October 1 marked the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and at Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), the theme is “Living Well, Your Way”, which recognises that many people struggle to ‘live well’ following a diagnosis and that a quality lifestyle looks different for different people.
BCNA is one of Australia’s leading breast cancer consumer organisations, advocating for the very best care, treatment and support, and ensuring their voices for change are heard.
BCNA CEO Kirsten Pilatti said that living well looked different for everyone, and it was likely that people affected by breast cancer would require different types of support at different times.
“It means seeing the whole person, rather than the disease,” she said.
“Living well with and beyond breast cancer includes everyone and focuses on thriving rather than just surviving.
“Everyone deserves the right to a healthy and fulfilling life after a breast cancer diagnosis.”
Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BCNA will share information about different resources available, across topics such as psychosocial support and exercise. They will also be sharing personal stories from their members about what helps them to live well.
Visit bcna.org.au for their free Helpline, podcasts/webcasts and online network to connect with others.
Help to live well after diagnosis
WITH 20,458 women and 217 men expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, raising awareness around the different support and resources available to help people live well with or beyond breast cancer is essential.