By Jacqueline Edwards You came in uninvited You never took the time to introduce yourself Even when another stranger announced you You took it upon yourself to be silent As I moved forward as instructed I was not sure you were still there But I trusted the strangers who guided me on how to extract you from my fears My life became chaos while you made my health unclear You came in uninvited So I knew you couldn’t stay here So I prayed for your departure while I took the meds that dared To rid you from my presence despite the dramatic wear and tear it would take to distract you so you’d no longer reside here You came in uninvited That was very clear, but what I never understood was how you got here Which means you weren’t invited so get out of here. Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can evoke a complex array of emotions. Initially, you may feel shock and disbelief. Those feelings can quickly give way to fear and anxiety, sadness or grief, anger and frustration. It can seem unfair and have you questioning, “Why me?” In addition to the mix of emotions, you’re also trying to absorb mind-boggling mountains of information. The combination of emotions, urgency, and the perceived authority of medical professionals cause many people to feel locked into the first opinion they receive, making them reluctant to seek a second opinion, either due to emotional distress, financial concerns, or the fear of offending their doctor. Some people may hesitate to seek a second opinion or discuss their diagnosis with another doctor, fearing it might upset or offend their current physician. It’s important to understand that feeling uncertain and wanting reassurance through additional consultations is completely normal and essential to managing your healthcare. For example, you might express your concern by asking your doctor, “Is it alright if I consult another specialist to get a second opinion on my treatment options?” Most doctors will respond positively to such questions, affirming that seeking a second opinion is prudent and can help ensure the best treatment plan. They might say, “Absolutely, getting a second opinion can provide additional perspectives that might be beneficial, and I can recommend specialists who have experience in this area.” Medical professionals generally encourage seeking a second opinion and view them as a standard part of medical care, especially for significant diagnoses like cancer. You should feel empowered to pursue all avenues to help you feel more confident and informed about your treatment decisions. Breast cancer is a complex disease with various treatment options, each with risks and benefits. Different specialists might have varying experiences and expertise, which can lead to alternative insights or treatment approaches. The process can provide reassurance, confirm a diagnosis, and help you understand the full range of treatment options available. A second perspective can offer reassurance about your diagnosis and treatment plan or reveal alternative options previously unknown. Continue reading to learn about the importance of obtaining a second opinion regarding a breast cancer diagnosis, illustrating how it’s not just beneficial but essential for comprehensive care. You will also learn about how to get started seeking a second opinion. Remember, it’s your health and your decision; seeking clarity and comfort through additional expert advice is a proactive step toward your well-being. The Initial Diagnosis An initial diagnosis of breast cancer typically involves a combination of clinical examinations and diagnostic tests. The process usually begins when an individual or a healthcare provider identifies symptoms, such as a lump in the breast or a change in breast shape or texture. A healthcare professional performs a clinical breast exam to check for lumps or other physical changes. If there is a lump or significant concern based on the initial examination, your healthcare team may recommend imaging tests like mammography, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These imaging techniques help visualize the breast’s internal structure and identify abnormalities. If these tests indicate the presence of potential cancer, a biopsy is usually the next step. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample from the suspicious area is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. The biopsy is a critical component of the diagnosis, as it confirms whether the abnormality is cancerous and, if so, determines the specific type and characteristics of the breast cancer. The information is crucial for planning appropriate treatment. The diagnosis process may also include additional tests to assess your overall health and check for signs of cancer spread. Why a Second Opinion Matters According to BreastCancer.org, up to 40% of breast cancer patients had a change in their diagnosis when they sought a second opinion. Reasons why a second opinion is so valuable include: Confirming your diagnosis and treatment plan: A second perspective can provide reassurance that you’re on the best possible path. Discovering alternative treatment options: Doctors at different facilities may be aware of emerging therapies you and others don’t know about. They may also have different experiences and perspectives on treatment options, offering a broader range of choices. Improving your chance for clinical trials: Consulting another specialist can improve your odds of learning about potentially beneficial clinical trials. Gaining peace of mind: Another opinion can give you confidence in your diagnosis and treatment plan, relieving stress. How To Seek A Second Opinion Seeking a second opinion for breast cancer is an essential step that can provide additional insights into your diagnosis and treatment options, empowering you to make more informed decisions about your care. Consult your primary doctor: Your doctor can refer you to another specialist. Look for specialists: Consider experts with extensive experience treating breast cancer, particularly those involved in research and teaching. When you meet the new specialist, ask questions about their treatment approach, the potential benefits and risks, and any alternative treatments they might suggest. Prepare your medical records: Ensure you have all your medical reports, scans, and test results to help avoid unnecessary repeat tests and provide a comprehensive view of your condition. Count On Us for Information, Resources, and Support When facing something as serious as breast cancer, it pays to gather as much expert knowledge as possible to make the most informed decisions about your health. Don’t hesitate to consult another doctor for a second (or third or fourth) opinion until all your questions are fully answered. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer, are navigating survivorship, or are the loved one of someone experiencing breast cancer, you can count on SurvivingBreastCancer.org to keep you informed. We provide educational information to help you better understand symptoms, testing, treatment options, surgery, etc., and podcasts that feature professionals, advocates, and caregivers who share valuable information. Your donations enable SurvivingBreastCancer.org to offer resources and support every day, every month, and every year. Note: This article is designed to provide general information and not replace professional medical advice. Always discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Learn More: Understanding Your Pathology Report: A Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guide Different Types of Breast Cancer Breast Cancer in Young Women: Common Questions Answered The Role of Hormones in Breast Cancer On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Understanding and Coping with Medical PTSD in Cancer Care SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

By Jerilyn Young My body is a vessel Navigating ocean waves Pushing Pulling Flowing sensations of unknown Preparing for rough seas ahead No land in sight No anchor to drop I must become the waves ~ Living in their movement Their swells Their surges I pray to rest in the breeze of their ripples Washing away the internal sludge Only to be morphed back into the surf Rising Falling Embracing the current I become a wavelet ~ Gently tossed to shore I feel my hands grasp tightly What wasn’t there Solid ground My existence About Jerilyn: I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) in April 2022. I wrote this poem in the throes of my chemo treatment in the summer of 2022. I took this photo the year before I was diagnosed. Little did I know how symbolic that picture became. Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetups Free Events

Después de un Diagnóstico es un grupo de apoyo para nuestra comunidad hispanohablante. Únete a nosotros mensualmente (el segundo y cuarto martes de cada mes) para compartir tus experiencias, conocer a otros, y sentirte acompañado/a. Únete Comunidad Próximos eventos Serie de la mujer: Cáncer y embarazo Thu, May 02 Facebook, Youtube, Twitter May 02, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter May 02, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter Durante este evento virtual, exploraremos los desafíos únicos que enfrentan las mujeres que son diagnosticadas con cáncer durante el embarazo, así como las opciones de tratamiento disponibles y las consideraciones especiales que deben tenerse en cuenta tanto para la madre como para el bebé. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Apoyo Emocional Mon, May 06 Virtual May 06, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual May 06, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual Únete a nuestro grupo de apoyo emocional dirigido por una experimentada psicóloga para recibir el apoyo necesario mientras enfrentas el desafío del cáncer. El diagnóstico de cáncer puede traer consigo una carga emocional abrumadora, y estamos aquí para ayudarte a transitar este camino. Share RSVP Cáncer de Mama Inflamatorio Thu, May 09 Virtual May 09, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual May 09, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual ¡Únete a nuestro webinar en vivo con Ivan Maldonado, Médico oncólogo de Quito, Ecuador! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Grupo de Apoyo: Después de un Diagnóstico Tue, May 14 Virtual May 14, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual May 14, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual ¡Únete con nosotros para nuestro exclusivo Evento Martes - después del diagnóstico en español! Share RSVP Nutrición y Cáncer Thu, May 16 Facebook, instagram, Youtube May 16, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Facebook, instagram, Youtube May 16, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Facebook, instagram, Youtube Desde consejos prácticos sobre qué alimentos priorizar hasta estrategias para combatir efectos secundarios comunes del tratamiento, este episodio ofrece información valiosa para aquellos que enfrentan el cáncer y sus seres queridos. Share RSVP ¿Cómo sobrellevar los efectos adversos de los tratamientos? Thu, May 23 Youtube, Facebook, Twitter May 23, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Facebook, Twitter May 23, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Facebook, Twitter El cáncer de mama es una enfermedad que puede afectar tanto a mujeres como a hombres, la detección temprana aumenta significativamente las posibilidades de un tratamiento exitoso y una recuperación completa. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Grupo de Apoyo para Cáncer de Mama Metastásico Tue, May 28 Virtual May 28, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual May 28, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual ¡Únete a nuestro encuentro exclusivo "Después de un Diagnóstico" el 4to martes del mes por la noche! Share RSVP Ejercicio y Cáncer Thu, Jun 06 Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Jun 06, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Jun 06, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Descubre cómo el ejercicio puede ser una herramienta poderosa en la prevención y el tratamiento del cáncer. Share RSVP Diferencias entre Cáncer de Mama Lobular y Ductal Thu, Jun 13 Facebook, Instagram Jun 13, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Instagram Jun 13, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Instagram ¿Sabías que hay diferencias significativas entre el cáncer de mama lobular y ductal? ¡Únete a nosotros para un webinar educativo donde exploraremos estas diferencias y aprenderemos cómo afectan el diagnóstico, tratamiento y pronóstico! Share RSVP Perder mi cabello, ¿antes o después de comenzar quimio? Thu, Jun 20 Facebook, Instagram, Youtube Jun 20, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Instagram, Youtube Jun 20, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Instagram, Youtube Perder el cabello es una preocupación común para muchas personas que se enfrentan al tratamiento de quimioterapia. La pregunta sobre cuándo ocurrirá esta pérdida puede generar ansiedad y anticipación. Share RSVP Rompiendo Tabúes Thu, Jun 27 Youtube, Facebook, Twitter Jun 27, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Facebook, Twitter Jun 27, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Facebook, Twitter Únete a nosotros en este webinar revelador mientras abordamos los tabúes que rodean al cáncer, desde el diagnóstico hasta el tratamiento. Con la participación de la Dra. Mónica Cordón, médica oncóloga guatemalteca. Share RSVP Estilos de alimentación en pacientes oncológicos Thu, Jul 11 Virtual Jul 11, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual Jul 11, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual ¿Sabías que la alimentación juega un papel crucial en el bienestar de los pacientes oncológicos? Únete a nosotros en este episodio especial donde exploraremos diferentes estilos de alimentación diseñados para apoyar a aquellos que están luchando contra el cáncer de mama. Share RSVP Serie del Hombre: Cáncer de Testículo Thu, Jul 18 Facebook, Youtube, Twitter Jul 18, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter Jul 18, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter ¡Detecta a tiempo el cáncer de testículo! En este podcast, te contaremos todo lo que necesitas saber sobre esta enfermedad, desde sus síntomas hasta su tratamiento. Además, te daremos consejos para realizarte un autoexamen testicular y detectar cualquier anomalía a tiempo. Share RSVP Serie Belleza Natural: "Cuidado de tu piel" Thu, Jul 25 Facebook, Youtube, Twitter Jul 25, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter Jul 25, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Facebook, Youtube, Twitter En este podcast, exploraremos juntos las alternativas saludables y sostenibles para cuidar tu piel, cabello y cuerpo. Aprenderás sobre los beneficios de los ingredientes naturales, cómo hacer tus propios productos de belleza en casa y mucho más. Share RSVP Cáncer Metastásico, Recurrencia vs Progresión Thu, Aug 01 Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Aug 01, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Aug 01, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Youtube, Instagram y Facebook Este webinar proporciona una plataforma invaluable para abordar aspectos críticos relacionados con el cáncer metastático, una condición que presenta desafíos significativos tanto en el diagnóstico como en el tratamiento. Share RSVP Preguntas para tu Oncólogo Descargar PDF Preguntas para tu Radiólogo Descargar PDF Preguntas para tu Cirujano Descargar PDF Suscríbete a nuestro boletín informativo Suscríbete Calendario Todos nuestros eventos son gratuitos. ¡Descarga el calendario y reserva las fechas! Descargar Después de un diagnóstico, nacemos con el propósito de brindar apoyo a la comunidad hispana que ha sido diagnosticada con cáncer de mama. Ofrecemos acompañamiento a los pacientes, sus familias y cuidadores, a partir del diagnóstico. Un servicio proporcionado por SurvivingBreastCancer.org Después de un Diagnóstico Clases Pregrabadas Historias Inspiradoras Enviar Contenido Podcast More

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

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