Family & Friend Tips

Breast Friends understands the importance of support, which can come from many sources.  Whether it falls to the immediate family, extended family, friends, co-workers or others, support is paramount in helping a patient get through the trauma of a diagnosis of cancer.  We believe that no woman should go through the cancer experience alone, and we know that often even the closest of our friends and family are at a loss to really know how to help. Your participation in maintaining her emotional, mental, physical and spiritual well-being are the foundation for the success of the information we have put together. Each patient is different, and her needs will change over time. We hope you will find many ideas to support your loved one through her journey.

Please also consider viewing “Our Services” tab to find additional suggestions that we have developed specifically for  Breast Friends.  They include:

Tips to Show You Care Guide
When Mom Cancer… Helping Children Cope
A Practical Guide to Breast Cancer Support - 22 minute DVD

We are happy to send you a copy of our brochures or DVD free of charge.  Contact your local affiliate or our national office at 888-386-8048

Part 1 – Introduction

Part 2 – Importance of Support

Part 3 – Finding Support

Part 4 – Attitude and Humor

Part 5 – Husbands/Partners and Kids

Part 6 – Ways to Support

Do’s and Don’ts

One thing that we constantly hear is, “I am afraid of saying the wrong thing.”  Often times, people will avoid saying anything at all rather than say the wrong thing.  In an attempt to “relate” or share a common experience, sometimes things get said that cause more harm than good. Here are a list of common mistakes that people make, along with some alternative language that you might find more helpful..

Friends, Family, and Co-Workers

Friends, extended family, as well as co-workers, can be a tremendous source of support for the patient.  The hardest part is knowing how to offer help so it is accepted. We like to encourage the support team to

Spouse/Partner & Children

As the people closest to the patient, the greatest responsibility will fall to you and your immediate family.  Whether you are the spouse / partner or child, you will play a significant role in her healing.  We have gathered information from personal and other sources that we found that have brought great strength and support to the patient.