I hope I can say that Luke has won his battle and is cancer-free.

Editor’s Note: These are a few of ThyCa’s free resources for families with a child or teen with thyroid cancer:

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More Support Groups Formed

Welcome to our 5 new local support groups in Alabama, California, and Florida.

Thank you to volunteers Diane Bible, Rita Bramhall, Christine Ciletti, Marla Friedman, Lois Lance, Ashley Maderr, Cheryl Moulton, Maureen Merrick Rose, and Candy Stevens for starting these groups.

For details about all the 90-plus local ThyCa Support Groups, go to our Support Groups page.

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Handbook Now in Chinese as Well as English

Thyroid Cancer Basics is now available in both English and Chinese. Its 50 pages are packed with helpful information and suggestions from physicians, patients, and caregivers. Download it free from our website (linked on the right side of the home page). Bound copies are also available in English, by mail, and will be available in Chinese later this year. It’s free also in bulk to physicians for your patients.

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Caprelsa Approved in Europe

Caprelsa (vandetanib) is now approved in Europe, reports AstraZeneca and the European Commission. Caprelsa also received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration last year. Developed by AstraZeneca, Caprelsa is for some patients with advanced medullary thyroid cancer.

More about Caprelsa is here. To learn more about medullary thyroid cancer, go to Medullary Thyroid Cancersite.

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Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Clinical Trial

A new Phase 1b clinical study is now recruiting patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer. More details are now on ThyCa’s web site, with a link to further study and contact information, at at www.thyca.org/news/anaclinical02-2012/.

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Neck Check Awareness Shirts a Big Hit!

Find out more about these colorful Running Shirts & T-Shirts on out Spirit Items page..

The free Neck Check Awareness Cards, plus more free awareness materials, are available here.

Thank you to Tina Descovich and the 11 members of Team Neck and Neck, for your inspiration and great efforts! See photos of Tina and her team on the Home Page & News section of www.thyca.org.

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Free Spring Workshops Coming Soon

You’re invited!

  • Vineland, New Jersey – Saturday, April 21, 2012: New Jersey and Philadelphia Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Physician speakers and more. Details are on our Conferences page.
  • Osage Beach, Missouri – Saturday, April 21, 2012: 8th Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The seven confirmed speakers include medical professionals, health resource specialists, thyroid cancer survivors, and more. Details are on our Conferences page.
  • Silver Spring, Maryland — Saturday, May 12, 2012: 11th Annual Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Physician speakers and more.
  • Every Week: Thyroid Cancer Support Groups meet in numerous locations. The complete schedule is available on our Support Groups page. If there’s no group near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new group. Just e-mail support_coord@thyca.org.
  • More Seminars and Workshops are being planned. Our Calendar has details.

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Follow ThyCa on Facebook and Twitter

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Friends …By Gary Bloom

I’ve often said that the only really good thing about getting thyroid cancer has been the people I’ve met, and the friends I’ve made whom I never would have met if I didn’t get thyroid cancer.

For the past more than 16 years I’ve met so many wonderful and caring people— others also coping with thyroid cancer, caregivers, dedicated and skilled medical professionals who have shared their expertise not only in my own care, but also for the education and well-being of everyone with thyroid cancer.

I’ve met people who have helped me grow as a person, and who’ve shared their greatness with me and with so many others. I’ve met wonderful people whom I can speak with and see every day, and, very sadly, I’ve met all too many people who’ve lost their lives, and whom I’ll always remember.

I cherish those who are here, and I greatly miss those who are no longer with us.

I know all of you have had similar experiences.

Like so many of you, my life is filled with ThyCa commitments and family commitments as well as caring for my own health. All these commitments are important in all our lives.

I encourage you to think of a friend whose health or life situation is down right now, or who is experiencing an ongoing difficult challenge in health, as a caregiver, or in some other way. Or someone who has helped you and given you support.

Pick up the telephone and say hello, or stop by for a visit, or send a card or online message if you’re not close enough to be there in person.

I’m sure that receiving your words of comfort and support, and, whenever possible, your caring presence with them, will make your friend feel better. I know it will improve your day.

So, consider adding a little joy and comfort to the lives of people you care about, and say hello.

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ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription

By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.

The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.

We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.

If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.

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Support the Rally for Research

Thanks to generous contributions and special fundraising events, ThyCa has awarded new thyroid cancer research grants every year starting in 2003. These grants support our goal of cures for all thyroid cancer and a future free of thyroid cancer. We plan to award 3 new research grants and 3 continuation grants in 2012.

You’re invited to help support the Rally for Research. For details about the Rally for Research, donation opportunities, special events, Quarters for a Cure, and information about ThyCa’s past and future Research Grants, visit the Rally for Research page.

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Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by a friend of ThyCa

Roasted Bell Peppers

3 large sweet bell peppers, red or yellow
2 cloves of garlic
2 Tablespoons olive oil (or grapeseed oil)
1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
pinch of noniodized salt

These peppers go well as an appetizer or a dressing on salad.

Peppers: Wash the peppers and put on a baking rack. Bake in a 375-degree oven for approximately 40-60 minutes, until the skin turns dark. Take peppers out of the oven and let them cool. Take the skin off the peppers, cut the stems off, and clean out the seeds. Cut the peppers into bite-size strips.

Dressing: Chop garlic and mix well with olive oil (or grapeseed oil), balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt. Mix the peppers with the dressing.

Editor’s Note: Thank you for contributing this recipe. We will include it in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.

Free and Downloadable

Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.

The Cookbook is also available in:

Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.

This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.

If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.

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Join Us, Become a Member

Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our quarterly Membership Messenger newsletter.

Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.

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Thank You to our Seminar Speaker in Wisconsin

Thank you to Rebecca Sippel, M.D., Endocrine Surgeon, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, who spoke and answered questions at the ThyCa Madison, Wisconsin, Support Group Meeting on March 10. This free support group meets every month. Everyone interested is welcome to attend. Timothy Lau is the group’s volunteer facilitator. Details are the Madison, Wisconsin support group‘s page.

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Every Day

Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.

It only takes a minute to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.

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About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page: www.thyca.org/news/newsletters/.

Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.

Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Junet H., Pat Paillard, Barbara Statas, Cherry Wunderlich, the recipe contributor, and Gary Bloom.

The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non- profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals.

Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.

For a Phase 1b clinical study of an orally administered study drug, PLX3397, targeting the cancer microenvironment, Plexxikon is currently recruiting patients with histologically or cytologically diagnosed anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.

Recent work has highlighted the role of a cell type known as Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) in the progression of thyroid cancers, and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma in particular is notable for abundant TAM infiltration. PLX3397 significantly reduces TAM levels, and in animal studies is associated with a significant reduction of tumor growth and metastatic spread.

The other Inclusion and Exclusion criteria for the Phase 1b study are typical and can be found on-line at http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01004861?term=plx3397&rank=7. Participating clinical sites are also listed.

In This Issue:

Have Your Seen the New Neck Check Running Shirts?

The colorful shirts, designed by Tina Descovich, are now pictured on our web site, with Tina and her teammates, Team Neck & Neck. The 11 team members took part in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend in Florida in January. They raised awareness of thyroid cancer, and much-needed funds for thyroid cancer research.

One photo is on our home page. Two more photos of the team are here. Congratulations and thank you, Tina and Team Neck & Neck!

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The Neck Check Awareness Shirts Are Here!

Running Shirts & T-Shirts with the colorful Neck Check Awareness message plus the thyroid cancer awareness ribbon in the three thyroid cancer colors are now available at www.thyca.org/how-to-help/spirit_items/. Proceeds support ThyCa’s services, outreach, and thyroid cancer research grants.

And the free Neck Check Awareness Cards, plus more free awareness materials, are available on our Awareness page.

Thank you very much again to Tina & Team Neck and Neck, for your inspiration and great efforts!

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Now in Chinese: More than 40 Thyroid Cancer Topics from the ThyCa site

We’re pleased to announce that more than 50 pages of thyroid cancer information are now on a Chinese language site on ThyCa’s site. Topics covered include thyroid cancer types, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and more.

Thank you very much to Haxia Guan, M.D., Endocrinologist, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University (formerly of Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions) for her wonderful translation, and to our many other physician writers/reviewers, including many ThyCa Medical Advisors.

To find this important new resource, go to our home page and look for the link to the Chinese site on the right side list of topics, or go directly to the Chinese site.

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Thyroid Cancer Three Times More Common in Women than Men

Thyroid cancer is also one of the few cancers that is increasing in incidence. And, it’s the fastest increasing cancer in both women and men in the U.S. More than 56,000 people will be diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2012 in the United States alone.

Get the latest fact.

Get flyers for sharing, plus tips on how to raise awareness.

Or ask us to mail materials to you; e-mail your request along with your name and complete postal mailing address to thyca@thyca.org.

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Free Handbook, Thyroid Cancer Basics, Serves Patients, Caregivers, Professionals

Thyroid Cancer Basics has more than 50 pages of important information from physicians, patients, and caregivers. It’s available free of charge, by download or by mail from ThyCa, to anyone worldwide (e-mail your request along with your name and complete postal mailing address to thyca@thyca.org). We are also happy to provide bulk copies, free of charge, to medical professionals.

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Upcoming Free Workshops with Physicians

You’re invited! These meetings are live, and unrecorded.

  • Osage Beach, Missouri – Saturday, April 21, 2012: 8th Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The seven confirmed speakers include medical professionals, health resource specialists, thyroid cancer survivors, and more. Details and registration are on ourConferences page.
  • Vineland, New Jersey — Saturday, April 21, 2012: New Jersey/Philadelphia Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Physician Speakers. Free. Details and registration are on our Conferences page.
  • 11th Annual Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. Date to be announced. In Maryland/DC/Virginia Area.
  • Every Week: Thyroid Cancer Support Groups meet in numerous locations. The complete schedule is available here: page: www.thyca.org/sg/. If there’s no group near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new group. Just e-mail support_coord@thyca.org.
  • Mark your calendars for October 19 – 21, 2012, and the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in Chicago, Illinois.
  • More Seminars and Workshops are being planned. Our Calendar has details.

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Thank You to our Recent Seminar Speakers

  • In Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael Thomas, M.D., Endocrinologist, spoke and answered questions about “Feeling Well on Thyroid Medication” during the ThyCa Raleigh Support Group meeting on Saturday, January 21, 2012.
  • In New York City, New York, Jennifer Marti, M.D., Endocrine and Breast Surgeon, spoke at the ThyCa Manhattan Support Group meeting on February 1, 2012.
  • In Baltimore, Maryland, on February 11, the topic at the ThyCa Baltimore Support Group Meeting was Thyroid Hormone Management (Levothyroxine) & Medication Interaction-Related Topics in Thyroid Cancer Care. The speaker was Katy Pincus, Pharm.D., B.C.P.S., Assistant Professor, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.
  • In Reno, Nevada, on February 14, Evan Klass, M.D., Endocrinologist, spoke and answered questions about thyroid cancer care at the ThyCa Reno Support Group meeting.
  • In Boston, Massachusetts, on February 18, Roy Phitayakorn, M.D., M.H.P.E., Massachusetts General Hospital, spoke and answered questions about thyroid cancer and thyroid cancer surgery at the ThyCa Boston Support Group.

To find out about all the ThyCa Support Groups, go to www.thyca.org/sg/

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Follow ThyCa on Facebook and Twitter

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Dancing for Thyroid Cancer Awareness and Support

In Boca Raton, Florida, Christine Ciletti and other volunteers from the ThyCa South Florida Support Group are hosting a dance benefit to raise funds for thyroid cancer. The event will be held on March 18, 2012, from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Busy Body Fitness Center in Boca Raton, Florida. Stop in and have a great time.

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96 Countries …

During January 2012, people from 96 countries visited ThyCa’s web site. In alphabetical order, the 20 countries from which the most visitors came were Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States.

ThyCa’s free services and resources are available to people everywhere. Our goal: to raise awareness of thyroid cancer, connect people with free support and education, and help ensure that no one feels alone as they cope with their thyroid cancer. We mail our free publications to patients, caregivers, and medical professionals worldwide.

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Rare Diseases Day

To help raise awareness of rare diseases, ThyCa partners in support of the National Organization for Rare Disorders in this important worldwide observance on February 29, 2012. ThyCa representatives will participate at Rare Diseases Day events at the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Anaplastic thyroid cancer, medullary thyroid cancer, and several variants of papillary and follicular thyroid cancer are less common than papillary and follicular thyroid cancer. For more information about rare diseases and NORD, visit www.rarediseases.org. Download the free handbook Thyroid Cancer Basics or e-mail to thyca@thyca.org and we’ll mail it to you.

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Low- Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Deb D. of Minnesota

Chow Mein Noodles with Oriental Sauce

  1. Make the Oriental Sauce on page 24 of the ThyCa Low-Iodine Cookbook (www.thyca.org/wp-content/uploads/legacy/Cookbook.pdf ), from W. Eugene Ellison.
  2. Make the Chow Mein Noodles:
    Boil “no yolk” egg noodles till tender.
    Drain and toss with sesame oil
    Saute on medium heat until the noodles start to become crisp.
    Serve warm.

Deb writes, “My husband had to go on the Low-Iodine Diet twice last year. Thank goodness for your cookbook. It was a great help to us.”

“I pride myself on being a ‘scratch cook.” We have a large garden and raise our own livestock. What we can’t eat fresh we pickle, jam, can, or freeze ourselves.”

While on the Low-Iodine Diet my husband enjoyed the Oriental Sauce with several dishes I made for him, but missed the crunch of chow mein noodles.”

Editor’s Note: Thank you, Deb, for contributing this recipe and more, plus helpful tips. We will include them in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.

Free and Downloadable

Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.

The Cookbook is also available in:

Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.

This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.

If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.

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Thank you!

Thank you to the more than 400 wonderful ThyCa volunteers who helped during 2011. You’re making a difference in so many ways—leading local support groups, giving one-to-one support, organizing workshops and the Conference, producing publications, raising awareness for early detection, and publicizing the Rally for Research for our dream of cures for all thyroid cancer. Thank you to all!

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ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription

By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.

The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.

We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.

If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.

top of page

Join Us, Become a Member

Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our quarterly Membership Messenger newsletter.

Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.

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Every Day

Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.

It only takes a minute to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.

top of page

Support the Rally for Research

Thanks to generous contributions and special fundraising events, ThyCa has awarded new thyroid cancer research grants every year starting in 2003. These grants support our goal of cures for all thyroid cancer and a future free of thyroid cancer. We plan to award 3 new grants and 3 continuation grants in 2012.

You’re invited to help support the Rally for Research. For details about the Rally for Research, donation opportunities, special events, Quarters for a Cure, and information about ThyCa’s past and future Research Grants, visit the Rally for Research page.

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About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page: www.thyca.org/news/newsletters/.

Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.

Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Stephen M., Pat Paillard, Barbara Status, Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.

The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non- profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.

ThyCa Urges Early Detection Through Neck Checks

Thyroid cancer will set a new record total of 56,460 people newly diagnosed in the United States in 2012 and is the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women, reports the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, based on information from the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association urges everyone to learn about thyroid cancer and ask for a neck check at doctor’s appointments. People in all age groups from children through seniors can be diagnosed with thyroid cancer. ThyCa provides free awareness and educational materials to patients, professionals, and the public anywhere in the world.

Three out of four people diagnosed with thyroid cancer are women, and the 2012 total of 56,460 people newly diagnosed will include 43,210 women and 13,250 men. A total of 1,780 deaths from thyroid cancer are expected in 2012, compared with 48,020 people newly diagnosed and 1,740 deaths in 2011.

“When found early, thyroid cancer is usually treatable, so early detection is a key,” notes ThyCa Executive Gary Bloom, a thyroid cancer survivor. “Many thyroid cancer survivors first become aware that they may have cancer when they notice a nodule on their lower neck. Others notice changes in their voice or breathing or swallowing. Most thyroid nodules are benign, but some are cancer.”

“Medical professionals are essential to the detection of thyroid cancer,” adds Bloom. “A neck check can be as simple as touching the neck or watching the patient swallow. This can be done very quickly, but those few seconds could make all the difference when it comes to thyroid cancer. Most thyroid cancer is treatable, but some thyroid cancers are aggressive and difficult to treat.”

Free downloadable flyers, tools and tips, and the handbook Thyroid Cancer Basics are available at www.thyca.org. These and more free materials are also available from ThyCa by mail. ThyCa’s free online newsletter subscriptions are available through www.thyca.org/support/guestbook/.

ThyCa invites everyone to partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, a worldwide observance that ThyCa sponsors each September, and to become involved in year-round awareness campaigns. Details are at www.thyca.org/awareness.htm.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals dedicated to education, communication, support services, awareness for early detection, and thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants. ThyCa sponsors free support groups, seminars, workshops, and the annual International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference.

For more information about ThyCa’s services, education, publications, and research fundraising, e-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free 1-877-588-7904, write to PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545, or visit the web site.

##

Contact: Cherry Wunderlich, outreach@thyca.org, 301-493-8810
Director of Outreach and Publications, ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Team Neck & Neck, captained by Tina Descovich, took part in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend on January 7 & 8, 2012. The 11 wonderful team members raised awareness and raised more than $3,400 for ThyCa. They wore the colorful Neck Check Awareness Running Shirts from ThyCa, specially designed by Tina. Thank you, Tina and your Team!

In This Issue:

New Diagnoses in 2012:
Fastest Increasing Cancer, New Record Total

A record total of 56,460 people will be diagnosed with thyroid cancer in the US in 2012. It’s the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women, reports the American Cancer Society.

For more details, visit www.thyca.org/news/newdx2012/.

Help raise awareness. Help others get diagnosed early, when thyroid cancer is usually treatable, and needs the least treatment.

Get free awareness materials, including Neck Check cards, from ThyCa. The materials are available in two ways— by downloading from our web site, or we’ll mail them to any country in the world. Go to ourAwareness page.

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ThyCa Partners with AACE’s Thyroid Awareness Month

As many as 30 million people in the US have some kind of thyroid disease. January is Thyroid Awareness Month, sponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

ThyCa is pleased to partner with AACE in this observance. Learn more on AACE’s thyroid site www.thyroidawareness.com/. Give others the AACE Neck Check cards and other awareness materials, available free from ThyCa; go to www.thyca.org/how-to-help/awareness/

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Latest News about the Thyrogen Supply

In late December, Genzyme reported on the increased global supply of Thyrogen for 2012. The complete message is on ThyCa’s web site at www.thyca.org/wp-content/uploads/legacy/thyrogensupply122211.pdf.

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Update on Medicare and the Afirma Test for Thyroid Nodules

Medicare now covers the Afirma test. This genomic test can help resolve inconclusive results from fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples being tested for possible thyroid cancer. The test is Afirma Gene Expression Classifier, from Veracyte.

For more about this test, go to the Tests and Levels section of ThyCa’s Links page: . To learn more about thyroid nodules and their evaluation, go to www.thyca.org/newly-diagnosed/fna/ and to pages 11-12 of Thyroid Cancer Basics.

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Now Available Online and By Mail: Free Booklet, Thyroid Cancer Basics

This free handbook is packed with more than 50 pages of important information from physicians, patients, and caregiver. It’s available free of charge in different formats.

  • You may download it in 8 ½ x 11 inch format from www.thyca.org/wp-content/uploads/legacy/TCBasics.pdff and bind it yourself.
  • In its compact booklet form (5 ½ x 8 ½ inches), it’s available from ThyCa. We mail individual and bulk copies to anyone interested in thyroid cancer. The booklet is available worldwide.

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Six Free Seminars and Workshops with Physicians

Everyone interested in thyroid cancer is invited to attend.

  • Boston, Massachusetts— Saturday, January 21, 2012
    Roy Phitayakorn, M.D., MHPE, Massachusetts General Hospital, will speak and answer questions about thyroid cancer and thyroid cancer surgery at the ThyCa Boston Support Group Meeting on Saturday, January 21, 2012. For details, go to: www.thyca.org/sg/ma_boston/

  • Raleigh, North Carolina — Saturday, January 21, 2012
    Michael Thomas, M.D., Endocrinologist, will speak and answer questions about “Feeling Well on Thyroid Medication” during ThyCa Raleigh, North Carolina’s regularly scheduled support group meeting on Saturday, January 21, 2012. For details, go to: www.thyca.org/sg/nc_raleigh/

  • New York City, New York—Wednesday, February 1, 2012
    Jennifer Marti, M.D., Endocrine and Breast Surgeon, will speak and answer questions during ThyCa Manhattan, New York’s regularly scheduled support group meeting on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For details, go to: www.thyca.org/sg/ny_manhattan/

  • Baltimore, Maryland—Saturday, February 11, 2012
    Watch for details on the ThyCa Baltimore Support Group page, atwww.thyca.org/sg/md_baltimore/

  • Reno, Nevada—Tuesday, February 14, 2012
    Evan Klass, M.D., Endocrinologist, will speak and answer questions about thyroid cancer care at the ThyCa Reno, Nevada, regular support group meeting. Details are at www.thyca.org/sg/nv_reno/

  • Osage Beach, Missouri – Saturday, April 21, 2012
    | 8th Midwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The seven confirmed speakers include medical professionals, health resource specialists, thyroid cancer survivors, and more. Details are on our Conferences page

More Seminars and Workshops are being planned. Go to our Calendar, Conferences, and Support Groupspages for details.

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Proposals Due by January 31, 2012, for ThyCa’s Three New Thyroid Cancer Research Grants

The ThyCa Research grants are open to all researchers and institutions worldwide. An independent expert panel of the American Thyroid Association (ATA) will select the grant recipients. ATA is the professional association of clinicians and researchers specializing in thyroid diseases.

The Call for Proposals and the eligibility requirements are now available on the ATA web site. More details are here.

This is the 10th year in which ThyCa has awarded grants for thyroid cancer research. Thank you to everyone whose generous donations make these grants possible.

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ThyCa Online and In-Person Support Groups Expand

More than 90 communities have free Local ThyCa Support Groups, led by volunteer facilitators, and our 12 online support groups are available to people everywhere, with every type and situation with thyroid cancer. Support groups are wonderful places to share experiences, information, understanding, and encouragement.

To join a group or attend a meeting, visit www.thyca.org/sg/ for details. Find out whether there is a local ThyCa Support Group near your home, at this page: www.thyca.org/sg/.

Don’t see a local support group near you? Find out how ThyCa can help you start a new group. Just e-mail support_coord@thyca.org.

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Congratulations, Tina and Team Neck & Neck!

Team Neck & Neck, captained by Tina Descovich, took part in the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend on January 7 & 8, 2012. The 11 wonderful team members raised awareness and raised more than $3,400 for ThyCa. They wore the colorful Neck Check Awareness Running Shirts from ThyCa, specially designed by Tina. Thank you, Tina and your Team!

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Follow ThyCa on Facebook and Twitter

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Save the Dates for Chicago and the 2012 Conference

On October 19 – 21, 2012, people with every type of thyroid cancer, plus caregivers, friends, and dozens of thyroid cancer expert physicians will come together in Chicago, Illinois, for the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference.

The conference will take place at the beautiful Eaglewood Resort and Spa in Itasca, Illinois. Once again, we’ve arranged a special room rate of $99 for Conference attendees. The flyer and volunteer opportunity form are on our website. Save the dates, help spread the word, and plan to attend! We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!

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Low- Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Stephen M.

Hawaiian Sweet Bread
A bread-machine bread, tasty for French toast, sandwiches, or by itself
Adapted from another recipe, to fit the low-iodine diet

Ingredients

  • 1 cup vanilla coconut milk
  • 4 Tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 lemon peel, grated
  • 3 Tablespoons o white sugar
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons of dry potato flakes
  • 3 cups organic bread flour
  • 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast (packaged)

Directions

  • Put the ingredients into the bread machine in order from 1 to 10
  • Set machine for sweet dough and light crust.
  • Run the machine

Yield: One 2-pound loaf

Editor’s Note: Thank you, Stephen, for contributing your recipe. We will include it in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.

Free and Downloadable

Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.

The Cookbook is also available in:

Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.

This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.

If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.

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Thank You!

Thank you to the more than 400 wonderful ThyCa volunteers who helped during 2011. You’re making a difference in so many ways—leading local support groups, giving 1-to-1 support, organizing workshops & the Conference, producing publications, raising awareness for early detection, and publicizing the Rally for Research for our dream of cures for all thyroid cancer. Thank you to all!

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ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription

By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.

The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.

We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.

If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.

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Join Us, Become a Member

Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our quarterly Membership Messenger newsletter.

Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.

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Support the Rally for Research

Thanks to generous contributions and special fundraising events, ThyCa has awarded new thyroid cancer research grants every year starting in 2003. These grants support our goal of cures for all thyroid cancer and a future free of thyroid cancer. We plan to award 3 new grants and 3 continuation grants in 2012.

You’re invited to help support the Rally for Research. For details about the Rally for Research, donation opportunities, special events, Quarters for a Cure, and information about ThyCa’s past and future Research Grants, visit the Rally for Research page.

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Every Day

Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.

It only takes a minute to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.

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About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.

Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page: www.thyca.org/news/newsletters/.

Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.

Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Stephen M., Pat Paillard, Barbara Status, Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.

The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non- profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.