Resources

Metastatic Support Resources

Here is a list of organizations that provide support and resources for individuals living with metastatic breast cancer:

• Metastatic Breast Cancer Network (MBCN): An all-volunteer, patient-led advocacy organization dedicated to the unique concerns of the metastatic breast cancer community. NATIONALBREASTCANCER.ORG

• METAvivor: A non-profit organization that funds vital research to combat metastatic (stage 4) breast cancer and provides support to those living with the disease.

• Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Offers programs and services to help people whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer, including those with metastatic disease.

• Susan G. Komen: Provides a comprehensive range of support services for individuals with metastatic breast cancer, including educational resources and support groups.

• SHARE Cancer Support: A volunteer organization offering support and educational programs for women affected by breast or ovarian cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer.

• CancerCare: Provides free professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of cancer, including metastatic breast cancer.

• National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF): Offers support services, including patient navigation and educational resources, to those affected by breast cancer.

• American Cancer Society:

• American Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF): The American Breast Cancer Foundation (ABCF) is a national 501 (c)3 charity dedicated to providing educational resources, access and financial assistance to aid in the early detection, treatment, and survival of breast cancer

Metastatic Financial Assistance Resources

• The Pink Fund: Provides 90-day non-medical cost-of-living expenses to breast cancer patients in active treatment, helping to cover basic needs such as housing, transportation, utilities, and insurance.

• Breast Cancer Charities of America (BCCA): Offers the "Help Now Fund," which provides emergency financial assistance for rent and utility bills to breast cancer patients undergoing treatment.

• Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF): Provides a Co-Pay Relief Program that offers financial assistance to insured patients who are financially and medically qualified, including those with metastatic breast cancer, to help with co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles.

• HealthWell Foundation: Offers financial assistance to eligible individuals to cover the cost of prescription medications, including those for metastatic breast cancer, as well as insurance premiums and other out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

• CancerCare: Provides limited financial assistance for cancer-related costs such as transportation, home care, and child care to individuals with metastatic breast cancer.

• Susan G. Komen Treatment Assistance Program: Offers financial assistance to help breast cancer patients with expenses such as oral pain medication, anti-nausea medication, oral chemotherapy/hormone therapy, child care, elder care, transportation, lymphedema care and supplies, durable medical equipment, and more.

• United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF): Provides grants to assist with medical expenses, housing, utilities, and other daily living expenses for breast cancer patients through their Individual Grant Program.

Please note that the availability and extent of financial assistance may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific programs offered by these organizations. It's advisable to contact them directly to inquire about the most current assistance options available.

Advocacy / Navigation Support Resources

Advocating for yourself during a breast cancer journey is crucial, and several organizations offer resources and support to empower patients:

• National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC): A grassroots advocacy organization uniting survivors, activists, researchers, policymakers, and healthcare providers to promote research, improve access to quality care, and influence policy.

• Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Provides education and support services tailored to individual needs, helping patients make informed decisions and advocate effectively for their care.

• Sharsheret: Offers support and educational programs, particularly for young Jewish women facing breast cancer, including resources to help patients advocate for their health needs.

• National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF): Focuses on early detection, education, and support services, empowering patients with information to advocate for themselves throughout their treatment journey.

• Susan G. Komen: Provides a comprehensive range of support services for individuals with breast cancer, including educational resources and support groups.

• CancerCare: Offers free professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of cancer.

• Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF): Provides case management services and financial aid to patients with chronic, life-threatening, and debilitating illnesses, helping them navigate healthcare challenges.

• Breastcancer.org: Offers expert-reviewed information and a supportive online community, helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options to advocate effectively for their care.

These organizations provide valuable resources to help you navigate your breast cancer journey and advocate for your health and well-being.

Apps for Navigation and Advocacy Resources

Having information at your finger tips can be very helpful when dealing with a diagnosis such as breast cancer. Here are some of the top apps that you can have on your phone:

• Outcomes4me: Free access to evidence-based and oncologist-approved cancer resources, including: treatment options, research updates, symptoms or medication management. Get the app on Apple or Google.

• Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Provides education and support services tailored to individual needs, helping patients make informed decisions and advocate effectively for their care.