Breast Friends York is a peer support group who work hard to provide support to those who have had a breast cancer diagnosis at any point in their life. The aim is to provide a safe, inclusive environment in which people feel supported, throughout their cancer diagnosis, treatment and beyond.
Our members have found that it is possible to talk to people with experience of cancer in a way that is almost impossible to talk to family and friends and so the group provides a valuable support mechanism where connections are forged and lifelong friendships are made, providing ongoing support throughout life beyond cancer.
Our activities are determined by the needs of the people currently attending the group. No two meetings will be the same. One month we could be chatting whilst drinking coffee and eating cake (a common theme throughout our groups) and the next, we could be doing a Hula Hooping Class.
Many of our activities are focused on social events where we can enjoy and celebrate life in general and support each other in our hopes, dreams, fears and worries and where friendships can be developed. We are aware that members might not want to be an active part of the group forever but having friends who understand and that are there to support you in the future can give people peace of mind that enables them to move on with added security.
We know from experience that wellbeing is key to thriving, rather than merely surviving, the various physical, emotional and psychological challenges that a cancer diagnosis and everything that entails throws at us. We try to encourage our members to explore ways of developing and maintaining their resilience by offering a variety of different taster sessions and workshops showcasing possible techniques and ideas. Most of them provide a bit of fun as well.
With around 200 members, we have a lot of combined experience within our membership. We know that no two people deal with their breast cancer experience in the same way. We also recognise that we are not medical professionals, therefore, we are able to offer a listening ear, a sympathetic shoulder, a hand to hold, we share our stories, pass on our tips and tricks and speak from our own lived experience…but the only advice we ever give is that whilst we are there for people, we are no substitute for their medical team who should always be consulted.