October 24, 2006 > Pink Cross Health Club

by Vidya Pradhan

When Sumiko Kring was diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago, she was devastated. Luckily, the tumor was operable and her post surgery prognosis was excellent. However, Sumiko was surprised to be sent home soon after surgery without any instructions or help for post-operative care. A few months later, she developed complications due to lack of exercise. She suffered from thyroid, neck and vision problems, which took years of work on her part to improve. Meanwhile, pain and lack of knowledge about her post surgery options left her feeling that she was not in control of her life.

When Sumiko got better, she resolved that she would help other breast cancer patients and survivors find information available to them. She also felt that patients needed to talk to others with similar experiences to help them make sense of this dreadful disease.

After a few years of running a boutique selling prosthetic services to post-mastectomy patients, Sumiko has now started the Pink Cross Health Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing services to breast cancer survivors, their families and friends. The club gives counseling and information to patients, and plans to open a library, hot spa and swimming pool in the future.

Sumiko's vision is to create a beautiful setting where patients can begin the healing process. She feels that many people diagnosed with breast cancer are ill informed about services they are eligible for and various procedures they might encounter. She also wishes to work with patients on health and nutrition programs post-surgery, enabling patients to get back on their feet faster.

The Pink Cross Health Club plans to meet every fourth weekend of the month with the first meeting on Saturday, October 28 at St. Joseph's Pavilion at St. Rose Hospital. As part of this meeting, there will be a presentation by a chiropractor and a health care professional. All breast cancer patients, families and friends are invited.

While Sumiko is currently in the process of obtaining grant monies for her organization, she hopes that much of its needs will be met through donations from the community. For more information on this organization and/or how to donate, please contact Sumiko at (510) 785-3468.

Pink Cross Health Club meeting
Saturday, October 28
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
St Joseph's Pavilion
St. Rose Hospital
27200, Calaroga Ave., Hayward
(510) 785-3468 (Sumiko Kring)