Relationships are always important to our health and wellbeing. But, as we move through new and challenging life events, like breast cancer, we may feel the need to find people who intimately understand what we’re going through.

That’s why finding a support group can be beneficial — it can connect you with people who understand like no one else, and can offer resources, understanding, and encouragement from their personal experience.

Here are a few places you can start from the comfort of your own home…

• Virtual Community Meetups through BreastCancer.Org
  • These gatherings offer a safe place to share stories and connect with others from around the world facing similar experiences related to breast cancer.
  • Support Group Types:
    • In Treatment for Breast Cancer?
    • Do You Have Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC; also called stage IV)?
    • Younger With Metastatic Breast Cancer
    • Bonded by Breast Cancer
    • MBC (Metastatic Breast Cancer) Partners Meetup
• Monthly Virtual Group through National Breast Cancer Foundation
  • NBCF hosts a monthly support group where a group facilitator works with cancer survivors during “caring and sharing” time, to encourage healthy dialogue and education.
• Susan G. Koman Resources:
  • Talking to a patient navigator or social worker is a good first step in finding a support group. You can also call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) or email helpline@komen.org for help finding a local, online or telephone support groups.
  • Find a support group in your area.
  • Learn about support groups for family and loved ones.
• Breast Cancer Patient Support Group Online through Cancer Care
  • Connect with others in a free, 15-week online support group for people diagnosed with breast cancer who are currently receiving treatment. In this group led by an oncology social worker, people can share their personal experiences, ways of coping and helpful resources. Online support groups take place using a password- protected message board format (not live chat or video conference).
  • Register here

If you have a loved one going through breast cancer, make sure you check on them and offer your support during this time. Even if you can’t relate or offer specific advice, your presence and love matters.

Feel free to share this list of resources with them, and also consider sharing a set of For the Girls pink wind chimes. They are a beautiful reminder of support and connection, and 50% of the purchase price is always donated to breast cancer treatment and research.