When you or a loved one is diagnosed with breast cancer, the sheer amount of information can feel overwhelming. You might find yourself lost in a sea of medical jargon, treatment options, and emotional turbulence. But you don’t have to go through it alone. There are countless trusted resources available to guide you through every step of this journey—from diagnosis to treatment, and beyond.
In this post, I’ve compiled a list of reputable organizations, support services, online communities, and educational materials that can help you make informed decisions and find the support you need. Whether you’re seeking reliable information, emotional encouragement, or practical advice, these resources are here to empower and uplift you on your journey.
No matter where you are in your breast cancer experience, these tools are designed to help you feel more informed and less alone.
Resources and Further Reading
Below is a list of trusted organizations, support services, and reading materials to guide you through every step of this journey:
Reputable Organizations
American Cancer Society (ACS): Offers comprehensive information about breast cancer, including prevention, screening, treatment, and support resources. You can also find information about local events and support groups.
Website: cancer.org
Hotline: 1-800-227-2345 (24/7)
Breastcancer.org: A nonprofit organization dedicated to providing reliable, up-to-date information about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. Their website includes a robust community forum where you can connect with others.
Website: breastcancer.org
National Cancer Institute (NCI): A government resource offering detailed information on cancer types, treatments, clinical trials, and research. It’s a great place to learn about the latest advancements in breast cancer research.
Website: cancer.gov
Hotline: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
Susan G. Komen Foundation: Provides information on breast cancer education, advocacy, and support services, including a helpline and financial assistance programs.
Website: komen.org
Helpline: 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636)
Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Focuses on providing education, community support, and trusted information for those affected by breast cancer.
Website: lbbc.org
Support Services
CancerCare: Offers free, professional support services for people with cancer, including counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
Website: cancercare.org
Hotline: 1-800-813-HOPE (1-800-813-4673)
Young Survival Coalition (YSC): Focused on the unique needs of young women diagnosed with breast cancer, offering resources, support groups, and community connections.
Website: youngsurvival.org
Cancer Support Community: Provides free, professional programs of emotional support, education, and hope for people impacted by cancer.
Website: cancersupportcommunity.org
Online Communities and Forums
Health Unlocked: Breast Cancer Community: An online forum where people affected by breast cancer can connect, share experiences, and offer support.
Website: healthunlocked.com/breast-cancer
Inspire: Breast Cancer Support Community: An online community where you can connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
Website: inspire.com/groups/breast-cancer
Books and Reading Materials
“The Breast Cancer Survival Manual” by John Link, MD:
A comprehensive guide covering diagnosis, treatment options, and practical advice for those newly diagnosed.
“Breast Cancer: A Soul Journey” by Julianne Davidow:
A personal narrative that explores the emotional and spiritual aspects of living with breast cancer.
“Anticancer: A New Way of Life” by David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD:
Provides insights into lifestyle changes and holistic approaches to living a healthier life after a cancer diagnosis.
Additional Tools and Resources
Bright Pink Assess Your Risk Tool: An interactive tool to help you understand your risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Website: assessyourrisk.org
My Cancer Circle: A free online tool to help friends and family coordinate support for a loved one with cancer.
Website: mycancercircle.net
Clinical Trials and Research Opportunities
ClinicalTrials.gov: A database of privately and publicly funded clinical studies conducted worldwide, where you can search for breast cancer clinical trials.
Website: clinicaltrials.gov
Army of Women: An initiative by the Dr. Susan Love Foundation to connect women of all ages, ethnicities, and breast health histories to breast cancer research.
Website: armyofwomen.org
Breast cancer is a challenging journey, but you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or seeking guidance on your next steps, the resources shared in this post are here to help. From reputable organizations to compassionate support services, you have access to tools that offer both knowledge and emotional strength.
Remember, reaching out for help, whether it’s through an online community, a support hotline, or simply reading the experiences of others, can make a world of difference. Your journey is unique, but you are part of a larger, supportive community that understands what you’re going through. Lean on these resources whenever you need them, and never hesitate to seek the support you deserve.
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