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Being diagnosed with cancer is perhaps the most frightening thing you will experience in your life. However, millions of people are living with cancer and the good news is that more people live than die from it anymore. Though it is still serious, and some of us will not survive, the chances of a long and happy life are increasing. We hope you find encouragement and inspiration among these next few articles. And remember, we are here for you.
Breast Friends extends our condolences for your recent diagnosis. That being said, we also want you to know that even though cancer is serious and some will not survive, the rate of survival is on the increase and in many cases the disease is not only treatable but curable. We are here for you.
Whichever treatment options you may experience, it’s important to keep track of the messages your body is sending you. Allow others who care for you to offer their support and encouragement, and take it one day at a time. Here are some resources we’ve collected that may be useful for you as you go through this journey. Remember, we are here to answer your questions. All of our volunteers and staff members are survivors who have been through the cancer journey. Though we don’t give clinical advice, we can answer most questions on treatment options and expectations.
Finishing treatment should be a wonderful time – a cause to celebrate – but it is often not the way it is. Our friends and family members have expectations that we are “back to normal.” Our kids are happy Mom is able to do what she did before treatment. Our partners are excited that the need for special care is over. Our bosses and co-workers are excitedly waiting for our return to work, fully expecting that we are the same as before we went out on medical leave.
The truth is …
“When am I a survivor?” Is it after I’m diagnosed? Is it when I’ve finished all my treatment? Is it on my one- year, three-year or five-year anniversary?” Though Breast Friends has not put together a written statement on when that exact moment occurs, I think we all can agree that it is personal to each of us.
“I was diagnosed with breast cancer 3 1/2 years ago. I immediately went online to look for support. I found Breast Friends and thought it was local to me in NC. Founder Sharon Henifin contacted me and that is when I discovered they were located in Oregon, all the way across the country.
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