Support You don't have to face breast cancer alone. Support can come in many forms. It can come from family and friends, clergy, and health professionals. It is okay to ask for help. A support group can give you the chance to share feelings, experiences, knowledge and gain support from others who are in a similar situation.

In addition to participating in , you can tap into the Internet any time of the day or night. The Internet can provide information, communication, emotional support. Remember – and believe – that you can get through it.

The following links will take you to Web sites that will help you on your journey:

The American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery Program

The Cancer Supportive Care Program contains a wealth of information on various topics, including anemia, nutrition, fatigue, and pain control.

Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE) is an organization for women at high risk for breast cancer due to genetics (BRCA gene positive) or family history. This site provides information about issues and concerns these women encounter.

Gilda's Club^®, Inc. provides emotional and social support for cancer patients, caregivers, and families. Children's support programs, networking groups, workshops, and lectures are available through this site.

Mothers Supporting Daughters with Breast Cancer is a resource for the mothers of women who have breast cancer. The group provides support and links to helpful sites.

Ten Steps Toward Emotional Well-Being When Dealing with Cancer is a straightforward information article written by a clinical psychologist and a medical oncologist who describe positive coping strategies for cancer patients.

Vital Options^® TeleSupport^® Cancer Network offers psychological and social support for patients and families by using communications technology. This nonprofit organization holds The Group Room^®, a nationally syndicated call-in radio show each week that is simulcast live on the Web. Through this broadcast, which is hosted by therapists and physicians, callers can be linked with other patients, survivors, and family members to talk about various cancer issues.

The Wellness Community offers education and emotional support to cancer patients and their families. The program includes support groups, stress-reduction techniques, cancer education workshops, exercise tips, and social events.
 

If you are not the kind of person who likes to join groups, or if your cancer therapy and side effects are keeping you close to home, a modern alternative is available – a virtual group. There are now many online forums in which you can "chat" with other women who have breast cancer. Here are a few Web sites to get you started: