By Brookshire McDonald Another bad side effect Has come along. I’m really happy I’m not writing a song. A ruptured breast implant Is the diagnosis now So I’m looking for ways To face it somehow. The thoughts screaming at me Are it’s time to go flat; So that’s the journey I’m looking at. I’ve called my Urogyno doctor Out of the blue; Would he tack up my bladder At the same time, too? Well, before finishing this I was told, My leaky bladder is caused ‘Cause I am old; So tacking it up Would not do— Another case of Depends Is right for you. I’m back to gathering info For the implant that’s gone wrong; However I still can’t see Writing a song. I’ll keep you posted As to what the future does hold. For now I need to breathe And really be bold. Things in my past Have been much worse Those were written In a much prior verse. I’m back to the mirror looking To see the strong me. Clinging to my SBC sisters As you can see. So thank you my sisters For all your love; I can feel the hugs from you And from above! Share your poetry: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/submit-breast-cancer-story SurvivingBreastCancer.org Resources & Support: Podcast Weekly Meetup s Free Events

Cancer treatment is often fraught with physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. Amidst the whirlwind of appointments and treatments, one of the most critical yet frequently overlooked aspects of recovery is nutrition . What we consume is pivotal in supporting healing and empowering survivors and thrivers to reclaim their health, redefine their lives, and reject the limiting mindset of a "new normal." Nutrition Matters for Cancer Recovery First and foremost, attention to macronutrients —protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats—is essential during and after cancer treatment. Protein  in particular, has emerged as a cornerstone of recovery, helping rebuild tissues, support immune function, and combat the severe fatigue often associated with treatment. Adequate intake of protein isn’t just about dietary preference—it’s about giving the body the essential tools it needs to heal and thrive. Unfortunately, nutrition is sometimes downplayed during treatment, with patients being told they can "eat whatever they want." Yet, a substantial body of research links diet quality  to better health outcomes for those diagnosed with cancer. What and how we eat truly matters. Equally important are micronutrients  like antioxidants  and fiber . Berries, for instance, are rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, while fiber is known to play a role in lowering the risk of cancer recurrence. Prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods over processed options can significantly enhance the body’s ability to recover and reduce the risk of future disease. Nutrition is not one-size-fits-all. People diagnosed with cancer are encouraged to develop personalized nutrition plans  that take into account their unique needs, preferences, and health goals. Self-reflection on dietary habits—transitioning away from convenience foods and toward intentional, mindful eating—is an important and empowering step on the path to recovery. Breast Cancer Conversations, the podcast, Eps. 256 Beyond the New Normal: Building Strength After Cancer Through Nutrition and Empowerment with Dr. Amy Morris. Listen Now Rejecting the "New Normal" Mindset Beyond the physical aspects of healing, cancer survivors and thrivers often face a profound internal struggle: adjusting to a "new normal." While this phrase is meant to acknowledge the changes that come with cancer survivorship, it can also subtly reinforce a mindset of resignation—accepting fatigue, joint pain, or limitations as inevitable. However, you do not have to settle for a diminished quality of life. The post-cancer phase can instead be seen as an opportunity for transformation . By rejecting the "new normal" mindset, individuals can choose to pursue vitality, strength, and fulfillment . Progress may come in small, incremental steps, but each one is a powerful testament to resilience. A key part of this shift involves embracing small victories : choosing nourishing foods, committing to regular physical activity, seeking emotional support, or simply celebrating the return of energy and strength. Every positive choice builds momentum toward a life that is not defined by cancer, but empowered beyond it. Resources and community support also play a critical role. Educational materials, health coaches, support groups, and nutrition experts offer practical strategies and emotional encouragement. No one has to navigate this new chapter alone—building a personalized health team can make a profound difference. Community and Empowerment Navigating a cancer diagnosis can feel isolating, but you can often find strength and motivation through connection with others . Community support fosters accountability, provides inspiration, and reminds individuals that they are not alone in their pursuit of health and healing. Moreover, genetic counseling   can offer valuable insights for people diagnosed with cancer concerned about hereditary risks and future family planning. Discussions with healthcare providers about nutrition, lifestyle, and genetic factors empower survivors and thrivers with knowledge to make informed choices for themselves and their loved ones. Ultimately, thriving after cancer requires both internal and external resources : self-empowerment, community connection, informed choices, and holistic health strategies. Conclusion: Thriving, Not Just Surviving Recovery from cancer is not just about surviving—it's about thriving . Nutrition is a powerful tool for healing, and mindset is an equally vital force for transformation. By prioritizing intentional eating, rejecting the resignation of a "new normal," and embracing small victories, you can chart a new course toward strength, vitality, and joy. The path forward is not defined by limitations, but by the endless possibilities of a life reclaimed. Through education, community, nutrition, and empowerment, individuals can redefine what it means to live after cancer—building futures filled with hope, resilience, and vibrant health

In the realm of cancer treatment, discussions about fertility preservation are often overshadowed by the immediate focus on life-saving interventions. Yet, informing patients about their reproductive options is a vital part of comprehensive cancer care. The integration of fertility preservation discussions into the care continuum is essential not only for patients' emotional well-being but also for their long-term quality of life. When patients are well-informed, they are better equipped to make decisions that align with their personal desires and circumstances, ultimately improving fertility outcomes. Listen Now on Breast Cancer Conversations Podcast: 257. What is Oncofertility? How To Navigate Genetics, Fertility and Cancer Care (click below) The Importance of Early and Open Fertility Discussions Involving patients in decisions about their fertility risks and preservation options is a critical component of patient-centered care. Healthcare providers must take the initiative to ask the right questions and engage patients early in their treatment planning. Guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) have long advocated for informing patients at risk of infertility about their options. However, despite these recommendations being in place since 2012, a significant study conducted in 2020 revealed that only 44% of oncologists were providing this crucial information to their patients. This gap highlights a systemic issue in cancer care, where time constraints, treatment urgency, and competing priorities can lead to fertility discussions being overlooked. Yet, these conversations are essential — they offer patients a sense of control during an otherwise overwhelming time and open the door for future family-building opportunities. A Multidisciplinary Approach to Oncofertility Care Addressing the issue of fertility preservation requires a multidisciplinary team approach. Oncologists, while primarily focused on treating the cancer itself, may not have the time or specialized knowledge to cover fertility risks in depth. Involving other healthcare professionals — such as social workers, nurse practitioners, fertility specialists, patient navigators, and genetic counselors — can ensure patients receive thorough and timely information. Research shows that multidisciplinary involvement improves patient understanding. However, gaps remain: one study found that while 60% of breast cancer patients were informed about fertility preservation, only 25% of those who met with a genetic counselor received relevant fertility information. This underscores a missed opportunity. Genetic counselors are uniquely positioned to discuss hereditary risks, reproductive planning, and fertility preservation options with patients facing complex medical decisions. Addressing Disparities in Fertility Preservation Communication Fertility preservation information is not always offered equally. Studies reveal that single women without children are more likely to receive fertility preservation counseling compared to married women or women over the age of 36. This bias can have serious implications for patients' reproductive futures. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize that every patient — regardless of marital status, age, or perceived likelihood of childbearing — deserves access to information about fertility preservation. A standardized, equitable approach ensures that no patient is denied the opportunity to make informed decisions about their reproductive future. The Role of Tailored Resources and Genetic Counseling Patients consistently express appreciation for clear, accessible, and tailored educational resources about fertility preservation. Online materials, decision aids, and personalized counseling sessions can significantly enhance patients’ understanding and confidence. Genetic counselors, trained in delivering personalized support, can play a pivotal role. Beyond addressing inherited cancer risks, they can provide crucial guidance about fertility preservation strategies, such as egg or embryo freezing, ovarian tissue preservation, and considerations related to genetic testing of embryos. By equipping patients with individualized resources and support, healthcare teams empower them to make informed choices that align with their values and life goals. Empowering Patients Through Fertility Preservation Awareness As cancer care continues to advance, fertility preservation must remain a central focus of comprehensive, patient-centered treatment. Empowering patients with knowledge and options not only improves fertility outcomes but also supports emotional resilience, reduces future regret, and enhances overall quality of life. Fertility preservation is not merely a peripheral issue; it is a fundamental aspect of compassionate and holistic healthcare. Ensuring that patients have the information they need to shape their own futures is not just a matter of medical ethics — it is a commitment to honoring the dignity, dreams, and autonomy of every individual facing a cancer diagnosis. If you or someone you love is navigating a cancer diagnosis, ask your care team about fertility preservation options. Early conversations can make all the difference.

Resources at your fingertips! 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 ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis provides free, customized one-to-one emotional support for anyone impacted by breast cancer. Founded in 1999 by Melodie Wilson Oldenburg, ABCD matches individuals with trained volunteer Mentors who have a similar lived experience, offering compassionate support based on diagnosis, treatment, age, and lifestyle. With a fully virtual platform, ABCD supports people around the world and ensures that no one faces breast cancer alone. Voice: 1-800-977-4121 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

Press Room Latest News Now introducing: The Caregiver Huddle A professionally facilitated support group for family and friends of loved ones diagnosed with cancer Tell Cancer to Go #TakeAHike is back! We are thrilled to announce the return of SurvivingBreastCancer.org’s biggest fundraiser of the year Support Groups Summer Schedule This summer we are adjusting our TNT schedule. Click here to view the full schedule. Press Kit Download our brand kit and logos! Brand kit Download Surviving Breast Cancer logos Download Después De Un Diagnóstico logos Download Podcast logos Download Sponsorship Opportunities Become part of the SBC family! Download Press Releases

How to support someone with cancer can be a daunting task. Knowing what to say to someone with cancer, or how to support them can be hard. This is the ultimate caregiving guide that supports the caregiver and enables that person to be the best they can be to support a loved one, spouse, and friend. Support for caregivers: Support for caregivers: Support for caregivers: Support for caregivers: Resources, tips, and community for those caring for a loved one with cancer. Resources, tips, and community for those caring for a loved one with cancer. Resources, tips, and community for those caring for a loved one with cancer. Resources, tips, and community for those caring for a loved one with cancer. Your loved one has just been diagnosed? Supporting Your Loved One Through Cancer prioritizing self-care to maintain your own well-being and be a source of strength for your loved one. A Caregiver's Guide to Breast Cancer Multiple Dates The Caregiver Huddle Tue, May 20 Zoom RSVP Are you a caregiver? Share your story Hear from the voices that inspire us to keep on going... William's Story Introduction In the middle of a lovely, sunny, late summer walk along the beaches of Boston, my partner, twelve months into treatment for breast cancer, looked up at me and opined: “This has been the worst year of my life”. My response was immediate: “I must wholeheartedly disagree, I feel that this has been the best year of your life”. She looked at me like I had two heads and inquired about my meaning. I elaborated with a thoughtful smile, “You have just beaten breast cancer”. This conversation aptly summed up my role as a breast cancer caregiver. Closing - Managing Expectations In closing I’d like to suggest that a caregiver remain focused on the job at hand and manage expectations. Don’t try to do to much. Recognize what you can do, perform your due diligence so that you can assist in the discussion and decision making. Remain positive and inspirational and as helpful as positive. But remember it’s a long haul and you, and your patient, will need to count on each other throughout the ordeal. Encourage Optimism, Avoid Negativity A final anecdote: during the middle of a particularly depressing spell, I suggested that we go for a bicycle ride to get her out of her environment. As usual we went too far (40 miles total that day) and her depression was kicking in. So about thirty miles into our ride we stopped and took a break. After rehydrating and fueling we were able to get up and return the last 10 miles to our condo in Boston. Months later she asked how I was able to help her overcome her severe and scary depression on that particular ride. She told me her thoughts bordered on taking irrational actions. I told her that I remained focused on the positive and didn’t offer up any psychological rationale about dealing with her extreme sadness and potentially deleterious behavior. She then asked me “how did you know how to respond” and my answer was simply to reaffirm the healthful, positive aspects of our lives, which always returns us to our code during times of trouble - KGH (keep going hard). Characteristics of Caregiving There are many characteristics of life as a caregiver. The support that one provides to a cancer patient/survivor includes many of the following: emotional, physical, intellectual, financial, social, spiritual, nutritional, and motivational aspects to name just a few. But you are never alone. There is help and assistance everywhere. I found the following links to be quite helpful in coming to terms with my role as a caregiver. https://www.cancercare.org/tagged/caregiving http://www.breastcancer.org/community/acknowledging/caregivers From diagnosis and onward the responsibilities associated with caregiving kick in. There are meetings and discussions with your oncological and surgical teams. Options and alternative courses of action are proffered and weighted. Decisions have to be made in short order so it’s best to prepare yourself ahead of time by performing as much due diligence as you can. Do your research on the various options as spelled out by your care team. Once a course of action is agreed upon and plotted, take particular care to stay on top of developments, i.e. scheduled appointments, pain/emotional management, medications, coordinating and communicating information to the extended caregiving family, and helping with chores. At all times, be aware that you are there to assist the patient. This isn’t about you. Involve yourself with the patient’s emotional issues. You do not need to be a medical professional. Common sense and responding through the lens of caregiving should provide you with enough tools to deal with the myriad emotions that arise, such as fear and depression/sadness. There are many support groups that you can reach out to, including hospital care groups, psychiatrists, social/media pages, https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/ #survivingbreastcancer The Social Perspective Together we went out on a limb and informed all of our friends, both in person and through social media of the diagnosis. We also discussed it with our local area restaurant staff and work out circles at the YMCA, to eliminate any fears of considerations/communications from friends and associates regarding her cancer. Remember, the patient will be going through both emotional and physical changes, but still will want to resume enjoyable activities like date nights or walking on the treadmill as much as possible. We found that discussion opened many doors of kindness, friendship, and offers of help. Long Term Breast cancer remediation and treatment is a long-term commitment. Be cognizant of the fact that you too, as a care giver, need help and support, and quality time as well. Don’t try to do it all. Involve others, either extended family, or friends, or even medical support groups. Remain flexible. Due to the constant changing nature of recovery, from chemotherapy, to surgery, radiation, additional chemotherapy (if necessary) and follow up hormonal treatments, you may find yourself faced with multiple patient fronts. Side effects of the treatment are varied and include hair loss, water weight gain, physical breast alteration, depression, exhaustion, lymphedema, foot and mouth issues, to name several. Prepare yourself as best as you can to prevent the above from adversely affecting you in your role. It’s ok for the patient to be tired and sad. It’s also ok for the caregiver. I found comedy and music (movies, TV, radio) to be a great relief as it tends to change the narrative. Finding Strength, Sharing Support This group offers a safe and encouraging environment to find strength, share burdens, and gain valuable insights from others walking a similar path. The Caregivers Huddle: Join now Articles Supporting your loved one through cancer involves empathy, communication, and practical assistance. Read the following blogs to learn more about caregiving. Podcasts Discover podcasts on caregiving for insightful discussions, practical tips, and emotional support.Listen to experts and caregivers share experiences, strategies, and encouragement to navigate the challenges of caregiving with compassion and resilience. Caregiver & Patient Programs Are you caring for a loved one with breast cancer? We understand the challenges you face, and we want to support both of you on this journey. Join our tailored programs designed for breast cancer patients and their caregivers. Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga with Kate: Throat Chakra Mon, May 19 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jun 10 Online Event More info RSVP