Breast Cancer Awareness Resource Guide

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We are thankful to partner with Memorial Hospital to provide moms with local resources and information for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

Give to breast cancer researchFINANCIAL GIVING & VOLUNTEERING

Help support an organization that directly benefits breast cancer survivors or research, especially local organizations.

If you are unable to give financially, consider volunteering your time to any of these organizations!

DONATE HAIR

Here are a few places you can donate your hair:

Advocate for your health and wellness 2The best way to be proactive is to be your own health advocate.

MAMMOGRAMS

Mammograms can be a great way for early detection, but prevention is key. Dr. Leena Pande, a radiologist at Memorial Hospital, tells us about the importance of early detection for breast cancer.  

It is important to:
  • LEARN how to properly perform a breast self-exam. Remind your friends to do the same!
  • SEEK a doctor’s recommendations when you notice changes to your body.
  • SCHEDULE your regular OB/Gyn check-up. Early detection is key, and quite often, life-saving.

MAMMOGRAM RESOURCES

Resources for hair loss and mastectomy HAIR LOSS AND MASTECTOMY PRODUCTS

Cancer and cancer treatment can alter a patient’s appearance. Here are resources for wigs, breast protheses, and bras.

Support and communityONLINE COMMUNITIES AND SUPPORT

If you are facing a cancer diagnosis or know someone that is, learning more and connecting with others can be a source of support and comfort.

An important part of treatment is learning how to handle the life changes and challenges that come with a breast cancer diagnosis.

  • Coping and Support Info: Memorial Cancer Center is there every step of the way. They are there to help you understand what is happening and make sense of the emotions you are feeling.
  • Memorial Cancer Resource Center is located on the first floor of the Cancer Center! This center represents Memorial’s partnership with the American Cancer Society and is staffed by ACS volunteers. Wigs, supplies and information are available for patients and their families.
  • Cancer Survivors Network: Provides a safe online connection where cancer patients and caregivers can find others with similar experiences. You can participate on discussion boards, join a chat room, and build your own support network.
  • National Cancer Information Center (NCIC): Provides information and support to those facing cancer 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Trained cancer information specialists are available via phone, live chat, and now video chat. They provide accurate, up to date cancer information to patients, family members, and caregivers. They also help connect them with valuable services and resources in their communities.
  • American Cancer Society Reach To Recovery Program: Connects people facing breast cancer – from diagnosis through survivorship – with trained volunteers who are breast cancer survivors.

Ideas for Caregivers and FamilyA cancer diagnosis affects close friends and family too. Here are a few ways to support someone with cancer:

Breast reconstructionBelow are a few resources about breast reconstruction, including surgeons and nipple and areola pigmentation.

INFO ABOUT RECONSTRUCTION

BREAST SURGEONS

PLASTIC SURGEON

NIPPLE AND AREOLA PIGMENTATION

Cancer Center Clinics

Do you know other local resources on the Gulf Coast that promote awareness and/or raise funds for breast cancer?
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Christy is Co-Founder and Owner of Gulf Coast Moms Blog. She was born in Costa Rica and moved to the United States when she was 6 years old. She vividly remembers flying into New Orleans and knew, in the moments to come, her life would change forever. She grew up in Moss Point and moved to Hattiesburg to attend college at Southern Miss, where she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She met her love, Matthew, and they have enjoyed married life for 13 years. They live in Long Beach with their precious children, John Salem and Ann-Michael. Prior to co-founding Gulf Coast Moms Blog, she had a successful 10+ year career in higher education administration, where she developed and spear-headed campus-wide student initiatives and events. Christy is now spending her days as a stay-at-home mom and serves her community through several non-profit organizations. She enjoys making Costa Rican tamales, a fresh margarita from El Aguila, annual sister spa day, collecting random owl things (Hootie Hoo to my Chi Omega sisters), words of wisdom from Irish priests and pool days. She is passionate about connecting women and creating a supportive, nurturing community to empower moms.