Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As we reach the final week of October, we want to remind you that Breast Cancer Awareness is important this month, and year-round.  We ask that you consider scheduling an annual exam for yourself, and to recommend preventative, proactive care for your loved ones as well.

Self-checks and routine doctor exams are vital, as early detection is key.  Having a buddy to ensure we keep up on our health care and our self checks can be very helpful.

"One of the reasons we always encourage annual eye exams goes beyond the extreme importance of caring for your vision, as your eye health is also often a reflection on your entire health," said Founder & Medical Director Emilio M. Justo, M.D.  "That is also why it is important to us that you get your routine exams and preventative care every year, to protect you and those you love.  Please make sure you are checked and proactive in all areas of your health."

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A SURVIVOR'S STORY

Tara Bleicher could not even look into a mirror without seeing it.

The reminder.

Her almond-shaped eyes felt naked; the eyebrows that had once framed her face were gone and not going to grow back due to her treatment for Breast Cancer.

"I felt strong, but not quite like myself. There was something missing. It may sound silly when you are winning a battle for your life, but feeling beautiful, feminine and just being empowered to go out and look like yourself can mean everything."

That's when Tara called Stephanie Morlock, the only Certified Permanent Cosmetics Professional in this area who works right out of the Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center's Sun City West office.

"My hair came back, but my eyebrows didn't. I was really self conscious about it all of the time."

Tara knew Stephanie, who is known for her "brush stroke" technique, was the cosmetic professional to bring back and even perfect eyebrows that would look real, natural and like her own.

The pair worked together to select the perfect shade and shape of her new brows. "Stephanie makes you feel so comfortable during the entire procedure!"

The same visit added a special bonus:  The perfect shade and shape of upper and lower eyeliner to ensure that Tara not only feels like herself, but more beautiful than ever.

"It has helped me not feel like a cancer patient. It has helped me to focus on my health in a positive way.  You cannot escape the constant reminders about cancer - on TV, billboards - at least now when I look in a mirror, I don't see a cancer patient.

"I see me."