Fighting Breast Cancer:
5 Ways to be a Supportive Friend
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for Australian women to face, reports Cancer Australia. Because nearly one in eight women will have breast cancer at some point in their lives, you may likely find yourself in a situation when you have to support a friend who's been diagnosed with the disease. To be a friend, offer a sympathetic ear and a helping hand when times get tough.
Silence
You may struggle over what to say or not to say — saying too much or too little — but sometimes the most powerful messages are the silent ones. Cook your friend dinner one night or send her beautiful flower arrangements at work. Little gestures will brighten her day and remind her that she's got a supportive network to count on.
Positivity
While offering support and friendship, stay upbeat. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, despite the deadly potential of breast cancer, many sufferers survive this ordeal, and you can play an important role in her survival. Women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer have almost a 90 percent chance of surviving after five years. Stick by her side and keep smiling.
Fundraising
Raising cash for breast cancer research and screening programs can be fun events. When you sell items for I Heart Pink, you work with women across Australia in an attempt to raise over $9 million for breast cancer research. To get on board with the most lucrative fundraising opportunities, mark your calendars for October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and check out Cancer Australia for more info on how you can get involved. Gathering friends and family to walk a Breast Cancer Survivors 5K run/walk or sell pink hats honours breast cancer survivors as well as loved ones who lost their battle to cancer.
Education
Breast cancer education is one of the most critical tools in a fight against cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, early detection is an essential part of reducing the breast cancer mortality rates. The more women who know they need regular mammograms and regularly have the examination, the more control women can have over breast cancer survival rates. A BCNA (Breast Cancer Network Australia) forum is a great place to support awareness and learn more about what your friend may be experiencing. These community information forums are free for breast cancer sufferers and their supporters.
Walk-a-Thon
During the Weekend to End Women's Cancers, breast cancer supporters get to walk 60 kilometers to support the cause. Before you put on your walking shoes, you will need to get at least $2,000 in pledges. The Weekend to End Women's Cancers happens in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. Regardless of where you attend, you will have the chance to make a difference at this two-day experience. The organizations that receive your donations vary depending upon the city you attend. In Brisbane, for example, the monies are used to support the Queensland Institute of Medical Research and the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.
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