Partners Meet Our Partners Gold Partners Amoena Discover Amoena's breast care products: breast forms, lingerie, swimwear and clothing to help women after breast surgery. Learn More The Carfang Group The Carfang Group offers Expert guidance in treasury, payments, liquidity, fintech, and banking. Provides consulting, writing, speaking, and advocacy. Learn More CureToday.com CURE connects oncology patients, survivors, and caregivers with expert guidance, cancer updates, treatment education, and clinical trial access. Learn More Silver Partners Lilly Eli Lilly and Company, doing business as Lilly, is an American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, with offices in 18 countries. Learn More Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation is the largest research institute in the U.S. devoted exclusively to women's health research. Learn More GE Healthcare GE HealthCare provides digital infrastructure, data analytics & decision support tools helps in diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of patients. Learn More What Makes Our Partners Special? Mission Alignment By supporting Surviving Breast Cancer, our partners' sponsorship make our mission of providing support, education, and hope to the breast cancer community achievable. Community Empowerment Our partners empower all corners of the breast cancer community to thrive both physical and mentally in life after a diagnosis through free, accessible programs. Compassionate Impact Compassion is at the core of our partners' support. Their impact in the breast cancer community helps the vulnerable and underserved thrive during their most challenging times. Looking to Become an SBC Partner? Explore the many ways you can partner with SurvivingBreastCancer.org through non-profit alliances to cause-related marketing opportunities. Just like no one tumor or diagnosis is the same, neither are the personal relationships that we develop with our partners. How To Support Surviving Breast Cancer Corporate Sponsorship Support SBC's operations to advance our mission of delivering free programs and educational resources to the breast cancer community. Support a Program Help fund a specific SBC program to enhance access, awareness, and instruction for our programs and classes. Sponsor an Event Boost SBC's engaging fundraising events through generous initiatives like donation matching and charitable contributions. À La Carte Advertising Work with us to secure curated advertising opportunities that suit your company's unique marketing goals. Who We Are SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting anyone touched by breast cancer. Since 2017, we’ve grown into a global community offering 100% free resources, including educational webinars, mental health support, and wellness programs in multiple languages. Our Mission We believe no one should face breast cancer alone or uninformed. Through evidence-based resources and a warm, supportive community, we empower individuals to make informed decisions and take charge of their physical, emotional, and mental health. Why Your Sponsorship Matters Empower Patients and Families: Your sponsorship ensures patients, survivors, and caregivers have continuous access to vital resources, whether they’re newly diagnosed or years beyond treatment. Provide Lifesaving Education: We offer webinars, support groups, and detailed guides at no cost, helping individuals navigate complex treatment decisions. Promote Mental Health & Wellness: Through counseling, mindfulness sessions, and exercise programs, we focus on holistic well-being for those battling cancer. Expand Outreach to Underserved Communities: Our Spanish-language and culturally responsive services allow us to reach people who may lack resources elsewhere. Let's Connect! And Change The World Email: Laura@SurvivingBreastCancer.org Set Up A Call

A variety of breast cancer treatment options exist to help patients in their fight, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormonal therapy. Breast Cancer Radiation Treatment Options Chemotherapy, Surgery, Radiation & Hormonal Therapy When you meet with your oncology team, it is always important to remember that this is a partnership; a partnership between you and your doctors. It is ok to ask questions, to ask for clarification and to ensure you are 100% comfortable with your treatment options. Depending on the type of breast cancer you have (Triple Negative, Lobular, Inflammatory, etc. ), and the stage of your breast cancer, your treatment options will vary. In some cases people will start with chemotherapy, while others may have surgery first. In some cases, if your cancer has spread to the bones or organs, surgery may not be necessary. The point is, treatments vary, and if you read our breast cancer stories , you'll see the wide range of experiences our members share. What's the Difference between Diet and Nutrition? On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now Radiation Therapy Video Library Welcome to our Radiotherapy Video Library, where we provide expert insights, real patient experiences, and practical tips to help you navigate radiation therapy for breast cancer. Whether you're preparing for treatment, currently undergoing radiotherapy, or managing side effects, our videos offer clear, compassionate guidance every step of the way. Radiation Therapy: What Every Breast Cancer Patient Needs To Know | With Dr. Rachel Jimenez TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE -People who refuse aspects of therapy including radiation. -What to expect when going in for radiation-Planning appointment -What is radiation and why would I need it? -Radiation and skin care -Proton Beam Radiation (the science behind protons; a number of clinical trials exploring proton beam radiation in the breast cancer community to minimize cardiac toxicity). -Risks association with radiation, but we still sign the consent. As a young breast cancer survivor, I ask Dr. Jimenez to explain the 10, 20 and 50 year plan for women who go through treatment. HEALTH RISKS -Cardiac toxicity -Field of cardio oncology partners and have mapped out the ideal -Herceptin and anthracyclines. After 5 years of survivorship, you should have a cardiac stress test. -Getting a baseline with an ultrasound of the heart so if there are changes, doctors can track them. -Our job (in Radiation Oncology) in follow up is to open up and make sure that referrals are made. How is your nutrition? Are you exercising? Did you schedule your next mammogram? QUOTES: "Your providers are your providers for life". "You are never a bother, it is our job and privilege to take care of you! " Listen Now Radiation Therapy for Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) with Dr. Rachel Jimenez and Dr. Kim Corbin. Listen Now Tales from the Radiology Tech Amy Ellen Parliman lives life by faith and enjoys spreading kindness. 26 years ago, she went to school to become a radiology technologist. She enjoys performing diagnostic imaging on her patients, she prides herself in safe and quality care. About 12 years ago she became a leader in her field and has moved into a leadership role in the Diagnostic Imaging Department. She worked in mobile imaging for 13 years, she recently changed jobs to reenter the hospital scene. She enjoys sharing her skills in diagnostic imaging with newer technologist. Her thoughts are to create an environment that is warm and inviting for patients during some of the worse times of their lives. She lives by a code to treat all of her patients like she wants her parents treated. Her goal is a smile or maybe a laugh while caring for her patients. Over the years she has been able to learn from her patients and team. On January 29, 2014 Amy became a Cancer patient. She underwent treatment for stage III breast cancer during 2014. She lived with NED until January 29, 2019 then she was told she had MBC. She is currently on her first line treatment. If the opportunity presents, she will share her various experiences of living after diagnosis. Listen Now Stories to Explore Tripple Negative Breast Cancer in your 20's and 30's >

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Providing Hope From Day One. Patient Referral Form Healthcare Provider's First Name Healthcare Provider's Last name Healthcare Provider's Email Anything Else You Would Like To Share? Submit Your Request Has Been Received. Healthcare Organization Address City State Zip Code Patient's First Name Patient's Last name Patient's Email Address City State Primary Language Select Language Weekly Newsletter Select Virtual Support Groups Select MBC Support Groups Select IBC Support Groups Select Book Club Select Art Therapy Select Would You Like Us To Send Your Patient a Care Package? Select Provider Information Patient Information Request Services Upon your request, SBC will send a Breast Cancer Care Package to your patient, a $250 value offering hope and encouragement. Zip Code Yes! I want to subscribe to the SurvivingBreastCancer.org newsletter.

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, Jan 20 Zoom See All RSVP Load More 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: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Jan 19 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Fri, Jan 30 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Fri, Feb 06 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Feb 10 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Feb 16 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Mar 10 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Mar 16 Online Event More info RSVP

Genetics play a significant role in breast cancer risk. Discover how genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 affect susceptibility to breast cancer development. > Discover Your Risk: Understanding Breast Cancer Genetics Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers worldwide, prompting many individuals to seek information about their genetic risk. This guide discusses key genetic factors linked to breast cancer and explains how you can take proactive steps toward better health. The Basics of Breast Cancer Genetics We All Have the BRCA1 Gene (and That’s OK) It may surprise some to learn that every person has the BRCA1 gene, (pronounced “BRAH-kuh”) among many other genes that have been associated with cancer. The presence of these gene by itself does not mean you will develop cancer. In fact, we all have many genes that help our bodies function, and BRCA1 is one of them. Problems arise only when there is a mutation —an alteration or change—in certain genes that disrupts their normal function. Why It Matters BRCA1’s Role: When functioning correctly, the BRCA1 gene helps repair DNA breaks that can lead to cancer. Mutation vs. Normal Gene: Only mutated versions of BRCA1 (or other cancer-related genes) significantly increase your risk. This distinction is crucial for understanding personal health and risk factors. Did you know? BRCA stands for BReast CAncer gene. Both men and women can carry these genes and pass them down to children. On The Podcast What is a Variant of Uncertain Significance? Listen Now Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast Cancer with Dr. Mártir-Negrón Listen Now Prophylactic Mastectomy and BRCA Mutation: A Personal Story with Amy Gallagher Listen Now Michelle Sandlin, Living Her Best Life with BRCA 1 Listen Now Realities of Knowing Your Genetic Results Came Back Positive Listen Now Genetic Testing - Should My Kids be Tested? Listen Now On The Blog Genetic Testing for Cancer- What You Need To Know Genetic testing. What exactly is it and how does it concern you? Why is it important that you get tested and why are there conflicting conversations surrounding the topic? These were some of the questions I had walking into the podcast interview with Fatima Amir, a Genetic Counselor at Dana Farber. Read More Hereditary (or Germline) vs. Sporadic Breast Cancer: Key Differences and Implications Breast cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers among women, can be categorized into two main types: hereditary (or germline) and sporadic. Understanding the distinctions between these types is crucial as they differ in causes, risk factors, and implications for treatment and prevention. Read More My Previvor Story After putting extra hormones in my body during the IVF process, I knew that I would always be at a higher risk for some cancers. Little did I know, that is not what was putting me at a higher risk for breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Read More What is a Genetic Mutation A genetic mutation is a permanent alteration or change in the usual sequence of DNA in a gene. Think of your genes as an instruction manual. When an instruction (sequence) is out of place, it can cause an entire process in the body to go awry. Somatic vs. Germline Mutations Germline mutations are inherited from a parent and are present in every cell of your body from birth. If one parent carries a germline mutation, there is a 50% chance of passing it on to each child. Somatic mutations happen during a person’s lifetime and are not inherited from parents. They occur in only certain cells and are usually caused by environmental factors, lifestyle factors, or random mistakes when cells divide. Somatic mutations cannot be passed on to your children. Key Takeaways Not All Mutations Lead to Cancer: Many genetic changes are harmless or have minimal impact. High-Risk Mutations: Mutations in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and others can impair DNA repair, leading to an elevated cancer risk. Breast Cancer–Related Genes While BRCA1 is often in the spotlight, several other genes can influence your likelihood of developing breast cancer—plus, new risk-associated genes continue to be discovered. Notable examples include: BRCA2 Similar in function to BRCA1; responsible for DNA repair Mutations can increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers TP53 Known as the “guardian of the genome” for its role in preventing abnormal cell growth Mutations can lead to Li-Fraumeni syndrome, associated with multiple cancers PTEN A tumor suppressor gene linked to Cowden syndrome Increases risk of breast, thyroid, and endometrial cancers ATM Plays a critical role in DNA damage response Mutations can lead to increased breast cancer risk CHEK2 Involved in cell cycle regulation Mutations can modestly increase breast cancer risk STK11 Associated with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome Increases risk for breast, pancreatic, and gastrointestinal cancers PALB2 Carrying a hereditary cancer gene mutation can raise the likelihood of developing more than just breast cancer. Some of the cancers associated with BRCA1, BRCA2, and other related genes include: Ovarian Cancer Prostate Cancer Pancreatic Cancer Male Breast Cancer Melanoma Why These Genes Matter Risk Assessment: Knowing whether you carry a mutation in one or more of these genes informs your breast cancer screening schedule, often leading to earlier and more frequent screening. Personalized Medicine: Genetic testing can guide individualized prevention and treatment strategies, such as risk-reducing surgeries, enhanced screening protocols, or targeted therapies. Ongoing Discovery Researchers are continually uncovering new genes associated with inherited breast cancer risk. Staying informed about the latest developments in genetic testing is especially important for individuals with a strong family history of breast or related cancers Genetic Testing & Counseling If you have a strong family history of breast, ovarian, or other associated cancers, consider genetic testing. A licensed genetic counselor can guide you through: Risk Assessment Reviewing personal and family medical history Evaluating the appropriateness of genetic testing Types of Genetic Tests BRCA-only tests focus on BRCA1 and BRCA2 Multigene panels screen for multiple genes simultaneously (BRCA, TP53, ATM, etc.) Test Interpretation Understanding positive, negative, or “variant of uncertain significance” (VUS) results Exploring implications for family members Action Plan Enhanced screening (e.g., earlier mammograms, breast MRI) Risk-reducing surgeries (e.g., mastectomy, oophorectomy) Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, avoiding tobacco) Articles Just For You 1 2

Your generosity gives hope. Find out how you can get involved and make an impactful and meaningful difference. Donate to breast cancer and make a difference. Home Page Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Download the App Subscribe to the Newsletter Donate to a Program More Make a Difference Through Asset Based Giving & Charitable Bequests Donating assets and making charitable bequests to SurvivingBreastCancer.org holds significant value and contributes immensely to our mission of providing comprehensive support, resources, and advocacy for those battling breast cancer. Below 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 that live on: A legacy gift is a deeply personal way to ensure that your values, compassion, and commitment to community continue to make an impact—today and for generations to come. By including SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) in your estate plans or making a legacy gift during your lifetime, you help ensure that no one faces breast cancer alone. Your generosity sustains free education, community connection, and integrative oncology–inspired programs for individuals and families navigating breast cancer at every stage. 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! Your donation transforms lives 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 English Español

SurvivingBreastCancer.org provides art workshops to help breast cancer patients & survivors heal emotionally using painting, collage, & other art forms. Art Expression for Breast Cancer Support & Healing Heal through creativity. Connect through color. Empower your spirit. Learn More Why Art Expression Matters Art expression is a powerful, non-verbal way to process the emotional complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. At SurvivingBreastCancer.org, we provide guided workshops where you can use painting, drawing, collage, and other art forms to explore your healing journey—no artistic experience required. What To Expect In Our Art Expression Workshops Create in community with others who understand what you're going through Express emotions that may be difficult to put into words Reduce stress and anxiety through mindful creative activities Access inner resilience and foster a sense of control and empowerment Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Feb 02 Online Event Sign Up RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Mar 02 Online Event Sign Up RSVP "I’m not an artist, but these sessions gave me space to breathe, to cry, and to feel whole again." ~Mary , MN. Backed by Research Creative expression isn't just a hobby—it’s a validated practice that supports emotional well-being, stress reduction, and connection during the cancer journey. Over the past decade, a growing body of research has demonstrated the benefits of engaging in the arts for those affected by cancer. From painting and drawing to collage and mixed media, visual art-making offers meaningful ways to cope with uncertainty, process emotions, and reduce treatment-related distress. Reduces Emotional Distress and Anxiety A 2021 systematic review in Frontiers in Psychology found that art therapy interventions significantly reduced anxiety, depression, and distress in breast cancer patients. Many participants reported increased relaxation, improved mood, and a deeper sense of control [1]. Improves Quality of Life In a 2020 randomized controlled trial, women undergoing breast cancer treatment who participated in art-based interventions reported enhanced emotional and psychological quality of life. Activities like painting and mandala creation provided a calming outlet for stress and a structured way to express difficult emotions [2]. Decreases Fatigue and Boosts Self-Efficacy A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that art-making helped reduce treatment-related fatigue and fostered a sense of self-efficacy—particularly valuable for individuals navigating long-term or metastatic care [3]. Enhances Emotional Processing and Connection: According to a 2019 study in Arts & Health, breast cancer patients participating in group-based visual art sessions reported increased self-awareness, emotional expression, and peer connection. Creating art in community helped reduce isolation and build resilience [4]. Art On Demand 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, 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. Click on the videos below to watch Why It Matters At SurvivingBreastCancer.org, we recognize that emotional and mental well-being are essential aspects of whole-person care. Our Art Expression workshops are informed by this research and designed to: Create a safe space for emotional exploration Reduce stress and anxiety through mindful creativity Build a sense of control and agency during uncertain times Foster connection with others walking a similar path Whether you're coping with a new diagnosis, in active treatment, or living with metastatic breast cancer, art can offer comfort, insight, and a quiet moment of peace. 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. Expressive Art: Unveiling my self Express your feelings, release tension, and explore your healing process without fear of judgment or perfection. Expressive Art: Season of Gratitude Adopting gratitude as a consistent practice helps transform a person's entire outlook, fostering optimism and resilience even in challenging circumstances. Expressive Arts: Honoring Your Life Celebrate resilience, courage, and self-expression through art. Expressive Arts Blossoming Beyond Embark on a transformative journey of renewal, where we blossom beyond challenges and embrace happiness through creativity and self-expression. Expressive Arts: Exploring Relationships In this class, we use art as a tool for healing, reflection, and self-discovery. Expressive Arts Class: Love Yourself Join us for a powerful Expressive Arts space focused on self-love, healing, and creativity. Expressive Arts: Creating Mandalas for Inner Peace and Reflection explore the power of mandalas as a creative tool for healing, mindfulness, and emotional expression. Expressive arts: Pebble Drawing Releasing the need to control is part of our learning process. We need to trust the flow, and find beauty in the unexpected. Expressive Arts: Write it, Feel it, Transform it Explore how expressive arts and creative arts can help breast cancer survivors process emotions, reduce stress, and foster healing. Expressive Art: Self Portrait This creative workshop is designed to help you explore your identity, emotions, and inner voice through the powerful tool of self-portraiture. Expressive Art Colors of my voice In this session, we invite you to explore the connection between emotion, voice, and color, using art as a gentle path to self-expression and healing. Expressive arts: Tree of Life Explore the Tree of Life as a tool for healing, reflection, and hope. Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Feb 02 Online Event RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Mar 02 Online Event RSVP Looking For More Ways To Incorporate Creativity Into Healing? Check out our Expressive Writing Workshops and the transformative power of narrative storytelling to support your emotional well-being! Looking for more ways to support your healing journey? View Programs References: 1. Frontiers in Psychology, 2021 2. Thyme, K.E. et al. (2020). Effects of art therapy on quality of life for women undergoing breast cancer treatment. 3. Nainis, N., et al. Art Therapy Improves Quality of Life in Cancer Patients. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 4. Arts & Health, 2019

We provide free breast cancer events, programs, and webinars to support breast cancer patients and survivors. Explore our supportive community events today! Surviving Breast Cancer provides breast cancer events, support, 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. Supporting you, every step of the way Learn More and RSVP for Upcoming Events & Programs (Click here for Programs in Spanish) Multiple Dates Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing Mon, Jan 19 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Jan 19 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates The Caregiver Huddle Tue, Jan 20 Zoom More info RSVP Breaking Light: Exploring Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Cancer Care with Illumacell Thu, Jan 22 Zoom More info RSVP Multiple Dates All Stages Breast Cancer Support Group | Thursday Night Thrivers Thu, Jan 22 Zoom More info RSVP Multiple Dates SBC Well-Being Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path Mon, Jan 26 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Fri, Jan 30 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club – A Monthly Escape Into Stories, Connection, and Joy Sun, Feb 01 Zoom Meetings More info RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Feb 02 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Meditation Tuesday for Self-Care with Rohini Tue, Feb 03 Online Event More info RSVP Guided Hypnosis for Breast Cancer Thrivers & Caregivers Wed, Feb 04 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Feb 05 Virtual More info RSVP Multiple Dates Early Stage Breast Cancer Support Group | Thursday Night Thrivers Thu, Feb 05 Zoom More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Fri, Feb 06 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Feb 06 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Expressive Writing with Thomas Dooley Mon, Feb 09 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Feb 10 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) Online Meetup Thu, Feb 12 Online Event More info RSVP Load More Breast Cancer Events & Support Curated For You Upcoming Events January 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 28 29 30 31 1 7:00 PM Early Stage Breast Cancer Support Group | Thursday Night Thrivers +1 more +2 more 2 3 4 11:00 AM Breast Cancer Book Club – A Monthly Escape Into Stories, Connection, and Joy +1 more 5 10:00 AM Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing +1 more +2 more 6 6:00 PM Meditation Tuesday for Self-Care with Rohini +1 more 7 6:00 PM Hypnosis: Rewrite Your Story +1 more 8 7:00 PM Thursday Night Thrivers Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) Online Meetup +1 more +2 more 9 10:00 AM Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer +1 more 10 11 12 10:00 AM Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing +2 more +3 more 13 6:00 PM Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap +1 more +2 more 14 15 7:00 PM Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD +1 more +2 more 16 10:00 AM Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery +1 more 17 18 19 10:00 AM Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing +1 more +2 more 20 7:00 PM The Caregiver Huddle +1 more 21 22 6:00 PM Breaking Light: Exploring Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Cancer Care with Illumacell +2 more +3 more 23 24 25 26 10:00 AM Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing +1 more +2 more 27 8:00 PM Grupo de Apoyo: Después de un Diagnóstico de cancer de Mama +1 more 28 29 7:00 PM All Stages Breast Cancer Support Group | Thursday Night Thrivers +1 more 30 10:00 AM Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery +1 more 31 1 11:00 AM Breast Cancer Book Club – A Monthly Escape Into Stories, Connection, and Joy +1 more 2 10:00 AM Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing +1 more +2 more 3 6:00 PM Meditation Tuesday for Self-Care with Rohini +1 more 4 6:00 PM Guided Hypnosis for Breast Cancer Thrivers & Caregivers +1 more 5 7:00 PM MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup +2 more +3 more 6 10:00 AM Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery +1 more +2 more 7 Breast Cancer Awareness Month Make an Impact TODAY TODAY TODAY TODAY Inspire. Empower. Support. Donate Join Our Breast Cancer Awareness Month Silent Auction! We are thrilled to be launching our silent auction which will run untill Friday, October 25. You can check out amazing travel packages including glamping at the Grand Canyon, tickets to the Kentucky Durby, two nights at a hotel to see Cirque Du Soleil and more! Explore all of the auction items and Bid For Good!

Learn about Metastatic breast cancer, also called stage IV breast cancer, and the innovative treatments that are changing the story for patients. Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer Resources & Support So You Can Keep Living Life! Created in partnership with Abigail Johnston and the Grieving Together Project. In honor of the late Alyson Tischler. What is Metastatic Breast Cancer? Metastatic breast cancer—also called stage IV breast cancer—means that the cancer has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body. Common sites of metastasis include the bones, liver, lungs, and brain. When breast cancer cells travel through the blood or lymphatic system to other organs, they can grow and form new tumors. Read More Advanced Treatment Options If you’ve recently been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), it can feel like you’re suddenly thrust into a new world filled with acronyms, treatment decisions, and unfamiliar terminology. We take a deeper look at four innovative categories of treatment that are changing the landscape of metastatic breast cancer care: CDK4/6 inhibitors, Antibody-drug conjugates , Immunotherapies, & PARP inhibitors Read More Understanding Survivor's Guilt Why Am I Still Here When Others Are Gone? If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. Many people living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), or have no evidence of disease/ active disease, after treatment experience a complex emotional weight known as survivor’s guilt. Read More What is Metastatic Breast Cancer? Newly Diagnosed with MBC? Start Here Explore a wide variety of programs, virtual meet-ups, webinars, blogs, & podcasts curated specifically for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Monthly Metastatic Breast Cancer Webinars Explore the Series Attend Upcoming Events &Programs Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Feb 05 Virtual See All RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Feb 06 Online Event +1 more RSVP Multiple Dates Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD Thu, Feb 19 Zoom See All RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Mar 05 Virtual RSVP Multiple Dates Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD Thu, Mar 19 Zoom RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Apr 24 Online Event See All RSVP Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club – A Monthly Escape Into Stories, Connection, and Joy Sun, Feb 01 Zoom Meetings +7 more RSVP Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club – A Monthly Escape Into Stories, Connection, and Joy Sun, Mar 01 Zoom Meetings RSVP See The Full Calendar Enhance your Advocacy Get involved and volunteer with SBC Today! Contact Us Handy Resouces File Name Description Download SBC MBC Legacy Workshop Handout Ideas, inspiration, and resources for leaving your legacy Estate Planning for the Terminally Ill A practical guide to the logistics and administration of estate planning. Financial Literacy & Breast Cancer Definition of terms, budget sheets, and financial considerations to help you navigate MBC MBC Resources (Recap from SABCS 2022) Breast Cancer Advocates, Stephanie Walker and Christine Hodgdon share a PDF with MBC resources. Read the Blog Join Our Mailing List and Receive Weekly Newsletters and Announcements Subscribe to Our Mailing List Join Thanks for subscribing!

SurvivingBreastCancer.org offers breast cancer support through online programs, resources, and a caring community for patients, survivors, and their families. Community.Education. Support When breast cancer becomes part of your life, we become part of your support. Get Support Fuel Cancer Survivorship into 2026 Donate Today! Our Impact in Numbers Facts & Figures +390 Programs offered Serving 8,000 individuals +51k Views of our digital content Video views from our digital content library Webinars, on-demand mindfulness & movement classes 190K Podcast Episodes Downloaded Providing education and inspiration 85% Demonstrated increased confidence Support, mental health, and health literacy This December, Your Support Matters! Fuel Cancer Survivorship into 2026 Resources. Community. Support 400+ Virtual Programs Explore Every week, hundreds of people impacted by breast cancer log on to connect, learn, and heal through our 400+ free virtual programs. From weekly support groups to wellness classes and expert-led webinars, experience how powerful community can be. SBC's On-Demand Video Library Watch Now Whether you’re newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, or supporting a loved one, our 600+ videos are here for you 24/7. Explore expert talks, survivor stories, and wellness practices—all free and on demand. Real Stories. Real Voices. Real Support. Listen Now Our podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations, brings together survivors, thrivers, caregivers, and experts in candid conversations that educate, inspire. With over 250 episodes, it’s a trusted companion — whether you’re seeking answers, hope, or just a friendly voice. Donate Donate Today! About you Join Subscribe to Our Mailing List Thanks for subscribing! Recibe nuestro boletín en Español Registrate aquí Registrate Shop Now This October, SurvivingBreastCancer.Org is honored to partner with Madam Glam in our shared mission to support breast cancer awareness and action. For every pink gel sold from Madam Glam’s exclusive "Think Pink" Collection, $1 will be donated directly to SurvivingBreastCancer.Org.

A new metastatic breast cancer diagnosis can disrupt anyone's life in a major way. Learn about your next steps to fight back with innovative treatments. 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 Events & Programs Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Feb 05 Virtual Join our MBC Peer to Peer Support group during Thursday Night Thrivers. A monthly breakout space for the metastatic breast cancer community to connect, share, and find support. See All RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Feb 06 Online Event Join us for special session for those living with MBC who would like to take some time to reflect with others in the community, participate in a few journaling exercises, and share their thoughts and feelings in a confidential and supportive setting. +1 more RSVP Multiple Dates Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD Thu, Feb 19 Zoom Join us for our Thursday Night Thrivers MBC Support Group, a warm and uplifting space created specifically for the Metastatic Breast Cancer community. This free, online support group is facilitated by the exceptional psychologist Nancy L. Gaulin, PsyD, MBA a specialist in cancer-related support See All RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Mar 05 Virtual Join our MBC Peer to Peer Support group during Thursday Night Thrivers. A monthly breakout space for the metastatic breast cancer community to connect, share, and find support. RSVP Multiple Dates Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD Thu, Mar 19 Zoom Join us for our Thursday Night Thrivers MBC Support Group, a warm and uplifting space created specifically for the Metastatic Breast Cancer community. This free, online support group is facilitated by the exceptional psychologist Nancy L. Gaulin, PsyD, MBA a specialist in cancer-related support RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Apr 24 Online Event Join us for special session for those living with MBC who would like to take some time to reflect with others in the community, participate in a few journaling exercises, and share their thoughts and feelings in a confidential and supportive setting. See All RSVP Recent Articles

Meet Laura and learn about her journey with breast cancer. Diagnosis: I was diagnosed with Stage IIB breast cancer in the fall of 2016 at the age of 34. I've been through chemo-therapy : Adriamycin, Cytoxan, Taxol, Perjeta, Herceptin, Xeloda Surgery : Partial Mastectomy and full axillary node dissection. Radiation : 6 Weeks Hormonal Therapies: Tried Anastrozole, didn't react well to it so now I am on Exemestane + Lupron shot. And I am here to share my story! Laura's Journey Subscribe to my Vlog Day 1 post chemo My Port & My Hair Chemo #8 of 16 Morning Workout day of surgery Symptoms from Chemo (AC Treatment) Waking up from Surgery Intravenous Chemo #3 Night Before Surgery Day 4 Post-Op Warning: Graphic Content - Drains 4 Weeks Post-Op Radiation, 3 Weeks In Last round of Radiation, 30/30! Round 1 of Xeloda Round 8 of Xeloda Have questions or want to get in touch? Email Laura! Have a story you want to share? We want to hear from you! Submit a Story! Return Back to Survivor Stories

Recognizing breast cancer symptoms early can save your life, and it starts with checking for irregularities. Schedule regular screenings to protect yourself. Breast Cancer Symptoms Understanding the Signs. Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel is an important part of breast health. Finding breast cancer as early as possible gives you a better chance of successful treatment. But knowing what to look for does not take the place of having regular mammograms and other Screening tests. Screening tests can help find breast cancer in its early stages, before any symptoms appear. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, but breast cancers can be tender, soft, or rounded. They can even be painful. For this reason, it is important to have any new breast mass, lump, or breast change checked by a health care professional experienced in diagnosing breast diseases. Other possible symptoms of breast cancer include: Other possible symptoms of breast cancer include: Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no distinct lump is felt) Skin irritation or dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel) Breast or nipple pain Nipple retraction (turning inward) Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin Nipple discharge (other than breast milk) Sometimes a breast cancer can spread to lymph nodes under the arm or around the collar bone and cause a lump or swelling there, even before the original tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt. Swollen lymph nodes should also be checked by a health care provider. Although any of these symptoms can be caused by things other than breast cancer, if you have them, they should be reported to a health care professional so that the cause can be found. Because mammograms do not find every breast cancer, it is important for you to be aware of changes in your breasts and to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. >

Breast Cancer Conversations You’re Going To Be On The Podcast! What’s Next? Preparing for Your Podcast Recording We are delighted to have you participate in our webinar, livestream broadcast, and/or on our podcast, Breast Cancer Conversations . This is a place where we talk about all things breast cancer. We highlight the personal experiences of those diagnosed with breast cancer, and we share educational content and resources from experts in the field. Physicians provide in-depth insights into the science and critical advances taking place in the industry. Now, let’s help you get prepared for the big day! What equipment do I need? Audio is everything. You have an amazing story to tell, and we want to hear it loud and clear! Speaking through your computer won’t have great sound quality, so please make sure you have good headphones or a microphone set up prior to our interview. Apple EarPods or any other brand of headset or microphone will do. We want to avoid feedback coming from computer speakers. You will not need any special software on your computer. We will email you a link to our browser-based recording platform, and all you have to do is click the link to join the studio! Please help us prevent interruptions and distractions by muting your electronic devices during the recording. Where should I record? We recommend finding a quiet room that has carpeting. Sound tends to bounce off of tile floors and large open concept rooms. It’s best to find a smaller room with rugs, carpeting, and sofas that can help absorb any audio feedback. We also recommend a room that minimizes distractions and/or interruptions, i.e., no people walking behind you or someone now deciding it’s the perfect time to empty the dishwasher. How do I join the recording studio? A link to our recording platform will be emailed to you in advance. Our team will also send you a calendar invitation for the agreed upon date and time with the link in the location field. Click the link, and you’re in! We will record both audio and video. Please allow one hour of uninterrupted time for our recording (unless otherwise noted). Media Release and Permissions By participating in the webinar, livestream broadcast and/or the Breast Cancer Conversations podcast with SurvivingBreastCancer.org, you authorize anyone on the SurvivingBreastCancer.org team to record, distribute, and disseminate recorded audio and video content in any manner, including on social media and our various publications. You also authorize Laura Carfang to retain rights to the produced media for potential future use in speeches, books, marketing, and in all other public distribution. Get ready to add value to so many lives! Tell Us About Yourself First name Last name Email address Phone number Submit Thanks for submitting! Upload your bio Upload your bio Upload your headshot Upload your headshot Instagram handle TikTok handle I want to subscribe to the newsletter. Podcast Intake Form By submitting the below form, you hereby give full consent to SurvivingBreastCancer.org to use all recorded video and audio content and submitted documents and photographs for, but not limited to, our social media, advertising, newsletters, website, printed materials, and public relations, and without limitation, reservation, or compensation. SurvivingBreastCancer.org reserves the right to edit content. Please share your social media handles if you would like us to tag you when the podcast is shared on our social media.

Círculo de Mujeres Un espacio recurrente diseñado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. A través de dinámicas de coaching, reflexión y acompañamiento grupal, cultivamos juntas la resiliencia, el empoderamiento y una nueva mirada hacia la vida. Thu, Jan 22 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Jan 22, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. See All Multiple Dates Thu, Feb 05 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Feb 05, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. See All Multiple Dates Thu, Feb 19 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Feb 19, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. Multiple Dates Thu, Mar 05 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Mar 05, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. Multiple Dates Thu, Mar 19 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Mar 19, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 02 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Apr 02, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 16 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Apr 16, 2026, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. Load More Comunicación asertiva con familiares, médicos y cuidadores Aprender a establecer límites, expresar necesidades y tomar decisiones informadas es clave durante el proceso oncológico. En el Círculo de Mujeres, fomentamos la comunicación asertiva como una herramienta poderosa para mejorar las relaciones personales y el autocuidado. Las participantes desarrollan confianza para dialogar con su equipo médico, familiares y cuidadores desde un lugar de claridad, respeto y seguridad. Manejo emocional después del diagnóstico En el Círculo de Mujeres abordamos el manejo emocional tras un diagnóstico de cáncer como una parte fundamental del proceso de sanación. Reconocer, expresar y validar emociones como el miedo, la tristeza o la incertidumbre ayuda a liberar tensiones y a fortalecer el equilibrio emocional. A través de dinámicas grupales, técnicas de journaling y ejercicios de mindfulness, las participantes aprenden a cultivar una mentalidad más compasiva y resiliente. Autoestima y reconexión con el cuerpo El cáncer puede transformar la relación que una mujer tiene con su cuerpo. En este espacio, trabajamos la autoestima y la reconexión corporal desde la aceptación y el amor propio. Usamos herramientas de visualización, movimiento consciente y diálogo interior para recuperar la confianza, reconectar con la feminidad y honrar el cuerpo como un aliado en el camino de recuperación. Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal Thu, Jan 22 Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. See All RSVP Multiple Dates Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal Thu, Feb 05 Zoom Círculo de Mujeres es un encuentro recurrente creado especialmente para mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer que buscan trabajar en sí mismas, descubrir nuevas herramientas de crecimiento personal y fortalecer su bienestar emocional. See All RSVP

Your generosity gives hope. Donate to make a real difference in the breast cancer community, including through DAF and stock-based giving options. Home Page Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations Download the App Subscribe to the Newsletter Donate to a Program More Community Our support groups provide a virtual community setting to allow those diagnosed to share personal experiences, ask questions, and foster connection. Our programs are tailored to early-stage breast cancer, those living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as inflammatory breast cancer which impacts less than 5% of those diagnosed. Your donation also enables us to provide complementary programs to help breast cancer survivors make sense of the trauma a breast cancer diagnosis brings through professionally led programs. Donate now Podcast, webinars & more! Knowledge is Power! Support accurate and trustworthy educational content in the form of blogs, articles, and research, to weekly podcast episodes and webinars where we interview the experts. Help us ensure that we are getting the information into the hands (eyes and ears) of those diagnosed who need it most! Donate now Trustworthy Information A breast cancer diagnosis at any stage is emotionally overwhelming, and it also comes with a lot of new information to absorb. At SurvivingBreastCancer.org, we've gathered resources to help new cancer patients and their families navigate this sea of information. We stay up to date with the latest clinical trials and curate content from trusted partners and providers so our community members can make informed decisions based on reputable sources. Donate now Hearing From The Experts Our travel grant program enables breast cancer patient advocates to attend important conferences and events such as the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, and may others. Your generosity helps off set the cost of travel, registration, hotels, and meals so those diagnosed with breast can attend conferences, gain valuable information, and connect with survivors, thrivers, and patient advocates! Donate now In-Person Support Your contribution to our in-person breast cancer retreats provides those diagnosed with breast cancer to experience a much-deserved and needed respite for a long weekend. Participants on our SBC Retreats receive an all-inclusive weekend get-a-way to connect with others diagnosed with breast cancer, customized programming, delicious and nutritious meals, and opportunities to be in nature and make lasting connections. Donate now Donate to SurvivingBreastCancer.org At SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC), we believe everyone deserves free, compassionate support from the moment of diagnosis and beyond. Every day, people log on to connect with our global community of patients, survivors, thrivers, and caregivers who understand what it means to live with breast cancer. Your gift ensures this vital support is always within reach. Because of donors like you, SBC offers more than 400 free virtual programs every year to support mental, emotional, and physical health, from weekly meditation sessions to support group meet-ups and educational webinars. Our on-demand library of 600+ videos, podcasts, and resources empowers survivors and caregivers to find strength, information, and hope at any time, from anywhere. Donor-Advised Funds (DAF) Giving SurvivingBreastCancer.org now supports DAF contributions through Funraise! If you'd like to donate stock through your DAF account, the process is simpler than ever. Just click the DAFpay button to get started. We appreciate all types of contributions helping to support the breast cancer community! Securities & Stocks Donor Advisor Fund (DAF) Direct Donation By Check or Venmo Donate to Programs Your generosity funds life-saving support programs, innovative research, and empowers survivors to thrive beyond breast cancer. You can: Donate to the program of your choice Automate monthly, quarterly or yearly donations Let us know who you are honoring with your donation Donate Now Donate by Check Survivingbreastcancer.org 5 Cedar Street, Suite 1Roxbury, MA 02119 Checks can be made out to "Survivingbreastcancer.org" Donate by Venmo @Survivingbreastcancerorg Make a one-time or schedule a recurring donation to SurvivingBreastCancer.Org whether it is a personal donation or on behalf of a company. Donate Now Donate Stock or other Securities Legacy Donations or Endowments Public Traded Securities Asset-based Donations Donor-Advised Funds Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to partner with you! Contact us Donor Advisor Fund (DAF) A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is one of the most flexible and tax-efficient ways to support SurvivingBreastCancer.org. How to Make a DAF Gift Contact your DAF provider and recommend a grant to: SurvivingBreastCancer.org EIN: 82-2953427 Address: 5 Cedar Street Unit 1, Roxbury MA, 02119 Use our legal name: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. Notify us so we can thank you and ensure your gift supports the programs you care about most. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to partner with you! Your Tax-Deductible Donation Makes a Difference! By donating, you’re ensuring we can continue to offer life-changing programs and services. All contributions are tax-deductible, and every dollar goes directly toward our cause! Community Education Resources Travel Grants Retreats Support Groups Our support groups provide a virtual community setting to allow those diagnosed to share personal experiences, ask questions, and foster connection. Our programs are tailored to early-stage breast cancer, those living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as inflammatory breast cancer which impacts less than 5% of those diagnosed. Your generous donation also enables us to provide essential complementary programs to help breast cancer survivors make sense of the trauma a breast cancer diagnosis brings through professionally led programs in art therapy and expressive writing. These modalities foster healing beyond just the physical. They touch upon the mental and emotional well-being of breast cancer survivors. Donate Now Podcasts, webinars & more! Knowledge is Power! Support accurate and trustworthy educational content in the form of blogs, articles, and research, to weekly podcast episodes and webinars where we interview the experts. Help us ensure that we are getting the information into the hands (eyes and ears) of those diagnosed who need it most! Donate now Trustworthy information A breast cancer diagnosis at any stage is emotionally overwhelming, and it also comes with a lot of new information to absorb. At SurvivingBreastCancer.org, we've gathered resources to help new cancer patients and their families navigate this sea of information. We stay up to date with the latest clinical trials and curate content from trusted partners and providers so our community members can make informed decisions based on reputable sources Donate Now Hearing From The Experts Our travel grant program enables breast cancer patient advocates to attend important conferences and events such as the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, and may others. Your generosity helps off set the cost of travel, registration, hotels, and meals so those diagnosed with breast can attend conferences, gain valuable information, and connect with survivors, thrivers, and patient advocates! Donate Now In-Person Support Your contribution to our in-person breast cancer retreats provides those diagnosed with breast cancer to experience a much-deserved and needed respite for a long weekend. Participants on our SBC Retreats receive an all-inclusive weekend get-a-way to connect with others diagnosed with breast cancer, customized programming, delicious and nutritious meals, and opportunities to be in nature and make lasting connections. Consider giving a life-changing experience to those in our breast cancer community. Donate Now Like Meet our Founders Meet our Founders Meet our Founders Meet our Founders DONATE TODAY DONATE TODAY DONATE TODAY Testimonials Testimonials Testimonials Testimonials Help us provide crucial resources and support for breast cancer survivors, thrivers and their families. Every donation makes a difference. Donate Today Breast cancer is a significant health issue, impacting the lives of millions. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetime, which translates to an estimated 297,790 new cases expected in 2024 alone . Your generosity funds life-saving support programs, innovative research, and empowers survivors to thrive beyond breast cancer. You can: Donate to the program of your choice Automate monthly, quarterly or yearly donations Let us know who you are honoring with your donation Get started Mental & Emotional Support Your generous donation enables us to provide essential complementary programs to help breast cancer survivors make sense of the trauma a breast cancer diagnosis brings through professionally led programs in art therapy and expressive writing. These modalities foster healing beyond just the physical. They touch upon the mental and emotional well-being of breast cancer survivors. Donate Now Donate $50 Donate $100 Donate $250 Support Groups Our support groups provide a virtual community setting to allow those diagnosed to share personal experiences, ask questions, and foster connection. Our programs are tailored to early-stage breast cancer, those living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as inflammatory breast cancer which impacts less than 5% of those diagnosed. Now those diagnosed with Inflammatory breast cancer finally have a community they can call their own! The online experience enables us to reach rural communities, health centers, and patients who may not have access to support programs otherwise. Your contribution makes our weekly support groups truly THRIVE! Donate Now Donate $50 Donate $100 Donate $250 Wellness Programs Give the gift of wellness. SBC offers many wellness programs tailored for those diagnosed with breast cancer. We offer weekly online classes such as Yoga, Meditation, Qi Gong, Pilates, Mindfulness, Movement Classes, and more! Donate Now Donate $50 Donate $100 Donate $250 Educational Content to Empower Knowledge is Power! Support accurate and trustworthy educational content in the form of blogs, articles, and research, to weekly podcast episodes and ask the experts webinars. Help us ensure that we are getting the information into the hands (eyes and ears) of those diagnosed who need it most! Donate Now Donate $50 Donate $100 Donate $250 Educational Travel Grants Our travel grant program enables breast cancer patient advocates to attend important conferences and events such as the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, and may others. Your generosity helps off set the cost of travel, registration, hotels, and meals so those diagnosed with breast can attend conferences, gain valuable information, and connect with survivors, thrivers, and patient advocates! Donate Now Donate $50 Donate $100 Donate $250 SBC RETREATS Bringing People Together to Share Connection, Forge Friendships, and Create Lasting Memories $100 $50 $250 More Ways to Give Your Tax-Deductible Donation Makes a Difference! By donating, you’re ensuring we can continue to offer life-changing programs and services. All contributions are tax-deductible, and every dollar goes directly toward our cause! Donate by Check Survivingbreastcancer.org 5 Cedar Street, Suite 1Roxbury, MA 02119 Checks can be made out to "Survivingbreastcancer.org" Donate by Venmo @Survivingbreastcancerorg To: Donate Stock or other Securities Legacy Donations or Endowments Public Traded Securities Asset-based Donations Donor-Advised Funds Please contact us schedule an appointment . We are happy to partner with you!

Support patients, survivors, and yourself with breast cancer merchandise from our shop! All proceeds go directly to supporting our programs and services. Filter by Category All SBC Clothing SBC Hats SBC Home & Living You May Also Like Stickers Spanish Merch Price $4 $69 Color Aqua Triblend Berry Berry Triblend Black Black Heather Black/ White Black/ White/ Black Blue Triblend Charcoal Heather Clay Triblend Dark Grey Dark Grey Heather Dark Heather Dark Heather Grey Dark Heather Grey/ Black Dark Heather Grey/ Navy Dusty Blue Dusty Rose Fireside Brown Forest Green Gold Graphite Grey Triblend Heather Blue Lagoon Heather Deep Teal Heather Grey Heather Marmalade Heather Mauve Heather Prism Lilac Heather Red Indigo Blue Irish Green Leaf Light Blue Maroon Mauve Mauve Triblend Military Green Navy Navy Blazer Navy/ White Navy/ White/ Navy Oatmeal Triblend Olive Green Camo Olive Triblend Pink Candy Poppy Purple Triblend Red Oak Red Triblend Royal Blue Safety Green Scarlet Solid Black Triblend Solid White Triblend Sport Grey Tan Triblend Teal Triblend Team Royal True Royal White White Fleck Triblend Size 10×10 11oz 12×12 15oz 18×18 20×12 22×22 2XL 3x3 3XL 4x4 5.5x5.5 L M S XL XS Sort by Quick View SBC Pink Ribbon Thriver Women's Relaxed T-Shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Thriver stickers Price $4.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC MBC Ribbon Thriver Women's Relaxed T-Shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Embroidered Champion Packable Jacket Price $65.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Embroidered Champion Packable Jacket Price $65.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Premium sherpa blanket Price $65.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Faith Love Hope Sherpa blanket Price $65.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Unisex pique polo shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Unisex DDuD pique polo shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Unisex DDuD pique polo shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Despues de un Diagnostico Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Despues De Un Diagnostico Women's Relaxed T-Shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Unisex pique polo shirt Price $32.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View SBC Bullet Journal Spiral notebook Price $20.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Things I'm Thinking About Bullet Journal Spiral notebook Price $20.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Things I was right about Bullet Journal Spiral notebook Price $20.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Random Thoughts Bullet Journal Spiral notebook Price $20.00 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Survivor Spanish Branded fleece sweatpants Price $39.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Survivor SBC Branded fleece sweatpants Price $39.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Survivor Pom-Pom Beanie Price $26.50 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Survivor Spanish Cuffed Beanie Price $26.50 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Warrior fleece sweatpants Price $39.99 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Cupcake Short sleeve t-shirt Price $32.50 Excluding Sales Tax Quick View Coffee Cures Cancer Short sleeve t-shirt Price $32.50 Excluding Sales Tax Show Your Support with Breast Cancer Merch Our shop products are designed with you in mind. All Proceeds from our sales go directly back into SBC to support our programs and services. Thank you for shopping for a cause!

Our breast cancer programs support patients and survivors in their lives after a diagnosis. Your fight is not alone, and our community is ready to support you. About Our Organization SurvivingBreastCancer.org is a supportive community dedicated to offering guidance, comfort, and resources for individuals navigating the challenges of breast cancer. Our platform provides a safe space for sharing experiences, seeking advice, connecting with programs, and finding solace in a community of understanding individuals. Join us in the fight against breast cancer today. Join Support Groups & Programs Family Support Our one-on-one support provides individualized guidance and emotional assistance. Family support encourages involvement and understanding. Online forums foster a sense of community. Local meetups offer face-to-face connections. Workshops and events provide education and empowerment. Discover Online Forums With a focus on individual needs, our support groups aim to create a supportive environment. Personalized assistance, family involvement, online connections, local community meetups, and educational workshops form the core of our support services. Engage Local Meetups We emphasize the importance of tailored support for each member. From one-on-one sessions to family involvement, online resources, local gatherings, and educational events, we strive to address the diverse needs of our community. Participate Workshops & Events Join our various support groups to connect, share, and learn. From personalized assistance to family engagement, online interactions, local meetups, and informative events, our platform offers a holistic approach to support. Join Now Educational Resources Access our range of educational resources designed to inform and empower. From articles and videos to expert advice and toolkits, we provide valuable information to aid in your breast cancer journey. Learn Videos Share your feature information here to attract new clients. Provide a brief summary to help visitors understand the context and background, and add details about what makes this feature significant. Expert Advice Share your feature information here to attract new clients. Provide a brief summary to help visitors understand the context and background, and add details about what makes this feature significant. Toolkits Share your feature information here to attract new clients. Provide a brief summary to help visitors understand the context and background, and add details about what makes this feature significant. Guides Share your feature information here to attract new clients. Provide a brief summary to help visitors understand the context and background, and add details about what makes this feature significant. Community Events Local Workshops Stay informed about our upcoming gatherings and participate in local workshops aimed at providing support and education. Join our educational seminars to enhance your knowledge and engage in our awareness campaigns and fundraising events. Join Educational Seminars Engage with our community through local workshops, educational seminars, awareness initiatives, and fundraising events. Stay connected, learn, and contribute to the fight against breast cancer by participating in our diverse range of activities. Participate Awareness Campaigns Participate in our local workshops, educational seminars, awareness events, and fundraising activities to connect with others, gain knowledge, and support our cause. Join us in our mission to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer support. Engage Fundraising Events Discover a range of community events that offer support, education, and advocacy opportunities. From local workshops to educational seminars, awareness initiatives, and fundraising endeavors, engage with us in meaningful activities. Support

Looking for breast cancer support? We have the perfect space just for you! Join our breast cancer support group to meet likeminded people for peer-to-peer support. This is your breast cancer tribe. Take a Look at Our most recent news! Continuity Tryouts TELL CANCER TO GO #TAKEAHIKE See more Newly Diagnosed Encourage & Empower Read More THE CAREGIVER HUDDLE See More BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS See more Stay Empowered & Informed ! Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter for expert tips, inspiring stories, events, and exclusive resources—delivered directly to your inbox. Stay ahead on breast cancer awareness, wellness strategies, and community support. Don’t miss out—subscribe today for your dose of empowerment! Subscribe Breast Health 101 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. Weekly Programs Each week, we offer dozens of free programs and events just for you! Enjoy weekly Meditation, Expressive Writing, and Online Support Groups, to educational webinars and live-stream events! Get started Subscribe for our weekly newsletter Newsletter. Each week, get curated content delivered to your inbox! From trending podcast episodes and blog posts to inspiring stories, poetry, and more Sign Up What is breast cancer? What is breast cancer? What is breast cancer? What is breast cancer? Breast cancer is an uncontrolled growth of breast cells. To better understand breast cancer, it helps to understand how any cancer can develop... Continue Reading Open Sans + Monserrat Open Sans is the body + Monserrat is the top header Playfair Display Open Sans is the body + Monserrat is the top header Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter for inspiring blogs, podcasts, events, and more—delivered right to your inbox! Subscribe

Tell cancer to take a hike! Join SurvivingBreastCancer.org on October 25th and share your own walk to encourage donations for breast cancer support programs. TELL CANCER TO GO #TAKEAHIKE Register Now Meet our Presenting Sponsors! 10-25-2025 Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike Join Now Become A Sponsor Join now Where Can I Hike? The short answer is: anywhere ! Find a path you love and get outdoors on October 25th! SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) has volunteers in select areas who will be identifying a specific location and meeting point if you are in those areas. We will continue to add to our volunteer list and locations as more become available but remember, you are not limited to these locations! You can literally organize your hike in your own neighborhood! Get Your School Involved Contact Us to Learn More Meet Madison Chun A psychology major at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, is organizing a team of students to go Tell Cancer To #TakeAHike! Meet our Companies National Grid PFM Madam Glam OncoCare.io Get Your Company Involved Contact Us to Learn More Become a Sponsor Let's Tell Cancer To Go #TakeAHike together! View sponsorship options The Story Behind the Hike When Laura was going through early-stage breast cancer treatment at the age of 34, her husband would bundle her up each day and they would go for a walk. Sometimes that walk would be a mile, some days, after all of the steroid injections, it would be 5 miles. On other days, it would be to the end of the block, to the stop sign, the next red light, or even just down the steps of their condo building to only turn back around and go inside. William (the husband) knew that movement was essential for the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of his wife. Telling Cancer To Go #TakeAHike is a celebration of life, of honoring those we have lost to this horrendous disease, and for moving our bodies in recognition of what we can do. At SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) we are Stronger Together!

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. 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.