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Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast For Providers Subscribe More Fitness Tips for Breast Cancer Survivors (& their Caregivers) It is well documented that physically active women have a lower risk of breast cancer than do others who are not. Thus, it stands to reason that physically active breast cancer survivors may reduce the risk of cancer’s return, and dramatically improve quality of life. As always, consult your oncological team before starting out on your fitness program. ​ According to Breastcancer.org, exercise can lower your risk of breast cancer coming back, as well as help you maintain a healthy weight, ease treatment side effects, boost your energy, and more! Exercise Is Safe Per Breastcancer.org (one of the attached links below), “a roundtable convened by the American College of Sports Medicine in 2010 reviewed available research and concluded that exercise is safe during and after all breast cancer treatments (as long as you take any needed precautions and keep the intensity low) and improves physical functioning, quality of life, and cancer-related fatigue. There also is evidence that exercise can help breast cancer survivors live longer and lead a more active life.” ​ Risk Reduction According to Cancer.gov (link below) “studies show that physically active women have a lower risk of breast cancer than inactive women. Physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women; however, the evidence for an association is stronger for postmenopausal breast cancer.” This study further elaborates on how exercise can reduce the risks of cancer, and, or its return: Exercise has a number of biological effects on the body, including: ​ Lowering the levels of hormones , such as estrogen , and of certain growth factors that have been associated with cancer development and progression ​ Helping to prevent obesity and decreasing the harmful effects of obesity ​ Reducing inflammation Improving immune system function Cognitive Impairment (“chemo brain”) Furthermore, a new study (found in the Sciencedaily.com link below) “indicates that cancer patients and survivors have a ready weapon against fatigue and "chemo brain": a brisk walk. ​ Their data suggests “that being more physically active could reduce two of the more commonly reported symptoms in breast cancer survivors: fatigue and cognitive impairment". ​ Cognitive impairment, such as memory problems or shortened attention spans, is a common complaint among cancer patients and survivors, and is thought to be similar to decline due to aging. Fitness Recommendations With the above (and below) referenced studies in mind, we at Survivingbreastcancer.org are recommending the following exercise possibilities: Walking The health effects of a brisk walk cannot be overstated, notably for cognitive impairment, but also for muscular and circulatory systems. Yoga This discipline combines stretching, deep breathing, toning of the muscular system and offers a wonderful way to relax the nervous system. Meditation According to the Laura-Sage (link below), meditation can effectively reduce stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and fear of recurrence. It can also help reduce hot flashes. Weight Resistance & Training Program In another recent study study, researchers looked at data from the Physical Activity and Lymphedema (PAL) trial to determine whether slowly increased weight lifting could increase muscle strength among breast cancer survivors and help them avoid frailty and maintain physical function. Aerobic and Cardio Training (swimming, running, elliptical, stairmaster, etc.) Lastly, another recent study (for the NIH) showed that a “10 week moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program significantly improves quality of life and physical functioning in breast cancer survivors.” Please note that further long-term studies have been recommended ​ Related Articles Surviving Breast Cancer 2 min Fitness & Exercise Controlling a Controllable: Thriving Through Exercise & Movement Exercise is a powerful tool, and has many potential benefits for those diagnosed with breast cancer. Surviving Breast Cancer 3 min Fitness & Exercise The Importance of Physical Therapy During and After Cancer Treatment By Taylor McKnight Physical therapy is often the last thing on people’s minds when they receive a cancer diagnosis. However, it is an... Surviving Breast Cancer 2 min Fitness & Exercise The Role of Exercise in Breast Cancer Recovery: Benefits and Recommendations Exercise plays a crucial role in the recovery journey for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. Engaging in physical activity during and Surviving Breast Cancer 4 min Fitness & Exercise The Healing Power of Pilates: Benefits for Breast Cancer Patients A breast cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering event, bringing with it a range of physical and emotional challenges. While medical... Surviving Breast Cancer 4 min Breast Cancer Stories Moving Through Treatment and Survivorship By Briana Rickertsen When I imagined my first wedding anniversary, I envisioned drinking bubbly while exploring a fun mountain town.... Surviving Breast Cancer 2 min About SBC Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike Are you ready to lace up your hiking boots or put on your walking shoes? October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we're inviting you to 1 2 3 4 Additional Resources We found the following links to be beneficial: ​ https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/physical-activity-fact-sheet https://www.scribd.com/document/268275865/Breast-cancer-and-physical-activity https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6753/exercise-for-breast-cancer-survivors https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/07/170725122242.htm https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm#ReduceCancer https://www.cancer.org/treatment/survivorship-during-and-after-treatment/staying-active/physical-activity-and-the-cancer-patient.html http://www.breastcancer.org/tips/exercise https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/44/topics/836196 http://www.lbbc.org/building-and-restoring-physical-fitness-after-breast-cancer https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-you-need-to-know-about-exericse-and-cancer https://www.huffingtonpost.com/laura-sage/5-benefits-of-meditation_b_10617412.html https://www.cancer.org/.../study-weight-lifting-helps-breast-cancer-survivors-stay-health ... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25313756

Attend an Event Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts Fri, May 24 Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Qi Gong with Kim Tue, May 28 Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Yoga stretching can be a helpful way to improve your range of motion and reduce pain after DIEP flap surgery. Share RSVP ​ Email dleroy@survivingbreastcancer.org with your background, interests, and class offerings. Interested in Becoming a Movement Monday Instructor? Pilates Heal & Move: Gentle Qigong for Breast Cancer Recovery This supportive class uses gentle movements & breathwork to promote healing, manage side effects, & find inner peace during breast cancer recovery. Suitable for all levels. DIEP flap Yoga Movement Days Creative and expressive movement, in the form of mind, body, and spirit exploration, holds the power to heal. Survivingbreastcancer.org offers free, monthly, online classes in restorative yoga, yoga for breast cancer, and Zumba. Enjoy weekly guided meditation, breathwork, and other mindfulness practices, as well as monthly expressive writing and art therapy workshops. All are welcome, including caregivers and supporters of those diagnosed. Move your body and mind with us every Monday! Restorative Yoga Articles Surviving Breast Cancer 5 days ago 2 min Controlling a Controllable: Thriving Through Exercise & Movement Exercise is a powerful tool, and has many potential benefits for those diagnosed with breast cancer. 194 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Feb 22 3 min The Importance of Physical Therapy During and After Cancer Treatment By Taylor McKnight Physical therapy is often the last thing on people’s minds when they receive a cancer diagnosis. However, it is an... 387 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 14 2 min The Role of Exercise in Breast Cancer Recovery: Benefits and Recommendations Exercise plays a crucial role in the recovery journey for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. Engaging in physical activity during and 119 Post not marked as liked 1 2 3 4 5 Multiple Dates Mon, May 20 Online Event Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Fri, May 24 Online Event Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, May 28 Online Event Qi Gong with Kim May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Yoga stretching can be a helpful way to improve your range of motion and reduce pain after DIEP flap surgery. Share RSVP Breast Cancer Recovery Yoga: Gentle Poses with Chair Support (Improves Flexibility & Reduces Lymphedema) This restorative yoga class is designed specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors. Join certified instructor Kim O´Brien for a gentle sequence of poses using a chair for added comfort and support.

Privacy Policy This document was last updated on February 21, 2020, ​ ​ Privacy Policy: ​ Survivingbreastcancer.org is committed to maintaining privacy protections for its users. This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which www.survivingbreastcancer.org (the “Organization”) collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the http://www.survivingbreastcancer.org website ("Site"). ​ For purposes of this agreement, “Service” refers to the Organization’s service which can be accessed via our website at www.survivingbreastcancer.org in which users can find educational resources. The terms “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to the Organization. “You” refers to you, as a user of Service. 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The law's reach stretches well beyond California to require a person or company in the United States (and conceivably the world) that operates websites collecting personally identifiable information from California consumers to post a conspicuous privacy policy on its website stating exactly the information being collected and those individuals with whom it is being shared, and to comply with this policy. - See more at: http://consumercal.org/california-online-privacy-protection-act-caloppa/#sthash.0FdRbT51.dpuf According to CalOPPA we agree to the following: Users can visit our site anonymously Once this privacy policy is created, we will add a link to it on our home page, or as a minimum on the first significant page after entering our website. Our Privacy Policy link includes the word 'Privacy', and can be easily be found on the page specified above. Users will be notified of any privacy policy changes: • On our Privacy Policy Page Users are able to change their personal information: • By emailing us COPPA (Children Online Privacy Protection Act) When it comes to the collection of personal information from children under 13, the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) puts parents in control. The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, enforces the COPPA Rule, which spells out what operators of websites and online services must do to protect children's privacy and safety online. We do not specifically market to children under 13. Fair Information Practices The Fair Information Practices Principles form the backbone of privacy law in the United States and the concepts they include have played a significant role in the development of data protection laws around the globe. 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Everyone's breast cancer diagnosis is different. People respond differently to treatment and even make different decisions based on their own personal preferences. We also understand that breast cancer extends well beyond the person who is diagnosed. It touches all aspects of life including family members, friends, and loved ones. ​ Sharing your experience not only helps others looking for connection, but it is also therapeutic for YOU! Unpacking everything you have been through, expressing your concerns, questions, fears, successes, and celebrations can help you make sense of the cancer experience. Moreover, it shows those in our survivingbreastcancer.org community that they are not alone and that we are a powerful community of warriors! Looking for examples? Explore our breast cancer survivor and breast cancer thriver stories here . We also are building out resources for moms, daughters, spouses, and more, so be sure to check back often. ​ Need help with topics and ideas? We have guidance and recommendations for getting started located below the Submission Form. What personal information I should include in my story? ​ You are free to share as much or as little information as you feel comfortable with. Think back to when you were diagnosed- what information were you looking for? What do you wish you would have known? A few things to consider sharing (but not required) include: Age of diagnosis What was your diagnosis (type, stage)? Did you have chemotherapy, and if so, which drugs were you on? Did you have surgery? If so, what type, how did you make that choice, and/or were lymph nodes involved? Did you have radiation? If so, how many weeks? Were you on any experimental trials? How did they go? Are you taking any hormonal therapies, and if so, which drugs? You are always welcome to also include your email, if you would like survivors to email and connect with you directly. If you do not want your name included with your story, you can always let us know if you prefer to be anonymous. ​ What topics should I cover in my story? You are welcome to share on a variety of topics. Express your own experience. Share topics that you think would be helpful for others to understand. Utilize your story as a means of catharsis. A few examples (but not limited to) include: ​ What to expect going through chemotherapy How to manage losing your hair, tips, and advice Understanding body changes and how to cope Health and nutrition/ eating habits while undergoing treatment Fighting fatigue and “chemo brain” Managing work, home, and life balance, while in treatment The top 10 things you wish you knew before starting treatment/ surgery A day in the life of a survivor… ​ What if I don’t like to write or journal? Are there other ways to share my story? ​ Absolutely! This is a creative and open space for survivors and caregivers to share their experiences through a variety of expressive mediums. Feel free to share your story through journaling/ writing, poetry, music, art, movement, and more. You name it! ​ You can always send us images to include with your story, or as a visual representation of your story. If you want support with editing any content, then just let us know. We are happy to help! ​ What if I want to include pictures, or update my story at a later date? Not a problem! Just get in touch with us, and we can add photos and make updates at any time.​ ​ Submit Content Stories. Poetry. Blogs Share your story, blog, article... First Name Last Name Email Submit Thanks for submitting! Social Media Handles (if applicable) Paste your Submission Below or Link to a Google Doc: Attach image Upload File Upload supported file (Max 15MB) Upload File Upload your submission file Upload supported file (Max 15MB) I want to subscribe to the newsletter.

Are You Breast Dense Aware? Breast Density Dense breast tissue makes it harder for radiologists to see cancer. On mammograms, dense breast tissue looks white, and breast masses or tumors also look white. So, the dense tissue can hide tumors. In contrast, fatty tissue looks almost black. On a black background it’s easy to see a tumor that looks white. So, mammograms can be less accurate in women with dense breasts. What Is Breast Density Survivingbreastcancer.org acknowledges that the above video is sited from our friends at beingdense.com (@Breastdense). The video may not be reproduced without Beingdense.com's permission. The FDA has announced important new steps to modernize breast cancer screening and help empower patients with information when they are considering important decisions regarding their breast health care. ​ Not all U.S. states are required to notify their patient as to whether or not they have dense breast. Is your state one of them? View Data What is breast density and how does it affect screenings? Watch Now How to advocate for additional screenings Watch Now Why is Understanding Breast Density Important? Having dense breast tissue might increase your risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have dense breast tissue have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with less dense breast tissue. It’s unclear at this time why dense breast tissue is linked to breast cancer risk. We know there are many risk factors for breast cancer – starting menstrual periods early, late menopause, first pregnancy after age 30, family members with breast cancer – just to name a few. The 2 most important risk factors are being a woman and getting older. Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer or the breast cancer genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) are at high risk for breast cancer. Women at high risk should have MRIs each year along with their mammograms. Women with dense breast tissue are at moderate risk for breast cancer. MRIs are not recommended for women at moderate risk for breast cancer based on what’s known today. What is Dense Breast Tissue? Breasts are made up of lobules, ducts, and fatty and fibrous connective tissue. ​ • Lobules produce milk and are often called “glandular tissue.” • Ducts are the tiny tubes that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple. • Fibrous tissue and fat give breasts their size and shape and hold the other tissues in place. Your breasts will be seen as dense if you have a lot of fibrous or glandular tissue and not much fat in the breasts. Some women have more dense breast tissue than others. For most women, breasts become less dense with age. But in some women, there’s little change. Breast density is very common, and is not abnormal. ​ How do I know if I have Dense Breasts? Breast density is seen only on mammograms. Some women think that because their breasts are firm, they are dense. But breast density isn’t based on how your breasts feel. It’s not related to breast size or firmness. Radiologists are the doctors who “read” x-rays like mammograms. They check your mammogram for abnormal areas, and also look at breast density. There are 4 categories of breast density. They go from almost all fatty tissue to extremely dense tissue with very little fat. The radiologist decides which of the 4 categories best describes how dense your breasts are. ​ Some mammogram reports sent to women mention breast density. At one time, doctors assigned a number to the density category, but it’s now worded in a way that’s easier to understand. Women whose mammograms show anything more than scattered areas of dense tissue may be told that they have “dense breasts.” Breasts are almost all fatty tissue. There are scattered areas of dense More of the breast is made of dense glandular and fibrous tissue. glandular and fibrous tissue. This can make it hard to see small tumors in or around the dense tissue. Breasts are extremely dense, which makes it hard to see tumors in the tissue. ​ ​ Why is Breast Density Important? Having dense breast tissue might increase your risk of getting breast cancer. Women who have dense breast tissue have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer compared to women with less dense breast tissue. It’s unclear at this time why dense breast tissue is linked to breast cancer risk. We know there are many risk factors for breast cancer – starting menstrual periods early, late menopause, first pregnancy after age 30, family members with breast cancer – just to name a few. The 2 most important risk factors are being a woman and getting older. Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer or the breast cancer genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2) are at high risk for breast cancer. Women at high risk should have MRIs each year along with their mammograms. Women with dense breast tissue are at moderate risk for breast cancer. MRIs are not recommended for women at moderate risk for breast cancer based on what’s known today. If I Have Dense Breasts, Do I Still Need a Mammogram? Yes. Most breast cancers can be seen on a mammogram even in women who have dense breast tissue. So, it’s still important to get regular mammograms. Mammograms can help save women’s lives. Even with a normal mammogram report, a woman should know how her breasts normally look and feel. Anytime there’s a change, she should report it to her health care provider right away. What should I do if I have dense breast tissue? If your mammogram report says that you have dense breast tissue, talk with your provider about what that means for you. Be sure that your doctor or nurse knows your medical history and whether there’s anything in your history that increases your risk for getting breast cancer. ​ Any woman who’s already in a high-risk group (based on gene mutations, a strong family history of breast cancer, or other factors) should have an MRI along with her yearly mammogram. >

Breast Cancer & Intimacy Sex After Breast Cancer? In a previous blog and podcast we opined on the difficulties of maintaining relationships with loved ones, family, spouses, partners, etc. following a breast cancer diagnosis. Now we look at the adversarial effects of breast cancer towards sexual intimacy. Many, although not all, women find that breast cancer treatment, I.e. surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, estrogen eliminating hormonal therapy, severely hampers intimate sexual relations. Poor self image, physical exhaustion, painful treatment, and emotional distress all tend to weigh in negatively regarding sex drive. But overall recovery from breast cancer is partially dependent on overcoming the above referenced issues and participating in warm loving sexual acts. Sex can thus play a pivotal role. As we have mentioned in previous posts, single women who have been diagnosed worry how breast cancer will affect their relationship prospects, and also about how and when to tell those prospective lovers about their condition. The most uncomfortable stuff to talk about is probably your sex life and the changes that have taken place with your illness. You may not know what needs fixing or how to fix it, but you know things are different. ​ Many women report having less sex than before their illness, for several reasons: ​ • The breast cancer experience slows down your body. It takes longer to do lots of things, including getting interested in and starting and finishing sexual intercourse. ​ • Sex may be uncomfortable or even painful if you've been thrown into sudden onset menopause. No surprise that you tend to have less sex, for now. Many women may have had little or no sex from the time of diagnosis through treatment. ​ ​ Most people have wild ideas about what goes on in other people's bedrooms. Give yourself a break: The carefully researched book Sex in America (by Michael, Gagnon, Laumann, and Kolata) tells us that Americans have a lot less sex than the movies, television, and the guys in the locker room would have you believe. The averages reported in that book are: ​ • seven times a month between ages 30 and 40 • six times a month between ages 40 and 50 • five times a month between ages 50 and 60 For people over 60, the numbers continue to decline. But although you may assume that no one in their 70s and 80s has a sex life, that's just not so. Don't let the myths about other people's sex lives get in the way of what's happening in yours. And remember that there are exceptions to every pattern. If your sex life is not working the way you want it to, your doctor or nurse may be able to referee these issues with your partner and you. You can cue your doctor in advance, since he or she has most likely already touched on delicate issues with you. Maybe he or she can be the tour guide for the two of you. If your partner is there when you talk with the doctor who's managing your care, you and your partner both get a chance to air and dispel fears, and replace myths and false information with facts. ​ Help from a pro Not all doctors and nurses are comfortable discussing sexual issues and practices. Most doctors don't routinely ask about your sex life. And patients don't usually begin to discuss their love life with a doctor who hasn't mentioned it. Nobody's talking! ​ Someone has to break the pattern. A trained social worker, sex therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can help you open up communication with your partner and get around to talking about intimacy and sex issues. A support group may be more helpful than you might realize. Women in these groups often share advice that extends to the bedroom, including ways to increase sexual pleasure that are explicit and specific for women who've had breast cancer. Meeting needs in other ways Most marriages have problems that don't get fixed. Marriage is a package deal, and in marriages that work, the good things outweigh the bad. But as a survivor, you may find that breast cancer highlights the problems in your marriage. Can you live with those problems? Can you enjoy your marriage even as you contemplate what's missing? Can you capture the missing pieces in other ways? Give serious thought to your needs and how to meet them. Other ways to meet your needs: ​ • Fantasy can enrich your life. Countless women read to fill the vacuum (romance novels are enormously popular). • Join a book club, a church or synagogue, or a group that meets to discuss investments, movies, or local politics. • Do more with individual friends, like walking, shopping ("retail therapy"), or travel. • Make a bigger deal of birthdays and anniversaries. • Expand your involvement in community or spiritual activities. • Get politically active in the breast cancer movement: camaraderie for a cause close to your heart. Having a serious illness almost always takes some kind of toll on your sex life. But breast cancer can bring all thoughts of intimacy and sexuality to a screeching halt. Treatments can bring on temporary -- and sometimes permanent -- premature menopause, making intercourse painful. Chemotherapy and radiation often lead to crushing fatigue. You may want to stay in bed, but you don’t want to use it for anything but sleep. The medications you take, as well as the emotional effects of the disease, can lead to depression. And of course, from the changes wrought by surgery to the hair loss and puffiness of chemotherapy, breast cancer can have a devastating effect on your body image and your ability to feel sexy. The sexual side effects of breast cancer can linger long after treatment stops. A 2007 follow-up report on young breast cancer survivors, conducted by researchers at the University of California-Berkeley, found that some women reported persistent sexual difficulties five years after their treatment had ended. And according to the National Cancer Institute, about one out of every two women who’ve undergone breast cancer treatment experiences long-term sexual dysfunction. That’s the bad news. But the good news is there is sex after breast cancer! Sex and self-image Breast cancer changes the way you see your body. “Women sometimes feel very disconnected from their bodies when they go through this,” says Jean Carter, PhD. Carter is a licensed psychologist and the sexual health counselor for the sexual health program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. “Your body’s been through so much and it’s worked to get well,” she says. ”But there have been sacrifices.” One thing you need to know early on is that your partner still finds you attractive and desirable. That’s rough on the days when you look in the mirror and can’t imagine ever feeling sexy again, much less looking sexy to someone else. It’s important to prepare yourself and your partner for what you’ll see. If you haven’t yet had surgery, ask your breast center if they have photographs of women after the kind of surgery you’ll undergo. Look at them with your partner and talk about what to expect. ​ ​ There's no denying that the sexual side effects of breast cancer can linger long after treatment is over, but there is sex after breast cancer. ​ Lumpectomies, Mastectomies, Breast Reconstructions and Thoughts on Body Image. It was created by women in a cancer survivors’ group at Penn State. ​ “The way your partner looks at your incision for the first time,” says Lillie Shockney, RN, “you’ll remember that forever.” Shockney is administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Breast Center and a breast cancer survivor herself. “If he has no clue what to expect and has a puzzled look on his face, the woman may interpret it as ‘He thinks I’m ugly, he thinks this is awful.’ Showing photographs can take the surprise away.” ​ Communication is important. Talk with your partner about what you’re comfortable with, and what you’re not. “Both partners may be waiting for the other one to make the first move,” says Shockney. “She’s waiting for him to tell her he wants sex, and he’s waiting for her to touch him.” Your partner may be afraid of hurting you, or afraid that you’ll think he’s pushing you to have sex when you’re not ready simply by asking about it. If your breasts were major erogenous zones for you before surgery, you may be feeling particularly bereft after a mastectomy or even a lumpectomy . Shockney suggests taking the pressure off by exploring and discovering other areas of your body, rather than trying to “force it” in areas where you still have performance or body image issues. “For some women, the diminished arousal in areas of a newly constructed breast or scar tissue might serve as a painful reminder that their sex life has changed,” Shockney says. Instead, think of areas like shoulders, ears, and knees as new hot spots for intimate touch. ​ If you’re still not comfortable with your new body, that’s what lingerie is for! There’s nothing wrong with getting a little help. A soft, satin nightie can be sexy and arousing. At the same time, it can help to conceal areas you’re still shy about. Or you can get even more creative. “I asked a patient to try using a feather boa to help her feel sexy, and at the same time keep her scars from being so evident. She loves it!” says Shockney. “It’s all about finding what you’re comfortable with.” Coping with changes But even as you get comfortable with the “new you” in the mirror, other parts of your body may be causing you problems in the bedroom. You may go through temporary menopause because of chemotherapy. Or if you have estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer, you may be taking hormonal therapy that can leave you in a menopausal state for years. The resulting vaginal dryness and other symptoms may make it painful to even think about having sex. ​ “A lot of women I see are afraid to have sex,” Carter tells WebMD. “They’re really struggling. And it’s a shame, because there are wonderful, simple strategies to improve your sexual experience that, taken together, can work wonders.” Vaginal moisturizers. These aren’t lubricants, which are meant to be used during sex. Instead, they’re like the moisturizers you use on your face and hands, to benefit the tissues themselves. “They’re introduced as a suppository into the vagina adding moisture back into the vaginal space and giving it that natural elasticity,” says Carter. “It’s meant to be absorbed, and it helps the vagina to have more health and moisture for several days.” ​ Lubricants. You definitely still want a lubricant for use during intercourse, says Carter. But lubricants should be combined with regular, ongoing use of vaginal moisturizers for best results. “If you’re feeling a rubbing or burning sensation during intercourse,” Carter says, “you don’t have enough lubrication. If it’s a stretching , painful sensation like the skin is going to split, you don’t have enough moisture.” Exercises. The classic Kegel exercises -- tightening and releasing the sphincter muscle as you do when you urinate -- that so many women use during pregnancy are also great for making intercourse easier. “If intercourse has been painful,” Carter says, “you may tighten up in anticipation of the pain. If you do Kegels right before intimacy , you fatigue the vaginal muscles and it is more open.” Vaginal dilators. A sex therapist, like Dr. Carter, can teach you how to use these dilators, which help gently stretch the vaginal tissue. ​ Over and over again,” Carter says, “I’ve seen women who are completely hormonally deprived be able to have comfortable, enjoyable intimacy by using these strategies. A lot of the time, it’s so easy to fix. It astonishes me how often women come into my office and ask, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me this? Shockney advises her patients to shake up their previous sexual habits. She tells them they may have been a silent player in bed before. But now she wants them to speak up. She tells them, “Say, ‘This feels good. This doesn’t feel good.’ Don’t rely on grunting for him to figure it out. That’s not the best way to communicate.” She also tells her patients, “If you’ve never watched an x-rated movie, try one -- just one. It may jump-start things, and you’ll be amazed at how active you’ll become. Or try various sex toys. So what if you never did these things before. You never had breast cancer before, either! I’ve had women come to me and say ‘I thought my sex life was great before, and then I thought I was going to lose it. But now it’s better than ever.’” ​ ​ > What's the Difference between Diet and Nutrition? On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now

Breast Cancer Book Club Where we read books that have nothing to do with cancer! Become a Clubber Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club Sun, Jun 02 Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Each month, the Breast Cancer Book Club chooses a book that has nothing to do with breast cancer. Share RSVP Our Current Book Pick of the Month Non of this is true by Lisa Jewell The Breast Cancer Book Club™ is a monthly virtual book club for breast cancer patients and survivors. Unlike the traditional support group, where breast cancer is the usual topic of discussion, this book club is designed to take our minds OFF of cancer, while still providing opportunities for support and connection! ​ When do we meet?​ The Book Club meets the first Sunday of every month at 11 am ET. You are welcome to join each month or pick and choose your month based on your availability and the book we are reading. ​ How do I know what book to read? During our Sunday virtual Book Club, we will announce the next book the group will be reading. Once announced, the information will be published on our website. You can purchase the book and join the discussion the following month. ​ Membership Membership is free! Those who join the Breast Cancer Book Club™ are encouraged to follow our Instagram Account as well as get involved in the weekly discussions through our private online group. ​ Who are the moderators? Our Breast Cancer Book Club™ is spearheaded by Dr. Jandie Schwartz, D.O. , Fellow Breast Surgical Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) and is supported by Dr. Carole Weaver, Ph. D. and best selling Author as well as the team at Survivingbreastcancer.org ​ How do I sign up ?​ It's easy! Each month, we will have that month's book club published on our Event's Page . Just RSVP and you will receive the zoom link to attend the meeting. ​ Support Our Book Club! Your donation enables us to provide books to those diagnosed with breast cancer at no cost to the patient. We firmly believe in access to services and resources and breaking down those financial barriers. thank you for your support. DONATE TO THE BOOK CLUB Join the Breast Cancer Book Club Community~ Membership FREE Come Join Us The First Sunday of Every Month at 11 AM ET May 2024: None of this is True by Lisa Jewell April 2024: The Women by Kristin Hannah March 2024: Trust, by Hernan Diaz February 2024: Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld January 2024: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt December 2023: Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear November 2023: West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge. October 2023: Sisters: A Novel by Daisy Jonshon September 2023: Group: How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life August 2023: One Italian Summer: A Novel by Rebecca Serle July 2023: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone: A Novel by Benjamin Stevenson June 2023: The Paper Palace: A Novel by Miranda Cowley Heller May 2023: Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus April 2023: American Spy by Lauren Wilkerson March 2023: Somebody’s Daughter by Ashley C. Ford February 2023: Our Missing Hearts, by Celeste Ng January 2023: Atlas of the Heart A Novel by Celeste Ng December 2022: Atlas of the Heart, by Brené Brown November 2022: It All Comes Back to You, by Beth Duke October 2022: The Maid by Nita Prose September 2022: The Twentieth Wife, by Indu Sundaresan August 2022: The Reading List, by Sara Nisha Adams July 2022: All's Well, by Mona Awad June 2022: The Mists of Avalon, by Marion Zimmer Bradley May 2022: The Lions of Fifth Avenue, by Fiona Davis April 2022: The Push, by Ashley Audrain March 2022: A Woman of No Importance, by Sonia Purnell February 2022: The Spanish Love Deception, by Elena Armas January 2022: Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions, by Brian Christian December 2021 The Last Thing he Told Me by Laura Dave November 2021: Life is So Good October 2021: Life Is So Good, by George Dawson and Richard Glaubman September 2021: The Flatshare, by Beth O'Leary August 2021: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain July 2021: The Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah June 2021: The Vanishing Half, by Brit Bennett May 2021: A Man Called Ove, by Fredrik Backman April 2021: American Dirt, by Jeanine Cummins March 2021: Is This Anything, by Jerry Seinfeld February 2021: The Red Tent, by Anita Diamant January 2021: Joyful, by Ingrid Fetell Lee December 2020: Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens November 2020: A Most Beautiful Thing, by Arshay Cooper Breast Cancer Book Club™ List Pick Your Own Book

Surviving Breast Cancer provides breast cancer support, events, and webinars at no cost to you! Whether you are looking to gain more knowledge on a particular topic or meet up with other breast cancer survivors, we have something for everyone. Join our Support Group which meets every Thursday night. Attend one of our Sunday Metastatic Breast Cancer Series. Explore a live webinar featuring experts in the field. Move your body and mind with us every Monday. We even have a monthly Breast Cancer Book Club! Learn More and RSVP for Upcoming Events & Programs (Click here for Programs in Spanish) ​ Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP In body Breathwork Tue, May 21 Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Breathwork is a powerful modality that combines conscious breathing techniques with mindfulness and meditation. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC 2.0 Thu, May 23 Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event IBC 2.0 is a private support group for individuals who have graduated from our standing Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC. Our IBC 2.0 group dives into topics, questions, and concerns on a deeper level as members already know one another and have graduated from TNT-IBC. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Nights Thrivers Meetup Thu, May 23 Virtual May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual This is your weekly breast cancer support group! It's a welcoming and inviting virtual space where you can come to meet others, ask questions, or just listen in. Our sessions are always confidential and a friendly space offering support as well a a bit of humor. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts Fri, May 24 Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Brain Spotting Mon, May 27 Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Brainspotting is a therapy technique used to address trauma and emotional distress. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Qi Gong with Kim Tue, May 28 Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Meet the SBC Early Stage Team Tue, May 28 Livestream May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Livestream May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Livestream Meet SurvivingBreastCancer.org’s Early Stage Leadership Team! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Triage Cancer: Benefits for Veterans with Cancer Wed, May 29 webinar May 29, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT webinar May 29, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT webinar Triage Cancer Conferences cover key tips to help navigate legal and practical issues, reduce the financial burden of a cancer diagnosis, and lower stress. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club Sun, Jun 02 Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Each month, the Breast Cancer Book Club chooses a book that has nothing to do with breast cancer. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: HOPE Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Forest Bathing Tue, Jun 04 Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Join this Forest Bathing class and experience a deeper connection with nature, reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation Share RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support Thu, Jun 06 Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Join us for our signature Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup! On the first Thursday of every month, we will have a special breakout room for the MBC community. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jun 10 Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Yoga stretching can be a helpful way to improve your range of motion and reduce pain after DIEP flap surgery. Share RSVP Load More Breast Cancer Support & Events Curated For You

Newly Diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Now What? What brings you to this website is most likely a metastatic breast cancer (MBC) diagnosis. Perhaps you experienced a recurrence from early stage breast cancer (stages 0,I, II, or III) to advanced or late stage breast cancer (stage IV, MBC). In some cases you may have been diagnosed de-Novo meaning that you never experienced an early stage of breast cancer and based on diagnostic tests were diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer as your initial diagnosis. Whatever the reason, I want you to know that you will be supported and that our Surviving Breast Cancer (SBC) community is here for you! ​ We are here to help! A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis is different than an early stage diagnosis in the way in which it disrupts our lives and throws us into a whirlwind of continual doctors appointments, follow ups, tests, scans, and the like. Each and every one of us have unique experiences, and what our SBC platform and community provides is education, support, and resources for you as a complement to your medical care. We are not medical professionals, nor provide medical advice. But what we do offer is content, stories, and community when you need it most! What I mean by that is you are welcome to dive in to absolutely everything we offer today, or, you can take bite size approaches to get the information and support when you feel ready for it. We've listed a few links and resources to help get you started and to hopefully make things a bit less overwhelming. Download. Questions to Ask Your Surgeon Download PDF Questions to Ask Your Radiologist Downlod PDF Questions to Ask Your Oncologist Coming Soon Burning Questions Latest News Who Should I Tell? ​ Click here to add your File description. Summarize the content of the file, why it is useful, and who should download it. Should I Get A Second Opinion? You may consider receiving a second (third, or fouth) opinion from another medical oncologist or breast surgeon. In some cases, people get multiple opinions before making any decisions on their care and medical treatment plan. ​ Women in our Breast Cancer Support Group often share that it is important for them to feel comfortable with your doctors; that there is a rapport and trust. After all, your medical team is going to be your primary caregiver so it is important you feel comfortable with the person, able to ask questions, and feel confident in your plan of action. As one woman in our MBC community mentioned, "the more smart people reviewing my specific cancer, the better!" ​ Your Medical Care Team may consist of one or several of the following: Breast Oncologist Breast Surgeon Breast Plastic Surgeon Radiation Oncologist Social Worker Psychologist Palliative Care team Natrapathic Doctor Nutritionist What Treatment Options Do I Have? Thanks to continued research taking place in Breast Cancer, people diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer have a variety of treatment options and are able to live long and fulfilling lives. Treatment options will be tailored to your specific diagnosis and dependent on where the cancer has metastasized (spread). For example, is it HER2 positive or negative, is it triple negative meaning it is estrogen receptor negative, progesterone receptor negative and HER2 negative. Additionally, though a series of diagnostics, your oncologist will also be able to tell if the cancer is in one area like the bones or the lungs, or if it is in multiple areas such as bones and other organs (liver, brain, etc.). ​ You may also consider genetic testing. The more information you have about you, your body, and your caner, the better! ​ Traditional standard of care includes: Surgery (not always required if you are diagnosed with metastatic stage IV breast cancer, that is, your cancer has spread beyond your breast to your bones, lungs, liver, or brain) Radiation (not always required but may be offered to target specific metastasis and/or allieveate pain as a form of palliative treatment) Chemotherapy Hormonal Therapy (not always required) ​ Oftentimes people will also consider integrative therapies as a complement to the standard treatments which also has been shown to reduce some of the side effects of treatment: Acupuncture Yoga Meditation ​ Additionally speak to your oncologist about Clinical Trials and if you would be a candidate. Will I Need Chemotherapy? It is most likely that if you are diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer you will be offer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Treatment options can come in the form of oral chemotherapy or IV. ​ . Tue, Sep 10 Online 8 Week Program Encourage and Empower Program for the Newly Diagnosed Sep 10, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online 8 Week Program Join Gloria Shoon for a weekly gathering of encouragement and empowerment. In this 8 week program, designed specifically for those who are newly diagnosed, participants will explore tiny habits that build upon each other. Share RSVP

Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast For Providers Subscribe More Make A Difference Through Asset Based Giving Donating assets to SurvivingBreastCancer.org holds significant value and contributes immensely to our mission of providing comprehensive support, resources, and advocacy for those battling breast cancer. Here are several key points highlighting the importance and advantages of asset-based donations: $50 $100 $250 Making a Meaningful Difference: Your asset donations directly contribute to providing essential services, financial aid, emotional support, and educational resources to breast cancer patients, survivors, and their families. Each donation helps in fostering a community of hope and resilience. Tax Advantages and Financial Benefits: Because we are a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non profit donating appreciated assets, such as stocks, real estate, automobiles or other investments, may offer substantial tax advantages. It can result in tax deductions for the fair market value of the donated assets, potentially reducing capital gains taxes and providing significant financial benefits to the donor. ​ Supporting Ongoing Programs and Initiatives: Asset-based donations contribute to sustaining and expanding SurvivingBreastCancer.org's programs, including support groups, awareness campaigns, research initiatives, and access to vital resources for underserved communities. ​ Creating Lasting Legacies: Donating assets allows individuals to leave a lasting legacy of support for breast cancer patients and survivors. It embodies a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer, leaving an enduring impact on our community ​ Encouraging Others to Give: Your donations serve as an inspiring example, encouraging others within our community and beyond to contribute, fostering a culture of generosity and philanthropy. The people in this community are so warm and welcoming. The conversations transcend beyond breast cancer stories, thus creating even stronger connections. I finally found my tribe! How to Donate I encourage you to consider the significant impact of donating assets to SurvivingBreastCancer.org. Your contributions, whether large or small, play a pivotal role in our collective efforts to support and uplift those affected by breast cancer. Together, let's continue our mission of bringing hope, support, and strength to individuals and families facing the challenges of breast cancer. Or contact William at 603.361.7018 Email William Today Contact William Directly to discuss the endless possibilities and to set up your donation. More Ways to Give If you would like to schedule an appointment and discuss legacy donations or endowments, please contact SBC. We are happy to partner with you! Donate by Check Survivingbreastcancer.org 5 Cedar Street, Suite 1 Roxbury, MA 02119 Checks can be made out to "Survivingbreastcancer.org" Donate by Venmo @Survivingbreastcancerorg Donate Securities Contact SBC Donate Now

Breast Health Understanding Your Breast Health is the first step in being breast aware and knowing your body so that you can proactively advocate for yourself when you sense that something is not quit right. ​ Despite how well we eat, exercise, and maintain a healthy life-style, it is still possible to develop breast cancer. This information serves as strategies to empower you and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. ​​ If you develop breast caner, know that it is not your fault. The founder of Surviving Breast Cancer was a vegetarian since the age of 16 later to become a vegan. Out of the blue she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 34. We don't have all of the answers nor know why some people get breast cancer while others do not. What we do know are tools we can use to be breast aware, get screened, and understand our family history. >

Megatrends in Treasury, Money and Banking Megatrends in Treasury, Money and Banking Anthony J. Carfang, The Carfang Group Innovation, technology, regulation and geopolitics are intersecting and are about to change the face of treasury, money and banking as never before. Issues that appear small or incremental today could be seismic in the longer term. As markets, institutions and governments deal with these cross-currents, we could be witnessing the beginning of a transformation on a grand scale in finance. In this series, The Carfang Group presents eleven issues that will change the financial world. We call these the “Megatrends”. This article presents the eleven megatrends and invites your feedback and discussion. Subsequent articles will explore each of these in detail. These are the eleven Megatrends which we believe will reshape our financial world over the next decade. Central Bank roles are scaled back. Asset Managers overtake banks. Deposit Banking diminishes in importance. Deposit Insurance becomes universal. Private Liquidity Funds emerge as a major asset class. Technology disintermediates the intermediaries. Truly immediate payments eclipse “faster payments”. 20th century institutions and structures are realigned. Currency takes on a new role. Alternative currencies gain acceptance. Solutions for the underbanked take shape. ​ ​ About the author: Anthony J. Carfang is Managing Director of The Carfang Group and has a distinguished background in consulting, writing, speaking, thought leadership and advocacy in the area of treasury, payments and liquidity. He encourages you to provide feedback on this article or any other issues to tony_carfang@carfang.com . You can follow Tony at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carfang/ Central Bank roles are scaled back. ​ To receive a pdf version of this white paper, email tony_carfang@carfang.com ." ​ Central Bank roles are scaled back. ​ Without question, many central banks functioned superbly during the financial crisis in the dual roles of lender of last resort and payment guarantor of last resorts. They forcefully took on powers necessary to prevent a worldwide depression. Instead of reverting to their historical role after the crisis abated by 2011, they continued to function in crisis mode and now seem to have taken for themselves an entirely new mandate of economic support. We believe that this will come under close scrutiny over the next decade and the missions of central banks world-wide will be scaled back. Consider the following “last resort” moves that remain in place ten years post-crisis: ​ Central bank balance sheets remain at levels which make them THE dominant players, distorting the financial markets rather than merely facilitating those markets. Securities on their balance sheets now stand at $23 trillion, up from $4 trillion pre-crisis. The Federal Reserve began paying interest on bank excess reserves in a not so subtle effort to inject capital into banks and to fund its swollen balance sheet. Long after the crisis, it still pays market interest, thereby competing for private capital while quashing the intrabank Fed Funds market. Operation Twist was a specific program designed to lower long term rates relative to short term rates. Many of these OT securities remain on the Fed balance sheet, impacting the shape of the yield curve today. Quantitative Easing and Quantitative tightening are direct attempts by central banks to impact growth levels, still ongoing today, and are not a direct part of their mandate. Combined, these activities distort the important market signals that are necessary in robust markets. Central bank roles will come under close examination. The debate will be intense but healthy. Should central banks be limited to their "first principles" of currency stability and lender of last resort? Or should they proactively manage world economies? We expect a tilt back toward the former. Asset Managers overtake banks. Commercial banks have historically been the primary conduit through which depositors and borrowers clear the market. Most individuals and businesses maintain bank accounts to facilitate transactions and savings. Similarly, for individuals and all but the largest businesses, these banks are also the primary source of loans. Asset managers, on the other hand, provide investment management services primarily by deploying their investors’ capital via the secondary markets. That is abruptly changing in ways that are just beginning to emerge. We believe that over the next decade, asset managers will overtake banks as the primary financial institutions in both the retail and wholesale markets. Commercial banks, long the dominant market players, saw their competitive advantage sharply curtailed following the financial crisis. They became subject to SIFI supervision, Basel III’s liquidity requirements, tiered capital requirements and much more. Over the past ten years, total assets of the largest banks have been relatively flat. Asset managers not subject to these requirements, in particular the largest three companies, have grown enormously. The “Big 3” have nearly tripled in assets since the crisis and are now larger than the largest commercial banks. We expect that these supersized asset managers will be able to muscle into all aspects of the commercial banking franchise and radically alter the playing field. It is true that commercial banks enjoy the dual monopolies of deposit aggregation powers and payment settlement finality. However, technology will diminish those advantages (see below) to the point at which they cannot overcome their regulatory, capital and liquidity burdens. Deposit Banking diminishes in importance. The centuries-old deposit banking paradigm will not disappear anytime soon. But we believe it will radically change in the near future, creating significant winners and losers among financial and payments institutions. Deposits have long served two primary functions. They were a buffer to mitigate the uncertain clearing time for payments and they served as a repository for savings on the part of individuals who did not have direct access to the institutional markets. Rates paid on transaction deposits were negligible but that was part of the offset for transaction costs. Rates paid on savings were more competitive but slightly below market, given that banks provided the only way for retail savers to earn any return at all. Even today, banks aggressively compete for deposits across most wholesale and retail segments. Yet we believe this model is about to change as the cross currents of technology and regulation play out. ​ On the transaction front, with faster (instant) payments will come greater certainty, leading to what we refer to as “just-in-time money”. In this new world, the need for a buffer vanishes. Fintech solutions will fund these accounts as necessary and will deploy all excess funds into the money markets. On the savings front, technology is eliminating the friction and transaction costs that stood in the way of savers directly accessing the markets. On-line brokers and internet banks are just the tip of the iceberg. Further, traditional commercial banks are saddled with Basel III related capital, liquidity and stable funding requirements that further erode their competitiveness. Deposits were once the holy grail of banking. That is about the change. Deposit Insurance becomes universal. Government insurance for bank deposits is a common safety net worldwide. By insuring a set level of deposits, governments boost depositors’ faith in the banking system and encourage capital formation. Banks are assessed premiums by the insuring government agency. These premiums are generally passed along to depositors in the form of slightly lower rates or higher transaction costs. At the onset of the financial crisis, the U.S. Congress raised the coverage amount from $100,000 to $250,000 per depositor per institution, and that has not been rolled back during the recovery. Temporarily, the limit was removed altogether for non-interest-bearing accounts. Taking deposit insurance well beyond the safety net aspect, financial institutions and tech companies are partnering to expand coverage to all of a customer’s deposits. A depositor can place funds well above the $250,000 limit with a lead participant. A servicer will take that large deposit, break it into $250,000 units and place one unit each with other banks in their network. Some networks include over 1,000 banks, enabling a depositor to place up to $250 million in a single deposit and have the entire amount insured. While this might seem to be at odds with the spirit of deposit insurance, neither the FDIC nor Congress have taken steps to limit the rapid spread of these deposits that now exceed $1 trillion, one-eighth of the total insured deposit base. In fact, in 2018 Congress passed legislation that gave regulatory support to “reciprocal” deposits, a subset of these types of programs. Consider, then, the rapidly approaching scenario in which ALL deposits are insured and the resulting moral hazard. A thin layer of bank shareholder capital is the only source of market discipline. The government is on the hook for all losses. That asymmetry likely leads to outsized risk taking. Ultimately, the government will be forced to step in and de facto nationalize the banks. Bills have been introduced in Congress, most recently in 2018, to allow the US Postal Service to take deposits and make loans. This could be the logical conclusion of unlimited deposit insurance. If the government is bearing all the risks of the banking system, the logical conclusion is that it takes over the banking system. USPS banks could be the first step in that direction. Private Liquidity Funds emerge as a major asset class. Like private equity funds a few decades ago, which provided a way to circumvent public markets for long term capital, Private Liquidity Funds will circumvent the public markets to enable the efficient provision of liquidity to both investors and borrowers. Technology is enabling “just-in-time money” which will redefine “liquidity”. Sweep accounts are now available at low cost to most savers and investors. Funds can be fully invested right up to the day they are needed. Thanks to fintech advances, funds can be drawn down at precisely the time they are needed. At the same time, regulators in the U.S. and around the world have hamstrung money market funds that focus on private sector liquidity. In 2016, US regulators implemented regulations that reduced the viability of prime money market funds. Prime funds invested in commercial paper and other private sector debt instruments. Thus, both the providers and users of liquidity were penalized. The bulk of prime fund assets flowed into government and treasury funds and are no longer available to provide liquidity to businesses. Similar regulations are currently being implemented in Europe. Unfortunately, because of the dramatic scale-back of prime funds, the most efficient conduit between providers and users of liquidity has been significantly curtailed. The upshot will be an entirely new asset class. Some forward-thinking asset managers have already established the first funds of this breed. They are similar to the pre-regulation 2a-7 funds but are limited to institutional investors. However, we expect these to morph into an asset class that will ultimately look very different from the current funds (MMFs, SMAs and Ultra Short Bond Funds) and incorporate the redefined “liquidity” and facilitate just-in-time cash. Forty years ago, no one envisioned the current structure and transformative role of private equity funds. We believe a similar transformation is about to overtake the liquidity market. Technology disintermediates the intermediaries. Historically, banks and other financial intermediaries filled the information gap between suppliers of capital (depositors, investors) and users of capital. They also bridged the gap between risk takers and risk avoiders. Banks knew both sides of the trade and could comfortably stand between providers and users of capital who did not know each other. If a single bank did not know the counter party of a transaction, it could easily locate a correspondent bank that did. These intermediaries lowered the transaction costs and risks (friction) that separated borrowers from lenders. The result was the rapid global expansion of trade and commerce. Fintech is changing all that in five key ways: Technology is fast closing that information gap. It is putting more reliable and more up-to-date information in the hands of all the parties in any given transaction, reducing the need for an intermediary. Social networks such as LinkedIn and others allow buyers and sellers to connect and investigate each other directly. Peer-to-Peer networks and microfinance schemes bypass the financial intermediary entirely. Technology is powering broad based sweep programs that move excess funds out of even the smallest investor or depositor accounts, the intermediaries, and directly into the financial markets. Intelligent technologies, such as robo-advisors, use sophisticated algorithms to bypass the traditional channels. The upshot is that the intermediary role of financial institutions is being displaced. Truly immediate payments eclipse faster payments. Over the past several decades, payments have become faster, cheaper and more reliable. Checks used to take days in the mail and then days to clear once deposited. International funds transfers would pass through several banks, each taking a “lifting” fee as the funds slowly passed from originator to recipient. Fortunately, those days are over. Now, central banks, commercial banks and payment networks are all racing each other to make payments even speedier. This is all very good since timing delays in payments and the attendant information flows create risk and uncertainty as well as wreaking havoc with cash forecasts and liquidity cushions. In the US the Fed launched its Faster Payments task force with this statement: “The task force calls upon all stakeholders to seize this historic opportunity to realize the vision for a payment system in the United States that is faster, ubiquitous, broadly inclusive, safe, highly secure, and efficient by 2020.” Around the globe, the UK announced its Faster Payments Service in 2008. In 2017, the European Central Bank kicked off its TIPS program (TARGET Instant Payment Settlement) with the goal of “instant” payments 24/7 within the euro area. The Monetary Authority of Hong Kong launched the Faster Payments System initiative in 2018. No doubt, payments are becoming much faster, more secure and more universal. The benefits of these initiatives are immense. In faster payments, funds and information, however fast and efficient, must still flow between the originator, the originator’s payment processor and/or bank, a central bank, the recipient’s payment processor and/or bank before becoming settled funds in the recipients account with finality. Even the ECB, in its TIPS communique, defined instant payments as “a matter of seconds”. That is a huge improvement. However, as high-frequency traders and arbitrageurs know, “a matter of seconds” is an eternity in financial markets. We believe that there will be one more step beyond faster payments: truly immediate payments. These payments will settle instantly, anywhere, anytime. At present, it’s difficult to envision. Perhaps blockchain technology is providing us the first glimpse. This has the potential of eliminating the sequential process of moving money and information (however fast) among transactors, their intermediaries and their settlement network. Alternatively, the paradigm for instant payments might come from outside the industry. Consider this analogy with railroads. In the late 19th century, railroads competed with each other to provide faster, safer and cheaper options in moving both passengers and freight between two points. Yet, even in the heat of that competition, no one within the industry considered putting wings on rail cars. Ironically, most payment intermediaries today refer to their networks as “rails”. 20th century institutions and structures are realigned. Post-WWII, late 20th century institutions and structures are unraveling. But, because they are so ingrained in our psyche, these shifts seem incomprehensible. The magnitude and scope of their impact are difficult to assess. But we believe that this is a megatrend impacting Treasury, Money and Banking. Trade organizations and trade agreements are coming apart or are being realigned in material ways. To see just a few underway right now, look no farther than the Pacific trade agreements, NAFTA and the EU with Brexit. Countries are subtly shifting to bi-lateral rather than multi-lateral constructs. Structures are also giving way. SWIFT is caught in a tug of war between its nominal role as a funds transfer communication system and its externally imposed role of sanctions enforcer. LIBOR, the reference rate for several trillion dollars of actual debt and hundreds of trillions of dollars of derivatives is phasing out within the next two years. The financial world needs to be repapered! Government-Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) are coming under scrutiny. Agencies such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that provide government guarantees in order to meet a “social good” took shape following the early 20th century’s great depression. They have now grown into behemoths, and some lay the blame of the 2008 financial crisis at the doorstep of the housing GSEs. Although governments decried the size of these agencies and vowed to trim then, they have continued to grow since the crisis. Paradoxically, central banks need GSE to create the instruments that now sit on their swollen balance sheets. We believe that many of these agencies will be downsized over time. The 20th century financial and geopolitical world is changing, and all market participants must adapt. ​ Currency takes on a new role. This megatrend is counter-intuitive, but the data are clear. For decades, we’ve heard that we’re moving toward a cashless society. One with everything on a card or in a chip. Not so. The evidence is that, over the last decade, currency in circulation as a percentage of GDP has nearly doubled worldwide. In the US, currency increased from $800 billion in 2006 to $1.7 trillion in late 2018. That’s hardly a cashless society. (Scandinavia is an exception we need to explore.) Central banks and academia are beginning to study this phenomenon. Some key hypotheses about factors contributing to this are currently being formulated. They include: ​ Convenience – It’s easy to transact in cash. Low holding cost – In an ultra-low interest rate environment, cash is cheap. Privacy – Currency transactions (and barter) are the only types of economic activity that don’t inherently require a corresponding exchange of data. Historically, currency has defined the underground economy. We now see an emerging role for currency in the above-ground economy for market participants desiring and valuing privacy or anonymity. Store of Value – In negative interest rate environments we see in some parts of the world, there is actually an economic benefit to holding currency in order to retain value. More interestingly, in certain low interest rate environments, the low carrying costs, to many, seem like a small price to pay to hedge political or economic uncertainty. India is a fascinating case study in progress. In November 2016, India eliminated large denominated rupee notes that represented 86% of India’s currency. Citizens had the opportunity to exchange the notes for smaller denomination notes. The intent was to root out the underground economy and raise tax revenue. The ramifications were far reaching and still playing out. But Bloomberg offers one interesting conclusion: “Cash remains the most popular form of tender in India. Currency with the public has increased to 18.5 trillion rupees in August 2018 from 17.9 trillion rupees before demonetization.” That is a 3% increase in currency in spite of an 86% drop in large denominated notes! Again, economists at present are trying to understand the factors behind this trend. Obviously, however, this creates a nightmare for regulators and those managing monetary policy. The trend is both real and “Mega”. ​ Alternative currencies gain acceptance. This megatrend challenges the definition of money itself – the gaining acceptance of alternative currencies including crypto currencies. In ancient times, post-barter, precious commodities were the prevailing instrument of exchange and store of value. These commodities had intrinsic value that resulted in their reliability and acceptance. The middle ages saw the emergence of fiat currencies. They had value because a government said they had value. The problem with pre-modern fiat currencies is that they could be easily debased. A ruling body could simply turn on the printing press. Current fiat currencies such as the dollar, euro, pound, etc. are much more stable than their predecessors. That’s because they are issued and backed by the full faith and credit of sovereign governments. They are managed with a “goal” of price stability by central banks. The track record is far from perfect and debasement examples abound, but it is certainly improved. Crypto technologies are now enabling a new genre of fiat currency: crypto currencies like bitcoin and others. They are not the product of precious metals or scarce commodities. They are not issued by governments (yet). They are not “full faith and credit” instruments. They are not managed by central backs. Proponents insist that this litany of “they are nots” is actually a benefit, not a shortcoming. Following the Subjective Theory of Value, crypto currencies have value because buyers and sellers believe they have value. They are fiat currencies without governments or central banks. Adherents argue that frees them from manipulation by governments or central banks and creates a universal value. Air-BnB, Uber and Lyft offer instructive examples. After all, who would invite a total stranger to spend a night in their homes or jump into a stranger’s car. A key thing these companies provide to the gig economy is a decentralized mechanism of trust (in contrast to the trusted “central” bank). In doing so, they have transformed industries. This could be the trajectory of certain crypto currencies. We believe that some alternative currencies will become mainstream. While they might not be both a universal store of value and medium of exchange, some might take hold as settlement vehicles for specific types of payments. Others, because of their distributed processing security, could be liquidity vehicles. Still others, because of their global nature, could eliminate the need for foreign exchange in global trade. We’ll explore the profound implication in later megatrend articles. Solutions for the underbanked take shape. 30% of the world’s population do not have bank accounts. Many more do not have access to a basic set of banking services. They must either transact in cash, barter or use third party payment services, which tend to be very expensive. Check cashing services, payday lending, money orders, money transfer services, etc. provide the underbanked with some ability to make payments, but at a high cost. The economic impact is significant. In addition to the direct cost that the underbanked pay to access the financial system, there is an even greater cost in terms of lost economic activity. The inability to easily transact reduces the level of transactions and depresses commerce and trade. Fortunately, new technologies could provide economically viable solutions for the underbanked in the three most critical financial functions: ​ Payment system access – Currently, people and businesses need a bank account to initiate or receive payments. Solutions developed by payments intermediaries and enabled by blockchain will provide the underbanked with payment services, conceivably bypassing the banking system altogether. Store of value – Blockchain could become the system of record for certain types of financial assets. This promises to allow the underbanked to safely and securely accumulate financial assets without having bank accounts. Assets could even be denominated in traditional central bank currencies or in crypto currencies. Access to capital – Peer to peer lending and micro finance are already providing non-traditional access to capital for the underbanked. Technology will accelerate this trend and make these services available to a larger population. Bringing the underbanked into the mainstream of the world’s economies creates opportunities that are difficult to fully appreciate. Increased economic activity, improved standards of living, expansion of markets are just some of the benefits that await. ​ In Conclusion , this paper has presented eleven megatrends impacting treasury, money and banking on a global scale. Some of these trends are natural extensions of technological innovation, others are regulatory work-arounds or the result of geopolitical forces well beyond the control of any single jurisdiction. The Carfang Group believes that each of these megatrends, individually, are transformational and collectively point to a potential radical change to the financial system. Future articles will consider each of these megatrends in greater depth. We welcome your feedback as we embark of this exploration. ​ About the author: Anthony J. Carfang is Managing Director of The Carfang Group and has a distinguished background in consulting, writing, speaking, thought leadership and advocacy in the area of treasury, payments and liquidity. He encourages you to provide feedback on this article or any other issues to tony_carfang@carfang.com . You can follow Tony at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carfang/ ​ ​ ​ © 2019 The Carfang Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

Surviving Breast Cancer May 10 1 min Poetry They Look at You Surviving Breast Cancer May 9 1 min Poetry This Journey of Life Surviving Breast Cancer May 3 1 min Poetry BEYOND THE DREAM Surviving Breast Cancer May 1 1 min Poetry Uninvited Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 26 1 min Poetry VESSEL Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 15 1 min Poetry The Now Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 11 2 min Poetry Solitude No More Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 10 1 min Poetry Knowing Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 3 2 min Poetry SBC Surviving Breast Cancer Mar 27 1 min Poetry I learnt to live, I learnt to stay Surviving Breast Cancer Mar 19 1 min Poetry Abrupt Surviving Breast Cancer Mar 15 1 min Poetry What No One Tells You Surviving Breast Cancer Mar 8 1 min Poetry Moremi Surviving Breast Cancer Feb 28 1 min Poetry Sunshine Surviving Breast Cancer Feb 1 1 min Poetry Nurse Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 16 1 min Poetry Moving forward but not moving on… Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 16 1 min Poetry Body Reclaimed Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 11 1 min Poetry Fantastic Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 3 2 min Poetry Breast Cancer’s Cruel Song Surviving Breast Cancer Dec 20, 2023 1 min Poetry Sweet or Spicy Surviving Breast Cancer Dec 14, 2023 1 min Poetry In The Quiet Realm (forever renowned) Surviving Breast Cancer Dec 12, 2023 1 min Poetry Love in Two Dimensions (my tiny love story) Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 29, 2023 1 min Poetry I Miss Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 24, 2023 1 min Poetry A poem for my medical team during my cancer battle Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 21, 2023 1 min Poetry Wig Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 16, 2023 1 min Poetry How I Can Change Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 18, 2023 1 min Poetry Retreat 2023 Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 11, 2023 1 min Poetry Inspire & Innovate Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 3, 2023 1 min Poetry Compassion Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 20, 2023 1 min Poetry A Roller Coaster Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 14, 2023 1 min Poetry Brooklyn 9/12 Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 12, 2023 3 min Poetry Via Con Dios Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 6, 2023 1 min Poetry The Biopsy Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 30, 2023 1 min Poetry You’re Worth It Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 15, 2023 2 min Poetry Resilience Unveiled Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 3, 2023 1 min Blog Le Tour (An allegory) Surviving Breast Cancer Jul 25, 2023 1 min Poetry The Mask Surviving Breast Cancer Jul 14, 2023 1 min Blog Continue to dance in the rain Surviving Breast Cancer Jul 11, 2023 1 min Blog Free Surviving Breast Cancer Jul 7, 2023 1 min Blog NEVER AGAIN Surviving Breast Cancer Jun 28, 2023 1 min Blog Anniversary Surviving Breast Cancer Jun 22, 2023 1 min Blog To everything a purpose Surviving Breast Cancer May 30, 2023 1 min Poetry Light House Surviving Breast Cancer May 24, 2023 1 min Poetry The Universe Speaks Surviving Breast Cancer May 17, 2023 1 min Poetry Word Wonderland Surviving Breast Cancer May 9, 2023 1 min Poetry New Day Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 28, 2023 1 min Poetry New Saying or New Dates? Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 26, 2023 1 min Poetry I Will Be Better Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 20, 2023 1 min Poetry Waiting for Hercules Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 18, 2023 1 min Poetry Atlanta in November 1 2 3 Make a Difference Today This is your Welcome section paragraph. As the first text your readers encounter, this copy should clearly convey what your site is all about. Explore Make a Difference Today This is your Welcome section paragraph. As the first text your readers encounter, this copy should clearly convey what your site is all about. Explore Make a Difference Today This is your Welcome section paragraph. As the first text your readers encounter, this copy should clearly convey what your site is all about. Explore Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jun 10 Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Expressive Writing How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Breast Cancer Poetry Writing is a great form of therapy and healing. Enjoy the original compositions from our Survivingbreastcancer.org Community! Be Inspired. Submit Your Poem

Resources For Parents A breast cancer diagnosis not only affects the person with the disease, but also has a significant impact on the people around them; their families, spouses, children, friends and co-workers. Receiving the news that someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer may propel you into a flurry of emotions. It is natural to feel worried about the unknown and uncertainty. It is also natural to want to do everything you can to protect and support the person as well. After all, we want to be strong and be there for the person as they are going through grueling treatments and tireless complex decision-making. ​ At Survivingbreastcancer.org (SBC), we also understand that the role the family (parent, spouse, & children), caregivers, and friends play is a critical one, and you too need support and resources. ​ Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis takes both an emotional and physical toll on each and every one of us. While a lot of the attention may be directed towards the person with breast cancer, we pride ourselves on carving out space to provide education, community, and resources to meet your specific needs as the spouse, parent, child, or friend. Whether you recently found out that someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, has experienced a recurrence or progression, or has passed away from metastatic disease, we hold space for you and want you to know that you are not alone. We are here for you! ​ Remember that each of us manages and navigates a breast cancer diagnosis differently. What we aim to provide is a community where you can share experiences and recommendations, and learn from each other. No one is navigating this alone. Your story is someone else's lifeline. We are all experts in our own experiences; we share the names and memories of those we have lost; continue to love; and we are here to build lasting friendships and forge bonds as we navigate a breast cancer diagnosis from day one and beyond. ​ With Gratitude, Laura Carfang Executive Director Kids & Adult Children Caregivers More Resources For Spouses Hello Moms, Dads, Children, and Loved Ones.​ Surviving a Child's Diagnosis Surviving a Spouse's Diagnosis Surviving a Parent's Diagnosis Hear Their Stories Subscribe to Our Mailing List Join Thanks for subscribing!

Read Stories Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 14, 2022 1 min My Boys and My News By Jill Rackham I will never know what it was like for my children to receive such news about their mum, Telling my boys about my cancer... 113 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min How To Be Helpful When A Loved One Is Sick By Nate Kolmodin My name is Nate Kolmodin. My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2004. After recently learning about her... 83 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min All the Things I Wish You Were Here For: I Lost My Mom to Breast Cancer By Kyla Thompson All the things I wish you were here for. All the things I wish you could tell me. All the things I struggle with because... 31 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 1 min Goodbyes Are Hard By Matilda Flanagan (11 years old) I cry as someone holds me Trying to calm me They rock me Just like my mom did Before she got sick I... 25 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 1 min It Will Be OK By Matilda Flanagan (11 years old) It will be OK She will be OK Hair isn’t everything It will grow back I can’t pretend everything is OK... 47 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Kyla’s Story This is a story about my mom. A story of love. A story changed by breast cancer, but not defined by it. My mom was my best friend. She... 32 Post not marked as liked 1 2 My name is Kyla Thompson, and I welcome you, kids, like me, to our space! My mom passed away of metastatic breast when I was 13. She was first diagnosed when I was two years old. I didn't know what breast cancer was then. 11years later, on October 21, 2014, a world that was filled with sports, homework, friends, and more shifted in a few seconds. My mom was gone. It was at a breast cancer walk just a few weeks later, with thousands of people, when I realized the need for #pinkkids. Of all the walkers, more than half were kids. I knew then I wasn’t alone. ​ I knew we needed to connect with each others and #pinkkids is the place for that connection. We are starting by sharing stories on the blog and through podcasts, as well as a private Group (link below). We’ll keep you up to date through SBC emails, as well as our Instagram (_pinkkids_). Looking forward to talking! Do you have a mom or dad who has been diagnosed with breast cancer? Or perhaps you have lost a parent to MBC? Connect with Kyla, share your story, post your why, or just let her know how you are doing today, we're all here to listen, support, and be a resource! ​ Email Kyla at pinkkids@survivingbreastcancer.org Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast For Providers Subscribe More Resources For Children & Adolescents Share your story. Share Your Why. Share A picture. Share. Email Kyla at pinkkids@survivingbreastcancer.org

Know the Stats Get the Facts Understand your risk. About 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. ​ In 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 49,290 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. ​ About 2,650 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2021. A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 833. ​ About 43,600 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2021 from breast cancer. Death rates have been steady in women under 50 since 2007, but have continued to drop in women over 50. The overall death rate from breast cancer decreased by 1% per year from 2013 to 2018. These decreases are thought to be the result of treatment advances and earlier detection through screening. ​ Understandng Breast Cancer Breast Cancer Statistics Breast Cancer Symptoms Risk Factors Geneic Testing Breast Desnity ​ For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer. ​ As of January 2021, there are more than 3.8 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S. This includes women currently being treated and women who have finished treatment. ​ Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2021, it's estimated that about 30% of newly diagnosed cancers in women will be breast cancers. ​ Breast cancer became the most common cancer globally as of 2021, accounting for 12% of all new annual cancer cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. ​ In women under 45, breast cancer is more common in Black women than white women. Overall, Black women are more likely to die of breast cancer. For Asian, Hispanic, and Native-American women, the risk of developing and dying from breast cancer is lower. Ashkenazi Jewish women have a higher risk of breast cancer because of a higher rate of BRCA mutations. ​​ Breast cancer incidence rates in the U.S. began decreasing in the year 2000, after increasing for the previous two decades. They dropped by 7% from 2002 to 2003 alone. One theory is that this decrease was partially due to the reduced use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) by women after the results of a large study called the Women’s Health Initiative were published in 2002. These results suggested a connection between HRT and increased breast cancer risk. In recent years, incidence rates have increased slightly by 0.5% per year. ​ A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Less than 15% of women who get breast cancer have a family member diagnosed with it. ​ About 5-10% of breast cancers can be linked to known gene mutations inherited from one’s mother or father. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most common. On average, women with a BRCA1 mutation have up to a 72% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. For women with a BRCA2 mutation, the risk is 69%. Breast cancer that is positive for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations tends to develop more often in younger women. An increased ovarian cancer risk is also associated with these genetic mutations. In men, BRCA2 mutations are associated with a lifetime breast cancer risk of about 6.8%; BRCA1 mutations are a less frequent cause of breast cancer in men. ​ About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer. These occur due to genetic mutations that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general, rather than inherited mutations. ​ The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are sex (being a woman) and age (growing older). References American Cancer Society. How Common Is Breast Cancer? Jan. 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html . American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Breast Cancer in Men. Jan. 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer-in-men/about/key-statistics.html . American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2021. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2021/cancer-facts-and-figures-2021.pdf . Reuters. Breast cancer overtakes lung as most common cancer-WHO. Feb. 2021. Available at: https://www.reuters.com/article/health-cancer-int/breast-cancer-overtakes-lung-as-most-common-cancer-who-idUSKBN2A219B . National Cancer Institute. BRCA Gene Mutations: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing. Nov. 2020. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet . American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Risk Factors You Cannot Change. Sept. 2019. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you-cannot-change.html . Breast Cancer Conversations A WEEKLY PODCAST ​ Where we talk about all things breast cancer. Hear from medical experts, learn about the latest treatments, listen to stories from those diagnosed with breast cancer and be inspired by visionary #cancerpreneurs , advocates, and more! Privacy Policy © 2022, Registered 501(c)(3). EIN 82-2953427 Contact us info@survivingbreastcancer.org 5 Cedar Street, Boston, MA 02119 Never miss a beat. 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Breast Cancer Risk Factors Breast Cancer Risk and Risk Factors You may be familiar with the statistic that says 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer. Many people misinterpret this to mean that, on any given day, they and the women they know have a 1-in-8 risk of developing the disease. That’s simply not true. In reality, about 1 in 8 women in the United States — 12%, or about 12 out of every 100 — can expect to develop breast cancer over the course of an entire lifetime. In the U.S., an average lifetime is about 80 years. So, it’s more accurate to say that 1 in 8 women in the U.S. who reach the age of 80 can expect to develop breast cancer. In each decade of life, the risk of getting breast cancer is actually lower than 12% for most women. ​ People tend to have very different ways of viewing risk. For you, a 1-in-8 lifetime risk may seem like a high likelihood of getting breast cancer. Or you may turn this around and reason that there is a 7-in-8, or 87.5%, chance you will never get breast cancer, even if you live to age 80. How you view risk often depends on your individual situation — for example, whether you or many women you know have had breast cancer, or you have reason to believe you are at higher-than-normal risk for the disease — and your usual way of looking at the world. ​​ Even though studies have found that women have a 12% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, your individual risk may be higher or lower than that. Individual risk is affected by many different factors, such as family history, reproductive history, lifestyle, environment, and others. Breast Cancer Risk Factors A “risk factor” is anything that increases your risk of developing breast cancer. Many of the most important risk factors for breast cancer are beyond your control, such as age, family history, and medical history. However, there are some risk factors you can control, such as weight, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Be sure to talk with your doctor about all of your possible risk factors for breast cancer. There may be steps you can take to lower your risk of breast cancer, and your doctor can help you come up with a plan. Your doctor also needs to be aware of any other risk factors beyond your control, so that he or she has an accurate understanding of your level of breast cancer risk. This can influence recommendations about breast cancer screening — what tests to have and when to start having them. Risk Factors You Can Control Weight . Being overweight is associated with increased risk of breast cancer, especially for women after menopause. Fat tissue is the body’s main source of estrogen after menopause, when the ovaries stop producing the hormone. Having more fat tissue means having higher estrogen levels, which can increase breast cancer risk. Diet . Studies are looking at the relationship between diet and breast cancer risk and the risk of recurrence. The Women's Health Initiative Trial suggested that a diet very low in fat may reduce the risk of breast cancer. More research is needed in this important area for women who are interested in eating well to reduce their risk of ever getting breast cancer. In the meantime, here's what dietitians suggest: ​ • Keep your body weight in a healthy range for your height and frame. Body mass index , though not a perfect measurement, can help you estimate your healthy weight. • Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit (more than 5 cups a day). • Try to limit your saturated fat intake to less than 10% of your total calories per day and limit your fat intake to about 30 grams per day. • Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids . • Avoid trans fats, processed meats, and charred or smoked foods. You'll find that processed foods generally don't fit in this type of diet as well as fresh foods do. For more information, visit our page on healthy eating to reduce risk of breast cancer in the Nutrition section. Exercise . Evidence is growing that exercise can reduce breast cancer risk. The American Cancer Society recommends engaging in 45-60 minutes of physical exercise 5 or more days a week. (See our Fitness Guide) Alcohol consumption. Studies have shown that breast cancer risk increases with the amount of alcohol a woman drinks. Alcohol can limit your liver’s ability to control blood levels of the hormone estrogen, which in turn can increase risk. Smoking. Smoking is associated with a small increase in breast cancer risk. Exposure to estrogen. Because the female hormone estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, exposure to estrogen over long periods of time, without any breaks, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are under your control, such as: ​ • taking combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progesterone; HRT) for several years or more, or taking estrogen alone for more than 10 years • being overweight • regularly drinking alcohol Recent oral contraceptive use. Using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) appears to slightly increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer, but only for a limited period of time. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. Stress and anxiety. There is no clear proof that stress and anxiety can increase breast cancer risk. However, anything you can do to reduce your stress and to enhance your comfort, joy, and satisfaction can have a major effect on your quality of life. So-called “mindful measures” (such as meditation, yoga, visualization exercises, and prayer) may be valuable additions to your daily or weekly routine. Some research suggests that these practices can strengthen the immune system. (See our resources on Positive Thinking, Meditation and Affirmations ) Risk Factors You Cannot Control Gender. Being a woman is the most significant risk factor for developing breast cancer. Although men can get breast cancer, too, women’s breast cells are constantly changing and growing, mainly due to the activity of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. This activity puts them at much greater risk for breast cancer. Age. Simply growing older is the second biggest risk factor for breast cancer. From age 30 to 39, the risk is 1 in 228, or .44%. That jumps to 1 in 29, or just under 3.5%, by the time you are in your 60s. Family history of breast cancer. If you have a first-degree relative (mother, daughter, sister) who has had breast cancer, or you have multiple relatives affected by breast or ovarian cancer (especially before they turned age 50), you could be at higher risk of getting breast cancer. Personal history of breast cancer. If you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer, your risk of developing it again, either in the same breast or the other breast, is higher than if you never had the disease. ​ Race. White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than are African American women. Asian, Hispanic, and Native American women have a lower risk of developing and dying from breast cancer. Radiation therapy to the chest. Having radiation therapy to the chest area as a child or young adult as treatment for another cancer significantly increases breast cancer risk. The increase in risk seems to be highest if the radiation was given while the breasts were still developing (during the teen years). Breast cellular changes. Unusual changes in breast cells found during a breast biopsy (removal of suspicious tissue for examination under a microscope) can be a risk factor for developing breast cancer. These changes include overgrowth of cells (called hyperplasia) or abnormal (atypical) appearance. Exposure to estrogen. Because the female hormone estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, exposure to estrogen over long periods of time, without any breaks, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are not under your control, such as: ​ • starting menstruation (monthly periods) at a young age (before age 12) • going through menopause (end of monthly cycles) at a late age (after 55) • exposure to estrogens in the environment (such as hormones in meat or pesticides such as DDT, which produce estrogen-like substances when broken down by the body) ​ Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnancy and breastfeeding reduce the overall number of menstrual cycles in a woman’s lifetime, and this appears to reduce future breast cancer risk. Women who have never had a full-term pregnancy, or had their first full-term pregnancy after age 30, have an increased risk of breast cancer. For women who do have children, breastfeeding may slightly lower their breast cancer risk, especially if they continue breastfeeding for 1 1/2 to 2 years. For many women, however, breastfeeding for this long is neither possible nor practical. DES exposure. Women who took a medication called diethylstilbestrol (DES), used to prevent miscarriage from the 1940s through the 1960s, have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. Women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy may have a higher risk of breast cancer as well. ​ ​ ​ > What's the Difference between Diet and Nutrition? On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now

Meditation for Breast Cancer (On Demand) Visit our official YouTube meditation playlist! Live Classes: Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP In body Breathwork Tue, May 21 Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Breathwork is a powerful modality that combines conscious breathing techniques with mindfulness and meditation. Share RSVP Brain Spotting Mon, May 27 Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Brainspotting is a therapy technique used to address trauma and emotional distress. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Forest Bathing Tue, Jun 04 Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Join this Forest Bathing class and experience a deeper connection with nature, reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation Share RSVP

Surviving Breast Cancer May 10 1 min They Look at You A breast cancer poem from Marissa. 195 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 9 1 min This Journey of Life A collaborative poem by the SBC Poetry Society. 118 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 3 1 min BEYOND THE DREAM A poem from Brookshire to celebrate poetry with SurvivingBreastCancer.org! 105 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 1 1 min Uninvited A breast cancer poem from Jacqueline. 179 4 likes. Post not marked as liked 4 Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 26 1 min VESSEL By Jerilyn Young My body is a vessel Navigating ocean waves Pushing Pulling Flowing sensations of unknown Preparing for rough seas ahead... 115 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 15 1 min The Now I thought I couldn’t bear any more Then I expand... 331 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 1 2 3 4 5 Healing Through The Arts A cancer diagnosis can ignite our deepest fears, and while navigating this life-altering experience, we often lose touch with the present moment. Through art, writing, and other creative modalities, we hold the power to manage our stress, make sense of our now, and relax into moments of stillness. Express yourself, get it out, connect with others, and find your breath again. Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: HOPE Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Dreamscapes Mon, Jul 01 Online Event Jul 01, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jul 01, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jun 10 Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jul 22 Online Event Jul 22, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jul 22, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Aug 12 Online Event Aug 12, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Aug 12, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Sep 09 Online Event Sep 09, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Sep 09, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Expressive Writing Art As Therapy Read the Incredible Poems Coming Out Of Our SBC POETRY LAB New to Expressive Art as Therapy? No worries, we have you covered! In the canvas of life, every stroke tells a story, and we believe that art can be a powerful medium for healing and self-expression. Join Elisa and other resilient individuals as we explore the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression, fostering a supportive community where stories are shared, and strength is discovered. ​ Embrace the canvas of your life with bold strokes of self-discovery, and let the vibrant colors of your resilience paint a masterpiece of healing and growth.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES​ Cancer Support In General Cancer Care Provides free counseling for cancer patients and their families, financial assistance, information and referrals, community and professional education, teleconference programs, and ongoing telephone and in-person support groups. ​ Voice: 1-800-813-4673 Cancer + Careers Nonprofit that empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplace, by providing expert advice, interactive tools and educational events. Its free services include a comprehensive website and library of publications in English and Spanish; legal and insurance information; career coaching; resume review, and much more. Email:cancerandcareers@cew.org Cancer Hope Network Provides one-on-one support to cancer patients and their families undergoing cancer treatment from trained volunteers who have survived cancer themselves. ​ Voice: 1-877-467-3638 Cancer Support Community Provides support, education, and hope through a global network to people affected by cancer. ​ E-mail: help@cancersupportcommunity.org Caring Bridge Offers personal, protected websites that can be used during a health journey to share updates with family and friends. Foundation 96 Provide a safe and supportive care community consisting of multidisciplinary service providers, for people and their care-givers who are transitioning from active cancer treatment to every-day life Cleaning For A Reason Offers free professional housecleaning and maid services to improve the lives of women undergoing treatment for any type of cancer. ​ Voice: 1-877-337-3348 Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance The Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance's (LBCA’) mission is to make all who are touched by ILC aware of its unique characteristics and the critical need for more ILC research; to be the go-to source for information on ILC studies, clinical trials and educational tools, and much more. Look Good…Feel Better Helps cancer patients improve their appearance during treatment. Free workshops across the country. ​ Voice: 1-800-227-2345 MD Anderson Cancer Center’s my Cancer Connection Matches cancer patients with others who have had the exact same diagnosis for support. ​ Voice: 1-800-345-6324 Paddle for the Cure Provides a special support organization for breast cancer survivors /supporters. They offer a unique survivorship program that uses recreational dragon boat paddling to manage side effects of treatment for breast cancer survivors and promotes a positive and healthy lifestyle. Patient Advocate Foundation Patient Advocate Foundation is a national non-profit charity that provides direct services to patients with chronic, life threatening and debilitating diseases to help access care and treatment recommended by their doctor. We offer free telephone-based case management services, educational materials, resource directories, financial aid funds, and have a co-pay relief program. ​ Voice: 1-800-532-5274 Patient Empowerment Network PEN is a nonprofit organization who’s mission is to fortify cancer patients and care partners with the knowledge and tools to boost their confidence, put them in control of their healthcare journey, and assist them in receiving the best, most personalized care available to ensure they have the best possible outcome. PEN helps enhance patient health literacy to enable shared decision-making and resources to empower patients and care partners at every step of their cancer journey Project Life A membership based virtual wellness house for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer and their loved ones. R.A. Bloch Cancer Foundation BLOCH Cancer Hotline – Connects persons with cancer to home volunteers with same type of cancer. Provides free books about cancer. ​ Voice: 1-800-433-0464 Skarlette The Skarlette collection; attractive post-surgical lingerie, designed by flat women, for flat women. Email: hello@skarlette.co.uk Take Them a Meal Provides meal planning service for caregivers, friends, and family. Triage Cancer Triage Cancer provides education on legal and practical issues that may impact individuals diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers. Through free in-person and online educational events, materials, animated videos, and state-specific resources, Triage Cancer provides expert content on issues related to work, insurance, disability benefits, finances, estate planning, medical decision-making, and more. Twisted Pink Twisted Pink is a non-profit organization headquartered in Louisville, KY with a mission to provide hope and connection to people living with metastatic breast cancer by funding bold breakthroughs in research and awareness of the disease. We offer support, research and hope to people of all stages of breast cancer through our monthly Lunch & Learn programs, our Box of Hope program and our annual advocacy scholarships. Find out more at www.twistedpink.org Top of Page Cancer Support In General Cancer Support In Specific Insurance Assistance Financial Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms Lodging Assistance Child & Elder Care Assistance Transportation Assistance Cancer Support in Specific Asian Women for Health Asian Women for Health is a peer-led, community-based network dedicated to advancing Asian women’s health and wellness through education, advocacy, and support as well as through their 8-week Achieving Whole Health online wellness program. The goal is for Asian women to be well informed, have access to care that is of great quality and culturally appropriate so they are inspired to live happy, healthy lives. BrightSpot: The Bright Spot Network provides young cancer survivors who are parents of small children with a safe space for individual and familial healing, recovery, and reconnection His Breast Cancer HIS Breast Cancer Awareness nonprofit organization was founded in honor of all men who are at risk of, diagnosed and surviving with the Disease of Breast Cancer and to those who have died because of it. Our mission is to increase awareness and hence the early detection for all men and to help those who are at high risk due to genetics and other risk factors to gain access to regular screenings. Email: hisbreastcancer@gmail.com Indian Health Service If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, you may be eligible for health services within the Indian Health Service. Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance Our mission is to advocate for all men diagnosed with breast cancer to ensure they receive equal access to support and treatment; to serve as a source of support and resources for the men, their caregivers, and their families; to ensure that men are appropriately represented in research and clinical trials, and to recruit volunteer “ambassadors” to increase awareness of breast cancer in men on a global scale. Men Against Breast Cancer Offers educational materials, online videos, workshops, and one-on-one networking with other men whose loved one has breast cancer. Conducts National Male Caregivers Conference and regional training workshops. ​ Voice: 1-866-547-6222 Sharsheret (Hebrew for “chain”) Supporting young women and their families, of all Jewish backgrounds, facing breast cancer. TigerLily Foundation Tigerlily Foundation’s mission is to educate, advocate for, empower, and support young women, before, during and after breast cancer. We envision a future where a breast cancer diagnosis doesn’t inspire fear, but ignites hope for a future. Through our programs, we seek to educate and empower women of all backgrounds, including those at heightened risk, those facing health disparities, and those with less access to care. National Native American Cancer Survivors’ Support Network An educational community-based research study created to help improve the quality of cancer care and the quality of life for all American Indian, Alaska Native, and First Nations cancer patients and their loved ones. ​ Voice: 1-800-537-8295 PEN - Digitally Empowered The program is a completely free, on demand, ten-module course that walks participants through the basics of technology as they learn how it can be effectively utilized to navigate their cancer journey. Pickles Pickles help support children affected by their parents or guardians cancer. Pickles Group creates thriving communities of kids supporting kids through and beyond their parent’s cancer journeys. Pickles kids strengthen resilience, have fun with friends who get them, and heal along the way. Young Survival Coalition Provides information and support for young women with breast cancer. The Missing Link Discover information, inspiration and innovation for health equity in breast care. More Life Magazine is a community-curated platform presented by The Missing Pink Breast Cancer Alliance . It is dedicated to sharing information, inspiration and innovation regarding efforts to advance health equity in breast care for communities of color. Navigating Cancer Care Decisions for Older Adults Learn how a cancer diagnosis may affect their senior living options. This resource also offers detailed information about how to find assisted living and nursing care facilities that provide cancer care to aging adults. Top of Page Cancer Support In General Cancer Support In Specific Insurance Assistance Financial Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms Lodging Assistance Child & Elder Care Assistance Transportation Assistance INSURANCE ASSISTANCE Affordable Care Act (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) Find information on choosing a health insurance plan and the Affordable Care Act. A.M. Best Company Find insurance company ratings. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Find detailed information on Medicare and other health insurance programs for people over 50. ​ 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277) American Cancer Society – Understanding Financial and Legal Matters Find information on financial topics. ​ 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) HealthWell Foundation The HealthWell Foundation is a national non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to insured Americans who struggle to meet their out-of-pocket costs for medical treatments. ​ Email: grants@healthwellfoundation.org Phone: (800) 675-8416 National Association of Insurance Commissioners Find your state's insurance commissioner. National Cancer Legal Services Network Find a directory of organizations that offer free legal help for people diagnosed with cancer and their families. National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship Find the booklets “Understanding Your Health Insurance” and "Your Employment Rights." ​ 877-NCCS-YES (877-622-7937) Patient Advocate Foundation Offers financial assistance information and legal and advocacy help if an insurance claim is denied. ​ 800-532-5274 Patient Advocate Foundation - National Underinsured Resource Directory Find local, state and national resources for people who have insurance but struggle to pay out-of-pocket costs of care. ​ 800-532-5274 The Catherine H. Tuck Foundation Offers financial assistance for personal expenses including rent, utilities and food, and transportation to and from cancer treatments. Triage Cancer Offers legal and practical materials in English and Spanish to help understand and compare your insurance options, what to do when you lose your insurance and work, and appeal denials of coverage. Top of Page Cancer Support In General Cancer Support In Specific Insurance Assistance Financial Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms Lodging Assistance Child & Elder Care Assistance Transportation Assistance A health care provider, such as your physician, nurse or social worker may have information on financial resources. Most hospitals and treatment centers have financial counselors. They can help you with the details of your insurance paperwork and give you an estimate of the cost of your treatment. ​ ​ Financial counselors can also help you work out a payment plan. If you are unable to pay, some places may be willing to reduce or waive some costs if you ask. ​ Hospital discharge planners, patient service offices, nurse navigators and patient navigators may also have information on resources and advice about financial matters. ​ Insurance questions For questions about your insurance policy, state insurance agencies and insurance companies can be helpful. Learn more about insurance. ​ ​​ No matter your income, you may qualify for financial aid from federal, state or local programs. A financial counselor at your hospital can help you learn about these programs. ​ Many organizations offer financial assistance and help with travel, lodging and medical items, including prescription drugs. Some are listed below. Information on insurance and other financial issues FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Healthcare Assistance The Pink Fund Offers financial assistance for health insurance premiums. Sisters Network Inc. Offers financial assistance for breast prosthesis, medical bras and compression arm sleeves. Strings for a Cure Offers financial assistance for personal expenses including mortgage or rent, utilities, food and car payments. Social Security Administration Find your local social security office. Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (U.S. Department of Labor) Find information on federal laws requiring insurance coverage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Prescription Drug Assistance CancerCare – Co-payment Assistance Foundation Offers health insurance co-payment assistance for chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs. ​ 866-55-COPAY (866-552-6729) Genetic testing Myriad Financial Assistance Program Offers financial assistance for genetic testing. Strings for a Cure Offers financial assistance for personal expenses including mortgage or rent, utilities, food and car payments. Patient Advocate Foundation Find an online directory of drug company assistance programs. Partnership for Prescription Assistance Offers low-cost and free prescription drug programs for people with limited income. ​ 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) Patient Advocate Foundation – Co-Pay Relief Program Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. ​ 866-512-3861 Quest Diagnostic's Patient Assistance Program Offers financial assistance for genetic testing. ​ 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) Rx Hope Find an online directory of prescription drug assistance programs. Strings for a Cure Offers financial assistance for prescription drugs co-payments. Top of Page Cancer Support In General Cancer Support In Specific Insurance Assistance Financial Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms Lodging Assistance Child & Elder Care Assistance Transportation Assistance Affordable Care Act Since September 2010, the Affordable Care Act has required all new health insurance plans to cover yearly mammograms with no co-payment (co-insurance) for women ages 40 and older. In many parts of the U.S., low-cost or free mammograms are also offered through national programs and community organizations. FDA Each October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many imaging centers offer mammograms at reduced rates. To find a certified mammography center in your area, visit the FDA website. National Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program Provides access to breast cancer screening to low-income, uninsured and underinsured women. Planned Parenthood Offers clinical breast exams and referrals for mammography (and any follow-up testing, such as breast ultrasound). Komen Affiliates fund Komen Affiliates fund breast cancer education and screening projects in their communities for those who need it most. Find an Affiliate in your area to learn what resources are available. ​ Komen also offers transportation services to and from cancer treatments, financial assistance for child care and elder care during treatment, and financial assistance for some medications , medical equipment, and lymphedema supplies. Call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET and from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. PT to help find low-cost options in your area. American Cancer Society – Hope Lodge and hotel lodging Offers lodging for families during cancer treatment. ​ 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) Joe's House Find an online directory of free and discounted lodging for cancer patients and their families. LODGING ASSISTANCE If your hospital or treatment center is far from home, there may be times when you and your family need to find a place to stay overnight. Many hospitals and treatment centers can arrange a discount rate at a nearby hotel or motel. The American Cancer Society can also help. Child Care and Elder Care Assistance If children or elderly family members rely on you to take care of them, it can be hard to get to treatment. Family and friends may be able to help. (They often want to help, but don’t know how. This is one way they can help you.) The programs below also offer help. CancerCare – AVONCares Program Offers financial assistance for child care during treatment. ​ 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) American Cancer Society – Road to Recovery Offers local transportation to and from cancer treatments. ​ 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) CancerCare – AVONCares Offers financial assistance for transportation to and from cancer treatments. ​ 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) Corporate Angel Network Uses empty seats on corporate planes to help cancer patients reach treatment centers. (Travel for caregivers is not covered.) ​ 866-328-1313 Lifeline Pilots Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. ​ 800-822-7972 Long-distance transportation - Air Charity Network Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. ​ 877-621-7177 Mercy Medical Airlift Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. ​ 800-296-1217 National Patient Travel Center Offers free or discounted air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. ​ 800-296-1217 Top of Page Cancer Support In General Cancer Support In Specific Insurance Assistance Financial Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms Lodging Assistance Child & Elder Care Assistance Transportation Assistance TRANSPORTATION ASISISTANCE The social work and care coordination departments at your hospital may have information on local transportation programs. Some cancer organizations also have programs that can help. ​ City, county and state agencies can arrange for low-cost or free local transportation for people with disabilities. For more information on these services, contact your city, county or state transportation department. Low-cost and Free Mammograms Cancer Support In General Cancer Support in Specific Financial Assistance Insurance Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Transportation Assistant Lodging Assistant Child Care and Elder Care Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms

Terms & Conditions Terms and Conditions (AKA Terms of Use) ​ This Terms of Use governs the manner in which www.survivingbreastcancer.org (the “Organization”) collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the http://www.survivingbreastcancer.org website ("Site"). ​ For purposes of this agreement, “Organization” refers to Survivingbreastcancer.org, Inc. “Service” refers to the Organization’s service which can be accessed via our website at www.survivingbreastcancer.org in which users can find educational resources. The terms “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to the Organization. “You” refers to you, as a user of Service. By accepting our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, you consent to our collection, storage, use and disclosure of your personal information as described in this Privacy Policy . ​ ABOUT ​ The Site is designed for educational and informational purposes only, as a resource to individuals affected by breast cancer. 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Upcoming Events May 2024 Today Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 29 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Throat Chakra (Vishuddha) +1 more 30 1:00 PM Triage Health: Estate Planning +1 more +2 more 1 2 7:00 PM MBC Peer to Peer Support +2 more +3 more 3 4 5 11:00 AM Breast Cancer Book Club +1 more 6 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) +2 more +3 more 7 6:00 PM Forest Bathing +1 more 8 9 7:00 PM Thursday Night Thrivers IBC Meetup +1 more +2 more 10 11 12 13 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) +1 more +2 more 14 11:30 AM Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim +2 more +3 more 15 16 10:00 AM Nutrición y Cáncer +2 more +3 more 17 8:00 PM Cáncer de Mama Inflamatorio +1 more 18 19 20 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) +2 more +3 more 21 6:00 PM In body Breathwork +1 more +2 more 22 23 7:00 PM Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC 2.0 +2 more +3 more 24 10:00 AM Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts +1 more 25 26 27 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) +1 more +2 more 28 11:30 AM Qi Gong with Kim +3 more +4 more 29 2:00 PM Triage Cancer: Benefits for Veterans with Cancer +1 more 30 7:00 PM Thursday Nights Thrivers Meetup +1 more 31 10:00 AM Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts +1 more 1 2 11:00 AM Breast Cancer Book Club +1 more 3 10:00 AM Meditation Affirmations: Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) +2 more +3 more 4 6:00 PM Forest Bathing +1 more 5 6 7:00 PM MBC Peer to Peer Support +2 more +3 more 7 8 9

Resources for your clinics and your patients! Patient Referral Form Thusday Night Thrivers Read More A weekly meetup for your patients (all stages, all subtypes) held entirely online so anyone can join from anywhere. These weekly support groups are peer-to-peer facilitated by SBC trained volunteers Inflammatory Breast Cancer Support Read More Our support group is professionally moderated and provides a safe and welcoming space for patients to feel supported and make connections with others diagnosed with IBC. Metastatic Support Gorups Read More Every other week our MBC community gathers online to support each other and talk about their concerns and offer support. The 1st Thursday of the month the group is peer-to-peer facilitated by trained SBC volunteers and on the 3rd Thursday of the month, the group is professionally moderated Lobular Support Groups Read More Our monthly support group provides a safe and welcoming space for patients to feel supported and make connections with others diagnosed with Lobular Breast Cancer. These support groups are peer-to-peer facilitated by trained SBC volunteers Professionally Moderated Support in Spanish Read More Our Support Group offered on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month is professionally moderated by a psychologist offering a safe and inclusive space for the Hispanic community. Support Groups Hosted in Spanish Read More Our Support Group offered on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month is peer-to-peer moderated by trained volunteers of the SBC community offering a safe and inclusive space for the Hispanic community. Weekly & Monthly Support Groups Download the Flyers (5x7) Download the Flyers (8x10) We all want what is best for our patients. Let us be your partners in providing support when patients need it the most! Download the Flyers (5x7) Download the Flyers (8x10) Free Programs in English Download the Brochures From Art Therapy and Expressive Writing, to Yoga & Meditation SBC provides the complementary care your patients deserve Free Programs offered in Spanish Download the Flyer From virtual meet-ups to art therapy and webinars, our programs provide proven emotional support to assist your patients undergoing breast cancer treatment Free Educational Webinars Download the Flyer Offered in both English & Spanish, SBC provides educatoinal content through our livestreaming webinar series. Join Our Provider Mailing List The perfect way to stay up to date on our free programs, services, and hot topics. First name* Last name* Email* Company name Address Submit Classes, Webinars, LiveStreams, and More! Request SBC's Tri-Fold Brochures Available in English and in Spanish. Send us an email with your mailing address and we will happily ship brochures to you! Contact SBC For Your Office Perfect tri-fold brochures to include in any breast cancer packet for patients. All of our programs and services are 100% free. For Your Waiting Room Our brochures are a perfect addition to any office or waiting room area letting your patients know there is a community here to support them every step of the way. Refer Your Patients Let us bring hope and joy to the patients you serve. Looking to have a patient join one of our free online support groups, have them attend a workshop, or request a care package before your patient starts chemo or has surgery? SurvivingBreastCancer.org is here for you! Submit the Patient Referral Form below and we'll take it from there! Patient Referfal Fom Order Materials For Your Office Looking for bulk flyers and brochures to put in patient packets or distribute at upcoming health fairs? We have you covered. You can shop at our store and we kindly ask for a donation to help support the cost of printing and shipping. Order Now What Sets Us Apart Our Story

Breast Cancer & Mental Health Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 14 2 min Holistic Approaches to Complement Breast Cancer Treatment: Benefits and Practices Understanding these holistic approaches, their benefits, and their integration with conventional treatments can be valuable for individuals. 154 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 19, 2023 5 min The Psychological Impact of Breast Cancer: Strategies for Coping Breast cancer isn’t just a physical condition. For many, it’s an emotional and psychological experience that can profoundly affect your... 1,135 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Jun 11, 2023 4 min Coping with Expectations After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: The Realities and Challenges By Laura Carfang Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience that is followed by an array of emotions and... 377 6 likes. Post not marked as liked 6 Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 27, 2022 8 min Can Expressive Writing and Poetry Provide Emotional Healing? I know breast cancer can be an incredibly overwhelming and emotional experience. I'm preaching to the choir. It is common to feel scared,... 169 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 19, 2022 8 min Mindfulness Tapping / Emotional Freedom Technique Introduction Mindfulness tapping, or emotional freedom technique (EFT), is a type of mindfulness meditation that uses your fingertips to... 6,145 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 28, 2022 8 min Breast Cancer Screening and Disability: Not As Simple as it Seems #FeatureFriday According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with an estimated 2.1... 204 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 16, 2022 3 min The Alternative To Feeling Like A Victim By Kristen Carter It’s so easy when we have breast cancer and when we experience awful side effects to think of ourselves as victims of... 244 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Expecting the Unexpected: Anticipatory Grief and Breast Cancer #FeatureFriday Have you ever felt preemptively depressed or anxious about something that hasn’t yet happened? Specifically, in regards to... 59 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min My Animal Companion Has Been With Me Throughout Breast Cancer By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, I'm really struggling with intense sadness and loss since I had to say goodbye to my emotional support... 33 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Partner Abandonment and Cancer Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis and dealing with the subsequent treatments and issues is challenging. The news can ignite many... 485 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Tips for Managing Mood Swings and Breast Cancer By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, Do you have any suggestions for dealing with moodiness? Between the stress of having breast cancer and... 112 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Managing the Emotional Stages of a Breast Cancer Diagnosis A breast cancer diagnosis can send you into a tailspin. The official pronouncement can stir emotions whether you’re newly diagnosed, face... 152 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Well-Being for Caregivers By Alexis Puthussery What is a caregiver? The American Cancer Society defines caregiver as “the person who most often helps the patient... 67 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Coping with Survivor's Guilt By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, As someone living with MBC, it's hard not to go down rabbit holes, especially as we are seeing a lot of... 97 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min Scanxiety I am trying to reduce the stress and anxiety when I hear I have to see another specialist or have more testing completed 59 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min How Do I Find ME Again? It’s completely normal to feel disoriented and detached from our old lives and original selves after anything as life-altering as a breast c 96 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min The Healing Power of Movement Most people are aware that some form of movement is beneficial. Whether exercising your muscles or your brain, moving every day can... 243 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 7 min Breast Cancer and the Holidays #FeatureFriday This year continues to fly by, and it’s hard to believe that, for those of us in the US, Thanksgiving is already upon us!... 106 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Pet Companionship Offers Comfort for Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors Most people are familiar with the devastating physical effects of cancer. It's rare to find someone whose life hasn't been affected by it... 40 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Lupron-Induced Mania By Robin K. Woodruff I was diagnosed with Stage IIa Invasive Lobular breast cancer in 2018. I already had pre-existing mental illness:... 303 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 5 min Healing Circles and the Cancer Experience By Ilene Kaminsky (Read part 1 here.) “The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more you deny your feelings, the more... 46 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min The Framework of a Healing Circle By Ilene Kaminsky Something is missing. Where’s the deep emotional fallout that makes us wobble as we try our best to balance on that one... 22 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 7 min Breast Cancer Awareness Month Survival Guide #FeatureFriday To be frank, and at the risk of being cliché, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the best of times and the worst of times.... 337 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min Therapy and Breast Cancer #FeatureFriday As we reach the end of May, which marks Mental Health Awareness Month, it feels as appropriate a time as any to discuss... 69 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Is There Such A Thing As Toxic Positivity? The short answer is yes. What Is Toxic Positivity? The Psychology Group defines toxic positivity as “the excessive and ineffective... 1,375 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min PTSD and Breast Cancer Many breast cancer patients suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder typically brought on by a traumatic... 166 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Writing As A Therapeutic And Creative Outlet #FeatureFriday Writing can serve as a therapeutic and creative outlet. More specifically, journaling offers opportunities for expression... 389 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 9 min Choosing to Change By Courtney Proctor July 2012 – July 2013: A Year of Misdiagnosis I was 28 years old and otherwise healthy with no history of breast... 37 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min How to Tell Friends and Coworkers You Have Breast Cancer You’ve just learned that you have breast cancer. You’re overwhelmed with emotions, questions, and fear. There’s so much to deal with, so... 340 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Physician Burnout Physician (and Nurse) Burnout has been officially recognized for years and poses a significant existential threat to the safety of... 21 Post not marked as liked

Fundraise for SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) Let us help you make the most of your fundraising campaign Contact Us To Get Started Raise Money. Earn Money. We rely on fundraisers like yourself to support the breast cancer community and value the time and effort you put into fundraising. Contact us to get started SurvivingBreastCancer.org provides hundreds of programs and services to the breast cancer community absolutely free and at no charge to those diagnosed with breast cancer. From weekly educational webinars, support groups, mental health programs, wellness programs, and more. Our Impact 2023 Impact Report Make A Gift Donate Today Host A Fundraiser Hosting a fundraiser is a fun and easy way to let others know what you care about! At Survivingbreastcancer.org, we rely on volunteers and the generosity of people like you to help us raise awareness and funds so that we can continue to provide programs, education, and community to support those diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. There are endless ideas. If you enjoy baking, hiking, yoga or dinner parties, combine your passion with purpose by raising funds for Survivingbreastcancer.org. Welcome to the team! Fundraising Ideas DYI ideas include:​ ​ Host a dinner party with raffle prizes. Run or Walk a 5K/10K/Half Marathon/or Full Marathon while raising funds for SBC . Host a High Tea get-together. Host a silent auction in person or online. Ask your boss if the department can donate $10 to Survivingbreastcancer.org in exchange for wearing PJ's to work one day. Out with the old. Host a yard sell and raise donations! ​ Connect with about your networks and Community: ​​ K-12 students are always looking for volunteer and service projects. Fundraising for Survivingbreastcancer.org is a great way to combine academics with cause. Around Town: Ask local shops and places you love to choose a date and donate a percentage of proceeds for survivingbreastcancer.org Book clubs, mom groups, kids sports teams. The list goes on. Finally, don't forget to ask your employer about their Employer Match Program! At SBC, when you make a donation , you can easily check to see if your employer will match your contribution. A super easy way to make your dollars go further! Brook hosted a fundraiser at Applebee's an raised $600 for SBC in one day! How Survivingbreastcancer.org supports you in your fundraiser Survivingbreastcancer.org takes pride in partnering with groups and individuals who believe in our mission and who want to provide awareness & support for breast cancer. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to live out our mission. When you host a fundraiser for Survivingbreastcancer.org you will receive the support from our team: One-On-One complimentary consultation with our Executive Team about your event. We will send you brochures and Survivingbreastcancer.org awareness bracelets for your event. A media template for you to customize to help you gain media coverage for your event. A letter for you to customize confirming our registered 501(c)(3) status and EIN number to help you gather prizes for your event. Ability to use our logo on your event’s promotion materials. We will highlight your event on our events section of website and in our newsletters to help raise awareness and promote your fundraiser. An option to track RSVP's and ticket sales through our events management platform Upon request, we may be able to arrange for a Survivingbreastcancer.org ambassador to speak at your event. Is it your Birthday? Is it a special occasion? Do you want to give back and do good? It's easy to start a fundraiser on social media! Below are tutorials on how to set up your fundraiser on Facebook and Instagram and raise donations for survivingbreastcancer.org Fundraise on Social Media