Dear Silicone Survivors and Friends:

I have returned from Australia and New Zealand. I will give you a brief update on what we were doing there and the results. In Australia, we held a two-day medical conference (speakers arranged by myself and ACMA, the Australian Comprehensive Medical Association) at the Sydney Convention Center in Darling Harbour. Besides the fact that the plastic surgeon's society send word out to its members to boycott this conference, everything went well. One reconstructive surgeon attended, as did many general practitioners and other specialists. Our doctors (Patten, Blais, Huang, Vojdani, Puszkin, Ostermeyer, and Lewy) did a great job presenting the information. I gave a presentation on Why Women Are Angry. As you probably know, I had no problem with that topic.

We also held a one-day Women's Forum sponsored by BIRS at the YWCA Conference Center in Sydney the following day and it was well-attended. Dr. Patten was not able to present, but all the others were there and it was a great conference. Our wonderful Dr. Britta Ostermeyer stayed over in Sydney to discuss the possibility of putting together some clinics there (with Australian doctors staffing them and with help from U.S. doctors to train them about silicone diseases). I went from there to New Zealand and met with women from the Health Centre about a study they are planning on the effects of silicone implants on women in that country. I also met with the attorney who has most, if not all, of the cases in N.Z. The contacts will be helpful in furthering the information that women from N.Z. are able to obtain. There is an active group there, but, as here, there is no funding and that limits the amount of information that is available to send to the women. We hope that increased research and information will help more women realize the dangers of implantable silicone devices.

If I am behind on my orders and returning messages, it is because of this trip, one we are trying to organize for Europe in April, one that I am helping obtain speakers for in Nashville, and the terrible cold I had when I returned from Wellington, NZ (Not to mention that I had to get this newsletter out).

I have not seen the 90 minute special that was on Frontline, but I heard that it presented a balanced viewpoint. I would like to have a copy if anyone can send me one.

UPCOMING EVENTS: New Group: Billings, MT group meets the first Tuesday of every month at 205 Wyoming Ave. in Billings. Call Mary Barrett at (406) 256-1089 for more information.

Enid, OK new group will meet on March 6th, 7:00 P.M. at 1223 W. Cherokee #A in Enid. Call Doris at (405) 237-9756 for info.

Shreveport, LA conference, March 9 (Saturday). It's not too late to register!! Speakers are Dr. Britta Ostermeyer, Dr. Robert Lewy, Dr. Edward Melmed, Dr. Saul Puszkin, Dr. Andrew Campbell, Dr. William Rea and Dr. Kenneth Pittaway. Let's all head to Louisiana before the weather gets muggy down there. This is one of the best times of the year in the South. Call Sherry @ (318) 742-5669, Glenda @ (318) 798-3797 or Mary @ (318) 798-1351 for more information. Cost: $45.00. When you think about it, how much do you pay a doctor for an office visit and how much more information will you learn at a conference such as this for such a small price? It's a bargain!! As I stated last month, I am flying to Dallas and driving from there as it was about $300.00 less for me to go this way. I would be happy to have a few passengers.

Houston, TX, March 20-22nd. Silica Syndrome Reach Foundation presents the 1996 Women's Unity and Health Conference. All topics will work toward unity, women's health and women's needs in the breast implant issue. This conference will be a positive statement on these issues that affect each and every one of us. The cost is $45.00. Call (800) 231-0953 to register and/or to charge to Visa/MC. Houston is also lovely this time of year before it gets hot and muggy (I've been there in July and can vouch for how muggy it can get).

I would ask that each support group leader notify their members of this conference. It has many registrants and we can make a large statement about how implants have affected women and society by participating. We are all in this together, whether we had Dow, McGhan, Meme or other Surgitek, Bioplasty, Mentor, Heyer-Schulte, or other implants, whether they were silicone or saline, and whether we still have them or they have been removed. If we are not united, our movement means nothing. Any negativity that has been felt about this or any other conference needs to be replaced by positive action and we need to all support what our silicone sisters are attempting to do with conferences such as these.

In Florida, on Saturday, March 23rd, 10:00 A.M., Dr. Vojdani and Dr. Karjoo will speak at a mini- conference at the Univ. of N. FL, College Health Center, Bldg. 39, Lecture Hall 1016 A. Contact Implant Survivors, Inc. in Orlando at (407) 682- 9674 (Debbie) or Jacksonville (904) 725-5639. $10.00 charge for meeting.

For Denver-Boulder area residents, The Reclaiming Your Health Seminar is being held from March 4th through March 21st, Mondays and Thursdays, both in Denver and Boulder. For information on the Denver meetings, call (303) 322-9294. For information on the Boulder meetings, call (303) 832-2844. Drs. Nelson, Hambrick and Hobson will be the presenters.

Nashville, TN Conference Saturday, May 25th in Nashville, TN. Conference. Confirmed speakers are Dr. David Smalley, Dr. Douglas Shanklin, Dr. Saul Puszkin, Dr. Aristo Vojdani, and Dr. Britta Ostermeyer. One tentative speaker is Dr. Samuel Epstein. Several others are pending. The cost will be reasonable and will be determined soon. Please call Linda @ (615) 865-1760. LEGAL INFORMATION: I am not sure just what information you will get from the video that was on Court TV on January 24th, as it really did not say anything that you could not find easily in your packet. If you still want to have it, then you can purchase it from this source: Court TV video, send $13.00 to Court TV Video Library, 600 3rd Avenue, NY, NY 10016. NY residents add $1.07 sales tax. To order by credit card, call (800) 888-4580. Dow Corning's insurers were held responsible, in court, for Dow Corning's breast implant financial problems. What does this mean for us, the breast implant sufferers? Hard to tell, especially at the moment. It could possibly let Dow Corning come out of their bankruptcy earlier and that would be good news for us. All we can do is wait and see what the final outcome is.

Women are asking me about how they register for the Dow Bankruptcy and how you make a claim. If you were in the class action, you should have received a letter from the bankruptcy court telling you that you did not need to do anything yet. There will be a time when a claim has to be filed, but, if you have an attorney, they will notify you. If you do not have an attorney, you should notify the bankruptcy court of any changes in your address or name.

Dow Chemical's Appeal in the Mahlum case ($14 million verdict in Nevada) has been turned down. They will now appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court. There are about 13,000 cases currently pending against Dow Chemical. If you have a Dow Corning implant and think you have a good case, maybe you should look for an attorney willing to go after the big Dow Chemical. They have assets of $20 billion.

The regional meetings to explain these new settlements have already been completed, according to this #: (800) 938-7357. I received a printed schedule after my last newsletter came out and most of the meetings had already been held. Now, that truly is a way to inform us, isn't it? Let us know about the meetings after they have been held and then expect us to have known where and when they were. The system strikes again.

My mail and messages have been piling up on my stance on the revised class action. Over 90% have agreed with me, and less than 10% have told me that I should keep my opinions to myself. One woman accused me of taking this stance because I had Mentor implants and am not going to receive much of a settlement myself. Anyone who knows me will know that is the furthest thing from the truth. I give my opinions from a position of reality, not fantasy. I know what big corporations are capable of, I know that manufacturers are winning more cases than they are losing, I know the dirty tricks that these companies will pull just to win, and I know that most women are just not up to this battle. Many women just want to get on with their lives. So, if you feel that you don't like my opinions, don't take them. You need to do what is best for you, which is what I stated. If you have the stomach, the money, the clean background, the time and the energy to fight this battle to see if you can get more from these manufacturers, you have 100% of my support. If you decide that you will take what they offer and try to get on with your life, you have 100% of my support. I wish all of you could be paid what you truly deserve for having gone through all this anguish and pain, but I know that the reality is that most will receive little, and that nothing, not even $10 million could repay any of us for what we have been through.

I would ask that all of us refrain from making judgments on women who decide to take the amount in the settlements. We are not walking in their shoes and we do not have their situations. There are many women who will feel that they must accept this settlement just so they can survive or just get on with their lives. That is their decision, and we must respect it just as we respect the decision of those who choose to opt-out and go after a larger settlement. One woman called me and told me that she felt like a traitor for wanting to take the settlement amount. We are not doing our job if we make women feel this way. We can give facts and opinions and then let everyone decide for themselves, but we cannot be in the position of passing judgment on those who take a different position than our own.

We hear that Bristol-Myers-Squibb has hired bankruptcy attorneys much as Dow Corning did a year before they finally decided to declare bankruptcy. Is this true? I don't know! If you have any information on this, please let me know. I am trying to track down the source of information, which was anonymous.

MEDICAL INFORMATION: From the Breast Implant Line of Canada comes news of a study by Dr. Steven Edworthy which shows that women with breast implants may have an increased risk of developing lipid (fat) abnormalities. A recently completed study by Dr. Edworthy and the Breast Implant Study Group at the University of Calgary, Canada found that in 39% of the blood samples from implanted women a layer of creamy, opaque material was floating on the top of the blood samples. Analysis of this material revealed that it contained high lipid levels (fat particles) in the form of chylomicrons. In some studies, chylomicrons have been found to be associated with atherosclerosis. Up to now chylomicrons have never been associated with breast implants, according to Dr. Edworthy. Look for this study in the May 27th issue of the British Journal, Lancet. No significant differences were found in women who had saline or silicone implants and no links were found between smoking and other factors.

HEALTH INFORMATION: Amino Acids: What are they and why do we need them? Amino acids are chemical units (building blocks) that make up proteins. Protein provides the structure for every living thing. In humans, proteins make up the muscles, ligaments, tendons, organs, glands, nails, hair, and body fluids (except for bile and urine). Bones could not grow without protein. Enzymes, hormones, and genes are also comprised of proteins. The majority of our body is water; the next largest portion is protein. To be complete, proteins must contain every one of their amino acids. There are at least 50,00 different proteins and 20,000 known enzymes. Each has a different composition of amino acids. Necessary amino acids in proteins are not interchangeable. Amino acids contain about 16% nitrogen, which distinguishes them from carbohydrates and fats.

Amino acids act as neurotransmitters in the brain and nervous system. If any amino acids are missing in this system, something goes awry. Most amino acids are produced by the liver (approximately 80%) and the remaining 20% must be obtained by outside sources. Those that must be obtained from foods and food supplements are called essential amino acids. These amino acids are arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Some amino acids are manufactured from other sources within the body. These amino acids are alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, asparagine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, and serine. Most amino acids appear in two forms, the D-series or the L-series. These are mirror images of each other. The L- series amino acids are in the same natural form as amino acids found in living plant and animal tissue and are considered more compatible to human biochemistry. All the amino acids that make up protein are in the L- series except DL-phenylalanine.

Our bodies continuously assemble amino acids for forming proteins or break them down into individual amino acids for the body's use. When we need more of a certain type of protein (say an enzyme or hormone) the body produces that protein. If the body ever depletes itself of its reserves of any essential amino acids, it would not be able to produce those proteins requiring those particular amino acids. Physical disorders would result.

An improperly balanced diet, an inability to properly digest food, or other disorders could contribute to an amino acid deficiency. To avoid such a deficiency, we must all work on having a properly balanced diet and, if necessary to insure a balance, take amino acid supplements. Without a proper balance, vitamins and minerals cannot perform their role properly. Even if they are absorbed and assimilated, they will not be effective unless amino acids are present.

What sort of amino acid supplement is recommended? There are good ones out there. The best ones are probably formulated (extracted) from a variety of grain products. Brown rice bran is one prime source. Amino acids in the free form are the purest and provide for rapid absorption.

I am sure that you have heard of some of the amino acids. Many of you know that L-lysine is helpful for cold/canker sores and that L- tryptophan is helpful for sleep. Here is a brief listing and explanation of all 28.

L-alanine--aids in the metabolism of glucose, which the body utilizes for energy.

L-arginine--retards tumors and cancer, aids in liver detox, assists the release of growth hormones and maintenance of immune system, detoxifies ammonia, aids in kidney disorders and trauma. Scar tissue has a high concentration of arginine. An increase in muscle mass and a reduction of body fat occurs in the presence of arginine. It helps increase the production of collagen. Avoid if pregnant or lactating.

L-asparagine--necessary to maintain balance in the central nervous system, preventing you from being overly nervous or calm.

L-aspartic acid--increases stamina, helps protect the liver by aiding in removing excess ammonia, combines with other amino acids to form molecules that absorb toxins, aids cell function and RNA/DNA formation.

L-carnitine--helps transport long-chain fatty acids and helps prevent build-up. Aids in weight loss, decreases the risk for heart disease, and improves athletic ability. The body can manufacture this amino acid if it has sufficient amounts of lysine, B1, B6 and iron. Vegetarians are most likely to be deficient in lysine. Carnitine also enhances the effectiveness of antioxidant Vitamins E and C.

L-citrulline--promotes energy, stimulates the immune system, metabolizes to L-arginine, and detoxifies ammonia.

L-cysteine--has a high sulfur content. It is formed from methionine in the body but B6 is necessary for this conversion. Cysteine helps detoxify harmful toxins and preserve cells. It is a precursor to glutathione. It is one of the best free radical destroyers and works best when taken with selenium and Vitamin E. It protects the liver and brain from damage due to alcohol and cigarette smoke. In rheumatoid arthritis, supplementation with L-cysteine is recommended. It has a chelating effect, removing excess copper from the body. It promotes the burning of fat and the building of muscle. It is often used in treatment of bronchitis and other lung conditions because it helps break down mucus.

L-cystine--also has a high sulfur content. It aids in the formation of skin and helps detoxify the body. It helps reduce the body's absorption of copper. It helps heal burns and wounds after surgery. It promotes healing in respiratory disorders and helps the white blood cells fight disease. It also helps build the supply of insulin in the pancreas which assimilate sugars and starches.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)--inhibits cells from overfiring. It can be taken to calm the body much like valium, librium, and other tranquilizers and it is not addictive. 750 mg. can have a calming effect. With niacinamide and inositol, it prevents anxiety and stress- related messages from reaching the motor center of the brain by filling its receptor site. GABA functions as a neruotransmitter in the central nervous system by decreasing neuron activity.

L-glutamic acid (glutamate)--increases firing of neurons in the nervous system. This amino acid metabolizes sugars and fats and detoxifies ammonia with used with L-glutamine. It helps correct personality disorders. Besides glucose, glutamic acid is the only compound used for brain fuel. The brain converts this amino acid to a compound that regulates brain cell activity.

L-glutamine--important in alcoholism, craving for sugar, mental ability, impotence, fatigue, epilepsy, senility, schizophrenia, mental retardation, peptic ulcers, and maintenance of a healthy digestive tract. It converts to glutamic acid in the brain and increases the amount of GABA needed. Don't substitute glutamic acid for glutamine in the treatment of alcoholism.

L-glutathione--a powerful antioxidant that inhibits the formation of free radicals. It protects against damage from cigarette smoking and radiation (radiation is everywhere around us), helps reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and x-rays, and combats alcohol poisoning. It detoxifies metals and drugs, so in this fashion it aids with blood and liver disorders.

L-glycine--retards muscle degeneration, is necessary for central nervous system function, has an inhibitory effect on epilepsy, has been used in the treatment of bipolar depression, and is needed by the immune system for the synthesis of the nonessential amino acids (the ones produced solely by the body). Too much of this amino acid can displace glucose in the metabolic chain and cause fatigue. In the proper dosage, it produces energy.

L-isoleucine--needed for hemoglobin (blood) formation, also stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels. It is metabolized in muscle tissue. Always take with the correct balance of leucine and valine. A deficiency of isoleucine can cause symptoms of hypoglycemia.

L-leucine--lowers elevated blood sugar levels when taken in balance with isoleucine and valine. It promotes the healing of bones, skin, and muscle tissue. It is often recommended to persons recovering from surgery. It must be taken in moderation or one may become hypoglycemic.

L-lysine--an essential building block for all protein, it is needed for proper growth and bone development in children. It helps with calcium absorption and maintains nitrogen balance in adults. It has an ability to fight cold sores and herpes viruses, aids in the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, and helps in collagen formation and the repair of tissues. It builds muscle protein and therefore is especially important for those recovering from surgery and sports injuries. It also helps lower serum triglycerides. A deficiency of lysine will cause energy loss, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, hair loss, anemia, retarded growth, and reproductive disorders.

L-methionine--not synthesized in the body, so it must be obtained from food or food supplements. It is a source of sulfur and is important in the treatment of rheumatic fever and toxemia of pregnancy. It assists in the breakdown of fats, preventing the build-up of fat in the liver and arteries. It helps the digestive system, interacts with other substances to detoxify harmful agents, aids muscle weakness, helps prevent brittle hair, and is beneficial for allergic chemical sensitivities and osteoporosis. Cysteine and taurine may rely on methionine for synthesis in the body. The body uses methionine to derive a brain food called choline, so it is wise to supplement the diet with choline or lecithin (remember the phosphadityl choline that is good for the brain?) so that the body's supply is never depleted.

L-ornithine--helps release a growth hormone that metabolizes excess body fat when combined with arginine and carnitine. Ornithine is also necessary for the immune system and for liver function. It detoxifies ammonia and promotes healing. Don't give to children unless prescribed by a doctor.

L-phenylalanine--used at times to treat depression because it produces neurotransmitters, it is used by the brain to manufacture norepinephrine, aids in memory, learning, and obesity. It acts on the central nervous system and so elevates moods, enables the individual to overcome depression and decreases the pain from migraines, menstruation, and arthritis. It should not be used when pregnant or with persons who have anxiety attacks, high blood pressure, PKU, or pre-existing pigmented melanoma.

DL-phenylalanine--very effective in the control of pain, especially in arthritis. It is a building block of all amino acids, increases mental alertness, suppresses the appetite, and helps those with Parkinson's disease. Use with caution if pregnant, diabetic, have high blood pressure, or if you have anxiety attacks.

L-proline--improves skin texture by aiding in production of collagen, heals cartilage, strengthens joints, tendons and the heart muscle.

L-serine--needed for proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, muscle growth, and a healthy immune system. It aids in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies.

L-taurine--high concentrations of this amino acid are found in the heart muscle, white blood cells, skeletal muscles and central nervous system. It aids in fat digestion, heart disorders, hypoglycemia, artherosclerosis, hypertension, and edema (water retention). It is a building block for other amino acids. It is a key component of bile, which is needed for digestion of fats, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and the control of serum cholesterol levels. Epilepsy, anxiety, hyperactivity, and poor brain function may be related to taurine deficiency. It is not found in most animal proteins, so synthesis by the body is crucial. Taurine may be synthesized by cysteine, but requires Vitamin B6 for conversion.

L-threonine--helps to maintain protein balance in the body. It is important in the formation of collagen and elastin and aids liver and lipotropic function when combined with aspartic acid and methionine. It is present in the heart, central nervous system and skeletal muscle. It helps control epileptic seizures.

L-tryptophan--necessary for the production of niacin. It cures insomnia, helps stabilize moods, and is utilized by the brain to produce serotonin, a necessary neurotransmitter that transfers nerve impulses from one cell to another and is responsible for normal sleep. It helps control hyperactivity in children, alleviates stress, is good for the heart, aids in weight control, and enhances the release of growth hormones necessary for the production of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). A sufficient amount of vitamin B6 is necessary for the formation of tryptophan, which is required for the formation of serotonin.

In 1989, the Centers for Disease Control removed products containing L-tryptophan from the market following a scare when a number of persons, having taken an apparently adulterated batch of this amino acid, became ill. They have a disease called Eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (EMS). The actual cause of EMS is unknown.

L-tyrosine--important in the treatment of anxiety, depression, allergies, and headaches. It aids the production of melanin (skin and hair pigment) and in the functions of the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands. It acts as a mood elevator, suppresses the appetite and reduces body fat. A lack of tyrosine triggers a deficiency of the hormone norephinephrine at a specific brain location which results in depression and mood disorders. Tyrosine can be produced from L-phenylalanine in the liver. It is used to synthesize epinephrine and dopamine, two very necessary brain chemicals. It has been utilized in drug withdrawal programs.

L-valine--has a stimulant effect. A deficiency results in negative hydrogen balance of the body. For better muscle metabolism, tissue repair and nitrogen balance, use valine with leucine and isoleucine.

I hope that I haven't thoroughly bored you with these definitions and descriptions of very important amino acids. I also hope that this information helps inform you about why we have some of the symptoms we do, because some of our malabsorption problems and other illnesses are obviously depleting our body of many nutrients and this includes many amino acids. This information is from Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James and Phyllis Balch.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: Fasting: One of Nature's ways of healing is detoxing and fasting. There are many solid reasons that support this method of detoxing. Many people don't know how to fast, so they never attempt it. There are so many chemicals and toxins in the environment that the body needs, from time to time, a rest from this exposure. There are a lot of misconceptions about just what fasting is. Some think it means just not eating or drinking anything but water. This is one way, but there are many other types of fasts. Our bodies naturally detox all the time, and this may be when we have bad days. That is because the body is unloading all the toxins and chemicals, and we feel the effects. If you honor this and put less stress, in the way of food, in your body at these times, you will feel better faster. During these low times, you may have headaches, diarrhea, and even depression. So, when you begin to feel this way, why not help you body with its detoxification process. If you fast for just three days a month, you can help your body heal itself, help reverse the aging process, give your organs a rest, cleanse your liver and kidneys, purify your blood, cleanse your colon, get rid of toxic buildup in tissues, lose excess water weight, double your energy, stay well, etc. Diabetics should only fast under the care of a physician. Hypoglycemics should use a quality protein product while fasting. Spirulina would be a good choice.

Before starting a fast, eat only raw foods for two days. When ending a fast, eat only raw foods for two days. If, while on the fast, you must have a little something to eat, eat a slice of watermelon (organic) or a small amount of fresh organic applesauce made by yourself in a blender or food processor. Do not cook the applesauce and do leave the skin on the apples.

Don't chew gum, mints, etc. while on a fast. Anyone on a fast can take Spirulina. It is high in protein and has all the vitamins and minerals the body needs. It also has chlorophyll for cleansing. Take five tablets daily or one teaspoon of liquid in juice.

When not fasting, extra fiber is necessary in the daily diet. Bran is good. Drink large amounts of water if you use a colon cleanse such as Psyllium or glucomannan. Drink only steam- distilled or reverse osmosis processed water. Dilute juices with this. Avoid any juices sweetened or with additives. Avoid saccharin and nutra-sweet. Avoid orange or tomato juice. Drink fresh lemon juice, cabbage, beet, carrot & celery juices, grape juice, and apple juice. Any juice made from organic green leafy vegetables is good.

Drink pau d'arco and echinacea herb teas mixed with 1/3 cranberry juice (unsweetened) four times a day. Herb teas are good while fasting and also good when not fasting. Replace coffee or other beverage (sodas) with herb teas. Rose hops, dandelion, red clover, alfalfa and chamomile are good while fasting. Slippery elm is very good for inflammation of the colon. An excellent fresh juice and broth is: Three carrots, two stalks of celery, one turnip, two beets, half a head of cabbage, quarter of a bunch of parsley, a quarter of an onion, and a half clove of garlic. Run through food processor or juicer and make into a juice or broth. Pure vegetable broth with no seasoning is also good. Drink 2-3 times a day.

Garlic capsules (denatured) aid in the healing process. Also, Kyo-Green is excellent while fasting. It contains all the nutrients necessary for healing. Concentrace Mineral drops may also be helpful and are probably available from some health professionals. Lemon juice or coffee enemas may help detox your system, but use them sparingly. Dry-brush your skin with a natural bristle brush to help rid the skin of toxins and dead cells. Always brush toward the heart (ie. wrists to elbows, elbows to shoulder, feet to knees, etc.). Large amounts of dead skin will flake away leaving the pores open for greater circulation. Do not brush if you have serious skin conditions such as psoriasis. Don't brush over varicose veins or broken skin. If you are ill or elderly, you may need to take certain vitamins or supplements while fasting. Check with your doctor. If you need to do this, reduce the dosage while fasting.

Remember how long it took your body to get in this condition; be patient when trying to heal naturally.

This information is from the book Prescription for Nutritional Healing.

PERSONAL COMMUNICATION: For information on Nutritional Healing, contact Carol Ann Young, P.O. Box 1448, Florence, OR 97439 (503) 997-9260. Carol carries Metagenics products, which I use extensively and she also carries Ultra-Clear, the basic product that I used to detox my system.

Donna Douglas, of AWSS, in Anchorage AK is back and is going to be doing a quarterly newsletter. Although she is still quite ill, she feels she must help when she can. You may contact her at AWSS, P.O. Box 143061, Anchorage, AK 99514-3061. Please only put AWSS on the envelope as the Post Office seems to become confused when you put her name on the envelope.

If you have had a muscle biopsy, please contact Mell Roberts, 200 Santa Ana #19, Rancho Viejo, TX 78575, (210) 350-5542.

IMPORTANT: If you have not reported your breast implant problems to Med-Watch yet, please do so immediately. Your information can be confidential if you choose. This is extremely urgent if you have had silicone shell/saline filled implants, as the FDA will be monitoring this information (statistics only) to help make the decision as to whether or not to keep these devices on the market. Silicone gel implants should also be reported, as statistics regarding their safety may be what keeps them from returning to the open market. All problem implants should be reported, including chin, cheek, joint, breast, penile, testicular, Norplant, etc. They all cause problems, and our reports help other women and other consumers in the long run. There may not be a lot that many of us can do to fight this battle, but this is one thing all women can do. You can report by modem to 1-800-FDA-7737. A sample session is included at the end of this newsletter. You can also FAX the report to 1-800-FDA-0178.

From Silicone Scene: La Leche League: The information they are still giving women is that there is no silicone in the breast milk of implanted women. They do not seem to be aware of any problems from women who have nursed or of problems with implanted mothers and their ill children. If you have had problems or if you know women who have, have them contact the La Leche League at (800) 525- 3243.

If you have tested positive for MGUS or multiple myeloma and you have or had breast implants, please contact Dr. James Berenson, MD. He is a UCLA Oncologist and is conducting a study of this particular phenomenon. Call (310) 206- 6931.

POWER: From time to time, I have made a few comments on power and how it relates to the breast implant movement. I think it is time once again to remind all our sisters, especially our leaders, that you only have power until you try to use it in a way that treats any other person unfairly. When that happens, people take that power away from you. Power rests in the ability to be as fair and honest as we can be, not in manipulating others to get what we want, not in taking sides for or against an issue or in trying to force people to conform to our way of thinking or doing things. Attacking another person's values, credibility or honesty is unnecessary. Remember, you win more with honey than with vinegar. We need to be doing things because they are the right things to do, not because it will give us a position of more power. The more people vie for power, the more they lose it. The more power we seek, the less we have. The reason to be a leader in this movement is to try to help others and to make changes that will help the entire cause. This is not a competition as to who publish the best newsletter, make the best speeches, fax the most information around, or be quoted in the most newspapers, TV, or other media events. I think sometimes we lose sight of just what effect our actions can have. Please remember just why we are all involved and what this means to the women who are too ill to fight. We must do this for those who cannot, and we must do it with integrity.

BOOKS: We have a number of Dr. Vasey's wonderful book, The Silicone Breast Implant Controversy,. available for $10.00 + $2.00 S& H for one book, $3 S& H for two books. For priority mail, send $3.00 S& H for one book, $4 S& H for two books. If you ever wanted to obtain one to give to your doctor, family, friend, or ???, this is the time. When they're gone, they're gone.

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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