Women who undergo mastectomy or lumpectomy procedures at Provena United Samaritans will now receive a complimentary care package for their recovery, thanks to funds from the annual  It's All in the Jeans Day campaign.

These surgery patients will receive a care package of comfort items in a custom tote bag to take home with them which  include a hot/cold therapy pack, a drain caddy set, a journal, water bottle, sleep mask, lotion, lip balm, footies, mints, a subscription to a survivor magazine, and more.

"Having this type of procedure after a breast cancer diagnosis can be somewhat traumatic," states Kathy Leach, RN, patient nurse navigator.  "We hope that providing some of these comfort items will ease their recovery."

Proceeds from It's All in the Jeans Day, conducted by the Provena United Samaritans Medical Center Foundation each year, remain in our local community to enhance breast programs in Vermilion County, including assisting women in need with preventative exams and durable equipment, as well as community education on the importance of regular screenings.

Last October, the 2009 It's All in the Jeans Day proceeds exceeded $57,000, a new record.  Funds were generated from $5 individual contributions, matching employers, match-the-match sponsors, and sales of $1 support patches at Vermilion County McDonald's.

"We're thrilled that the community embraces this annual event," states Chad Hays, VP of Development, "and that the resulting success has allowed us to expand the type of support we can provide to women and families dealing with breast cancer."

For more information on It's All in the Jeans Day or the breast health program at Provena United Samaritans, visit www.provena.org/usmc.