Dear Silicone Survivors and Friends:

With great sadness, I repeat here a copy of what was on America Online, an Internet Service, in mid-August. " Did you like the show on Nightline, yes, some of my work! What have I been up to lately? Well, more to follow on that subject as it all UNFOLDS! No, I have not gone away at all. So, do you really want the scoop? I don't think some could handle it. Watch what comes out of my sleeve next time. Janet Van Winkle, Founder/President, American Silicone Implant Survivors, and NOT a member of NBITF!" The next work she was talking about was apparently an attempt to try to destroy the reputation of fine doctors like Dr. Lewy, Dr. Campbell, and Dr. Burns because she seems to think they charge too much money for helping the women. This ignores the fact that these doctors have treated many women without funds for absolutely no charge. The New York Times was planning a story on this. NBITF is the National Breast Implant Task Force, of which many group leaders across the nation are members and we certainly want more of the active women involved. We want positive action, not negative publicity like the above that damages our cause for all the women. We are extremely grateful for doctors who were willing to stick their necks out and say we were ill when all others denied it. We are extremely grateful that doctors would work long and hard hours to evaluate women for the class action when doctors in our own areas would not do so. We are extremely grateful that doctors came to speak at conferences all over the country, mostly at their own expense, to help educate our women and also for the few doctors who would come. We cannot thank them enough for all they have done. I cannot say that some have not charged too much, but they have certainly tried their best to help us get the help we needed when we could not find it elsewhere. They did this at the expense of the ridicule of and even the ostracism from some of their colleagues. If we have problems with these doctors or with others in the movement, we should discuss it privately among ourselves and not make it public. It is the only ethical way to deal with problems like this because to do otherwise harms the cause for ALL of us.

Check out this month's Cosmopolitan Magazine for a terrible article on silicone implants. Please pick it up and write a letter to the editor. It was written by Dr. Robert Scheer, whom we all know testifies for Dow in court cases. Don't let this call to take action pass you by.

For Colorado residents, check out the column by Trisha Flynn in the August 27th Rocky Mt. News, page 59A. It is entitled " Alarms about Norplant largely raised by (surprise!) lawyers" . Trisha Flynn apparently has breast implants and her daughter has a Norplant. Recently her daughter had complained of fatigue, headaches and assorted aches and pains. Mrs. Flynn blasted her daughter's roommates who tried to warn her that it could be her Norplant. Better to believe the manufacturer who makes money from the device or the doctor who makes money implanting the device than to listen to real friends who are concerned about her daughter's well being. Her column had a number of errors and generalizations, such as the statement that rheumatologists maintain that the FDA should lift the voluntary moratorium on sales of implants. The moratorium is not voluntary, and plastic surgeons are the ones doing the insisting. Many rheumatologists know that implants can cause problems. She quoted the Harvard Nurses study (calling it an exhaustive study) as proof that there are not problems with these silicone breast implants and states that it follows other studies that prove the same. She seems to be totally unaware of all the problems with the Norplant device and the many problems with its removal (which can truly be a nightmare, and sometimes some of the rods are missing and can never be removed). Mrs. Flynn blames the attorneys for everything (which sounds like a Newt Gingrich tactic). She fails to understand anything about greedy manufacturers who sometimes seem to sell their souls to make a buck. Write her in care of the Rocky Mountain News, 400 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80204. Remind her that where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Let her know all the facts about the Harvard Nurses study that were in my last newsletter. Tell her about the Mayo Clinic study and who paid for it. Tell her about the 1000 articles in medical journals in the last five years that show problems with silicone. Send her copies of pertinent articles about Norplant and dangers with silicone/saline devices. Inundate her with evidence and maybe we can save her daughter some of the pain and problems we went through (and are still going through). Maybe she will even catch the drift and have her breast implants removed before she becomes seriously ill.

COMMENTARY: Many of the comments I have heard from outside parties about the Dow Corning boycott state that Dow has made many good products. That is true. None of us would dispute that. They have also made lousy products. A Dow subsidiary made Bendectin, a drug that caused birth defects in children whose mothers took it for nausea. This is but one of many. None of us can say that Dow and any of their subsidiaries have not contributed good things to the well-being of the world. THAT IS NOT THE POINT OF THE BOYCOTT!!!! The point is to let them know that we are out here and that they need to be responsible for the BAD products they have placed on the market. Please check the July newsletter and boycott the listed products so that we can make this impact Dow and let them know that we will not go away just because they continue to fund research to prove that they are the good guys and that their products didn't cause us any harm. Ask your friends, families, church members, club members, etc. to help with the boycott. We can make a difference.

UPCOMING EVENTS: My trip to China fell through because of the political situation (American Wu who was being held prisoner). The airline decided that it was politically incorrect to donate a ticket to China under the circumstances, so I tried using my frequent flier mileage, to no avail. I couldn't even buy a ticket because they were all sold out. The hotel committee in China delayed my hotel reservation until after the time I needed it to get my visa to China (I still have not received hotel confirmation). I guess it was just not supposed to happen. I thank those of you who made donations and we will continue to work on foreign efforts to educate women around the world.

A medical conference that is open to consumers will be held Sept. 28th in Detroit, MI. It is sponsored by The Center For Occupational & Environmental Medicine. It will be held at Cobo Conference & Expo. Center and a special rate of $90 per night is available at Crowne Plaza Pontchartrain (across street) phone (800) 2CROWNE. Cost is $40 for consumers, $135 for physicians and attorneys, and tuition is waived for medical students with valid ID. Registration will cost $20 more per person on site, so register early. It looks like they have a number of credible speakers. I do notice that Ralph R. Cook from Dow Corning is on the agenda to discuss the epidemiology of implants. To register, call (810) 559-6663 or fax (810) 559-8254 or write to: Institute for Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 22255 Greenfield Rd., Suite 440, Southfield, MI 48075. Visa/MC accepted.

DENVER CONFERENCE: Healing From Silicone. Saturday, October 7, 1995 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Our speakers include Dr. David Hughes, The Hyperbaric Oxygen Institute; Dr. Britta Ostermeyer-Shoaib, Neurologist, on healing neurologically from silicone; Dr. Stuart Kassan, Rheumatologist, on treatment of rheumatological diseases including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, & fibromyalgia; Dr. Debby Shapiro, Acupuncturist, on treatments that may aid in healing; Dr. Graham Wood, Pl. Surg., on removal of residual silicones; Dr. Michael Cichon, Internal Medicine, on DHEA and ImmuneGlobulin Treatment; Pending: A doctor discussing Chelation Therapy, A Holistic MD, and a professional psychologist (pending final scheduling problems) on healing psychologically. Cost is $40.00 per consumer, $70 couples, $50 professional if preregistered by Sept. 30th. All prices increase $10.00 at the door. We are trying to keep the cost low so that everyone can afford to come. Location: Holiday Inn Holidone, Northglenn, CO (a nice Holiday Inn), 120th Ave. and I-25, (303) 452-4100, rooms $60 per night for 1-4 persons (register by Sept 25th and identify our organization), an easy location to find from the airport or from anywhere close-by if driving. Scholarships will be available at reduced cost or free as registrations allow (we must have the funds to cover the cost of the conference). If you can make a donation to cover the cost of another woman, please do!!!! This is our cause, we need your help to make these conferences happen. It is time that we focus on healing, not on what caused our problems. We need your participation to make this a success. Don't let this chance to find healing resources get away!! Baxter Gentry, the wonderful gentleman who made the Revealed tape, will be videotaping to make a professional tape (edited) for educational purposes. It will be available for purchase at a reasonable cost.

LEGAL INFORMATION: Class action lawsuit: Dow Corning missed the deadline of Sept. 1st for completing a new agreement in the negotiations of a new settlement. The Settlement information line (800) 887-6828 states that the parties were unable to present any proposals for restructuring. What does this mean for you and me?? Judge Pointer can hold them to the old agreement and schedule the second opt-out. This would mean that the class action as we already knew it would proceed in conjunction with the bankruptcy court (or perhaps separately). It is up to Judge Pointer now as to whether to continue negotiations or uphold the initial agreement. They can allow Dow women to rely on the bankruptcy court for their settlement. It is possible that one or more of the manufacturers will set up their own fund and all women with their implants will have to settle with that company. If all of them do this, this would eliminate all women who do not know the manufacturer of their implants. This Dow Corning failure to reach an agreement may or may not have any effect on any negotiations with Dow Chemical, who publicly have stated all along that they are not part of this deal. It could be a ploy on Dow Corning's part to try to get a better deal in the amount of funds that they put into the settlement. Judge Pointer may make alterations to the opt-out procedure. Ralph Knowles, according to the Wall Street Journal story, Aug. 31, 1995, stated that a global settlement, as we know it, may never happen. Stay tuned for more information.

We hear there is a Baxter trial scheduled for September in Texas.

The order to remand non-Dow cases to Federal Court has been signed by Judge Pointer. Unfortunately, there is a motion in Michigan to transfer all opt- out cases to that state's Federal Courts and nothing will happen with the cases until that motion is decided.

MEDICAL INFORMATION: The British Medical Association has recognized Silicone Human Adjuvant Disease as a diagnosis. We are getting there, slowly but surely. Let's all hang in there and make it happen.

Dr. Leonido Garrido is conducting a study at Harvard Medical School in Boston, MA. He is doing MRI's of the liver to check for silicone, MRI's of the breasts, and a blood test for silicone sensitivity. Participants receive a token payment of $50. If you wish more information, call (617) 726-5826. Transportation to and from Boston is the patient's responsibility.

MULTIPLE MYELOMA: Diagnosis of MM (Multiple myeloma) is made by bone pain, often in the lower back, monoclonal paraprotein by serum or urine protein electrophoresis or immunoelectrophoresis (ask Immunosciences or someone else to explain those definitions), and replacement of bone marrow by malignant plasma cells. MM is a malignancy of the plasma cells characterized by replacement of the bone marrow, bone destruction, and paraprotein (an abnormal plasma protein). This bone marrow replacement leads initially to anemia and later to general bone marrow failure. Bone destruction is what causes the bone pain, osteoporosis, lytic (action of a specific antibody on cells and tissue) lesions, and pathologic fractures. Hypercalcemia (see previous newsletter for description) is common. The malignant plasma cells can form tumors that cause spinal cord compression. The paraproteins secreted by the malignant plasma may cause problems. Hyperviscosity (excessive adhesiveness or stickiness) may occur. Renal failure may result, aggravated by hypercalcemia and amyloid (starch-like) deposition in tissues. Recurrent infections are often a problem, and may be caused by neutropenia (abnormally low amount of neutrophil, also called granulocytic white blood cells) or chemotherapy and its immunosuppressive nature. Antibodies do not form to respond to the antigens caused by the disease. Myeloma patients are especially prone to pneumonia caused by streptococcus and to certain influenzas.

The average age of onset of MM is 60 yrs. Pain is most common in the back or ribs, patients may have infections and are probably anemic. Hyperviscosity syndrome may be present, which includes these symptoms: Kidneys may be failing, there may be spinal cord compression, or the patient may have bleeding from mucous membranes, vertigo, nausea, visual disturbances, or alterations in mental status. The sed rate may be elevated. Patients may be pale, have bone tenderness and may also have soft tissue masses. Neurologic signs may be present because of spinal cord compression. If amyloidosis is present, an enlarged tongue, neuropathy or congestive heart failure may be some symptoms that are seen.

Laboratory findings include almost universal anemia with possible rouleau (a group of red blood corpuscles arranged like a row of coins), neutrophil and platelet counts are usually normal, and, rarely, plasma cells which show leukemia will be visible. A paraprotein will present on serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP). A monoclonal spike is often visible in the beta or gamma globulin region. Immunoelectrophoresis (IEP) will show this to be a monoclonal protein. About 15% of patients will not demonstrate this. IEP of the urine may also be done. Bone marrow will be infiltrated by variable numbers of plasma cells ranging from 5% to 100%. Most of the time they will appear abnormal. Lytic lesions are most commonly seen in the axial skeleton which includes the skull, spine, proximal long bones, and the ribs. Sometimes only generalized osteoporosis is seen.

Monoclonal gammopathy can be benign and is present in 1% of all adults and 3% of adults over the age of 70. Benign monoclonal gammopathy is far more common than MM. In 25% of cases, monoclonal gammopathy progresses to MM, but this may take decades. The distinction is made by symptoms over time, by whether or not there is replacement of the bone marrow, and by the presence or absence of bone destruction. IgG spikes greater than 3.5 g/dL are an indicator of MM. IgA spikes of greater than 2 g/dL indicate MM.

Treatment is usually palliative (relief or easing of symptoms). Patients with minimal disease are mostly observed but not treated. When bone pain or other symptoms become severe, treatment with melphalan plus prednisone has been utilized. Chemotherapy with alkylating agents has been used. Low dose continual chemotherapy of VAD (three chemotherapy agents) may be utilized to treat cases not responsive to the other regimen. Radiotherapy in localized areas may be useful for treating bone pain or eradicating tumors. Treatment of any hypercalcemia is a necessity, and patients should avoid immobilization and dehydration. Bone marrow transplantation may be utilized if patients are under 55 years of age and have a matched (preferably sibling) donor.

The average survival time of patients is 3 years after diagnosis with actual MM. The greater the symptoms and the higher the test results, the less chance of longer periods of survival. Patients with these conditions have a median range of survival of one year. With mild symptoms, the survival rate is 5-6 years.

Remember, most people with monoclonal gammopathy will never get multiple myeloma.

LABS: If we are to ever get breast implants truly off the market, we need to show that these implants cause problems such as cancer. We can do that, in part, by showing that monoclonal gammopathy and multiple myeloma are occurring in breast implant patients at a higher than normal rate than would normally be found in the general population. Testing for this is done by Immunosciences Labs at (800) 950-4686. The test is $75. If you are symptomatic (or were symptomatic) and had implants for a lengthy period of time (10 years or more) or had a gross rupture at least several years ago, consider this test. Research on this is in its infancy and we could assist it by being tested.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: Many of the supplements listed in this month's newsletter are available at health food stores or L & H Vitamins at (800) 221-1152. Ask them to send you the July-August Health Newsline.

Nutrients and food supplements that can help with memory problems: Phosphatidyl choline, Pyridoxine, Ascorbic acid, Magnesium, Zinc, CoEnzyme Q-10, Essential fatty acids, Pycnogenol, Niacin, Thiamine, Alpha tocopherol, Selenium, Ginkgo biloba, Garlic, Alzene, Folic acid, Cobalamin, Calcium, L-Carnitine, Lorenzo's oil, Fish oils, and Betacarotene. Don't take all of these at once. If you take two or three regularly, it could have a positive effect on your memory. You may have to try several to find those that work for you.

Glucosamine Sulfate can help heal joints. Ginger may reduce inflammation. Poor night vision, photosensitivity, xerosis (abnormal dryness of skin and mucous membranes), eye fatigue and irritation may mean inadequate eye nutrition. A product called Day and Night Eyes may help. It contains betacarotene, calcium, vit. D, riboflavin, zinc, anthocyanocide (Bilberry), and Eyebright. Order it at above 800 # for $7.98, 90 caplets, Cat. # 18- 601.

Sleep & Relax, a natural, drug-free, nutritional substance which promotes a sense of tranquility and calmness without drugs and their side-effects is available at the above 800 # for $12.80 (Cat. # 70-310 - 60 tablets) or $23.20 ( Cat. # 70-315 - 120 tablets). It contains Inositol which is necessary for serotonin production by the body. It also contains B complex vitamins and niacinamide, amino acid chelated minerals (A deficiency in any one or more of these minerals can result in anxiety, fatigue, depression, irritability, muscle cramps, tremors, and muscle and nerve malfunction.) as well as valerian, chamomile, passion flower, aniseed and peppermint.

Quercetin-Bromelain can be a help to prevent allergies. Cat. # 71-200 (60 capsules $9.56), Cat. # 71-201 (180 capsules $23.96). According to the Journal of Am. Coll. of Cardiology (1994 Nov. 15, 24:1580), Alpha- tocopherol can reduce risks of Ischemic Heart Disease and help prevent arrhythmias. Cataracts can be reduced in size by Riboflavin/Niacin supplements (Arch. of Opth. 111, 1993: 1246-53). Vit. A may help fight infectious diseases (Clin. Inf. Dis., 1994 Sep., 19:489). Vit. E reduces the risk of colon cancer (Cancer Research 53, 1993: 4230-7). Biotin supplementation may help brittle nails (NYU Med. Ctr. Fam. Guide, 1993, p.82).

Collagen is the primary protein in our bodies. As we age, it decreases. It is necessary to maintain healthy skin, bones, muscles, tendons, cartilage, gums, teeth, eyes and blood vessels. If you have ridged fingernails, thinning hair, and rapidly aging skin, you may wish to check out collagen supplements. Not cheap, 180 tablets of Hydrolyzed Collagen (Cat. # 278-12891) are $22.36 at the above 800 number.

Heel Softening Cream, made with aloe and other natural ingredients, lubricates and softens dry, cracked, peeling heels. Rub into heels morning and night. 4 fluid ounces, $5.56 Cat. # T 93-154, 8 ounces, $9.56, Cat. # T 93-160. Miracle Foot Repair for dry, cracked or itchy feet. Helps control athlete's foot fungus. Contains aloe. Works to soften rough, callused feet, eliminate odor, heal dry, cracked skin, and helps stop itching. Available in 3 sizes, Cat. #'s T 93-141, 16 oz. $17.56, T 93-106, 8 oz. $10.36, T 93-105, 4 oz. $6.36. Corn & Callus Reducing Cream to reduce painful corns and calluses is available. Cat. # T 93-150, 4 oz., $5.56, T 93-165, 8 oz., $8.76. Miracle Rub for fast, temporary soothing relief from painful muscles and joints. 42% aloe vera. Helps relieve pain, soreness and stiffness. Cat. # T 93-103, 8 oz., $8.76, Cat. # T 93- 104, 16 oz., $15.96. For hands, `elite Therapeutic Hand Lotion, containing 9 special herbs, 3 essential oils, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C is available. Cat. # T 42-223, 4 oz., $7.98. Octacosanol is composed of 28 carbon atoms which can enhance stamina, strength, and reflex reaction time. Dr. Carlton Fredericks (now deceased) observed it to be of benefit in brain damage, muscular atrophy, some cerebral palsy, post-stroke syndrome, inflammation of muscles, and other nerve-muscle disorders. Check his book, " Program for Living Longer" . He stated that octacosanol helps to restore the myelin sheaths whose disappearance causes the short-circuiting of the nervous system. Octacosanol is found in wheat germ oil. Professor Thomas Kirk Cureton, in 1972 wrote a book called " The Physiological Effects of Wheat Germ on Humans in Exercise" . Allow 4-6 weeks for a noticeable improvement in symptoms. Order Cat. # 263-100 for Enduraplex, which contains 20,000 mcg. of Natural Octacosanol in each gelatin capsule or Cat. # 263-101, Stamiplex, which contains 6000 mcg. of Natural Octacosanol plus bee pollen, L-Carnitine, Aspartic Acid, and Vit. C from above 800 number. Each is $13.56.

A potent herb for dealing with stomach and bowel disorders is Uncaria tomentosa or Cat's Claw. It reportedly helps problems such as Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, leaky bowel syndrome, colitis, hemorrhoids, fistulas, gastritis, ulcers, parasites, and intestinal flora imbalance. This herb grows in the Peruvian rain forests. Some claim it is better than pau de arco, echinacea, golden seal, astragalus, maitake, shiitake and reishi mushrooms, citrus seed extract, caprylic acid, shark cartilage, and Siberian ginseng. According to Dr. Richard Gerber, author of " Vibrational Medicine" , Cat's Claw is a unique herbal remedy that has been used for many years by native healers of Peru. The herb shows great promise for the treatment of arthritis when taken internally, either by making a tea or taking capsules of the herb." According to Dr. Gerber, it has low toxicity even in large amounts.

Glutathione is one of the body's main defenses against cell damage. Glutathione is a peptide containing three amino acids. It is found in every cell in our bodies and also in food. It protects us in many ways. It neutralizes oxygen molecules before they can harm our cells. It combines with selenium to form an enzyme, Glutathione Peroxidase, which neutralizes hydrogen peroxide (even more dangerous to the cells). Researchers believe it may even repair damaged cells. Glutathione levels decline as we age. Exercise, radiation, pollution, and some diseases lower our Glutathione levels. Foodform Glutathione doesn't contain any synthetic L-glutathione. It is a whole food concentrated from nutritional yeast cells, one of nature's richest sources. It also contains selenium to help your body produce Glutathione Peroxidase. Cat. # 88-801, 30 day supply, $38.00.

Coleus forskohlii is another herb which is useful for treating eczema, asthma, psoriasis, angina, and high blood pressure. Its basic cardiovascular effects are said to be the lowering of blood pressure as well as improved contractility of the heart. Improved cardiovascular function may result. Glaucoma may be improved by this herb because of increased blood flow. It may increase the release of digestive enzymes and improve digestive processes. Some studies have shown antidepressant activity.

Xenoestrogens are estrogenic chemicals from compounds used for daily industrial, agricultural or domestic purposes. These include DDT and PCB's. They are in plastics, in water, on and in foods, in parks and on golf courses, etc. Xenoestrogens (xeno means foreign) have been indicated in the decline of wildlife species, human reproductive cancers, lowered sperm counts, abnormal pregnancies, malformed reproduction systems, impaired immune systems, and more. In " Chemically Induced Alterations in Sexual Functional Development" , Dr. Theo Colborn states that no amount of xenoestrogens is safe. They are persistent, additive, synergistic, and unpredictable and can turn body systems on and off at the wrong times. Exposures started forty or more years ago. Therefore you must be sure your nutrient supplement program includes detoxifying substances. Another book about this topic by Betty Kamen is " Kamut: An Ancient Food for a Healthy Future" . It discusses phytoestrogens from plants which are beneficial to humans and other animals. Kamut juice contains phytoestrogens as well as other essential nutrients. For information on this product and her book, please send a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to Nutrition, P.O. Box 5847, Novato, CA 94948. For a set of cassette tapes by Betty Kamen entitled " Lessons in Nutrition" , send $29.95 plus $3.00 S & H to Nutrition Encounter at the same address or call (415) 883-5154 for more information or to charge to MC or Visa.

Yucca root may help persons suffering from arthritis, either rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Yucca contains organic steroidal saponins that act like a natural form of cortisone which can help support the immune system and also reduce chronic fatigue, constipation, and loose, watery stools. Order at above 800 phone #, Cat. # 18-203. $6.36 for 90 capsules.

Paratox helps fight parasites, which some of us may have in our bodies. 1/3 of the world's population may be affected. Paratox 11 helps rid the body of most worms, including roundworms, tape-worms, and flukes. It has antimicrobial actions and peristaltic generators. It helps soothe irritation, reduces inflammation, and works quickly. 160 capsules, $16.00, Cat. # 100-195. Paratox 22 helps rid the body of smaller single-celled protozoa like amoebas. With a broad spectrum of antimicrobial factors, it helps soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and works fast. 120 capsules, $22.40, Cat. # 100-196.

Manna is a vitamin plus mineral supplement. The vitamins and minerals in Foodform Manna are in the form your body accepts and recognizes. It is balanced like the most nutritious of whole foods. Order it from the 800 number 270 tablets (30-45 day supply) Cat. # 88-101 for $40.79. You can buy other great complete vitamin and mineral supplements at health food stores, so check them out as well as checking this one out. Try to only purchase all natural vitamins and minerals supplements, not chemical ones.

Chlorophyll can help if you have bloating, burping, gas, excessive perspiration, poor memory, body odor, bad breath, headaches and fatigue, or constipation and diarrhea. The body tries to rid itself of undesirable toxins. The skin, mouth, and lungs are the three main means of excretion. Chlorozyme Fresh is one product that may help. It contains chlorophyll digestants, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, fiber, essential fatty acids, herbs, carrot acidophilus, alfalfa, activated charcoal, powered leaves, seeds and bark. You can purchase chlorophyll at any health food store. If you are interested in this particular product, order it by Cat. # 70-250 for 100 tablets ($12.80) or Cat. # 70-255 for 200 tablets ($23.20).

I do not, and will not, receive any benefit from L & H Vitamins for the above information. They have no knowledge that I am providing this information in this newsletter. It is for the benefit of those readers who wish to try natural solutions to their health problems.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS: Q. Have you heard of any explanted women with sudden worsening of their health problems after a mammogram? A. Absolutely, both before and after explantation. Silicone remains in the fatty tissues of the breast and squeezing the breast for a mammogram may release more of it into the system, temporarily increasing symptoms. This effect has reportedly lasted 6 months or a little longer. This does not mean that you should not have mammograms, but consider ultrasound or MRI as an alternative that does not compress the breast tissues. The ill effects that result from release of silicone should subside after a period of time. Q. If breast implants are so safe, why do insurance companies refuse to cover women's breasts after they have had implants? A. That question provides its own answer. We all know that breast implants are not safe.

IMPORTANT: I recently received a letter from Britta Ostermeyer-Shoaib regarding her new employment. She is Director of Silicone Clinical Research at Compre-Care Clinics, 6560 Fannin, Suite 720, Houston, TX 77030, phone (713) 790-9590, Fax (713) 790-1763. They hope to open a number of clinics across the US and in Europe. Dr. Arthur Ericsson, a board certified neurologist, will work with her. Dr. Thomal Slaga, a well known doctor involved in researching the causes and cures for cancer, is also involved. Dr. Marc Lappe will also assist in research.

Some dedicated Ohio women went to the NOW National Conference in late July. They were well received, and a resolution to have them support us in our boycott of Dow Corning products was presented. We need to have you write to these 5 women and ask them to support our movement and the boycott of these products. This resolution will come up for a vote on Sept. 29th. Also, contact your local NOW Chapter to see if you can arrange to meet with them and explain more about problems and illnesses from implants.

Patricia Ireland, Pres., National Organization for Women, 1000 16th Street NW Ste. 700, Washington, DC 20036-5705.

Jacqueline Steingold, 15717 Lindsay, Detroit, MI 48227.

Gay E. Bruhn, 29 W. 464 Birchwood Dr., Warrenville, IL 60055.

Marion Wagner, Reg. Dir., 4719 Bluffwood Dr. North, Indianapolis, IN 46208, Fax (317) 274-8630.

Cindy Guerra, 6031 Elmorro Lane, Oak Forest, IL 60452.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE: You can order a copy of the International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, edited by Drs. Brautbar, Vojdani, and Campbell from COSS. The entire journal is dedicated to silicone toxicity and features articles by the above editors as well as Dr. Daniel Hoffman, Douglas Shanklin & David Smalley, Thomas Talcott, Britta Ostermeyer-Shoaib & Bernard Patten, Marc Lappe`, Robert Guidoin, and Frank Vasey, among others. Cost is $50 each.

PERSONAL COMMUNICATION: Barbara Stock, a support group leader from Central Florida, is suing Aetna for failure to pay for her explantation and damages to her health caused by their failure to grant preapproval in a timely fashion. She needs other women to speak with who also have had Aetna refuse to pay for their explantation surgery. If you had Aetna and had difficulties, please contact Barbara at (407) 629-8791 or write to her at 415 Kilshore Lane, Winter Park, FL 32789.

Irene Taylor would like to hear from women who have utilized tetracycline therapy for rheumatoid arthritis or for other connective tissue diseases including scleroderma and lupus. She would also like to hear from those who have had worsening or new symptoms after mammography. Contact her at P.O. Box 663, Canon City, CO 81215 or call (719) 275-1111.

Psychological, emotional and physical aspects of women's health were the subject of a 5 year study. A 2-step holistic program was developed which represents a quantum leap in health technology for women. Reports are that this natural product can help alleviate the anxiety, depression and irritability which compound our physical problems. Contact Randi Higbee in Florida (813) 398-2625 for further information.

BOOKS: Dr. Andrew Wile has written a book entitled " Spontaneous Healing" which is available at book stores for about $24.00. Another book about antioxidants and other wonderful health tips is " Stop Aging Now' by Jean Carper. Another book that may be worth reading is " Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis" by Gaby Allan. There is a chapter on treating osteoporosis with DHEA.

" The Chelation Way" by Dr. Morton Walker ($12.95 plus $3.05 S & H) and " The Chelation Answer" by Dr. Morton Walker ($16.95 plus $3.05 S & H), both available from Freelance Communications, 484 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT 06905-3020. " Toxic Metal Syndrome: How Metal Poisonings Can Affect Your Brain" by Dr. H. Richard Casdorph and Dr. Morton Walker, available from the same address for $14.95 plus $3.05 S & H.

A book to be released on Oct. 25, 1995 is " Informed Consent: A Story of Personal Tragedy and Corporate Betrayal--Inside the Silicone Breast Implant Crisis" about John Swanson, a former Dow employee. His wife had Dow implants and suffered tremendous health problems. Written by John Byrne. Watch for this one. McGraw Hill.

PRODUCTS AVAILABLE: Our T-Shirts are once again available. The SISTER shirts are available in white and ash in large and X-large for $13.00 plus postage ($2.00 for 1, $3.00 for 2), the LAB RAT shirts are available in large and X-Large, 4 bright colors for $12.00 (plus same postage), and the If Breast Implants Are So Safe, Then WHY Are The Manufacturers Paying Billions shirts are available in large and X-Large, 4 bright colors for $12.00 plus same postage. We have a VERY LIMITED SUPPLY. Call for colors and to reserve your shirt. They will be held for ten days only unless payment is received.

DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed here are those of the editor and any contributors and are not to be construed as medical or legal advice. Any articles or information submitted may be edited because of space, content or grammatical errors.

COPYRIGHT: Our purpose is to disseminate information and provide support. This material is copyrighted so that we may retain control over content. You may reproduce this document as long as it is not done for profit and as long as no material, including copyright and subscription information, is changed.

DONATIONS: The Coalition of Silicone Survivors is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt corporation with over 4000 members world wide. Our editor, Lynda Roth, is a survivor having heard the dread word 'cancer' followed by the reassuring 'will look like a normal breast'. In addition to having helped start many support groups, Lynda has appeared before the FDA, congress members, national TV in the US and other countries and lectures internationally. Your donation will definitely help others receive information about the dangers of implants. IF READING THIS NEWSLETTER HAS HELPED YOU, AND YOU THINK OTHERS SHOULD HAVE A CHANCE TO RECEIVE OUR MESSAGE, WE URGE YOU TO GIVE GENEROUSLY. Donations are tax deductible in the United States.

As a member you will receive a highly informative information packet and this newsletter, including the CURRENT ISSUE for the next 12 months. Remember in the US it's tax deductible. Your help is critical.

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