BARBARA, arts, educational & cultural consultant: Most experts agree that good nutrition and proper exercise help breast cancer patients on the road to physical and emotional recovery. For many, good nutrition and exercise was part of their routine for years before diagnosis of cancer.

Terry Hanlon, a two-time breast cancer survivor of Upper Moreland, discussed her experience with post operative exercise.

At age 40, Terry had always been a healthy eater. She had no pain, no lump and she wasn’t overweight. Yet, upon her first mammogram, cancer was found. After her lumpectomy, the muscles in her arm and lymph nodes began to atrophy. A physician recommended the use of exercise. Terry’s dad fashioned an exercise machine which allowed her to stretch and pull. As a result, Terry increased her strength and range of motion, while reducing her pain. Her doctors and physical therapists determined that exercise was a valuable tool in her recovery.

Seven years later, a new cancer was found in Terry’s breast. This time, she began to exercise almost immediately after surgery. With the support of family and friends, Terry beat the odds. Today, she is cancer-free and involved in the Reach to Recovery program, a support group for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Experts believe exercise and proper nutrition may reduce the risk of breast cancer. Thanks to people like Terry and dedicated professionals, there is more information available today for the cancer patient. For more information, go to www.cancer.org. Posted October 01, 2003 02:47 AM