BBC 1 in 5 | Breast Cancer Support Network in Suffolk

Breast cancer support from people who’ve been there.

Going through breast cancer is a journey. Sometimes, you just want the company of others who can relate to what you’re dealing with day to day.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, are going through treatment or have ended the clinical journey and are now adapting to life after cancer, the emotional and physical impact can be significant.

That’s when it is great to connect with others on the same path. You can get advice from those who have gone before you and understand what you are feeling, and help those who are more recently diagnosed, sharing your experiences to give some meaning to your own breast cancer.

About

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Breast cancer support from people who’ve been there.

Going through breast cancer is a journey. Sometimes, you just want the company of others who can relate to what you’re dealing with day to day.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, are going through treatment or have ended the clinical journey and are now adapting to life after cancer, the emotional and physical impact can be significant.

Breast Cancer affects

Women

1 in 1

Men

1 in 1

sufferers are under 50

1 in 1

About BBC-1-in-5

BBC One in Five is a support group for anyone diagnosed with Breast Cancer in the UK. Members are usually of working age (most are under fifty) but we are not exclusive and are happy to welcome anyone who feels that being a part of the group will help them.

We offer a social network, advice and support wherever you are on your journey. Whether you just want a single chat or want to connect regularly, you’ll be very welcome.

The group is very informal and friendly, meeting monthly in Bury St Edmunds and with a WhatsApp group for ad hoc questions and connections irrespective of where you are in the UK.

Contact us to find out more

Frequently asked questions

I was diagnosed some time ago. Can I still join?

Yes. Many of our members join some time after diagnosis, finding that those around them think ‘its all over’ and that can feel isolating.

Is there a membership fee?

No. The group is very informal and low cost. We have support from MacMillain to fund the website but otherwise there are no costs. If you come to the meetings in Bury St Edmunds, we ask pay for our own coffee and cake.

How often do you meet?

We meet on the second Sunday of every month in Bury St Edmunds. Get in touch below to get more detail as venues change from time to time.

My treatment ended some time ago. Is it normal to still feel anxious and depressed?

Yes. The cancer experience doesn’t end when the treatment ends. Many people still worry about their health and their future for some time. But that is why we are here – close family and friends don’t always understand or want to discuss it, and that can feel lonely.

Someone else with breast cancer is getting different treatment. Should I be worried?

Not necessarily. Breast cancer isn’t one thing – there are a range if different stages, grades and types. That means that different people will have different treatments. Talk to your breast cancer nurse. They will help you understand your own situation better.

I have lots of questions but I feel like I’m a nuisance to the team at the hospital. What can I do?

Firstly, remember that helping and supporting you is what your care team is there to do. You should be able to ask them any question you need to. But also reach out to us. We have a WhatsApp group where you can ask us anything you like and other members will help as best they can.

Other places to get help and support

Provides research and support and can help you give feedback to the NHS about your care experience, easily and confidentially.

Based at the West Suffolk Hospital, giving advice and support in person, for anyone with cancer.

A team at Macmillan to help if you have to stop work or face financial difficulties. They‘ll help you talk to your employer, apply for benefits and get other financial help.

Local hair salon that helps with wig fitting and styling, ‘chemo-hair’ challenges and gentle styling for fragile, post- cancer hair

Based in Bury and providing breast prosthetics in a range of shapes, sizes and colours.

Contact

Get in touch to find out more about the group or just to arrange a time to chat.