While we’re “physical” therapists, sometimes we also work with emotional issues that our patients share with us. One such issue is physical changes & the related shifts in body image & self-confidence following surgery for breast cancer. Even if you are intimidated by the emotional side of things, consider this: some of your patient’s pain & dysfunction can stem from an ill-fitting bra after breast surgery. MIND BLOWN. I didn’t discover this until much, much later after I started working with patients with a breast cancer diagnosis. After hearing one of my patients rave about her new bra from AnaOno, I had to know more. Today, Dana Donofree, founder of AnaOno, is here to discuss her journey, inspiration, & how her products are helping these women feel better, physically & emotionally, after breast cancer surgery.
Dana’s Bio
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, Dana Donofree found a desire and necessity for beautiful lingerie that was made to fit her new body. After a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction, her own bras no longer fit and became painful to wear, and she was certain there must be more than just sports bras and camisoles (as underwire and molded cups were ill-fitting). With a degree in fashion design, and successful fashion industry career, she took her 15+ years of experience and put it towards launching AnaOno in 2014, a line that is made for those just like her, with lingerie, swim and loungewear options made for those affected by breast cancer, breast surgeries, pain, recovery and beyond. Dana is very active in the breast cancer and fashion community, showcasing at New York Fashion Week for three consecutive years, and is involved with several non-profits, including Living Beyond Breast Cancer board member and as a METAvivor advocate and more. Her story has been featured on USA Today, The Today Show, HuffPost, New York Times, INStyle, NPR, and many others. However, she is most proud of being able to make a difference in the lives of women worldwide and is honored to continue to spread her mission of beauty, confidence and empowerment.
2:06 What inspired Dana to create AnaOno
6:33 How AnaOno serves women after breast surgery
8:44 Why typical intimates don’t work after surgery
10:46 How AnaOno makes their products work for our patients
11:57 How we can help make our patients feel more comfortable in their new bodies
19:27 How patients can find AnaOno products
20:53 What OncoPTs need to know about working with women after breast surgery
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