Twenty years ago breast cancer organizations didn’t really exist, but today there are many to choose from when looking for information or support for breast cancer.
Large national organizations raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research and many smaller local groups offer personal support in neighborhoods across the country.
When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer she often seeks information and emotional support. It can be overwhelming to sift through the types of cancer, the treatment options, and what to do about careers and children, while undergoing treatment.
Many breast cancer organizations’ websites have become communities for people to ask questions and share stories with others going through the same thing. A common fundraising event is a walk or run that also helps raise awareness and build community. The pink ribbon has become a symbol of the breast cancer awareness movement with many organizations and businesses adapting it to represent their support of this cause.
Below is more information about just a few of the more well-known breast cancer organizations.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the largest and probably the most recognizable breast cancer organization in the world. It was started in 1982 in Dallas, TX, by Susan Komen’s sister Nancy Goodman Brinker who saw her sister die of the disease when Susan was just 36 years old. To date the organization has raised over $2 billion to help research and advocate for breast cancer. One of their main goals is to educate women about self-exams and early detection. Their national website is at ww5.komen.org and there are also many websites dedicated to their efforts on a local level.
Y-ME
Y-ME is a breast cancer organization that was started in 1978 in Chicago by two breast cancer survivors, Ann Marcou and Mimi Kaplan. What started as a local group offering information and support turned into a national organization with groups all across the country. They offered the only multi-lingual telephone hotline in the country staffed by breast cancer survivors. Unfortunately, they closed their doors in 2012.
National Breast Cancer Foundation
Founded in 1991 by Janelle Hail, the National Breast Cancer Foundation aims to educate women on early detection and provide mammograms and screenings for women who cannot afford them. www.nationalbreastcancer.org
Many hospitals that treat breast cancer offer local support groups where patients can meet to ask questions and share their experiences. In addition to the websites above conducting an Internet search will yield links to the websites of many more breast cancer organizations.
If you are seeking information regarding breast cancer for yourself, for someone else, to volunteer, to fundraise, or for support, chances are there is a breast cancer organization that can help.
