An idea came to fruition years later for one Texas woman and now she's wrapping people in love and care with her invention. She's this week's KRLD Difference Maker.
Allison Schickel had always wanted a robe, with an important built-in accessory.
"I had the idea years ago to build a bra inside a robe," Allison said.
Immediately she wanted to go buy one, but after five years of searching, had never found it.
Her close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent 18 months of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy.
"She just would explain to me the hassle of having to carry around these jp drains (which are used post-op). They drain is protruding through your skin and it releases fluid so your body doesn't swell. So anybody who has had surgery has these," Allison said.
Her friend would have to utilize several drains and pin them to her shirts each time, which caused some mobility issues.
That's when Allison knew she was onto something and that's how the Brobe was created.
Made with removeable interior and exterior pockets and a detachable bra, the Brobe was originally created for women like Allison's friend who were diagnosed with breast cancer and were going through a lumpectomy or mastectomy. But the Brobe has proven useful for anyone having other surgeries that require a jp drain.
Ten years later, she has a line for kids.
The kids Brobes are unisex and feature removable interior pockets, a removable cape and superhero eye mask.
We're proud to call Allison Schickel this week's KRLD Difference Maker.
"Most people are so very appreciative. They are grateful. That just fuels the fire for use to keep creating and keeping bringing products to market that really make a difference," Allison said. "I'm really proud of that."
If you know someone making a difference in the community, send us an email at differencemaker@krld.com.
