She She Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a Bra-Fitting Fundraiser

As just about any woman will tell you, getting a bra that fits just right is golden. It's a priority, it is one of those chores in life that, once accomplished, is at first satisfying and then satisfyingly out of mind.

And most women will tell  you that breast cancer awareness is a priority, not just personally but as a cause to be championed.

She She, a Geneva lingerie on Third Street, is answering both concerns Tuesday with a "Get Fit Bra-Fitting Fundraiser."

The idea is unique and simple. Amoena Territory Manager Julie Naylor Gottlieb, comes to the store so that customers can talk with her about their special needs and learn more about Amoena's offerings. All women are invited for a fitting any time from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., although appointments are recommended. For each purchase made, She She donates a portion to the American Cancer Society's "Making Strides Agains Breast Cancer" fund.

She She (formerly named Petticoat Lane) is investing time and talent to develop bra-fitting and breast health services expertise.  The store is accredited by the American Board of Certification of Orthotics and Prosthetics, which requires staff members to complete 500 hours of fittings each year as well as regularly attend fitting seminars and other forms of ongoing education.

Each of the store's staff members are certified fitters, with two full-time members having state certifications.

"That's very important when it comes to helping women find the right bra and the best pre- and post-breast surgery products for their needs," says Denise Harshbarger, store manager and ABC certified fitter.

Harshbarger recommends that all women get re-fitted for a bra about every six months.

"Our bodies are always shifting, and even a one pound fluctuation in weight can change bra size," she said. "Wearing the right size bra makes a big difference; you're going to feel better and your clothes are going to look better."

She says the store averages three fitting per day and that post-surgery customers prefer the cozy, boutique atmosphere of the shop to the colder setting of a medical clinic.

A growing portion of the shop's business comes from women with special intimate apparel needs resulting from a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or other reconstructive surgery. The shop carries a full line of surgery-related products, including bras, breast forms, inserts, and swimwear from Amoena, a leading specialist in breast surgery products.

While more women are discovering all that is available to them pre- and post-surgery, Harshbarger notes that there is still a lack of education in this area.  That's why she and fellow certified fitter, Heather Schade, hit the pavement at least once a week to educate area doctors, nurses, support groups, cancer centers, and hospitals about the helpful products that are available for women undergoing breast surgery.

"A lot of these products are good to get before surgery, but unfortunately, most women don't even know about them," Harshbarger says. "For example, prior to surgery, women can purchase a post-op camisole that's made with a soothing aloe-based material and a zip front to make caring for the area immediately after surgery so much easier."

She She is qualified to file directly with Medicare and Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO for breast forms and other products covered by insurance. Customers should note that covered products require a prescription from a doctor each year.

Appointments for the fundraising event can be made by calling 630-232-0933. All customers with appointments on Oct. 12 will get a free gift from She She.