BCA Launches One-To-One Support Program

No one should have to go through the experience of breast cancer alone.  That is the overriding principle behind BCA One-To-One, the new support group launched by the Breast Cancer Alliance.  The group consists of 15 breast cancer survivors who are available to provide emotional and practical support to women at any stage of diagnosis, treatment or survivorship.  These women will meet face-to-face, by telephone or through e-mail, whether to answer a single informational question or for an ongoing supportive relationship throughout treatment.  The group is also working with area physicians and hospitals to spread the word about their services through flyers and referrals.

“Family, friends and doctors are obviously the most critical network for a breast cancer patient, but there is nothing like talking to someone who has been through this herself,” says Margaret Sinclair, President of the Breast Cancer Alliance.

Ms. Sinclair makes it clear that they are not giving medical advice.  ”We are not doctors, but we address the many other needs of breast cancer patients.  We are there to offer friendship, to listen, to understand fears and offer a sounding board when someone is feeling overwhelmed.  We can help women get the information they need, determine what questions to ask, and find the products and services they require.  We offer an open ear and heart when it is most needed.”

BCA One-To-One has established a reference library and put together lists of resources, including:

• Items of Comfort and Care – advice on what types of clothing, food and lotions can help during surgery, radiation and reconstruction and what types of exercise, books and distractions can relieve stress
• Questions to Raise with Doctors – help with formulating questions on genetic and other testing, short-term and long-term expectations during treatment, helping family members deal with the disease, alternative treatments, surgical options and the roles of all the different doctors involved in cancer care
• Information Resources – books and websites offering medical information, spiritual guidance, firsthand accounts of personal experience and inspirational journals as well as advice on navigating misinformation
• Tips and Tricks – practical advice for getting through a frightening, tedious experience

If you or anyone you may know are diagnosed with breast cancer or currently going through treatment, BCA One-to-One can be of tremendous help in navigating through a difficult time. Please call the Breast Cancer Alliance office at 203-861-0014 to connect with a BCA One-To-One volunteer.

Founded in Greenwich in 1996, the Breast Cancer Alliance is the fourth largest private non-corporate organization providing funds for breast cancer research in the United States.  In 2009, The Alliance awarded $1.7 million for research, education and outreach programs.  For more information, please call 203-861-0014 or visit their web site, www.breastcanceralliance.org.