Affected by Breast Cancer
Breaking the News
There’s no easy way to break the news to friends, family and colleagues. No-one has come up with a magic formula. For some women it doesn’t go according to plan and the news just tumbles out. Others find they can choose a quiet, private moment, over a coffee or a drink. The important thing is to tell someone, so that they can help you in your journey.
The news that a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer can be every bit as devastating for family and friends. Remember too that this diagnosis will affect those around you in possibly as many ways (though differently) as it affects you.
Children are perceptive and pick up on changes around about them. Keeping things from them can cause confusion and insecurity. Depending upon their age and development, they should be given as much or as little information as satisfies them about what is happening. They may need reassurance about how this will affect their basic needs, such as who will care for them if, for example, their primary carer (mother) is away for treatment.
The Breast Cancer Foundation has volunteers who have been similarly affected, who are willing to help you through this difficult time. Contact the Foundation on 9324 3703 or nurse@breastcancer.org.au for help.