Reiki Circle of Care Reiki is a gentle, hands-on energy healing practice that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and supports overall well-being. Especially helpful for those navigating breast cancer, Reiki can ease pain, anxiety, and fatigue while restoring balance to the body and mind. Experience the calming benefits of Reiki as part of your healing journey. Multiple Dates Reiki Infused Meditation with Marie Mon, Jun 22 Online Event More info RSVP

Seeds of Hope Celebrating renewal, resilience, and the belief that even in difficult seasons, we can hold onto hope and finding the strength to keep going, one day at a time. This spring, SurvivingBreastCancer.org invites you to take part in Seeds of Hope, our annual campaign rooted in renewal, resilience, and the belief that even in difficult times we can hold onto the strength it takes to live each day as it comes. We are strong. We are fragile. It is not either or, we can be both in the face of cancer. Donate Today & Receive your Seeds of Hope Box Register for the May 6th Virtual Gathering Why This Matters Financial, Emotional, & Wellness Programming Trusted Information & Educational Resources Survivorship Programming & Tools A breast cancer diagnosis brings more than medical challenges. The financial, emotional, and physical impacts of cancer can be overwhelming, often extending far beyond treatment itself. Your participation helps create access to trusted resources, meaningful connection, and spaces where individuals can learn, share, and grow. Through Seeds of Hope, your support helps sustain SurvivingBreastCancer.org’s work — providing education, community, and integrative wellness programming that meets people where they are and supports them throughout survivorship. DONATION TIERS Donate $65 Donate $100 What's Inside the Box? Make A Donation: $65 Seeds of Hope When you make a donation of $65, you’ll receive a beautifully curated Seeds of Hope box with three packets of seeds representing hope, strength, and renewal. Your gift helps support SBC’s education, community, and integrative wellness programming, creating space for connection, healing, and growth. Make A Donation: $100 Plant it Forward When you donate $100 or more, you’ll receive your Seeds of Hope box along with a special gift from SBC. Your donation helps expand access to SBC’s programs and access to support and wraparound services. A Look Inside Inside your Seeds of Hope box, you’ll find a curated collection of flower seeds including wildflowers, sunflowers, and a seasonal bloom. Each flower is chosen to represent hope, strength, and renewal. Alongside your seeds, you’ll receive a planting guide and a message from SBC, a small, and meaningful way to honor our breast cancer community. Make a Donation Today Seeds of Hope: A Virtual Gathering in Support of SBC Date: Wednesday May 6, 2026 Time: 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. ET Join us for a special evening of connection, inspiration, and community. This spring, we invite you to come together for an evening of shared stories, inspiration, and meaningful connection. Together, we’ll explore beginner-friendly gardening while also highlighting the impact SurvivingBreastCancer.org is making in the lives of those living with and beyond breast cancer. Reserve your spot for $25 and join us on May 6. Your participation helps support SBC’s 350+ annual programs, weekly educational content, and integrative wellness experiences — expanding access to the resources, community, and support that individuals need throughout survivorship. What to expect: • A special guest (gardener/nature expert) sharing the meaning of planting and growth • Personal stories and reflections from the breast cancer community • A gentle, guided grounding and healing moment • Connection with others Reserve Your Sport Presented by:

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, Jul 21 Zoom See All RSVP Triage Cancer: Supporting Caregivers Through Metastatic Cancer Tue, Aug 18 webinar RSVP Are you a caregiver? Share your story Hear from the voices that inspire us to keep on going... William's Story Introduction In the middle of a lovely, sunny, late summer walk along the beaches of Boston, my partner, twelve months into treatment for breast cancer, looked up at me and opined: “This has been the worst year of my life”. My response was immediate: “I must wholeheartedly disagree, I feel that this has been the best year of your life”. She looked at me like I had two heads and inquired about my meaning. I elaborated with a thoughtful smile, “You have just beaten breast cancer”. This conversation aptly summed up my role as a breast cancer caregiver. Closing - Managing Expectations In closing I’d like to suggest that a caregiver remain focused on the job at hand and manage expectations. Don’t try to do to much. Recognize what you can do, perform your due diligence so that you can assist in the discussion and decision making. Remain positive and inspirational and as helpful as positive. But remember it’s a long haul and you, and your patient, will need to count on each other throughout the ordeal. Encourage Optimism, Avoid Negativity A final anecdote: during the middle of a particularly depressing spell, I suggested that we go for a bicycle ride to get her out of her environment. As usual we went too far (40 miles total that day) and her depression was kicking in. So about thirty miles into our ride we stopped and took a break. After rehydrating and fueling we were able to get up and return the last 10 miles to our condo in Boston. Months later she asked how I was able to help her overcome her severe and scary depression on that particular ride. She told me her thoughts bordered on taking irrational actions. I told her that I remained focused on the positive and didn’t offer up any psychological rationale about dealing with her extreme sadness and potentially deleterious behavior. She then asked me “how did you know how to respond” and my answer was simply to reaffirm the healthful, positive aspects of our lives, which always returns us to our code during times of trouble - KGH (keep going hard). Characteristics of Caregiving There are many characteristics of life as a caregiver. The support that one provides to a cancer patient/survivor includes many of the following: emotional, physical, intellectual, financial, social, spiritual, nutritional, and motivational aspects to name just a few. But you are never alone. There is help and assistance everywhere. I found the following links to be quite helpful in coming to terms with my role as a caregiver. https://www.cancercare.org/tagged/caregiving http://www.breastcancer.org/community/acknowledging/caregivers From diagnosis and onward the responsibilities associated with caregiving kick in. There are meetings and discussions with your oncological and surgical teams. Options and alternative courses of action are proffered and weighted. Decisions have to be made in short order so it’s best to prepare yourself ahead of time by performing as much due diligence as you can. Do your research on the various options as spelled out by your care team. Once a course of action is agreed upon and plotted, take particular care to stay on top of developments, i.e. scheduled appointments, pain/emotional management, medications, coordinating and communicating information to the extended caregiving family, and helping with chores. At all times, be aware that you are there to assist the patient. This isn’t about you. Involve yourself with the patient’s emotional issues. You do not need to be a medical professional. Common sense and responding through the lens of caregiving should provide you with enough tools to deal with the myriad emotions that arise, such as fear and depression/sadness. There are many support groups that you can reach out to, including hospital care groups, psychiatrists, social/media pages, https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/ #survivingbreastcancer The Social Perspective Together we went out on a limb and informed all of our friends, both in person and through social media of the diagnosis. We also discussed it with our local area restaurant staff and work out circles at the YMCA, to eliminate any fears of considerations/communications from friends and associates regarding her cancer. Remember, the patient will be going through both emotional and physical changes, but still will want to resume enjoyable activities like date nights or walking on the treadmill as much as possible. We found that discussion opened many doors of kindness, friendship, and offers of help. Long Term Breast cancer remediation and treatment is a long-term commitment. Be cognizant of the fact that you too, as a care giver, need help and support, and quality time as well. Don’t try to do it all. Involve others, either extended family, or friends, or even medical support groups. Remain flexible. Due to the constant changing nature of recovery, from chemotherapy, to surgery, radiation, additional chemotherapy (if necessary) and follow up hormonal treatments, you may find yourself faced with multiple patient fronts. Side effects of the treatment are varied and include hair loss, water weight gain, physical breast alteration, depression, exhaustion, lymphedema, foot and mouth issues, to name several. Prepare yourself as best as you can to prevent the above from adversely affecting you in your role. It’s ok for the patient to be tired and sad. It’s also ok for the caregiver. I found comedy and music (movies, TV, radio) to be a great relief as it tends to change the narrative. Finding Strength, Sharing Support This group offers a safe and encouraging environment to find strength, share burdens, and gain valuable insights from others walking a similar path. The Caregivers Huddle: Join now Articles Supporting your loved one through cancer involves empathy, communication, and practical assistance. Read the following blogs to learn more about caregiving. Podcasts Discover podcasts on caregiving for insightful discussions, practical tips, and emotional support.Listen to experts and caregivers share experiences, strategies, and encouragement to navigate the challenges of caregiving with compassion and resilience. Caregiver & Patient Programs Are you caring for a loved one with breast cancer? We understand the challenges you face, and we want to support both of you on this journey. Join our tailored programs designed for breast cancer patients and their caregivers. Multiple Dates Tai Chi & Qi Gong for Breast Cancer Thrivers Tue, Jun 23 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Sat, Jun 27 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jul 14 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Jul 20 Online Event More info RSVP

Positive affirmations for healing a cancer diagnosis can help you with pain management and qualitiy of life. Studies show the strong connection between affirmations, meditation and healing. It promotes positive thinking and can be practiced daily to help fight cancer. Multiple Dates Forest Bathing: Mindful Nature Connection & Healing Wed, Jun 17 Virtual Event +30 more Come Join Us Multiple Dates Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing Mon, Jun 22 Online Event Come Join Us Multiple Dates Reiki Infused Meditation with Marie Mon, Jun 22 Online Event +8 more Come Join Us Multiple Dates SBC Well-Being Book Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path Tue, Jun 23 Online Event Come Join Us Multiple Dates Guided Hypnosis for Breast Cancer Thrivers & Caregivers Wed, Jul 01 Online Event +6 more Come Join Us Multiple Dates Meditation Tuesday for Self-Care Tue, Jul 07 Online Event See All Come Join Us Multiple Dates SBC Well-Being Book Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path Tue, Sep 08 Online Event Come Join Us Multiple Dates SBC Well-Being Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path Tue, Sep 15 Online Event See All Come Join Us Multiple Dates Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing Mon, Oct 19 Online Event See All Come Join Us Positive Thinking, Mindfulness & Meditation For Healing Meditation On Demand Meditation. Create your own private haven anytime and anywhere. We have a number of beautiful meditations in our library. Choose one and practice it for a week or two. If you practice every day at the same time, you’ll notice that your brain is trained to follow your meditation practice consistently. Live Classes Join us for virtual classes with instructors who understand the cancer experience and offer a warm and welcoming community setting. Meditation & Journaling Join our chakra meditation with Gloria every Monday. After the meditation, participants are invited to write about their experience during the meditation. If they feel called to do so, they can also share their writing with the class. This is a great way to realize how connected we truly are. What are chakras? In Sanskrit, the word “chakra” means “disk” or “wheel” and refers to the energy centers in your body. These wheels or disks of spinning energy each correspond to certain nerve bundles and major organs. To function at their best, your chakras need to stay open, or balanced. Connect with your inner self, your spirit, and being through exploring your chakras. Positive Thinking and the Power to Heal The power of positive thinking is so pervasive today that many doctors and nurses strongly recommend developing a positive mental attitude to prevent sickness, to help overcome medical setbacks like disease, and to assist in the recovery from surgery. There is healing power in positive thinking. But can you heal yourself just by being positive, optimistic and focused? Yes! It is believed that positive thoughts are able to prompt physiological changes in your body that strengthen your immune system, decrease pain, and provide stress relief. The “Power of Positive Thinking”, a self-help book by Norman Vincent Peale , published in the last century, first proposed the method of "Positive Thinking ". It aimed to ensure that one could achieve a permanent fruitful and optimistic attitude through constant positive influence of his/her conscious thought. This was to be accomplished through affirmations/visualizations, thus allowing one to attain higher satisfaction and quality of life. Similarly, in the book, “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne, the Law of Attraction is explored and suggests that whatever energy, thoughts, or visualizations you put out into the universe, you will receive. So, if you send out negative vibes, or think something negative will happen, it probably will. If you send out positive vibes, positive things will be returned. Read Inspiring Articles Meditate Now Start a Meditation Breast Cancer Meditation Library (On-Demand) Meditation testimonials How to Develop Positive Beliefs Start by applying the right kind of positive thinking so that you direct your subconscious mind to help heal your body and improve your life. Direct your conscious and subconscious mind to help you heal. Don’t worry. "Worry only takes the joy out of your day". Find a way to focus on the positive. What are you grateful for? Start a mental list of the things and people in your life that you are thankful for. Be optimistic. 1 2 3 On Demand Meditation Cannot make a live class. No worries, we got you covered. You can access our on demand meditations anytime, anywhere! Let's Meditate Now Live Classes: What Your Chakras Are Telling You Chakra images courtesy of HopeSpring.ca Why and how meditation can help? "Meditation brings us into the now – the present and this helps us to eliminate our thoughts on the past and the future. Why this helps is because it is the past that can make us depressed and it is the future that can make us worry." On Demand Meditations

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

SurvivingBreastCancer.org is made possible by the contributions of our wonderful partners. Explore our partnerships and learn how to become an SBC partner. Partners Meet Our Partners SurvivingBreastCancer.org Partners The Byrd Cancer Foundation assists individuals battling cancer by connecting them to vital support and resources, guiding those in need towards the resources necessary to fight their battle against cancer. Learn More CareKaps provide head coverings designed to restore dignity for anyone experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy. Their headwraps are gentle and supportive for anyone dealing with hair loss. Learn More The Carfang Group offers Expert guidance in treasury, payments, liquidity, fintech, and banking. Provides consulting, writing, speaking, and advocacy. Learn More CURE connects oncology patients, survivors, and caregivers with expert guidance, cancer updates, treatment education, and clinical trial access. Learn More As a philanthropic arm of Gilead Sciences, the Gilead Foundation works to create a thriving health ecosystem with health prosperity for all, rallying financial support for root causes of health inequities. Learn More 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 Massachusetts General Hospital has the largest hospital based research program in the U.S., delivering care grounded in leading edge research, advanced treatment offerings and the latest clinical trials. Learn More For more than 30 years, Novartis has pursued scientific breakthroughs for one purpose: people. Today, they take on the toughest challenges in healthcare and turn innovations into medicines that redefine the future for patients. Learn More The Physical Activity for Treatment and Prevention Laboratory of the Department of Health and Exercise Science at Colorado State University specializes in the benefits of physical activity for cancer survivors and other chronic disease populations. Learn More PreludeDx provides better breast cancer decision-making tools to physicians and the patients, making precision diagnostic testing accessible to all patients and providing physicians with the information needed to make the best treatment decisions. Learn More The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, and theranostics througheducation and research programs. Learn More The Cure Strategic Alliance is a group of organizations partnered in the common pursuit of cancer cures and treatment breakthroughs. Partners include cancer research institutes, oncology centers, and more. Learn More SynDevRx is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering Metabo-Oncology with a team of business leaders, clinical oncologists, leaders in academic research, professors, and experienced drug development professionals. Learn More Tufts Medical Center is a world-renowned academic, full-service medical center in Boston, Massachusetts that has been providing exceptional care across New England communities for over two centuries. 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

Explore our diverse range of live and on-demand webinars designed to support your journey through healing, personal growth, and wellness. Whether you are seeking guidance on hypnosis for intuitive eating, body awareness, or breast cancer support and survivorship, our expert-led sessions offer practical tools and compassionate community connection. Available Webinars: Empowerment, Healing & Support Educational webinars and content Breast Cancer Support & Education Welcome to our curated collection of live video content designed to support, educate, and empower those affected by breast cancer. Below you’ll find featured videos from Surviving Breast Cancer.org and related trusted sources, covering topics from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and emotional well-being. Who is SurvivingBreastCancer.org? Get to know the mission and community of SurvivingBreastCancer.org, including an overview of programs and resources available to breast cancer survivors and caregivers. MBC Webinars Listen now Listen now Hear personal stories, wisdom, and hope from women living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), moderated by Abigail Johnson. This session offers insight into leadership and advocacy within the MBC community. Breast Cancer Conversations --------------------- Breaking the News to Children Denise and Joanie share their experiences with stage 3 breast cancer and discuss how they communicated their diagnosis to young children, including resources and emotional support strategies. Watch now Breast Cancer Education & Survivorship Watch now Breast Cancer: Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation, and Hormonal Therapies More Managing Side Effects: Fatigue, Cognitive Changes, Neuropathy More Nutrition & Wellness for Breast Cancer Patients More Coping & Emotional Support Watch now Faith, Spirituality, and Coping with Cancer Watch now Support Group Discussions and Peer Connections More Creative Writing and Expressive Art Sessions See now How to Access More Support & Join Live Events What Sets Us Apart SurvivingBreastCancer.org offers a variety of live virtual support groups, wellness classes, and educational webinars tailored to different stages of breast cancer and survivorship. Upcoming events include: Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Metastatic Breast Cancer Peer Support Groups Pilates, Yoga, and Meditation Classes Reflective Writing & Artistic Expression Workshops Explore and RSVP for upcoming events Después de un Diagnóstico / Contenido educativo en Español Bienvenida a nuestra colección de videos seleccionados del canal oficial Despues de un Diagnostico. Ver mas

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

Explore other great resources for those facing a cancer diagnosis. These organizations provide various services for the cancer community. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES Cancer Support In General Cancer Support in Specific Financial Assistance Insurance Assistance Healthcare Assistance Prescription Drug Assistance Transportation Assistant Lodging Assistant Child Care and Elder Care Assistance Low-cost and Free Mammograms ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis provides free, customized one-to-one emotional support for anyone impacted by breast cancer. Founded in 1999 by Melodie Wilson Oldenburg, ABCD matches individuals with trained volunteer Mentors who have a similar lived experience, offering compassionate support based on diagnosis, treatment, age, and lifestyle. With a fully virtual platform, ABCD supports people around the world and ensures that no one faces breast cancer alone. Voice: 1-800-977-4121 Byrd Cancer Foundation The Byrd Cancer foundation is an education and advocacy organization effectively assisting individuals battling cancer by connecting them to vital support and resources. Their mission is to ensure that all relevant information reaches those in need, guiding them towards the resources necessary to fight their battle against cancer. Email: info@byrdcancerfoundation.org Cancer + Careers Nonprofit that empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplace, by providing expert advice, interactive tools and educational events. Its free services include a comprehensive website and library of publications in English and Spanish; legal and insurance information; career coaching; resume review, and much more. Email: CancerAndCareers@cew.org Cancer Care Provides free counseling for cancer patients and their families, financial assistance, information and referrals, community and professional education, teleconference programs, and ongoing telephone and in-person support groups. Voice: 1-800-813-4673 Cancer Hope Network Provides one-on-one support to cancer patients and their families undergoing cancer treatment from trained volunteers who have survived cancer themselves. Voice: 1-877-467-3638 Cancer Support Community Provides support, education, and hope through a global network to people affected by cancer. E-mail: Help@CancerSupportCommunity.org Caring Bridge Offers personal, protected websites that can be used during a health journey to share updates with family and friends. Foundation 96 Provide a safe and supportive care community consisting of multidisciplinary service providers, for people and their care-givers who are transitioning from active cancer treatment to everyday life. Look Good… Feel Better Helps cancer patients improve their appearance during treatment, including free workshops across the country. Voice: 1-800-227-2345 MD Anderson Cancer Center’s My Cancer Connection Matches cancer patients with others who have had the exact same diagnosis for support. Voice: 1-800-345-6324 R.A. Bloch Cancer Foundation BLOCH Cancer Hotline Connects persons with cancer to home volunteers with same type of cancer. Provides free books about cancer. Voice: 1-800-433-0464 Womanity Portrait Foundation Womanity Portrait empowers women through visual storytelling media, particularly through photography as a vessel for healing, visibility, and leadership. Their mission is to help women, especially breast cancer survivors, see themselves as beautiful, powerful and whole. Cancer Support & Community Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Asian Women for Health Asian Women for Health is a peer-led, community-based network dedicated to advancing Asian women’s health and wellness through education, advocacy, and support as well as through their 8-week Achieving Whole Health online wellness program. The goal is for Asian women to be well informed, have access to care that is of great quality and culturally appropriate so they are inspired to live happy, healthy lives. FORCE - Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered FORCE helps people with hereditary cancer risk find vital information regarding genetic mutations, testing, and support to improve the lives of those with a predisposition for cancer development. His Breast Cancer HIS Breast Cancer Awareness nonprofit organization was founded in honor of all men who are at risk of, diagnosed and surviving with the Disease of Breast Cancer and to those who have died because of it. Our mission is to increase awareness and hence the early detection for all men and to help those who are at high risk due to genetics and other risk factors to gain access to regular screenings. Email: HisBreastCancer@gmail.com Indian Health Service If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, you may be eligible for health services within the Indian Health Service. Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance The Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance's (LBCA’) mission is to make all who are touched by ILC aware of its unique characteristics and the critical need for more ILC research; to be the go-to source for information on ILC studies, clinical trials and educational tools, and much more. Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance Our mission is to advocate for all men diagnosed with breast cancer to ensure they receive equal access to support and treatment; to serve as a source of support and resources for the men, their caregivers, and their families; to ensure that men are appropriately represented in research and clinical trials, and to recruit volunteer “ambassadors” to increase awareness of breast cancer in men on a global scale. Men Against Breast Cancer Offers educational materials, online videos, workshops, and one-on-one networking with other men whose loved one has breast cancer. Conducts National Male Caregivers Conference and regional training workshops. Voice: 1-866-547-6222 My Density Matters My density matters raises awareness for the cancer imaging obstacles facing dense breasts and empowers women to test their breast density for more reliable breast cancer screening results. National Native American Cancer Survivors’ Support Network An educational community-based research study created to help improve the quality of cancer care and the quality of life for all American Indian, Alaska Native, and First Nations cancer patients and their loved ones. Voice: 1-800-537-8295 Navigating Cancer Care Decisions for Older Adults The Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance's (LBCA’) mission is to make all who are touched by ILC aware of its unique characteristics and the critical need for more ILC research; to be the go-to source for information on ILC studies, clinical trials and educational tools, and much more. Project Life A membership based virtual wellness house for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer and their loved ones. Sharsheret (Hebrew for “chain”) Supporting young women and their families, of all Jewish backgrounds, facing breast cancer. TigerLily Foundation Tigerlily Foundation’s mission is to educate, advocate for, empower, and support young women, before, during and after breast cancer. We envision a future where a breast cancer diagnosis doesn’t inspire fear, but ignites hope for a future. Through our programs, we seek to educate and empower women of all backgrounds, including those at heightened risk, those facing health disparities, and those with less access to care. Twisted Pink Twisted Pink is a non-profit organization headquartered in Louisville, KY with a mission to provide hope and connection to people living with metastatic breast cancer by funding bold breakthroughs in research and awareness of the disease. We offer support, research and hope to people of all stages of breast cancer through our monthly Lunch & Learn programs, our Box of Hope program and our annual advocacy scholarships. Young Survival Coalition Provides information and support for young women with breast cancer. Identity & Population-Specific Support Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Air Charity Network - Long-distance transportation Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. 877-621-7177 Corporate Angel Network Uses empty seats on corporate planes to help cancer patients reach treatment centers (Travel for caregivers is not covered). 866-328-1313 Hope Lodge - American Cancer Society Offers lodging for families during cancer treatment. 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) Joe's House Find an online directory of free and discounted lodging for cancer patients and their families. Lifeline Pilots Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. 800-822-7972 Mercy Medical Airlift Offers air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. 800-296-1217 National Patient Travel Center Offers free or discounted air travel to treatment centers for cancer patients and their caregivers. 800-296-1217 Road to Recovery - American Cancer Society Offers local transportation to and from cancer treatments. 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) Travel & Lodging Assistance Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) AVONCares Child Care Program - CancerCare Offers financial assistance for child care during treatment. 800-813-HOPE (800-813-4673) BrightSpot The Bright Spot Network provides young cancer survivors who are parents of small children with a safe space for individual and familial healing, recovery, and reconnection. Kesem 5 million children are coping with a parent's cancer diagnosis. That’s 5 million children at risk of experiencing increased anxiety, emotional isolation, loss of social interest, and/or feelings of hopelessness. And that’s why, at Kesem, we are committed to creating a world where every child who has a parent with a cancer diagnosis or has lost a parent to cancer is never alone. We support these children through and beyond their parent’s cancer with free, fun-filled creative programs and a lasting community. Pickles Group Pickles help support children affected by their parents or guardians cancer. Pickles Group creates thriving communities of kids supporting kids through and beyond their parent’s cancer journeys. Pickles kids strengthen resilience, have fun with friends who get them, and heal along the way. Take Them a Meal Provides meal planning service for caregivers, friends, and family. Family, Child & Elder Support Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Affordable Care Act (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) Find information on choosing a health insurance plan and the Affordable Care Act. A.M. Best Company Find insurance company ratings. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Find detailed information on Medicare and other health insurance programs for people over 50. 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277) American Cancer Society – Understanding Financial and Legal Matters Find information on financial topics. 800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345) Cancer Angels of San Diego Serving residents of San Diego County, this non-profit provides financial aid to stage IV patients of all kinds of cancer. They aim to provide consistent help for as long as our patients are ill or unable to work and facing severe financial distress. HealthWell Foundation The HealthWell Foundation is a national non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to insured Americans who struggle to meet their out-of-pocket costs for medical treatments. National Association of Insurance Commissioners Find your state's insurance commissioner. National Cancer Legal Services Network Find a directory of organizations that offer free legal help for people diagnosed with cancer and their families. National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship Find the booklets “Understanding Your Health Insurance” and "Your Employment Rights." 877-NCCS-YES (877-622-7937) National Underinsured Resource Directory - Patient Advocate Foundation Find local, state and national resources for people who have insurance but struggle to pay out-of-pocket costs of care. 800-532-5274 Patient Advocate Foundation Offers financial assistance information and legal and advocacy help if an insurance claim is denied. 800-532-5274 The Catherine H. Tuck Foundation Offers financial assistance for personal expenses including rent, utilities and food, and transportation to and from cancer treatments. Triage Cancer Offers legal and practical materials in English and Spanish to help understand and compare your insurance options, what to do when you lose your insurance and work, and appeal denials of coverage. Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Co-payment Assistance Foundation - CancerCare Offers health insurance co-payment assistance for chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs. 866-55-COPAY (866-552-6729) Patient Advocate Foundation – Co-Pay Relief Program Offers financial assistance for prescription drug co-payments. Myriad Financial Assistance Program Offers financial assistance for genetic testing. Partnership for Prescription Assistance Offers low-cost and free prescription drug programs for people with limited income. 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) Quest Diagnostic's Patient Assistance Program Offers financial assistance for genetic testing. 888-4PPA-NOW (888-477-2669) Rx Hope Find an online directory of prescription drug assistance programs. Strings for a Cure Offers financial assistance for prescription drugs co-payments. The Pink Fund Offers financial assistance for health insurance premiums. Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Casting for Recovery Casting for Recovery offers free outdoor retreats for people in breast cancer treatment or recovery. Epic Experience Epic Experience provides free week long adventure camps for adult cancer survivors and thrivers. Epic Experience accepts all applicants 18+ no matter where they are in their cancer journey - whether it be in treatment or out of treatment for many years. Faces of Courage The “Women’s Cancer Retreat” is uniquely designed for women who are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, and/or survivors. First Descents Outdoor adventure programs for young adults impacted by cancer. Image Reborn Foundation No cost renewal retreats to those diagnosed with breast cancer and to support them in living rich and fulfilling lives. Little Pink Houses of Hope Little Pink Houses of Hope empowers breast cancer patients and families to live each day to the fullest, with direction, purpose, and hope for the cancer journey. We accomplish this through free, week-long vacation retreats. Living Beauty Cancer Foundation Wellness Retreats: single day or 4-day journeys that transport our participants out of the everyday challenges of coping with cancer into a peaceful retreat environment. Mary's Place by the Sea Mary’s Place by the Sea offers two unique wellness retreat options free of charge to women with cancer. MBC Travelers MBC Travelers empowers MBC patients through bucket list travel. Project Koru Camp Koru is a free outdoor, adventure, wellness, and community program that helps young adult cancer survivors (ages 19-39) find healing and renewal beyond cancer. Send It Foundation Send It provides outdoor adventures for young adult (ages 21-40) cancer patients and survivors, removing them from their cancer experience and creating the space to play, connect, and have fun in the outdoors. Shay's Warriors The I Am Hope Survivors Reset Retreat is a four day, three night experience for cancer survivors hosted in the beautiful Coachella Valley. The Breasties Camp Breastie: A four-day summit where hundreds of people impacted by breast and gynecologic cancer come together for community, patient advocacy, and education. Retreats & Experiences Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Affordable Care Act Since September 2010, the Affordable Care Act has required all new health insurance plans to cover yearly mammograms with no co-payment (co-insurance) for women ages 40 and older. In many parts of the U.S., low-cost or free mammograms are also offered through national programs and community organizations. FDA Each October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many imaging centers offer mammograms at reduced rates. To find a certified mammography center in your area, visit the FDA website. Komen Affiliates Fund Komen Affiliates fund breast cancer education and screening projects in their communities for those who need it most. Find an Affiliate in your area to learn what resources are available. Komen also offers transportation services to and from cancer treatments, financial assistance for child care and elder care during treatment, and financial assistance for some medications, medical equipment, and lymphedema supplies. To help find low-cost options in your area, call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET and from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. PT National Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program Provides access to breast cancer screening to low-income, uninsured and underinsured women. Planned Parenthood Offers clinical breast exams and referrals for mammography (and any follow-up testing, such as breast ultrasound). Screening & Prevention (Mammograms) Top of Page Cancer Support & Community Identity & Population-Specific Support Travel & Lodging Assistance Family, Child & Elder Support Financial, Legal & Insurance Help Prescription & Treatment Cost Assistance Retreats & Experiences Screening & Prevention (Mammograms)

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. Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast Download the App Subscribe to the Newsletter Make a Gift 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

Privacy Policy This document was last updated on February 21, 2020, Privacy Policy: Survivingbreastcancer.org is committed to maintaining privacy protections for its users. This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which www.survivingbreastcancer.org (the “Organization”) collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users (each, a "User") of the http://www.survivingbreastcancer.org website ("Site"). For purposes of this agreement, “Service” refers to the Organization’s service which can be accessed via our website at www.survivingbreastcancer.org in which users can find educational resources. The terms “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to the Organization. “You” refers to you, as a user of Service. By accepting our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, you consent to our collection, storage, use and disclosure of your personal information as described in this Privacy Policy. Personal identification information We may collect personal identification information from Users in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, when Users visit our site, place an order, fill out a form, respond to a survey, and in connection with other activities, services, features or resources we make available on our Site. Users may be asked for as appropriate, but not limited to the following: name, email address, mailing address, phone number. Users may, however, visit our Site anonymously. We will collect personal identification information from Users only if they voluntarily submit such information to us. Users can always refuse to supply personally identification information, except that it may prevent them from engaging in certain Site related activities. Non-personal identification information We may collect non-personal identification information about Users whenever they interact with our Site. Non-personal identification information may include the browser name, the type of computer and technical information about Users means of connection to our Site, such as the operating system and the Internet service providers utilized and other similar information. Web browser cookies Our Site may use "cookies" to enhance User experience. User's web browser places cookies on their hard drive for record-keeping purposes and sometimes to track information about them. User may choose to set their web browser to refuse cookies, or to alert you when cookies are being sent. If they do so, note that some parts of the Site may not function properly. We use cookies to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyze our traffic and visitor behavior. We use cookies that are strictly necessary, support performance, enable functionality and provide you with a personalized experience. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners as necessary. How we use collected information www.survivingbreastcancer.org may collect and use Users personal information for the following purposes: To run and operate our Site We may need your information display content on the Site correctly. To improve customer service Information you provide helps us respond to your customer service requests and support needs more efficiently. To personalize user experience We may use information in the aggregate to understand how our Users as a group use the services and resources provided on our Site. To improve our Site We may use feedback you provide to improve our products and services. To run a promotion, contest, survey or other Site feature To send Users information they agreed to receive about topics we think will be of interest to them. To send periodic emails We may use the email address to send User information and updates pertaining to their order, announcements, blog posts, events and educational information. It may also be used to respond to their inquiries, questions, and/or other requests. How we protect your information We adopt appropriate data collection, storage and processing practices and security measures to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure or destruction of your personal information, username, password, transaction information and data stored on our Site. However, these measures do not guarantee that your information will not be accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed by breach of such firewalls and secure server software. By using our Service, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to assume these risks. Links to other websites As part of the Service, we provide links to or compatibility with other websites or applications. However, we are not responsible for the privacy practices employed by those websites or the information or content they contain. This Privacy Policy applies solely to information collected by us through the Site and the Service. Therefore, this Privacy Policy does not apply to your use of a third party website accessed by selecting a link on our Site or via our Service. To the extent that you access or use the Service through or on another website or application, then the privacy policy of that other website or application will apply to your access or use of that site or application. We encourage our users to read the privacy statements of other websites before proceeding to use them. Sharing your personal information We may share or sell information with third parties for marketing or other purposes. We may use third party service providers to help us operate our business and the Site or administer activities on our behalf, such as sending out newsletters or surveys. We may share your information with these third parties for those limited purposes provided that you have given us your permission. Electronic newsletters If User decides to opt-in to our mailing list, they will receive emails that may include the Organization news, updates, related product or service information, etc. If at any time the User would like to unsubscribe from receiving future emails, we include detailed unsubscribe instructions at the bottom of each email or User may contact us via our Site. Third party websites Users may find advertising or other content on our Site that link to the sites and services of our partners, suppliers, advertisers, sponsors, licensors and other third parties. We do not control the content or links that appear on these sites and are not responsible for the practices employed by websites linked to or from our Site. In addition, these sites or services, including their content and links, may be constantly changing. These sites and services may have their own privacy policies and customer service policies. Browsing and interaction on any other website, including websites which have a link to our Site, is subject to that website's own terms and policies. Advertising Ads appearing on our site may be delivered to Users by advertising partners, who may set cookies. These cookies allow the ad server to recognize your computer each time they send you an online advertisement to compile non personal identification information about you or others who use your computer. This information allows ad networks to, among other things, deliver targeted advertisements that they believe will be of most interest to you. This privacy policy does not cover the use of cookies by any advertisers. You may learn more about opting out of major ad networks at https://websitebuilders.com/tools/advertiser-opt-out/ . Google Adsense Some of the ads may be served by Google. Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to Users based on their visit to our Site and other sites on the Internet. DART uses "non personally identifiable information" and does NOT track personal information about you, such as your name, email address, physical address, etc. You may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html Compliance with children's online privacy protection act Protecting the privacy of the very young is especially important. For that reason, we never collect or maintain information at our Site from those we actually know are under 13, and no part of our website is structured to attract anyone under 13. Changes to this privacy policy www.survivingbreastcancer.org has the discretion to update this privacy policy at any time. When we do, we will post a notification on the main page of our Site. We encourage Users to frequently check this page for any changes to stay informed about how we are helping to protect the personal information we collect. You acknowledge and agree that it is your responsibility to review this privacy policy periodically and become aware of modifications. Your acceptance of these terms By using this Site, you signify your acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree to this policy, please do not use our Site. Your continued use of the Site following the posting of changes to this policy will be deemed your acceptance of those changes. Contacting us If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, the practices of this site, or your dealings with this site, please contact us. Our Website Host: WIX Our website is hosted on Wix.com Ltd. They provide us with the online platform that allows us to sell our products and provide services to you. Your data is stored through Wix’s data storage, databases and the general Wix application. They store your data on a secure server behind a firewall. Payment with WIX If you choose a direct payment gateway to complete your purchase, then Wix stores your credit card data. It is encrypted through the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS). Your purchase transaction data is stored only as long as is necessary to complete your purchase transaction. After that is complete, your purchase transaction information is deleted. All direct payment gateways adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which is a joint effort of brands like Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. PCI-DSS requirements help ensure the secure handling of credit card information by our store and its service providers. For more insight, you may also want to read Wix’s Terms of Service http://www.wix.com/about/terms-of-use or Privacy Statement http://www.wix.com/about/privacy THIRD-PARTY SERVICES WITH WIX Wix has partnered with a number of selected service providers, whose services and solutions complement, facilitate, and enhance our own. These include hosting and server co-location services, communications and content delivery networks (CDNs), data and cyber security services, billing and payment processing services, domain name registrars, fraud detection and prevention services, web analytics, e-mail distribution and monitoring services, session recording and remote access services, performance measurement and Such Third Party Services may receive or otherwise have access to our Visitors’ and Users’ Personal Information and/or Users-of-Users’ Personal Information, in its entirety or in part – depending on each of their particular roles and purposes in facilitating and enhancing our Services, and may only use it for such purposes. Note that while our Services may contain links to other websites or services, we are not responsible for such websites’ or services’ privacy practices, and encourage you to be aware when you leave our Services and read the privacy statements of each and every website and service you visit. This Privacy Policy does not apply to such linked third-party websites and services. Wix is accountable for personal data that it receives under the Privacy Shield and subsequently transfers to a third party as described in the Privacy Shield Principles. In particular, Wix remains responsible and liable under the Privacy Shield Principles if third-party agents that it engages to process the personal data on its behalf do so in a manner inconsistent with the Principles, unless Wix proves that it is not responsible for the event giving rise to the damage. SECURITY WITH WIX Wix has implemented security measures designed to protect the Personal Information you share with us, including physical, electronic, and procedural measures. Among other things, we offer HTTPS secure access to most areas of our Services; the transmission of sensitive payment information (such as a credit card number) through our designated purchase forms is protected by an industry-standard SSL/TLS encrypted connection; and we regularly maintain a PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards) certification. We also regularly monitor our systems for possible vulnerabilities and attacks, and regularly seek new ways and Third Party Services for further enhancing the security of our Services and protection of our Visitors’ and Users’ privacy. However – regardless of the measures and efforts taken by Wix, we cannot and do not guarantee the absolute protection and security of your Personal Information, your Users-of-Users’ Information, or any other User Content you upload, publish, or otherwise share with Wix or anyone else. We, therefore, encourage you to set strong passwords for your User Account and User Website and avoid providing us with any sensitive information that you believe its disclosure could cause you substantial or irreparable harm. Furthermore, because certain areas of our Services are less secure than others (for example, if you set your Support forum ticket to be “Public” instead of “Private”, or if you browse to a non-SSL page), and since e-mail and instant messaging are not recognized as secure forms of communications, we request and encourage you not to share any Personal Information on any of these areas or via any of these methods. California Online Privacy Protection Act CalOPPA is the first state law in the nation to require commercial websites and online services to post a privacy policy. The law's reach stretches well beyond California to require a person or company in the United States (and conceivably the world) that operates websites collecting personally identifiable information from California consumers to post a conspicuous privacy policy on its website stating exactly the information being collected and those individuals with whom it is being shared, and to comply with this policy. - See more at: http://consumercal.org/california-online-privacy-protection-act-caloppa/#sthash.0FdRbT51.dpuf According to CalOPPA we agree to the following: Users can visit our site anonymously Once this privacy policy is created, we will add a link to it on our home page, or as a minimum on the first significant page after entering our website. Our Privacy Policy link includes the word 'Privacy', and can be easily be found on the page specified above. Users will be notified of any privacy policy changes: • On our Privacy Policy Page Users are able to change their personal information: • By emailing us COPPA (Children Online Privacy Protection Act) When it comes to the collection of personal information from children under 13, the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) puts parents in control. The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, enforces the COPPA Rule, which spells out what operators of websites and online services must do to protect children's privacy and safety online. We do not specifically market to children under 13. Fair Information Practices The Fair Information Practices Principles form the backbone of privacy law in the United States and the concepts they include have played a significant role in the development of data protection laws around the globe. Understanding the Fair Information Practice Principles and how they should be implemented is critical to comply with the various privacy laws that protect personal information. In order to be in line with Fair Information Practices we will take the following responsive action, should a data breach occur: We will notify the users via email • Within 7 business days We will notify the users via in site notification • Within 7 business days CAN SPAM Act The CAN-SPAM Act is a law that sets the rules for commercial email, establishes requirements for commercial messages, gives recipients the right to have emails stopped from being sent to them, and spells out tough penalties for violations. We collect your email address If at any time you would like to unsubscribe from receiving future emails, you can email us and we will promptly remove you from all correspondence.

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 Stitch & Share: A Mindful Crochet Gathering Wed, Jun 24 Online Event Sign Up RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Jul 06 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 Stitch & Share: A Mindful Crochet Gathering Wed, Jun 24 Online Event RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Emotional Wellness & Self-Discovery Mon, Jul 06 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

Mind & Body Practices Join us Weekly, Monthly, and On Demand! Upcoming Mind & Body Classes Multiple Dates Wed, Jun 17 Forest Bathing: Mindful Nature Connection & Healing / Virtual Event RSVP Jun 17, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Awaken your senses and reconnect with nature—wherever you are. This virtual forest bathing experience invites you to slow down, tune in, and find grounding through mindful connection with the natural world.Join us for a one-hour virtual forest bathing walk, designed to support relaxation, stress red +30 more Multiple Dates Mon, Jun 22 Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing / Online Event RSVP Jun 22, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Each month, join us for a guided meditation exploring one of the Eightfold Path principles. Together, we’ll cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and resilience, one step at a time. Free and open to all. Multiple Dates Mon, Jun 22 Reiki Infused Meditation with Marie / Online Event RSVP Jun 22, 2026, 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Restore your energy and find deep relaxation in this Reiki-infused meditation. Allow gentle, supportive energy to flow through you—wherever you are. +8 more Multiple Dates Tue, Jun 23 SBC Well-Being Book Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path / Online Event RSVP Jun 23, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Join us as we dive into The Beginner's Guide to Walking the Buddha's Eightfold Path by Jean Smith. Discover practical, "nuts and bolts" wisdom for mindful living, stress relief, and emotional resilience. Perfect for anyone seeking a compassionate community and a holistic approach to well-being. Multiple Dates Wed, Jul 01 Guided Hypnosis for Breast Cancer Thrivers & Caregivers / Online Event RSVP Jul 01, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event A guided hypnosis session designed to help you gently release old narratives and reconnect with your inner sense of possibility and self-trust. In a safe and supportive space. +6 more Multiple Dates Tue, Jul 07 Meditation Tuesday for Self-Care / Online Event RSVP Jul 07, 2026, 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Meditation for Self-Care offers gentle, guided meditation to support emotional well-being, stress relief, and nervous system regulation during and beyond the cancer journey. Open to those in treatment, survivorship, living with metastatic disease, or supporting a loved one. See All Multiple Dates Tue, Sep 08 SBC Well-Being Book Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path / Online Event RSVP Sep 08, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Join us as we dive into The Beginner's Guide to Walking the Buddha's Eightfold Path by Jean Smith. Discover practical, "nuts and bolts" wisdom for mindful living, stress relief, and emotional resilience. Perfect for anyone seeking a compassionate community and a holistic approach to well-being. Multiple Dates Tue, Sep 15 SBC Well-Being Club: Finding Peace on the Buddha’s Eightfold Path / Online Event RSVP Sep 15, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Join us as we dive into The Beginner's Guide to Walking the Buddha's Eightfold Path by Jean Smith. Discover practical, "nuts and bolts" wisdom for mindful living, stress relief, and emotional resilience. Perfect for anyone seeking a compassionate community and a holistic approach to well-being. See All Multiple Dates Mon, Oct 19 Meditation Reflection The 8 Steps of Buddhism - A Path to Healing / Online Event RSVP Oct 19, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Each month, join us for a guided meditation exploring one of the Eightfold Path principles. Together, we’ll cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and resilience, one step at a time. Free and open to all. See All

Surviving Breast Cancer believes in the healing power of movement. Enjoy free movement classes to help manage the physical and mental effects of breast cancer. Movement & Wellness for Breast Cancer Support your body. Calm your mind. Strengthen your resilience. SurvivingBreastCancer.org offers free virtual movement and wellness classes designed specifically for individuals diagnosed with early-stage and metastatic breast cancer (MBC), as well as caregivers. Our evidence-informed, integrative oncology–inspired programming helps reduce stress, improve mobility, and support overall quality of life during treatment and survivorship. Creative and expressive movement—exploring the mind, body, and spirit—has the power to support healing, reduce stress, and strengthen the mind-body connection, especially for those navigating breast cancer and survivorship. Upcoming Classes (Weekly, Monthly, & On Demand) Multiple Dates Tai Chi & Qi Gong for Breast Cancer Thrivers Tue, Jun 23 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Sat, Jun 27 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jul 14 Online Event More info RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Jul 20 Online Event More info RSVP On Demand Classes Download the SurvivingBreastCancer App to access our Wellness Library with hundreds of programs from including yoga, Pilates, meditation, Qi Gong, and more. Join Us for Movement Monday All classes are free and offered virtually. You are welcome to join with your camera on or off but of course we always encourage people to have their videos on to build community. Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, in survivorship, or supporting a loved one — there is space for you here. Download the App Why Movement Matters During and After Breast Cancer Research shows that regular physical activity and stress-reduction practices can: Reduce treatment-related fatigue Improve sleep and mood Support lymphatic health and mobility Decrease stress and anxiety Enhance overall quality of life Our classes are inclusive, adaptable, and accessible from home — so you can move at your own pace, wherever you are in your journey. SBC On Demand Classes Have access to our programs anytime, anywhere Experience gentle Tai Chi designed for people living with cancer. This on-demand class helps reduce fatigue, improve balance, and support emotional well-being—at your own pace, from home. No experience needed. Heal & Move: Gentle Qigong for Breast Cancer Recovery This supportive class uses gentle movements & breathwork to promote healing, manage side effects, & find inner peace during breast cancer recovery. Breast Cancer Recovery Yoga: Gentle Poses with Chair Support (Improves Flexibility & Reduces Lymphedema) This restorative yoga class is designed specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors. Join certified instructor Kim O´Brien for a gentle sequence of poses using a chair for added comfort and support. Pilates Snacks Short on Time? Try an Exercise Snack! In our fast-paced lives, carving out time for fitness can feel overwhelming. But staying active doesn't have to mean hour-long workouts or trips to the gym. With exercise snacks—quick, low-impact movement breaks you can do anytime, anywhere—you can boost your energy, improve circulation, and support your overall wellness. Whether you're managing fatigue from breast cancer treatment or just juggling a busy schedule, these short bursts of movement make it easier to stay consistent with your physical health goals. DIEP flap Yoga Restorative Yoga Pilates Multiple Dates Tai Chi & Qi Gong for Breast Cancer Thrivers Tue, Jun 23 Online Event Slow down. Breathe. Move with intention. In this gentle Tai Chi & Qi Gong session, you’ll be guided through flowing movements designed to release tension, restore energy, and support healing from within. No experience needed,just bring your body, exactly as it is. +13 more RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates for Breast Cancer Recovery Sat, Jun 27 Online Event Did you know that Pilates can specifically address post-surgical tightness and lymphatic health? From restoring range of motion after a mastectomy to strengthening the "powerhouse" following flap reconstruction, Pilates offers a low-impact solution to post-treatment side effects. +6 more RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jul 14 Online Event Join us for our Online DIEP Flap Yoga Classes, a gentle, supportive, and guided movement series created specifically for individuals preparing for or recovering from DIEP flap breast reconstruction surgery. +2 more RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga: A Monthly Journey Into Calm, Comfort & Inner Healing Mon, Jul 20 Online Event Step into a space of deep relaxation and gentle healing with our Restorative Yoga class, offered year-round by SurvivingBreastCancer.org. Designed for all experience levels, this cozy, nurturing practice invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with your body. +3 more RSVP Articles 1 2 3 4 5 Email info @survivingbreastcancer.org with your background, interests, and class offerings. Interested in Becoming a Movement Instructor?

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.

A breast cancer diagnosis is life-changing for patients and their families. The SBC community will support you through every step of your treatment journey. Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast Download the App Subscribe to the Newsletter Make a Gift More Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Now What? What brings you to this website is most likely a breast cancer diagnosis. Perhaps you found a lump, noticed swelling or experienced pain; maybe you are awaiting test results; or you just heard the words that you've been diagnosed with breast cancer; or perhaps you are experiencing a recurrence. 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 breast cancer diagnosis disrupts our lives and throws us into a whirlwind of 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 Download PDF Burning Questions Latest News Who Should I Tell? Learning that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer can set you into a whirlind of uncertainty and that is to be expected. There is probably a lot of information you do not yet know. At this time, you may want to start thinking about who you should tell. While this can also be difficult for loved ones, family, and friends to hear, you are actually in the process of cultivating your support team! Remember, you do not need to tell everyone all at once. Perhaps starting with close family, let friends know how they can help support you during this time. It is a personal decision on how private or public you want to be and completely your choice in how much information you choose to share. You may want to have seperate conversations with your children depending on their ages. We also recommend speaking with your medical team about your treatment options and getting a plan in place for when you may need to take time off from work or be out of the office. Should I Get A Second Opinion? You may consider receiving a second opinion from another medical oncologist or breast surgeon. In some cases, people get multiple opinions before making any decisions on their care and medical treatment plan. Women in our Breast Cancer Support Group often share that it is important for them to feel comfortable with your doctors; that there is a rapport and trust. After all, your medical team is going to be your primary caregiver throughout treatment so it is important you feel comfortable with the person, able to ask questions, and feel confident in your plan of action. Your Medical Care Team may consist of one or several of the following: Breast Oncologist Breast Surgeon Breast Plastic Surgeon Radiation Oncologist Social Worker Psychologist What Treatment Options Do I Have? Thanks to continued research taking place in Breast Cancer, people diagnosed today have a variety of treatment options and are able to live long healthy lives. Treatment options will be tailored to your specific diagnosis and dependent on the stage of your breast cancer (1-4) and it's characteristics. For example, is it HER2 positive or negative, is it triple negative meaning it is estrogen receptor negative, progesterone receptor negative and HER2 negative. Your oncologist will also take into consideration how advance the cancer is. During this phase you may be getting more tests and scans. During this phase, you may also consider genetic testing. Genetic testing is helpful for a multitude of reasons including helping to make surgery decisions. If you end of testing positive for a genetic pre-disposition to developing breast cancer, your surgeon may recommend a full double mastectomy. Traditional standard of care includes: Surgery (not always required if you are diagnosed with metastatic stage IV breast cancer, that is, your cancer has spread beyond your breast to your bones, lungs, liver, or brain) Radiation (not always required) Chemotherapy (not always required) Hormonal Therapy (not always required) Oftentimes people will also consider integrative therapies as a complement to the standard treatments which also has been shown to reduce some of the side effects of treatment: Acupuncture Yoga Meditation Additionally speak to your oncologist about Clinical Trials and if you would be a candidate. Will I Need Chemotherapy? Not everyone diagnosed with breast cancer will need chemotherapy. There are several factors that go into this determination and should be a conversation you have with your oncologist. For example, your doctor will take into consideration the stage of cancer that you have (i.e., stage 1, 2, 3, 4) and the characteristics of your tumor, (i.e., if it is hormonal positive or negative) etc. In some instances, chemotherapy will be an option for people prior to surgery. This is called neo-adjuvant chemo. Other times, chemotherapy may be prescribed after surgery which is referred to as adjuvant chemotherapy. . Join our community SBC offers a safe space to build community. We provide reliable information and offer what you most need during the diagnosis: understanding. English Español

Breast cancer stories can inspire hope, strength, and courage for fellow patients and survivors. Discover new perspectives and share your unique experiences. 1 2 3 4 5 Inspiring Breast Cancer Stories Everyone's breast cancer experience is different. People respond differently to treatment and even make other decisions based on their own personal preferences. We also understand that breast cancer extends well beyond the person who is diagnosed. It touches all aspects of life, including family members, friends, and loved ones. Below, you will find many inspiring breast cancer stories from our community. Submit Your Story

Every breast cancer donation gives hope. You can get involved and make an impactful and meaningful difference. Donate to breast cancer support programs. Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Content Library Podcast Download the App Subscribe to the Newsletter Make a Gift More Build the Future of Breast Cancer Survivorship From diagnosis through long-term survivorship — and for those living with metastatic disease — SBC ensures access to credible education, AI-informed navigation tools, and year-round community support. Make a Donation Donate Now Become a Monthly Supporter Why Your Gift Matters Financial, Emotional, & Wellness Programming Your generosity ensures that individuals navigating breast cancer, from early-stage through metastatic disease, have access to trusted education, meaningful connection, and supportive wellness programming. Trusted Information & Educational Resources A breast cancer diagnosis brings more than medical challenges. Your gift enables us to provide over 400+ free support groups, integrative oncology–inspired classes, and community spaces designed to reduce stress and improve outcomes. Survivorship Programming & Tools Your contribution provides expert-led webinars, evidence-informed articles, podcasts, and tools that help individuals make informed decisions about their care meeting people where they are and supporting long-term survivorship, and quality of life. $50 $100 $250 By The Numbers Our Impact Read the Report 200,000+ Podcast Downlaods Educational content reaching thousands of listeners 8,000 People Serviced Through our 350+ virtual programs offered each year. 1 Million Website Interactions Engaging website visitors through AI driven technologies supporting education, information, and empowerment Monthly Giving Circle Monthly giving strengthens our ability to plan, innovate, and respond to emerging survivorship needs. Reliable funding allows SBC to scale responsibly toward our $1M national operating model in 2026 and beyond. Make a Donation More Ways To Give Legacy Giving Let's Talk Asset Based Giving Let's Connect By Check Checks can be made out to "SurvivingBreastCancer.org" and mailed to 5 Cedar Street Unit 1, Roxbury, MA 02119 Venmo Find us on Venmo at @SurvivingBreastCancerorg Stocks & Securities We accept Donor Advisor Funds, Stocks, and Securities. Contact Us

Apply for a Scholarship Fund a Scholarship SBC Educational Scholarship Program Education Is Empowerment. Community Is Healing. Each year, SurvivingBreastCancer.org awards Educational Scholarships to individuals impacted by breast cancer — providing access to national conferences where learning, connection, and transformation happen. Why This Matters While metastatic breast cancer is lifelong, this program provides short-term relief during high-intensity treatment periods — ensuring responsible stewardship while delivering meaningful, timely support. Increased confidence in treatment decision-making Improved understanding of metastatic and early-stage care Stronger peer-to-peer support networks Decreased isolation among participants Participants returning home feeling informed, connected, and empowered How To Apply Applications open annually and will be published on this website and announced in our weekly newsletter. Scholarships are available to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and we encourage individuals who have not previously attended these conferences and who are involved in our SBC community to apply. Application Cycle: Applications are now open for the Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) Conference on MBC. What Scholars Receive Conference registration Shared accommodations A Visa gift card to assist with travel, meals, and incidentals Pre-conference connection with other SBC scholars Post-conference integration support through SBC programming Apply Conferences our SBC Scholars have attended include: Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) Conference on MBC The Young Survival Coalition (YSC) Summit The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) If you are living with breast cancer and seeking education and community, we encourage you to apply. Fund a Scholar When you fund an SBC Educational Scholarship, you are not simply covering a registration fee. You are funding: Health literacy Confidence in medical decision-making Peer connection Emotional resilience Leadership development within the survivor community $1,500 sponsors one full scholar experience at a 3-day conference $3,000 sponsors one full scholar experience at the week long SABCS symposium. " The SBC Educational Scholars Program is invaluable. SBC is providing an amazing opportunity to breast cancer survivors and advocates by offering this kind of financial support." ~Megan B. Donate Today

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 Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Support Group with Nancy Gaulin, PsyD Thu, Jun 18 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 +12 more RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support | Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup Thu, Jul 02 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. +2 more RSVP Multiple Dates Reflective Writing for Metastatic Breast Cancer Fri, Jul 10 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. +2 more RSVP Recent Articles

Explore the latest news and press releases from SurvivingBreastCancer.org, including breast cancer event involvement and impact updates. Featured On Latest News Media SurvivingBreastCancer.org Releases 2025 Impact Report SurvivingBreastCancer.org is happy to share its end-of-year impact report for the year 2025. The report is available to download here. SurvivingBreastCancer.org Receives Gilead Foundation Grant for Metastatic Breast Cancer Support SurvivingBreastCancer.org was named among the recipients of new grants from the Gilead Foundation. SABCS 2025: Why We Attended, What We Attended — And What the Science Is Saying For the seventh year, SurvivingBreastCancer.org (SBC) attended the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS)—and for the second year, we proudly brought patient advocates through our Educational Scholars Program. Press Kit Download our brand kit and logos! Brand kit Download Surviving Breast Cancer logos Download Después De Un Diagnóstico logos Download Podcast logos Download Sponsorship Opportunities Become part of the SBC family! Download Press Releases

Clinical trials for breast cancer research allow patients to receive innovative treatment methods while opening up healing possibilities for future patients. Transforming Your Breast Cancer Care Clinical Trials are an excellent option. Watch Now on Breast Cancer Conversations, the podcast Meet the People Behind the Amelia Study! Clinical Trials 101 Breast cancer clinical trials offer hope to many women and men diagnosed with the disease. They provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet available to the general public. Explore 1. Our Specialties You get a tailored curated list of clinical trials from experts who are doing cutting edge research and have partnered with SBC to bring these trials to you! 2. Featured Projects Relationships are key for any cancer care. We have taken the time to meet with the scientists, the researchers and the principle investigators engaging in the research and trials we bring to you, our SBC community members! 3. Resources We are not just highlighting trials, we are providing you with an in-depth look at the trial through interviews with the researchers, expert blogs and fireside chats with the scientists, and access to reliable opportunities. 4. The Latest Clinical trials provide you with access to the lastest resources and access to some of the best people in the world who are dedicating their lives to ending cancer. You don't just get the standard of care, you get above and beyond the standard! ARETHA-1 Study for Metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer A Phase II Study of Evexomostat plus Eribulin for People with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Phase 2 Randomized Control Trial of Evexomostat (SDX-7320) in Combination with Eribulin for Patients with Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Metabolic Dysfunction: The ARETHA Study This study is being conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Learn More Amelia 1 for HR+ (estrogen or progesterone), Her2-, metastatic breast cancer with a PIK3CA gene mutation and previously treated with a CDK 4/6 inhibitor (e.g., Ibrance®) in1st line setting The Amelia 1 clinical study is testing a new, experimental cancer treatment called Evexomostat to see if it prolongs patient treatment when combined with Piqray® and Faslodex® and if it helps control blood glucose spikes. Learn More PROTECT-BC (PROton Therapy to Eliminate Cardiac Toxicity for Breast Cancer) A study to assess the safety and effectiveness of a condensed course of radiation delivered daily over approximately 1-2 weeks instead of 5-6 weeks. Learn More Get In Touch Our Clinical Trial Partners Food for Thought Study of Food and Brain Health in women being treated for Triple Negative breast cancer A research team at The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH, is recruiting participants for a remote study of diet and cognition among breast cancer patients. You might be eligible for this study if you:  Are female  Were recently diagnosed with stage II-III triple-negative breast cancer  Have just started, or soon will start systemic therapy (e.g. chemotherapy, targeted or endocrine therapies)  Are 40-65 years old Enrolled participants will be randomized to receive a personalized 12-week nutrition intervention for cognitive health with a registered dietitian-nutritionist or a 12-week general healthy lifestyle program, and will complete all study visits remotely. Participants will be contacted 6 months after the intervention for data collection. If you are interested in this study and would like to find out if you are eligible to participate, please complete a brief screening survey and someone from the research team will contact you directly. Complete the Screening Survey Sexual Health And REhabilitation Online (SHAREonline): A Research Study for Young Female Cancer Survivors Facing Changes in Sexual Health & Sexual Function Researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute are conducting a research study: “Sexual Health and Rehabilitation Online” (SHAREonline), for women age 19-49 who are experiencing changes in sexual functioning after cancer treatment. For more information visit sharesurvivorship.com or email share@dfci.harvard.edu . Learn More Get In Touch Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Cancer Survivors with Insomnia Up to 30–50% of cancer survivors experience chronic, often untreated insomnia. This study is evaluating a virtual cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) program designed specifically for cancer survivors. Delivered online by a trained clinician, the Survivorship Sleep Program aims to address cancer-related barriers to sleep using an evidence-based approach. By expanding access to CBT-I across survivorship stages, this research seeks to better understand how targeted, virtual care can improve sleep and overall quality of life after cancer. Learn more SURGE Study: Virtual Exercise Program for Cancer Survivors The Survivors Uniting for Remote Guided Exercise (SURGE) Study is exploring how online exercise programs can support individuals living with and beyond cancer. This fully virtual study compares live, group-based exercise classes with recorded exercise sessions to understand how they impact physical activity levels, physical fitness, quality of life, and loneliness. All study activities are completed 100% online, including virtual exercise sessions, brief surveys, fitness assessments, and the use of a physical activity monitor during the study. Learn more Who We Work With Are you designing a clinical trial and looking for a patient advocacy organization to partner with? Let’s connect! When patient advocates are given a seat at the table, everyone benefits. Get In Touch

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.

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. Multiple Dates Thu, Jun 18 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Jun 18, 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, Jul 02 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Jul 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, Jul 16 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Jul 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. See All Multiple Dates Thu, Aug 06 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Aug 06, 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, Aug 20 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Aug 20, 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, Sep 03 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Sep 03, 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, Sep 17 Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal / Zoom RSVP Sep 17, 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. Multiple Dates Círculo de Mujeres: Apoyo Emocional y Crecimiento Personal Thu, Jun 18 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

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