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Pisces Healthcare Solutions: Celebrating Our Grand Opening and Rebranding

The future of Pisces Healthcare is here! We’ve officially begun our transition with the grand opening of our upgraded headquarters in Longmont, Colorado, complete with a brand new cutting-edge 26,665 sq ft distribution center and the official launch of a bold, revitalized brand identity. Pisces Healthcare Solutions is committed to serving veterans with unique, top-tier medical products and services. This vision has fueled our growth, allowing us to become one of the leading healthcare product providers to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and expanding exponentially year after year.

A Brand Built for the Future

As Pisces Healthcare looks to the future, we remain committed to dominating the VA healthcare market and beyond. Our rebranding reflects this ambition, ensuring our visual identity and messaging align with the vision that drives our company. Our newly crafted brand guidelines will be a foundation for consistent, impactful communication with the clinicians, providers, purchasing agents, and most importantly the veterans we serve daily.

This rebranding represents a natural evolution for our company. We aim to connect deeply with our core mission: to provide veterans and active service members with the most effective products, personalized support, and reliable services, empowering them to live their best lives.

A New Look for Pisces

At the heart of our rebranding is a modernized logo that remains true to our roots. This new design subtly integrates two “P” s, symbolizing our founders zodiac signs (our founders are both Pisces!) and the strength of their partnership. Together, they create the iconic shape of a medical cross, an emblem of our commitment to serving those who have served.

Our brand colors have also been thoughtfully chosen to convey who we are and what we represent. Blue remains our core color, symbolizing confidence, control, and stability. All qualities that our clients and veterans deem important, creating greater trust in every product and interaction with Pisces Healthcare. We also have incorporated two new distinct accent colors, alongside our signature green: turquoise and orange. These two colors are uniquely ours and are used to create distinction in our communications.

Moving Forward Together

The grand opening of our new headquarters marks an exciting new chapter for Pisces Healthcare.

Our vision for the future is clear: to lead the way in providing healthcare products to the VA. With a refreshed identity and an unyielding commitment to quality, Pisces Healthcare is more equipped than ever to achieve that vision. We’re excited to embark on this next phase, ensuring that our brand resonates with our clients, veterans, and partners alike.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to a stronger future with Pisces Healthcare.

Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can present numerous daily challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining energy levels. People with COPD often experience fatigue due to the body’s reduced ability to get enough oxygen, making even simple tasks feel more taxing. However, with the right strategies in place, it's possible to manage energy levels more effectively and reduce the strain on your body. Energy conservation techniques can help individuals with COPD live more comfortably while still maintaining an active and independent lifestyle. 

Here are several practical tips to help conserve energy and improve the quality of life for people with COPD. 

1. Pace Yourself and Prioritize Tasks 

One of the most effective energy conservation techniques is pacing. Pacing is a key energy conservation technique for people with COPD. Spreading tasks throughout the day, prioritizing them, and breaking them into smaller steps can reduce fatigue. For example, focus on one room at a time when cleaning and sitting rather than standing to complete tasks. 

Tip: Consider using a timer to remind yourself to take breaks. After 15-30 minutes of activity, rest for 5-10 minutes. Avoid rushing! Slow, steady movements are key to managing energy. 

2. Use Assistive Devices 

Using assistive devices can significantly reduce physical effort and conserve energy during self-care and everyday activities. Tools like long-handled dressing aids such as reachers, shoehorns, sock aids, and the LEDA, can minimize the need to hold your breath or bend over. A walker with a tray, bag, or basket can assist with carrying items, so you don’t have to make multiple trips. A rollator with a seat is great for community mobility, providing a seat for rest breaks. Just remember to lock the brakes before sitting!  Even lightweight gardening tools or adaptive utensils can make daily activities much easier.  

Tip: Talk to your healthcare provider occupational/ physical therapist about devices that could be helpful to you. They can guide you toward the best tools for your needs. 

Products:  NightHawk Rollator

3. Use Good Breathing Techniques 

Breathing properly can have a profound impact on your energy levels. People with COPD often find themselves short of breath, but controlled breathing can help reduce this feeling. The pursed-lip breathing technique is particularly effective. It involves breathing in slowly through the nose and then exhaling through pursed lips (like blowing out a candle) for a longer time than inhaling. This technique can make breathing easier, reduce anxiety, and allow you to stay active longer. New breathing training devices are currently offered on the market to aid. One of Pisces Healthcare’s favorites is The Breather. This compact handheld device helps to strengthen both the muscles of inhalation and exhalation, improving your lung capacity and breath support for every activity.  It's perfect for building endurance and improving overall respiratory wellness. Portable oxygen tanks, such as the iGo2, are wearable devices that help maintain your oxygen levels and allow you to stay active with confidence when you're out of the home, without the need to lug around heavy oxygen cylinders. 

Tip: Practice pursed-lip breathing regularly, not just when you’re short of breath. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to use this technique during times of physical exertion. Consult with your provider to see if you qualify for a portable oxygen concentrator.  

4. Plan Rest Periods  

Plan for regular rest breaks throughout the day to prevent fatigue and support recovery. Taking short breaks before you feel exhausted helps maintain your stamina and avoid energy depletion. To make sit-to-stand transfers easier, consider using the Compact Chair Lift Assist or Portable Lift Assist for Chair, a portable device that allows you to sit and stand with minimal effort. It fits any chair, sofa, seat, or bench, and is compact enough to take with you when you’re out of the home. 

Tip: Arrange your living space so that everything you need is within easy reach. Strategically place chairs throughout the home for seated rest breaks. This will reduce the need for excessive movement and allow you to rest more frequently without disrupting your routine.  

5. Optimize Your Home for Energy Efficiency 

Making changes to your environment can reduce unnecessary exertion. For example, placing frequently used items at waist level (rather than bending or stretching) can save energy. Using a shower chair, long-handled sponge or handheld showerhead can also reduce the strain when bathing and using a raised toilet seat and grab bars for added safety and convenience. 

Tip: Keeping frequently used items within arm’s reach in each room of the home to avoid unnecessary trips.  

6. Simplify Household Chores 

Chores like cooking, cleaning, and laundry can be especially taxing. To conserve energy, try simplifying these tasks wherever possible. For example, use a slow cooker or microwave while cooking to minimize the need for standing or stirring. Consider pre-chopping vegetables or preparing meals in advance.  

Tip: Enlist the help of family members or caregivers for larger chores. When it’s necessary to perform chores alone, use tools like lightweight brooms or vacuums, and set a pace that works for you. 

7. Stay Active, But Know Your Limits 

While conserving energy is crucial, staying physically active is also key to managing COPD. Regular, low-impact exercises can enhance lung function and boost stamina. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga are great options for strengthening muscles and improving breathing. Aim to get up and move each day, starting with exercises that match your current fitness level. Even simple activities like walking around your house, gentle stretching, or seated exercises are excellent starting points. Every bit of movement counts. Stretching is an easy way to stay flexible and avoid overexertion. Tools like stretch bands or the IdealStretch can be helpful. Remember, exercises don’t need to be intense or conventional cardio.

Seated exercises can also be a fun way to stay active, even while watching TV! For example, the Cubii Total Body+ offers both upper and lower body strength training in one compact device. As you build confidence in your routine, gradually increase your activity level by setting small, achievable goals, like adding one more minute to your walk each day. Tracking your progress can help you stay motivated and celebrate improvements! 

Tip: Start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercise as tolerated. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pulmonary rehabilitation specialist before starting a new exercise routine. 

8. Focus on Proper Nutrition 

Good nutrition plays a key role in managing energy levels. A balanced diet helps maintain a healthy weight, which in turn reduces the strain on your body. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also prevent fatigue that may result from large meals, which can require more energy for digestion. 

Tip: Stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen fatigue. Aim for a diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you have trouble eating, consider consulting a dietitian to help you plan nutrient-dense meals. 

9. Consider Pulmonary Rehabilitation 

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program designed for people with COPD to improve their physical endurance, strength, and quality of life. This program includes exercises, breathing techniques, and education on managing your condition. It’s tailored to meet your individual needs and can significantly improve your overall energy and well-being. 

Tip: Speak with your healthcare provider to see if pulmonary rehabilitation is a good option for you. These programs can be found at many hospitals or clinics specializing in respiratory care. 

10. Monitor Your Symptoms 

Lastly, it’s crucial to monitor how you're feeling on a day-to-day basis. Keep track of your symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and any other changes in your condition. This will help you identify patterns and make adjustments to your routine or treatment plan as necessary. The Deluxe Pulse Oximeter is a great tool for monitoring your oxygen levels and heart rate pre and post-activity. 

Tip: Keep a symptom and exercise log to share with your healthcare provider.  Keeping a log of your exercise can be a great motivator. Write down when you exercised, for how long, the intensity level, and how it made you feel. Over time, seeing your progress can be encouraging and help you stay committed. This can help you and your doctor make more informed decisions about your care. 

Final Thoughts 

Energy conservation is all about finding a balance between staying active and knowing when to rest. By using these techniques, individuals with COPD can reduce fatigue and manage daily tasks more effectively. With the right tools, techniques, and mindset, it’s possible to live a fulfilling life with COPD, even on days when energy feels low. 

Remember to celebrate small milestones to keep yourself motivated along the way! Living with COPD can be challenging, and maintaining an active lifestyle deserves celebration. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, from completing a short walk to improving your breathing technique. Acknowledge your progress and remember that staying active is a step toward managing COPD successfully.  

Always consult your doctor or a pulmonary specialist before making significant changes to your routine. They can help you customize strategies based on your individual health needs. Taking small steps toward managing your energy will not only improve your quality of life but can also help you maintain independence and confidence in your daily activities. 

Citations: 

• “Conserving Energy and Managing Your Daily Activities.” American Lung Association, 
•  www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/living-with-copd/daily-activities. Accessed 9 Nov. 2024. 
• “Exercise for Someone with COPD.” COPD Foundation, www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Person-with-COPD/Exercise.aspx. Accessed 9 Nov. 2024. 
• “Physical Activity and COPD.” American Lung Association, www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/living-with-copd/physical-activity. Accessed 9 Nov. 2024.

At Pisces Healthcare, we understand the unique challenges that veterans face during and after breast cancer treatment. Our mission is to provide supportive products that enhance comfort, aid in recovery, and improve quality of life. We offer a wide range of breast forms, bras, post-operative padding, rehab tools, and comfort aids tailored to meet your needs. Below, you'll find a selection of products designed to support recovery and well-being through every stage of the journey.

Bras for Comfort and Support

We provide a variety of bras designed specifically for post-surgical needs. Our range includes styles that facilitate ease of use and comfort during recovery:

• Drain Management Bra
  Helps manage post-surgical drains with ease. This bra includes 2 modesty pouches and 4 rings, that are repositionable, to support the drain bulb and anchor it to the band, which reduces motion and pressure on the incision sites. The FlexFit cups accommodate breast volume variations due to swelling. Additional features include a combined padded hook-&-eye/zipper front closure for ease of donning and high-back coverage for additional support. Our proprietary TriFlex fabric has superior stretch to prevent binding, provides moisture-wicking and cooling, and active silver antimicrobial protection
  
  
• Front Zip, Sports Bra Style
  Ideal for easy access and comfort, offering gentle compression. Pre-formed and flexible seamless cups ensure optimal stabilization of the post-surgical breast area with even, all-over pressure (no fixation ring around the cup). Adjustable, wide straps with hook and loop fasteners for easy dressing and undressing while providing exceptional comfort, immobilization, and stabilization of the operated breast.
• Padded Wire-Free Bra
  Offers gentle support and comfort for everyday wear. The perfect bra for every day, Mara is smooth under T-shirts and comfortable against the skin. The breathable COOLMAX fabric cup pockets help wick away moisture to keep you cool and dry, the pockets can hold a breast form or shaper securely in place. A nice wide under band ensures comfortable breast support every day.
  
  
• Front Closure, Pocketed Bra
  Designed with pockets to hold breast forms or pads securely. Ultra-soft fabric offers a snug and non-restrictive fit. Post-surgery front closure bra for easy access during treatment with cut and sewn cotton pockets and smooth interior side seams for comfort to sensitive skin. Padded, stretch fabric straps with front fasteners.
  
  
• Post-Surgical Puff
  Provides symmetry immediately after surgery.  Post Surgical Puff is a specialized breast form that offers immediate symmetry following surgery. This unique post-surgical Puff can be easily customized to achieve the desired fullness by simply adding or removing fiberfill, and it comes with extra fiberfill included. It is specifically designed to address the unique requirements of women during the critical phases following breast surgery, whether in the hospital or upon returning home. Can be used with post-mastectomy bras

Post-Intervention Tools

Post-Surgical Pads
Our post-surgical pads are crafted to provide gentle compression and support after lumpectomy or mastectomy, helping reduce swelling and promote healing. This tapeless option is comfortable compression to help lymphatic flow after breast surgery.

• Jobst Post-Lumpectomy Pad The Post-Lumpectomy Pad features a posterior extension that, in combination with a compression garment, addresses edema and/or radiation fibrosis of the breast and serratus anterior. This pad covers the affected breast completely and extends to the spine.
• Jobst Double Mastectomy Pad This Double Mastectomy Pad is a wrap-around torso pad and is secured with Velcro. It is indicated for patients with edema on the anterior chest wall as well as the lateral and posterior chest wall areas
• BSN Jobst JoViPak Axilla Pad The flat channel pad is placed against the chest wall and held in place by a post-surgery bra after axillary node dissection.

Lymphedema Arm sleeve with Gauntlet

• Arm sleeve with Gauntlet is the answer to your lymphatic discomfort! Contains edema with our stylish and conspicuous 20-30 mmHg firm compression arm sleeve with gauntlet!

Recovery Aids for Comfort

Our range of recovery aids provides essential comfort and support for day-to-day activities following breast cancer treatment:

• Chest Ice Pack
  • Provides pain relief after mastectomy. Comfortable and discrete design and can be easily inserted into bra or placed on breast. These reusable packs deliver comfortable cooling at approximately 58 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour. Comes with one soft cover and one cooling pack
    
    
• Seat Belt Pillow
  • The seat belt pillow provides a comfortable barrier to protect sensitive areas from the pressure of a seat belt. Adjustable Velcro straps to adjust for your size and comfort. There is an added pocket for a gel pack to promote healing through hot or cold therapy while traveling.
    
    
• Mastectomy Post-Op Pillow
  • Chest pillows maximize comfort for sleeping, resting, or driving to keep your arms, seat belts, and more away from your ribcage. This is a must have chest pillow for any breast surgery. Very soft with underarm support and comes with a hidden pocket for a cell phone or other items to keep within reach.
    
    
• Seat Belt Extender for External Rotation
  • Reduces strain when twisting or reaching. Offering a convenient handle to allow the user to put on their seatbelt with minimal discomfort. The rubber handle is small, lightweight, and attaches to the seatbelt strap.

• Bed Wedge Pillow
  • Helps reduce strain while getting up and ensures comfort throughout the night. 4-in-1 design bed wedge offers versatile elevation for the upper and lower body. Customize the level of support and incline to sit comfortably in bed.
    
    
• Personal Lubricant Balm
  • For vaginal dryness following cancer treatment. This all-natural vaginal cream and moisturizer offers a unique blend of organic and natural ingredients to relieve and treat vaginal skin irritation, redness, and dryness for soothing relief.. Enchanted Rose Organic Personal Lubricant Balm
• Hair Dryer Stand
  • Hands-free option for easy drying and styling. Allows effortless, strain-free styling and drying for those with limited mobility after a mastectomy or for energy conservation during treatments.
    
    
• Long Handled Comb/Brush
  • For easy grooming without straining. Extra-long, ergonomic curved handles, make it easy to style hair from front to back with minimal shoulder and upper arm movement, providing less strain and discomfort.

Tools to Improve Range of Motion (ROM)

For many patients, regaining range of motion in the upper extremities is a key part of post-surgical recovery. Our products help facilitate this process:

• Overdoor Pink Pulley for ROM : This over-the-door shoulder pulley will help to improve the range of motion with easy adjustable line length.
  Overdoor Pink Pulley for Post-Mastectomy Range of Motion
• UE Ranger for Upper Extremities : Enhances recovery after mastectomy by promoting neuromuscular strengthening and coordination for optimal healing.
  UE Ranger Orthopedic
• Shoulder Wand : Collapsable stretching bar to outward stretch the shoulder area scar tissue and increase range of motion for greater mobility and comfort.

Swimwear

We offer stylish, post-mastectomy swimwear that provides comfort, support, and confidence:

• Manila Post-Mastectomy Swimwear High neckline to discreetly hide skin irritation or scars, providing a stylish and confident swimwear solution. Supportive shelf bra featuring integrated pockets and soft, padded cups to securely hold breast forms and shapers in place, effectively concealing any unevenness. Swimwear with excellent UV protection (50+) for optimal safeguarding of sensitive skin and scars.

To view the rest of our breast cancer care products, visit www.pisceshealth.com/breast-cancer-care.

Contact Us

For more information about our products or to place an order, please contact us:

Pisces Healthcare Solutions
Phone: 1-888-505-3627
Email:  customerservice@pisceshealth.com
Website: Pisces Healthcare Solutions

Pisces Employees Breast Cancer Stories:

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to honor the strength, resilience, and courage of those who have faced this challenging journey. At Pisces Healthcare, we believe that sharing personal stories can provide comfort, inspiration, and support to others going through similar experiences. This month, we're proud to share personal stories from our team members, who have opened up about their own experiences with breast cancer. By sharing these stories, we hope to remind everyone that they are not alone in their battle and that there is always hope.

Heather’s story:

My Story….and Breast Cancer

“My grandmother, Ruth, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1976.  By the time they found the cancer, it had spread to both of her breasts.  She underwent treatment and had a double mastectomy in 1978.  She continued to live a wonderfully filled life until December 22, 2007.

My mother, Virginia often referred to as “Ginni”, was diagnosed in May of 2016.  I will never forget that phone call….it was rough.  When the “lump” was discovered, it was very small, so the doctors had a very good prognosis for her.  She had the lump surgically removed in July of that year.  After the surgery, she underwent both chemo and radiation.  She has been celebrating recovery and a “clean bill of health” now for the last eight years and will be turning a nice, young 72 years next April.

I have always been behind supporting breast cancer awareness, but in 2016 I trained up and completed the October Walk of 60 miles in 3 days with the Susan G Komen Foundation.  The walk is no longer in Atlanta, but my daughters and I fundraise and walk together at all the local breast cancer events.  If I can get to do another 60 miles in 3 days in honor of my mother and memory of my grandmother…. I will be there.”

Colleen’s story:

“My mom is a breast cancer survivor & thyroid cancer 2x survivor. She is the strongest person I know! I know from her experience, argan oil really helped with her surgical scars, but compression garments helped with the lymphedema and heat therapy/thermal wraps helped with pain management! She is my best friend ever & I'm so thankful for her!” 

Lauren’s story:

“One of my high school girlfriends was diagnosed with Breast Cancer when she was 33. She had a young child and knew her treatments would leave her unable to have more children once she had recovered and survived! She is now married with her son in addition to 3 bonus sons so everything worked out, but she had to go through so much, at such a young age. I was fortunate to support her through our friendship, a fundraiser her family put on and participating in the Susan B Komen, run for the cure 5k! One year she was so sick she couldn’t even make it which made it all the more important for us to be there, honoring and supporting Team Tera!”

Early Detection Saves Lives:

The importance of staying proactive in the fight against breast cancer can be lifesaving. Here are some key steps to help you stay aware and maintain your breast health:

• Perform Regular Self-Examinations: Regular breast self-exams can help you become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts, making it easier to detect any changes. Aim to perform a self-exam once a month.
• Schedule Regular Mammograms: Follow your doctor's recommendations for mammogram screenings based on your age and risk factors. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
• Know Your Family History: Be aware of any family history of breast cancer or genetic factors that may increase your risk. Discuss your family history with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to overall health and may help lower your risk of breast cancer.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and recommendations regarding breast cancer prevention and screening. Knowledge is a powerful tool in managing your health.

Source: American Cancer Society “Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer”

Sharing Stories Helps to Spread Hope

We’re deeply touched by these stories and the resilience shown by our colleagues and their loved ones. Breast cancer is a journey that no one should have to face alone. It’s through sharing these experiences that we can bring hope, understanding, and support to others who are on a similar path. Whether it’s through participating in awareness walks, providing care and comfort to a loved one, or discovering products that can ease the process, every action counts. If you or someone you know is facing breast cancer, we encourage you to reach out, lean on your community, and find strength in the stories shared this month.

To view the rest of our breast cancer care products visit www.pisceshealth.com/breast-cancer-care.