October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I would like to highlight the benefits of breast cancer support groups. These groups are all about information, and offer strength, understanding and resources that go far beyond what medical care can provide. Often led by survivors, they bring personal insight and empathy that only someone who has “been there” can share, never downplaying the journey as “just a bump in the road”.
Being diagnosed with breast cancer and going through tests, surgeries and treatment can be overwhelming, physically and emotionally. Talking with a “sister” brings comfort and reassurance. Support groups can guide patients in preparing for surgery and appointments, knowing what to expect from doctors, understanding procedures, learning about options, so that patients feel prepared and informed. Some cancer centers hesitate to give complete information, and it is unnerving to be startled about an aspect of your cancer care because you didn’t have the information you needed.
Support groups can be contacted at any stage of a cancer journey, and some have resources for caregivers and family as well. Each one operates differently, so it is advisable to research more than one. Contact may be by phone, email, Zoom or in person.
During treatment, support groups can be a steady source of reassurance, trust and guidance. They offer a safe place to ask questions, get honest, understandable answers, share worries, learn coping strategies and hear how others managed side effects. This shared experience can build confidence, ease uncertainty and provide helpful tips, such as how to stay comfortable and skin care advice that fills in the blanks.
Even after treatment, survivors can rely on support groups to help navigate recovery, ease lingering worries, and encourage positive healthy living for body, mind and spirit.
Here in Alaska, we are fortunate to have wonderful local support groups that are inclusive of women navigating breast cancer. They are dedicated to caring about the whole person. The Extra Tough Wellness Program, accessed through, leteverywomanknow.org, is an incredibly well-designed support program, focusing on strengthening health and wellness through exercise, nutrition and counseling. It includes both breast and gynecological cancers.
Women Listen, womenlisten.org, supporting women having any type of cancer, has a devoted group that meets weekly in person and on Zoom. Their website is full of information and resources.
National organizations I have found helpful, positive and comprehensive are komen.org and survivingbreastcancer.org — with wide ranging offerings and up to date medical connections.
Consider contacting a support group right after diagnosis to ensure that you get the information you need, for yourself, or to help someone you care about. There are support groups for other types of cancer as well, so find one that meets your needs.
— Francine Strother, Wasilla