www.womanthismonth.com 51 October 2012 | cancer, a targeted therapy medicine, such as herceptin, may be used in combination with some chemotherapy regimens.” Choosing targeted therapies Target therapy medicines can be an option for women. Specific characteristics of cancer cells are targeted, such as a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. “Some breast cancers have protein (receptors) called HER2. Drugs like Herceptin get attached to this receptor containing cells and kill the cells. These drugs are used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs and are more effective on tumors,” says Dr Stephen. “Pregnant women should not undergo targeted therapies, as research has shown that such treatment is not safe for both mother and child.” Step 3: Support Network Our expert: National Breast Cancer Foundation, www.nationalbreastcancer.org. The lengthy process of fighting breast cancer is intense, draining and exhausting. Anybody who believes in ‘mind over matter’ will realise the extreme importance of having a support system when going through this journey. Most importantly, sufferers need to know that they are not alone. All over the world, there are thousands of programmes and services to provide coping mechanisms in every way possible. There are professionals and volunteers on hand 24/7 both virtually and in reality to offer words of wisdom, comfort and strength. Receiving support virtually If a woman with breast cancer isn’t yet ready to discuss her battle with friends, family or support groups, another option is accessing online blogs and forums. Doctors advise cancer patients to reach out to anyone, and following someone else’s story from a distance could be the right approach for some women. On the ‘community’ section of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) site there are all manner of ways you can get in touch with other people who have gone through breast cancer, including blogs, videos, live chats and forums. The site also offers a resource library, where professional treatment advice is given. Joining a support group Some women feel more comfortable seeking support from someone who has gone through a similar experience, which is where a support group is an ideal source of support. Studies have shown that breast cancer patients enrolled in a support group have better quality of life, including improvements in mood, ability to cope and reduced levels of stress. The significance of leaning on friends and family It is our friends and family that have always and will always be there for us, making them probably the best people a breast cancer sufferer can turn to. Although a family member or friend may not have been through cancer, they know the sufferer better than any doctor and can provide both emotional and practical support in day-to-day life. By educating and counselling family and friends, the sufferer will be able to receive all of the support needed and the overall quality of life will be increased.
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