Cancer survivor Bonnie Bell has opened up a store in Martinsburg that is tailor-made for women who have experienced the same challenges she has faced.

Two-time breast cancer survivor Bonnie Bell has opened up a store in Martinsburg that is tailor-made for women who have experienced the same challenges she has faced.

B&B’s Health Boutique, located at 409 W. King St. in Martinsburg, carries items such as post-mastectomy bras specifically designed for prosthesis.

Bell came to understand earlier this year that her purpose in life was to help those women affected by breast cancer. Bell’s store also has sports bras and prosthesis designed for swimmers.

B&B’s also will stock Elta Creme, which is recommended to treat extremely dry skin caused by chemotherapy and diabetes.

During and after breast cancer treatments, women need specialty products that are not always easy to find, Bells says.

For 46 weeks after the removal of a breast, women often have to use a special pump as part of their treatment. Bell will have gowns that allow women to put the pump in a pocket for convenience. Also among the items found are wigs, hats, candles and ready-to-go gift sets. Items are priced from $7.99 to $57.99. Bras are the same price one would pay at a department store and Bell will offer free bra fitting for the next three months.

Bell hopes to be able to accept insurance payments. Until then, she needs the support and recognition of the community so she can stay open, she says. “I know I have a good thing here,” she says. “I just need people to buy the little things that keep me here so I can do the bigger things.”

Bell came up with the idea of her specialty store when it came time for her to be fitted for a new bra after her own cancer treatment. II came out of the dressing room, and couldn’t take another step … I just knew that this was what God wanted me to do with my life. This was my purpose.”

Bell adds because she has been through the battle of breast cancer, she knows what women are feeling and she has the passion and understanding of their situation.

Bell is a member of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in West Virginia, based in Charleston. She is also active in Sisters United, which officially became a 501(c) 3 non profit organization earlier in June. Bell also hopes to be involved with Shepherd University’s Annual Relay for Life, which has raised over $200,000. “I am excited about this, and I’m ready to go do what I can,” said Bell.

— B&B’s Health Boutique is at 409 W. King St., Martinsburg, WV 25401. The store can be reached at 263-6128.