By Jane Bissell

Sometimes it can really help to talk to someone other than family after a breast cancer diagnosis, someone who understands and isn't a close family member or friend.

Being able to 'let it all hang out' without fear of upsetting anyone can be a relief.

Knowing that you don't have to be strong when speaking to this person allows a release of emotion and anxiety that we may be bottling up around those closest to us. And it's OK to show this person how vulnerable we feel, how exhausted and fearful - because they've been there too.

So who is this 'person'? This person is a Breast Cancer Support Buddy/Mentor.

A Buddy/Mentor will walk alongside you after a diagnosis, a time when you may really need this type of individual support. The Buddy is a trained volunteer who can be your 'go to person' for a period of several weeks, there for you whenever you need them. The support is given over the phone, or Zoom, with a frequency that works for you. The Buddy/Mentor is specifically trained in-house to deliver this type of support, and is there for you within a confidential, supportive, and safe space.

Every effort is made to match you to a Buddy who shares some common aspects, like age, a similar diagnosis and treatment plan, and family, social, and professional situations.  

The underlying aim of a Buddy relationship is to make sure you are not going through breast cancer alone, and to bring hope at a time when things can look challenging and tough. The service is free, available to anyone diagnosed with breast cancer, and you can refer yourself to the programme (or have your doctor, nurse, family member or friend do this for you) by calling 0800 273 222 or emailing support@breastcancersupport.org.nz .

You don't have to weather the storm alone.