Women with breast cancer need support at the time of their diagnosis and throughout their fight against the disease. A Breast Friend can provide the strength and support to help make the right personal decisions at a very difficult time.

How you can be a Breast Friend

Be There – Ask what you can do to help and provide moral support throughout her emotional journey. Offer to help with daily chores and activities or go to medical appointments to help record important information and encourage her to complete the recommended treatment.

Know Her Type – There are many different types of breast cancer and it is important for a woman to find out her type of breast cancer at diagnosis (e.g. HER2-positive) to make sure she is given the treatment which provides the best chance of a cure.

Ask Questions – Support her in asking questions so she knows more about her treatment, what to expect, how long it will take, the duration of the treatment and side effects, etc. Women should continue to take their treatment for the duration advised by their doctors to ensure the best outcome for their breast cancer.

Empower Yourselves – Help her learn as much as she can because information is power. Do research together and make sure you both learn the terminology. Take advantage of the information available from the different breast cancer organizations such as Rethink Breast Cancer.