How our services can help you
Breast Cancer Care WA is a charity that provides personalised emotional, practical and financial support and care to people affected by breast cancer.
Thanks to the generosity of the Western Australian community, all services are free of charge and tailored to meet the needs of each individual.
What we do
Every person will have a unique experience with breast cancer and Breast Cancer Care WA aims to provide each person with the assistance that will best suit them. We encourage those affected by breast cancer to contact us with their needs, no matter how unusual or unique.
For those diagnosed, it is important that their physical and emotional strength is focused on coping with the disease.
Breast Cancer Care WA provides a range of services which are designed to alleviate some of the stresses that may be faced after diagnosis, during treatment and in the long term.
Support services are also offered to men with breast cancer, carers and family who have their own challenges and needs through the experience. In meeting some of these needs, Breast Cancer Care WA acknowledges that breast cancer is an intensive journey for those diagnosed and for those close to them.
Emotional support
Specialist breast care nurses
Our breast care nurses are available to provide support and information to women and men from diagnosis and throughout a breast cancer journey.
This support can be provided by way of home and hospital visits in the metropolitan area and by phone throughout Western Australia. Whether a specific question or general concern our nurses are dedicated to guiding and helping people through this difficult time.
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Counselling
Counselling is about giving you the opportunity to talk to somebody outside your immediate circle of friends and family, giving you the space to explore issues that you feel are impacting on you and those around you.
We can look at strategies to get you through the day or to discuss your plans for the future and how you might tell those you love about your prognosis or about other stressful aspects of your life.
Counselling is available free of charge for anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and also for family members, carers and friends of those diagnosed.
We offer a safe place for you to talk about how you are feeling and to get your thoughts in order.
Our counsellor is available to speak with you via the phone (across WA) or in person either at our offices or in the home within the metro area
For more information contact Cathie on 9324 3703 or via email: cathie@breastcancer.org.au
If you prefer we can refer you, or your family members to the Breast Cancer Clinical Psychology Service or you can get more information or arrange an appointment yourself by telephoning 9224 1629. You should leave a message with your contact details, if the phone is unattended.
Group support
Breast Cancer Care WA runs a number of breast cancer specific support groups across the metropolitan area. Joining a support group gives you the opportunity to ask questions, share your feelings and receive support and friendship from those who have been through, or are going through similar experiences. No two support groups are the same as they cater for the needs of individuals in the group. Groups meet monthly in a relaxed and informal environment.
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Peer support
One to one support can be provided by breast cancer survivors in the home, hospital or over the phone. We endeavour to match people together with similar experiences or circumstances and individual support may also be offered to partners or carers.
Practical support
Sometimes the small things can be overwhelming when you are going through breast cancer. Breast Cancer Care WA is able to provide practical assistance such as arranging transport to and from medical appointments and help with basic living needs following surgery and treatment. If there is a particular need, no matter how big, small or unusual we want to help.
Pamper Days
The diagnosis of and treatment for breast cancer can have a significant impact on the way a person looks and feels. Pamper Days offer ladies an afternoon out to restore, relax and rejuvenate.
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Library
Our boutique library contains a range of books, CDs and resources about breast cancer, general health and wellbeing at no cost to borrowers. If you are unable to visit the office we can arrange for delivery.
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Financial Assistance
We understand that a diagnosis of breast cancer can impact financially as a result of the cost of treatment, being unable to work or other factors.
Breast Cancer Care WA offers financial assistance which includes but is not limited to:
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Assistance with the purchase of mastectomy garments and swimwear for women following breast surgery
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Assisting with the cost of particular treatments that are not covered by medical benefits
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Subsidising travel and accommodation for those from rural and remote areas
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Assistance with unforeseen expenses or general household bills
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Cleaning whilst undergoing treatment