After shopping at The Running Room, yesterday, Andrea remarked that the company seems to be a real supporter of breast cancer research. However, despite having bras that sport the breast cancer pink ribbon, none are designed with the breast cancer patient in mind. Specifically, none account for recovering from lumpectomies or lymph node dissection, where the design of the bra can irritate surgical areas including swelling and pockets of fluid during the healing process. Bras could even be designed to offer more suitable support and accommodate bandages during the recovery.
So, Running Room, does this sound like a good opportunity?
Proper bra fittings are difficult and become even more of a specialized skill for women who have experienced breast surgery. Depending on the surgery, many women are told not to wear bras during a recovery period.
Surgical bras that are specifically designed for women who have had breast surgery as a result of cancer treatment or prevention are available. Most are ugly and matronly. There are also specialty stores offering experienced and appropriately trained staff, specialty bras and some even have the ability to customize a regular bra for a specific woman’s needs.
Perhaps the better opportunity would be for these stores to have an arrangement with The Running Room where they could advertise their services and offer a discount for The Running Room’s customers.
Cheers,
Eden
Comment by Eden Spodek — November 30, 2009 @ 12:48 pm
Eden… your comment about “ugly and matronly” reminds me of an episode of Spark during which they discussed design and health. Specifically, they compared the stigma and feeling of using a cane vs. nordic walking poles. One says “sick, weak and needing help”, the other “fit, active and energetic”. I can’t help but think that women recovering from surgery would feel healthier and even sexier with a sporty bra (particularly if they’re used to wearing them) rather than what you describe.
Comment by Mark — November 30, 2009 @ 3:11 pm
This post made me think of Jaqueline of Rebel 1in8 who designed bras for women with one breast and might be a contact for alternative bras. She currently has an etsy shop with clothing: http://www.etsy.com/shop/RheaBelle and a blogspot blog:rebel1in8
Perhaps there might be more items at a local store instead of a chain?
Comment by Dalila — November 30, 2009 @ 8:48 pm
Some of the specialty stores such as Melmira in Toronto do an amazing job of converting any bra – including sexy ones – into surgical bras. More businesses need to take their lead.
Comment by Eden Spodek — December 1, 2009 @ 11:48 am