Attend an Event Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts Fri, May 24 Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Qi Gong with Kim Tue, May 28 Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Yoga stretching can be a helpful way to improve your range of motion and reduce pain after DIEP flap surgery. Share RSVP ​ Email dleroy@survivingbreastcancer.org with your background, interests, and class offerings. Interested in Becoming a Movement Monday Instructor? Pilates Heal & Move: Gentle Qigong for Breast Cancer Recovery This supportive class uses gentle movements & breathwork to promote healing, manage side effects, & find inner peace during breast cancer recovery. Suitable for all levels. DIEP flap Yoga Movement Days Creative and expressive movement, in the form of mind, body, and spirit exploration, holds the power to heal. Survivingbreastcancer.org offers free, monthly, online classes in restorative yoga, yoga for breast cancer, and Zumba. Enjoy weekly guided meditation, breathwork, and other mindfulness practices, as well as monthly expressive writing and art therapy workshops. All are welcome, including caregivers and supporters of those diagnosed. Move your body and mind with us every Monday! Restorative Yoga Articles Surviving Breast Cancer 2 days ago 2 min Controlling a Controllable: Thriving Through Exercise & Movement Exercise is a powerful tool, and has many potential benefits for those diagnosed with breast cancer. 170 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Feb 22 3 min The Importance of Physical Therapy During and After Cancer Treatment By Taylor McKnight Physical therapy is often the last thing on people’s minds when they receive a cancer diagnosis. However, it is an... 387 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 14 2 min The Role of Exercise in Breast Cancer Recovery: Benefits and Recommendations Exercise plays a crucial role in the recovery journey for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. Engaging in physical activity during and 119 Post not marked as liked 1 2 3 4 5 Multiple Dates Mon, May 20 Online Event Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Fri, May 24 Online Event Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, May 28 Online Event Qi Gong with Kim May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Yoga Stretching for DIEP Flap Jun 11, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Yoga stretching can be a helpful way to improve your range of motion and reduce pain after DIEP flap surgery. Share RSVP Breast Cancer Recovery Yoga: Gentle Poses with Chair Support (Improves Flexibility & Reduces Lymphedema) This restorative yoga class is designed specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors. Join certified instructor Kim O´Brien for a gentle sequence of poses using a chair for added comfort and support.

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

Surviving Breast Cancer provides breast cancer support, events, and webinars at no cost to you! Whether you are looking to gain more knowledge on a particular topic or meet up with other breast cancer survivors, we have something for everyone. Join our Support Group which meets every Thursday night. Attend one of our Sunday Metastatic Breast Cancer Series. Explore a live webinar featuring experts in the field. Move your body and mind with us every Monday. We even have a monthly Breast Cancer Book Club! Learn More and RSVP for Upcoming Events & Programs (Click here for Programs in Spanish) ​ Multiple Dates MBC Support Group with Nancy Gaulin Thu, May 16 Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Virtual Join us for our signature Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup! On the third Thursday of every month, we will have a special meeting for the MBC community. This space will be hosted by the incredible Psychologist Nancy Gaulin. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Nights Thrivers Meetup Thu, May 16 Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual This is your weekly breast cancer support group! It's a welcoming and inviting virtual space where you can come to meet others, ask questions, or just listen in. Our sessions are always confidential and a friendly space offering support as well a a bit of humor. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Restorative Yoga with Kate: Unearthing Opportunities Mon, May 20 Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event May 20, 2024, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM EDT Online Event Did you know you have magical powers? We all can literally change our bodies through breath and movement. Experience this ancient practice and feel your own powers grow! Share RSVP In body Breathwork Tue, May 21 Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 21, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Breathwork is a powerful modality that combines conscious breathing techniques with mindfulness and meditation. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC 2.0 Thu, May 23 Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event IBC 2.0 is a private support group for individuals who have graduated from our standing Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC. Our IBC 2.0 group dives into topics, questions, and concerns on a deeper level as members already know one another and have graduated from TNT-IBC. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Pilates with Nina: Breast Cancer Home Workouts Fri, May 24 Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event May 24, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event You're invited to join our empowering online Pilates class set against the tranquil space of your home. Share RSVP Brain Spotting Mon, May 27 Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event May 27, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Brainspotting is a therapy technique used to address trauma and emotional distress. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Qi Gong with Kim Tue, May 28 Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event May 28, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided Qi Gong class. A time-honored practice that utilizes breath, movement, and intention setting to promote health and equilibrium in the body. Share RSVP Meet the SBC Early Stage Team Tue, May 28 Livestream May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Livestream May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Livestream Meet SurvivingBreastCancer.org’s Early Stage Leadership Team! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Triage Cancer: Benefits for Veterans with Cancer Wed, May 29 webinar May 29, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT webinar May 29, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT webinar Triage Cancer Conferences cover key tips to help navigate legal and practical issues, reduce the financial burden of a cancer diagnosis, and lower stress. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Breast Cancer Book Club Sun, Jun 02 Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Jun 02, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online Each month, the Breast Cancer Book Club chooses a book that has nothing to do with breast cancer. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Meditation Affirmations: Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Online Event The process of focused meditation with attention and intention can provide answers to various questions we may have especially around limiting beliefs. This is an opportunity to anchor the chakra teachings and transform our consciousness around. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: HOPE Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Forest Bathing Tue, Jun 04 Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Jun 04, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Virtual Event Join this Forest Bathing class and experience a deeper connection with nature, reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation Share RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support Thu, Jun 06 Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Join us for our signature Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup! On the first Thursday of every month, we will have a special breakout room for the MBC community. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jun 10 Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Yoga Fitness with Chair Assist with Kim Tue, Jun 11 Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 11, 2024, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Online Event Join Kim OBrien for guided yoga fitness with chair assist. This is a WHOLE BODY practice with the intent to move and stimulate the body, mind and soul from head to toe. Share RSVP Load More Breast Cancer Support & Events Curated For You

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We all have a story. We are all here to share & Support. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 34 Health and fitness has always been a part of who I am. For decades I have practiced yoga, enjoyed running, hiking, biking, swimming and weight training. I followed a vegan diet and thought I was in the best shape of my life, that is, until I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 34. "How could this happen to me?" ​ ​This shattering news became the catalyst for launching SurvivingBreastCancer.org. I have undergone both neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormonal therapies, and noticed that the real trauma from a cancer diagnosis came after I completed my active treatment. It was when I heard the good news that my next follow-up appointment would not be next week, but in 12 weeks, followed by 6 months, and then in a year. That's when it hit me. That's when I realized the important role Survivingbreastcancer.org plays in the breast cancer arena and why I have dedicated myself to building a breast cancer survivorship platform. ​ Understanding my own health and wellness not only became my top priority, but it became my full-time job. Managing one’s health isn’t something that you do 3 days a week. It is a commitment to one’s self and life-style choice. The Surviving Breast Cancer organization revolves around a positive mindset, and I want to share that mindset with you! Come take a look around and make yourself at home! ​ ​ Xo, -- Laura

Lymphedema What is the Lymphatic System? Our bodies have a network of lymph nodes and lymph vessels. This system collects and carries a watery, clear lymph fluid, much like how veins collect blood from distant parts of the body and carry it back to the heart. This fluid consists of proteins, salts, and water, as well as white blood cells, which help fight infection. What Is Lymphedema? Lymphedema is most commonly caused by the removal of, or damage to, your lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatments. It results from a blockage in your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid buildup leads to swelling. According to the National Cancer Institute, anywhere from 5-17% of women who have sentinel lymph node biopsy develop lymphedema. Among women who have axillary lymph node dissection, the percentage is higher — from 20-53% — and the risk increases with the number of nodes taken out. Not surprisingly the risk is even higher if you receive radiation to the breast, chest, and under the arm area. ​ Lymphedema is the build up of lymph fluid within the lymphatic system. The buildup can be caused by a number of factors which we will get into below. Lymphedema can occur in the limbs and extremity such as the arms and legs. As it relates to breast cancer, the most common occurrence of lymphedema occurs in the arm, chest, or back. ​ Lymphedema is something that can be managed so you never get it, or, it is something you manage on a continual basis to avoid flareups and progression as there is no cure for lymphedema. Although there is no official cure, there are plenty of beneficial treatment plans that help mitigate side effects. How To Prevent Lymphemdema​ After Surgery, your surgeon may recommend specific exercises to increase mobility and prevent lymphedema. They may also recommend seeing a physical therapist. With approval of your medical care team (and feel free to ask them!) you may start exercises to prevent cording. Cording, which is also known as axillary web syndrome (AWS) which refers to a long line of "cord" that develops under the armpit and axilla area and can happen after someone undergoes a sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) or a full axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). ​ One of the most common exercises to prevent cording and/or axillary web syndrome is the activity of "walking the walk". This is an excellent exercise: 1. Stand perpendicular to the wall 2. With the affected arm, using your fingers to start crawling up the wall (think itsy bitsy spider). 3. As your arm makes it way up the wall, lean in to the highest point you are able to achieve without causing harm or pain, and hold for 10 seconds. ​ Repeat this process several times throughout the day. ​ Your doctor may also recommend specific exercises utilizing weights and limits on the number of pounds or kilos you should lift. It's always better to start off light, never over do it, and increase weight slowly and gradually, over time. ​ 10 Recommendations To Prevent Lymphedema: ​ Avoid tight clothing and jewelry on the arm and wrists Avoid cutting your cuticles Use insect repellent when outdoors Avoid sunburn and excessive amounts of heat from saunas and baths Avoid having IV's or blood pressure taken in the at-risk arm. Wear a compression sleeve when traveling on air planes or carrying a lot of heavy luggage. Keep your arm elevated whenever possible Engage in activities that help promote the movement of your lymph fluid such as yoga and swimming Nutrition plays an important role in life after a breast cancer diagnosis; maintain a healthy weight and a low sodium diet Carry handbags and purses on the unaffected arm > Lymphedema 101 On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now

Breast Cancer 101 Lifestyle & Wellness Resources Programs Library Podcast About More Newly Diagnosed. 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. ​ . Tue, Sep 10 Online 8 Week Program Encourage and Empower Program for the Newly Diagnosed Sep 10, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT Online 8 Week Program Join Gloria Shoon for a weekly gathering of encouragement and empowerment. In this 8 week program, designed specifically for those who are newly diagnosed, participants will explore tiny habits that build upon each other. Share RSVP 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

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

Do you ever just want to meet up and hang out with others who just get it? We got you covered! Every Thursday night at 7pm ET, Survivingbreastcancer.org hosts our signature get together event, Thursday Night Thrivers! ​ Yes, we enjoy getting together and talking about breast cancer, sharing our stories, and the trials and tribulations, but our community is so much more than a "breast cancer support group". We forge bonds that extend well beyond our diagnosis. We laugh, we share experiences, and at the end of the day we offer support! ​ If you are looking for a "come as you are", "no agenda" meetup, this is the place! ​ We host this standing appointment every Thursday so when you are ready, we are here for you! Our standing appointment on Thursdays is for all stages. We also host specific breakout groups once a month for specific stages and subtypes such as Metastatic breast cancer, and Inflammatory Breast Cancer, etc. See the schedule below for specific details and to RSVP. ​ ​ Multiple Dates MBC Support Group with Nancy Gaulin Thu, May 16 Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Virtual Join us for our signature Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup! On the third Thursday of every month, we will have a special meeting for the MBC community. This space will be hosted by the incredible Psychologist Nancy Gaulin. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Nights Thrivers Meetup Thu, May 16 Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual May 16, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual This is your weekly breast cancer support group! It's a welcoming and inviting virtual space where you can come to meet others, ask questions, or just listen in. Our sessions are always confidential and a friendly space offering support as well a a bit of humor. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC 2.0 Thu, May 23 Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event May 23, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM EDT Online Event IBC 2.0 is a private support group for individuals who have graduated from our standing Thursday Night Thrivers-IBC. Our IBC 2.0 group dives into topics, questions, and concerns on a deeper level as members already know one another and have graduated from TNT-IBC. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Grupo de Apoyo: Después de un Diagnóstico Tue, May 28 Virtual May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual May 28, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual ¡Únete con nosotros para nuestro exclusivo Evento Martes - después del diagnóstico en español! Share RSVP Multiple Dates Grupo de Apoyo para Cáncer de Mama Metastásico Tue, May 28 Virtual May 28, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual May 28, 2024, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Virtual ¡Únete a nuestro encuentro exclusivo "Después de un Diagnóstico" el 4to martes del mes por la noche! Share RSVP Multiple Dates MBC Peer to Peer Support Thu, Jun 06 Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Jun 06, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Virtual Join us for our signature Thursday Night Thrivers Meetup! On the first Thursday of every month, we will have a special breakout room for the MBC community. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Thursday Night Thrivers IBC Meetup Thu, Jun 13 Online Event Jun 13, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 13, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT Online Event Join the Inflammatory Breast Cancer SBC community, meet others diagnosed with IBC, and connect with those who truly understand the unique needs we all face. Share RSVP RSVP Below - See you there! Thursday Night Thrivers MeetUp (AKA Support Group!) Laura D., MA My Testimonial Thank you for last night! I was so happy to celebrate the start of 2020 with such a dynamic and friendly group of women. The conversation transcended even beyond breast cancer stories, thus creating even stronger connections.” Caroline Paterson My Testimonial Thank you for hosting this amazing event and for all of the other things you continue to do to keep us all educated. I feel such a sense of community and I’ve only come to two Thrivers’ meetings so far. I cannot wait for next week!

Surviving Breast Cancer 4 hours ago 4 min Understanding and Managing GI Issues Caused by Breast Cancer Treatment Learn about the causes, symptoms, and management strategies of GI issues related to breast cancer treatments. Surviving Breast Cancer 2 days ago 2 min Controlling a Controllable: Thriving Through Exercise & Movement Exercise is a powerful tool, and has many potential benefits for those diagnosed with breast cancer. Surviving Breast Cancer 4 days ago 3 min Living Beyond Breast Cancer Metastatic Breast Cancer Conference 2024 By Kathleen Friel I had the great fortune of attending the Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Conference... Surviving Breast Cancer 6 days ago 1 min They Look at You A breast cancer poem from Marissa. Surviving Breast Cancer May 9 1 min This Journey of Life A collaborative poem by the SBC Poetry Society. Surviving Breast Cancer May 8 8 min Motherless Mother’s Day: Honoring your Loved One on Holidays “Death and grief are difficult, but as difficult as they can be, finding ways to honor them can be so fulfilling and healing, too.” Surviving Breast Cancer May 7 2 min Time to Heal “It is my time to heal.” Read Dani’s breast cancer story on the SurvivingBreastCancer.org blog! Surviving Breast Cancer May 3 1 min BEYOND THE DREAM A poem from Brookshire to celebrate poetry with SurvivingBreastCancer.org! Surviving Breast Cancer May 2 3 min I’d Rather Be Me Mandy shares her experience with self-advocacy when faced with fertility challenges, and later with breast cancer. Surviving Breast Cancer May 1 1 min Uninvited A breast cancer poem from Jacqueline.

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

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

Surviving Breast Cancer 6 days ago 1 min They Look at You A breast cancer poem from Marissa. 190 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 9 1 min This Journey of Life A collaborative poem by the SBC Poetry Society. 117 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 3 1 min BEYOND THE DREAM A poem from Brookshire to celebrate poetry with SurvivingBreastCancer.org! 104 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer May 1 1 min Uninvited A breast cancer poem from Jacqueline. 178 4 likes. Post not marked as liked 4 Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 26 1 min VESSEL By Jerilyn Young My body is a vessel Navigating ocean waves Pushing Pulling Flowing sensations of unknown Preparing for rough seas ahead... 115 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Surviving Breast Cancer Apr 15 1 min The Now I thought I couldn’t bear any more Then I expand... 331 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 1 2 3 4 5 Healing Through The Arts A cancer diagnosis can ignite our deepest fears, and while navigating this life-altering experience, we often lose touch with the present moment. Through art, writing, and other creative modalities, we hold the power to manage our stress, make sense of our now, and relax into moments of stillness. Express yourself, get it out, connect with others, and find your breath again. Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: HOPE Mon, Jun 03 Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Jun 03, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Artistic Expression: Dreamscapes Mon, Jul 01 Online Event Jul 01, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jul 01, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Unlock the transformative potential of creative expression with our immersive art exploration sessions. Delve into the healing energy of artistic endeavors as you discover the profound impact of mindfulness on emotional equilibrium. Share RSVP Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jun 10 Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jun 10, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Jul 22 Online Event Jul 22, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Jul 22, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Aug 12 Online Event Aug 12, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Aug 12, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Multiple Dates Reflect and Recharge with Thomas Dooley Mon, Sep 09 Online Event Sep 09, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event Sep 09, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EDT Online Event How can we dial down the noise in our daily lives to listen to the story emerging within ourselves? In this interactive session, we will come together to reflect on the personal narratives that give shape and meaning to our lives and find community in the experiences we share. Share RSVP Expressive Writing Art As Therapy Read the Incredible Poems Coming Out Of Our SBC POETRY LAB New to Expressive Art as Therapy? No worries, we have you covered! In the canvas of life, every stroke tells a story, and we believe that art can be a powerful medium for healing and self-expression. Join Elisa and other resilient individuals as we explore the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression, fostering a supportive community where stories are shared, and strength is discovered. ​ Embrace the canvas of your life with bold strokes of self-discovery, and let the vibrant colors of your resilience paint a masterpiece of healing and growth.

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

Breast Cancer Risk Factors Breast Cancer Risk and Risk Factors You may be familiar with the statistic that says 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer. Many people misinterpret this to mean that, on any given day, they and the women they know have a 1-in-8 risk of developing the disease. That’s simply not true. In reality, about 1 in 8 women in the United States — 12%, or about 12 out of every 100 — can expect to develop breast cancer over the course of an entire lifetime. In the U.S., an average lifetime is about 80 years. So, it’s more accurate to say that 1 in 8 women in the U.S. who reach the age of 80 can expect to develop breast cancer. In each decade of life, the risk of getting breast cancer is actually lower than 12% for most women. ​ People tend to have very different ways of viewing risk. For you, a 1-in-8 lifetime risk may seem like a high likelihood of getting breast cancer. Or you may turn this around and reason that there is a 7-in-8, or 87.5%, chance you will never get breast cancer, even if you live to age 80. How you view risk often depends on your individual situation — for example, whether you or many women you know have had breast cancer, or you have reason to believe you are at higher-than-normal risk for the disease — and your usual way of looking at the world. ​​ Even though studies have found that women have a 12% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, your individual risk may be higher or lower than that. Individual risk is affected by many different factors, such as family history, reproductive history, lifestyle, environment, and others. Breast Cancer Risk Factors A “risk factor” is anything that increases your risk of developing breast cancer. Many of the most important risk factors for breast cancer are beyond your control, such as age, family history, and medical history. However, there are some risk factors you can control, such as weight, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Be sure to talk with your doctor about all of your possible risk factors for breast cancer. There may be steps you can take to lower your risk of breast cancer, and your doctor can help you come up with a plan. Your doctor also needs to be aware of any other risk factors beyond your control, so that he or she has an accurate understanding of your level of breast cancer risk. This can influence recommendations about breast cancer screening — what tests to have and when to start having them. Risk Factors You Can Control Weight . Being overweight is associated with increased risk of breast cancer, especially for women after menopause. Fat tissue is the body’s main source of estrogen after menopause, when the ovaries stop producing the hormone. Having more fat tissue means having higher estrogen levels, which can increase breast cancer risk. Diet . Studies are looking at the relationship between diet and breast cancer risk and the risk of recurrence. The Women's Health Initiative Trial suggested that a diet very low in fat may reduce the risk of breast cancer. More research is needed in this important area for women who are interested in eating well to reduce their risk of ever getting breast cancer. In the meantime, here's what dietitians suggest: ​ • Keep your body weight in a healthy range for your height and frame. Body mass index , though not a perfect measurement, can help you estimate your healthy weight. • Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit (more than 5 cups a day). • Try to limit your saturated fat intake to less than 10% of your total calories per day and limit your fat intake to about 30 grams per day. • Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids . • Avoid trans fats, processed meats, and charred or smoked foods. You'll find that processed foods generally don't fit in this type of diet as well as fresh foods do. For more information, visit our page on healthy eating to reduce risk of breast cancer in the Nutrition section. Exercise . Evidence is growing that exercise can reduce breast cancer risk. The American Cancer Society recommends engaging in 45-60 minutes of physical exercise 5 or more days a week. (See our Fitness Guide) Alcohol consumption. Studies have shown that breast cancer risk increases with the amount of alcohol a woman drinks. Alcohol can limit your liver’s ability to control blood levels of the hormone estrogen, which in turn can increase risk. Smoking. Smoking is associated with a small increase in breast cancer risk. Exposure to estrogen. Because the female hormone estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, exposure to estrogen over long periods of time, without any breaks, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are under your control, such as: ​ • taking combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progesterone; HRT) for several years or more, or taking estrogen alone for more than 10 years • being overweight • regularly drinking alcohol Recent oral contraceptive use. Using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) appears to slightly increase a woman’s risk for breast cancer, but only for a limited period of time. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. Stress and anxiety. There is no clear proof that stress and anxiety can increase breast cancer risk. However, anything you can do to reduce your stress and to enhance your comfort, joy, and satisfaction can have a major effect on your quality of life. So-called “mindful measures” (such as meditation, yoga, visualization exercises, and prayer) may be valuable additions to your daily or weekly routine. Some research suggests that these practices can strengthen the immune system. (See our resources on Positive Thinking, Meditation and Affirmations ) Risk Factors You Cannot Control Gender. Being a woman is the most significant risk factor for developing breast cancer. Although men can get breast cancer, too, women’s breast cells are constantly changing and growing, mainly due to the activity of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. This activity puts them at much greater risk for breast cancer. Age. Simply growing older is the second biggest risk factor for breast cancer. From age 30 to 39, the risk is 1 in 228, or .44%. That jumps to 1 in 29, or just under 3.5%, by the time you are in your 60s. Family history of breast cancer. If you have a first-degree relative (mother, daughter, sister) who has had breast cancer, or you have multiple relatives affected by breast or ovarian cancer (especially before they turned age 50), you could be at higher risk of getting breast cancer. Personal history of breast cancer. If you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer, your risk of developing it again, either in the same breast or the other breast, is higher than if you never had the disease. ​ Race. White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer than are African American women. Asian, Hispanic, and Native American women have a lower risk of developing and dying from breast cancer. Radiation therapy to the chest. Having radiation therapy to the chest area as a child or young adult as treatment for another cancer significantly increases breast cancer risk. The increase in risk seems to be highest if the radiation was given while the breasts were still developing (during the teen years). Breast cellular changes. Unusual changes in breast cells found during a breast biopsy (removal of suspicious tissue for examination under a microscope) can be a risk factor for developing breast cancer. These changes include overgrowth of cells (called hyperplasia) or abnormal (atypical) appearance. Exposure to estrogen. Because the female hormone estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, exposure to estrogen over long periods of time, without any breaks, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are not under your control, such as: ​ • starting menstruation (monthly periods) at a young age (before age 12) • going through menopause (end of monthly cycles) at a late age (after 55) • exposure to estrogens in the environment (such as hormones in meat or pesticides such as DDT, which produce estrogen-like substances when broken down by the body) ​ Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnancy and breastfeeding reduce the overall number of menstrual cycles in a woman’s lifetime, and this appears to reduce future breast cancer risk. Women who have never had a full-term pregnancy, or had their first full-term pregnancy after age 30, have an increased risk of breast cancer. For women who do have children, breastfeeding may slightly lower their breast cancer risk, especially if they continue breastfeeding for 1 1/2 to 2 years. For many women, however, breastfeeding for this long is neither possible nor practical. DES exposure. Women who took a medication called diethylstilbestrol (DES), used to prevent miscarriage from the 1940s through the 1960s, have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. Women whose mothers took DES during pregnancy may have a higher risk of breast cancer as well. ​ ​ ​ > What's the Difference between Diet and Nutrition? On Breast Cancer Conversations, the Podcast Listen Now

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

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

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

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

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. 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We therefore encourage you to set strong passwords for your User Account and User Website, and avoid providing us with any sensitive information which you believe its disclosure could cause you substantial or irreparable harm. Furthermore, because certain areas on 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.

Breast Cancer & Mental Health Surviving Breast Cancer Jan 14 2 min Holistic Approaches to Complement Breast Cancer Treatment: Benefits and Practices Understanding these holistic approaches, their benefits, and their integration with conventional treatments can be valuable for individuals. 148 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Sep 19, 2023 5 min The Psychological Impact of Breast Cancer: Strategies for Coping Breast cancer isn’t just a physical condition. For many, it’s an emotional and psychological experience that can profoundly affect your... 1,128 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Jun 11, 2023 4 min Coping with Expectations After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: The Realities and Challenges By Laura Carfang Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience that is followed by an array of emotions and... 377 6 likes. Post not marked as liked 6 Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 27, 2022 8 min Can Expressive Writing and Poetry Provide Emotional Healing? I know breast cancer can be an incredibly overwhelming and emotional experience. I'm preaching to the choir. It is common to feel scared,... 169 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Surviving Breast Cancer Nov 19, 2022 8 min Mindfulness Tapping / Emotional Freedom Technique Introduction Mindfulness tapping, or emotional freedom technique (EFT), is a type of mindfulness meditation that uses your fingertips to... 6,129 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 28, 2022 8 min Breast Cancer Screening and Disability: Not As Simple as it Seems #FeatureFriday According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with an estimated 2.1... 204 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Oct 16, 2022 3 min The Alternative To Feeling Like A Victim By Kristen Carter It’s so easy when we have breast cancer and when we experience awful side effects to think of ourselves as victims of... 244 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Expecting the Unexpected: Anticipatory Grief and Breast Cancer #FeatureFriday Have you ever felt preemptively depressed or anxious about something that hasn’t yet happened? Specifically, in regards to... 59 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min My Animal Companion Has Been With Me Throughout Breast Cancer By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, I'm really struggling with intense sadness and loss since I had to say goodbye to my emotional support... 33 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Partner Abandonment and Cancer Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis and dealing with the subsequent treatments and issues is challenging. The news can ignite many... 480 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Tips for Managing Mood Swings and Breast Cancer By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, Do you have any suggestions for dealing with moodiness? Between the stress of having breast cancer and... 112 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Managing the Emotional Stages of a Breast Cancer Diagnosis A breast cancer diagnosis can send you into a tailspin. The official pronouncement can stir emotions whether you’re newly diagnosed, face... 152 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min Well-Being for Caregivers By Alexis Puthussery What is a caregiver? The American Cancer Society defines caregiver as “the person who most often helps the patient... 67 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Coping with Survivor's Guilt By Kristen Carter Dear Kristen, As someone living with MBC, it's hard not to go down rabbit holes, especially as we are seeing a lot of... 97 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min Scanxiety I am trying to reduce the stress and anxiety when I hear I have to see another specialist or have more testing completed 59 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min How Do I Find ME Again? It’s completely normal to feel disoriented and detached from our old lives and original selves after anything as life-altering as a breast c 96 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min The Healing Power of Movement Most people are aware that some form of movement is beneficial. Whether exercising your muscles or your brain, moving every day can... 243 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 7 min Breast Cancer and the Holidays #FeatureFriday This year continues to fly by, and it’s hard to believe that, for those of us in the US, Thanksgiving is already upon us!... 106 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Pet Companionship Offers Comfort for Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors Most people are familiar with the devastating physical effects of cancer. It's rare to find someone whose life hasn't been affected by it... 40 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Lupron-Induced Mania By Robin K. Woodruff I was diagnosed with Stage IIa Invasive Lobular breast cancer in 2018. I already had pre-existing mental illness:... 303 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 5 min Healing Circles and the Cancer Experience By Ilene Kaminsky (Read part 1 here.) “The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more you deny your feelings, the more... 46 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min The Framework of a Healing Circle By Ilene Kaminsky Something is missing. Where’s the deep emotional fallout that makes us wobble as we try our best to balance on that one... 22 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 7 min Breast Cancer Awareness Month Survival Guide #FeatureFriday To be frank, and at the risk of being cliché, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the best of times and the worst of times.... 337 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min Therapy and Breast Cancer #FeatureFriday As we reach the end of May, which marks Mental Health Awareness Month, it feels as appropriate a time as any to discuss... 69 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Is There Such A Thing As Toxic Positivity? The short answer is yes. What Is Toxic Positivity? The Psychology Group defines toxic positivity as “the excessive and ineffective... 1,375 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 2 min PTSD and Breast Cancer Many breast cancer patients suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder typically brought on by a traumatic... 166 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Writing As A Therapeutic And Creative Outlet #FeatureFriday Writing can serve as a therapeutic and creative outlet. More specifically, journaling offers opportunities for expression... 388 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 9 min Choosing to Change By Courtney Proctor July 2012 – July 2013: A Year of Misdiagnosis I was 28 years old and otherwise healthy with no history of breast... 36 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 4 min How to Tell Friends and Coworkers You Have Breast Cancer You’ve just learned that you have breast cancer. You’re overwhelmed with emotions, questions, and fear. There’s so much to deal with, so... 337 Post not marked as liked Surviving Breast Cancer Aug 7, 2022 3 min Physician Burnout Physician (and Nurse) Burnout has been officially recognized for years and poses a significant existential threat to the safety of... 18 Post not marked as liked