Though breast cancer research continues to make strides to address early detection, testing, treatment, and prevention, this disease remains the most common cancer among women in the U.S. and the leading cause of cancer death in women around the world. In part, due to biases in the medical field, such as access to care and treatment, breast cancer mortality is nearly 40 percent higher in black women than in white women. Unfortunately, it’s likely we all know or are close to someone impacted by this illness. Having resources and forums is key to helping womxn fight, cope, and survive. Read on for a roundup of resources, tips, and forums that might help you or someone you love.
Breastcancer.org Community
This is a member-run breast cancer forum created for and by people who have been impacted. The goal is to share their unique journey to help and inspire others.
Susan G Komen Support Group Network
Support groups are an important network and resource for those diagnosed. This one, developed by Susan G. Komen, the largest breast cancer advocacy organization in the U.S., can help connect you to educational, emotional, and/or recovery support in an easy-to-digest format.
Metastatic Breast Cancer Groups
Exclusively designed for those with Metastatic Breast Cancer, this breast cancer forum can help you seek advice, social connections, research updates, clinical trial enrollments, and more.
Cancer Survivors Network
American Cancer Society’s community-run, breast cancer forum where users can seek advice on treatment, connect with others who are in a similar position with their diagnosis, ask about symptoms, and learn about trials.
Breast Cancer Now
This breast cancer forum lets you ask questions and learn from others through a variety of conversation threads. For example, there are threads about moving forward after breast cancer, living with secondary breast cancer, and questions for nurses.
Social Hashtags / Facebook Groups
Take to social and check out these hashtags:
- #goingflat to connect with womxn who opt out of reconstruction after a mastectomy
- #busylivingwithmets for those battling metastatic breast cancer
- #bccww (breast cancer chat worldwide) to connect with those across the globe
- #bcsm to bring together, educate, and empower family members impacted by the illness
- #youngadultcancer specifically for young adults to find a sense of community.
Finding a community that understands your journey is critical to building a strong support system. It’s important to check resources regularly and advocate for yourself both in the doctor’s office and on a daily basis.
