When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, her partner can be left stuck on the side-line, feeling helpless. Partners face their own, often difficult journey.
Here are some resources for partners of people with breast cancer:
- Read the book ‘She’s Got Breast Cancer’. This book for men has been compiled by journalist Peter Calder and features interviews with 18 Kiwi men whose wives or partners have been diagnosed with breast cancer. She’s Got Breast Cancer is a frank, humorous and sometimes painfully honest record of the trials and triumphs men encounter as they walk alongside the women they love. Visit our resources page or email breastnurse@bcf.org.nz to order your free paperback (mailed within NZ).
- BCFNZ advice line: Talk to a specialist breast nurse on 0800 BC NURSE (0800 2268 773) who can answer your questions and provide support.
- Mybc: Register online for mybc. It's a community of people who have had breast cancer and understand what you’re going through.
- Cancer Society of New Zealand: Phone 0800 CANCER or 0800 226 237. They have a range of leaflets and information about maintaining family relationships through cancer. Cancer Chat NZ is the Cancer Society’s online forum for people touched by cancer. There is a specific forum for carers and family.
- Andrea Fairbairn, who’s had breast cancer twice, shares tips and advice for supporters, visit her website, Breast Cancer Nirvana.
- Breast Cancer Network of Australia (BCNA) – They have an online community for partners to share their experiences.
- Susan G. Komen for the Cure Co-survivor program – “Co-survivors” are family members, spouses or partners, friends, health care providers or colleagues. This site provides fact sheets, videos, supportive publications for family and friends.
For same-sex partners
- Mamazon Club is a lesbian breast cancer support network to help you through your breast cancer experience. Contact sam.mclean9@gmail.com for for more information.
- Breast Cancer Network Australia has information for same sex partners
- Breast Cancer Discussion Boards has a forum for the LGBTQ community who are diagnosed with breast cancer to connect