As with any major illness, breast cancer can have far-reaching effects beyond the person who is diagnosed. Spouses and partners, family members and other loved ones (often called co-survivors) may feel many of the same emotions as the person diagnosed: shock, sadness, fear, anger and denial.
Co-survivors can be powerful sources of support through the process of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. At the same time, loved ones (especially spouses, partners and children) may also need social support themselves to help them get through the experience.
Support for spouses and partners
Along with the many issues related to caring for a loved one with cancer come difficult relationship issues of loss, need, control, sexuality and altered body image. Support—both formal and informal—can help spouses and partners work through such issues.
The organizations below are among those offering support groups designed for the spouses and partners of people living with cancer.
American Cancer Society's "I Can Cope"
Offers support programs (in-person, online and telephone) for spouses and partners (and other loved ones) of people living with breast cancer.
1-800-227-2345
http://www.cancer.org/
Cancer Support Community (formerly Gilda’s Club Worldwide and The Wellness Community)
Offers support services to the family and friends of people living with breast cancer through a network of physical clubhouses across the country.
1-888-445-3248
http://www.gildasclub.org/
Mautner Project for Lesbians with Cancer
Offers social support services including support groups for lesbian women and their partners who are living with cancer.
1-866-MAUTNER (1-866-628-8637)
http://www.mautnerproject.org
Well Spouse Foundation
Provides social support to spouses and partners of people living with breast cancer (or with other chronic illness) through letter writing, conferences and support groups.
1-800-838-0879
http://www.wellspouse.org
Support for children
Children may have strong emotional responses to a parent's breast cancer diagnosis. Keep in mind that children need to [1]:
- Be told about the diagnosis in a way that is suited to their age and state of mind. If they are not told by an adult, children may fill in the gaps with their imagination.
- Be involved in family discussions and decision-making related to a parent's breast cancer.
- Feel comfortable asking questions about breast cancer.
- Be watched for signs of emotional distress, both at home and at school.
Some children may benefit from a support group for children who have a parent with cancer. To find such a support group, contact your local cancer center, American Cancer Society (1-800-ACS-2345) or Cancer Support Community (1-888-445-3248).
Updated 11/23/11
