Family & Friends

Someone you care about has breast cancer. In our book, that makes you a “co-survivor.” And whether you’re a friend, co-worker, family member or spouse, you have a very important role to play.

Providing Support

Co-survivors provide much-needed emotional support such as listening, giving a hug or just being there. Some offer informational support like gathering data or the latest news on breast cancer. And others give practical help like driving to and from doctor appointments, cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping and child care. All together, this is called “social support” and it makes survivors feel loved, cared for and understood.

Taking Care of Yourself

Watching someone you love battle breast cancer can, in some ways, be as hard as fighting it yourself. It can be painful to see them struggle and you may hide your feelings of anger, fear or helplessness because you don’t want to upset them. So make certain you also have someone to talk to about your feelings. Connecting with other co-survivors through can be a huge source of encouragement and support.

Earl Fisher, co-survivor

“For all you husbands and other caregivers, get prepared with as much information as you can get, but remain hopeful.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends breast cancer survivors and their caregivers get the seasonal flu shot and stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.

Find more information from the CDC about the seasonal flu and COVID-19.