Some things are better in pairs. That proved to be true today. Two ribbon cuttings on one of the prettiest days we’ve had in quite a while.

Part One – Christus Schumpert Breast Center

At the first ribbon cutting of the day at Christus Schumpert Breast Center in Shreveport, the theme was “Mardi Gras and Mammograms”. I arrived thinking I would be attending a standard Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting. I was soon to understand that this would not be a routine gathering. The first noticeable difference was that I was way under-dressed. I don’t typically wear t-shirts but today I was sporting the new “Geaux Beauxling” t-shirt since it is Mardi Gras season. Several Mardi Gras Krewe Royalty were in attendance and decked out in full regalia. Absolutely stunning displays of sequins, satin and feathers. The second noticeable difference was that the program called for a Blessing and Dedication. This was definitely a nice touch. I have a special place in my heart for the beauty of a litany.

Differences aside, let me tell you about this well thought out medical facility. Christus Schumpert Breast Center was designed by women for women. The idea is to remove the fear and excuses that are associated with breast cancer. Dr. Dierdre Barfield, Chief Medical Officer, said that they offer non-traditional appointment times in an effort to make it more convenient for working mothers and care givers who typically can’t make appointments during regular office times. They also wanted to create an environment that was less like a medical facility, and more of a relaxing place to soothe anxieties. The center is beautifully decorated and has an almost spa like feel. In fact, you won’t find paper robes here. Patients are treated to spa robes to use during their mammograms. How nice is that? Ladies, you know what I’m talking about when I say I hate those paper robes!

Butterfly Boutique and the Northwest Louisiana Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure were on hand to provide information about the services they offer to women dealing with breast cancer. Butterfly Boutique specializes in prosthesis, surgical bras, wigs, headcovers, hard to fit bras and compression garments. The Northwest Louisiana Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure provides support and informational resources to the breast cancer community. The programs and fundraisers at NWLA-SGK have provided funding for groundbreaking breast cancer research, much of which has led to landmark discoveries in the quest to find a cure and eventually prevent breast cancer.

Dr. Mark Kraemer, Chief Radiologist, introduced us to Brenda Pierce, who he called a Breast Nurse Navigator. Brenda contacts patients who have had abnormal mammograms, schedules follow ups and provides educational and emotional support for their journey. Brenda understands what patients are going through because she has overcome breast cancer herself. Dr. Kraemer said that Christus Schumpert has drastically reduced the time frames for follow ups and test results. He mentioned that hearing “cancer” is stressful enough without having to wait on results. What formerly took up to six weeks, can now be turned around in several days. Dana Smelser, Business Development & Strategic Planning for Christus Schumpert says that they are the only complete Breast Center in the area.

Christus Schumpert Breast Center is located at 920 Olive Street, Shreveport, LA. Tell them that you read my blog.

Part Two – The Perfect Blend

Stop number two for my diplomat duties today was at The Perfect Blend in Bossier City. I have to be honest in saying that I fully expected to walk into a coffee house. Nope, it’s a really cool smoothie, vitamin, yogurt, supplement store with a friendly, comfortable feel. That’s really the only way to describe it. Most supplement stores feel kind of cold and confusing. This place takes that all away. Quoting their website, The Perfect Blend was an idea that was conceived by two personal trainers who wanted to create a comfortable atmosphere for people to not only shop for supplements, but to be able to ask questions about them, learn diet strategies and workout ideas and enjoy sporting events while having a healthy smoothie or yogurt. Today marked the one year anniversary of the success of The Perfect Blend. Congrats guys!

One of the best things about going to ribbon cuttings is that you sometimes get to try free samples of food and products. Today . . . Free Yogurt! Oh yeah, let me tell you, I tried the New York Cheesecake yogurt. OH YUM! Ok, you caught me, I went back for seconds and tried the plain yogurt too. Well, yogurt and chocolate covered raisins. Hey – I didn’t have lunch! Don’t judge me for being a little bit piggy. I noticed the sign above the self serve yogurt bar said “Pile it high for 35 cents per ounce”. That could be dangerous for me.

At The Perfect Blend, you will find supplements from all of the major companies and independent suppliers, some of which you can’t find at other supplement stores. I considered picking up one of their weight loss supplements, but decided for more yogurt. (I’m so bad!) Next time you are in the Stockell Road area, stop by, meet their friendly staff and pick up your vitamins and supplements. Just don’t do what I did. I couldn’t stop staring at the arms of one of the personal trainers. I’m serious, I couldn’t stop. They were massive and I had to apologize to him for my staring. I hope he wasn’t offended. 🙂 I think I got my payback later when I spilled a huge amount of liquid nacho cheese down the front of my shirt. (yes, eating again – see, I knew I had a problem, but that’s a story for another time)

The Perfect Blend is located at 2091 Stockwell Road, Ste. 10, Bossier City, LA on the corner of Stockwell & Shed Road. Tell them you read my blog.

See ya around Bossier,

Robin Williams,
Bossier Chamber of Commerce Diplomat &
Marketing Maven at Holiday Lanes