Flock Cancer Idaho is thrilled to introduce Cary’s Care Kits—an oral health care program for breast cancer patients whose chemotherapy has impacted their dental and oral health and comfort. The Cary’s Care Kit Program will not only include complimentary oral hygiene products like toothbrushes, toothpastes and oral rinses but the compassionate advice and counsel of a professional dental hygienist on how to best care for oral health during chemo and mitigate the dental effects of medication.
What’s the oral healthcare challenge?
Chemotherapy and radiation have been known to disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth causing oral discomfort and dental issues like dry mouth, tooth decay and mouth sores. The sharp increase in dental problems during and after chemotherapy can cause patients additional discomfort and stress. Nevertheless, oral health care has not been a priority in oncology treatment plans in much of the United States. The objective of Cary’s Care Kits is to increase preventive oral healthcare knowledge in people undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancers by supplying, free of charge, optimal products to maintain oral health while receiving cancer treatments. The product bags will be delivered to the patient by a dental hygienist in their home or chemotherapy clinic.
Meet Cary.
The Cary’s Care Kit Project is launched in honor of Boise’s local warrior of inspiration, Cary Wilson, a 25-year breast cancer survivor who succumbed to unrelated ovarian cancer due to challenges of the BRCA gene mutation. Cary left this world on June 22, 2024 gratified, knowing she had accomplished her mission of living life to its fullest while inspiring people along the way. She was a mentor to scores of cancer patients and survivors inspiring them to ‘never give up.’ Her mission was to educate people about cancer, its treatment, impacts of treatment, and the whole human experience of the process—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Cary’s message was always one of HOPE. Cary became an iconic fixture at all the medical facilities, doctors’ appointments and cancer treatments, entering the room fully draped in her regal pink cape, crown and sash inscribed with “Warrior Queen, the AmBADASSador of Hope.” She considered the role of Warrior Queen her calling—to meet people who were on their own unique journeys, listen to them, inspire and encourage them, offer hope and a Warrior Pep Talk. An inspiration to all who knew her—you can read Cary’s story in our blog.
How do I get a kit?
If you or someone you love is going through breast cancer treatment and could benefit from these products and care, please email [email protected] A dental hygienist will make an appoint with you to give you a curated bag of appropriate dental care products.