With the majority of our staff being female and a proportion of them being younger women, we feel as though it is important to focus some attention on Breast Cancer in young women as this may resonate with someone involved within our community. Our aim with this campaign is for those affected in some way, whether that be personally or through a loved one, to know their resources. Also, for those who may not be affected to know the signs and gain an understanding of the reality of breast cancer.
Considering the NHS doesn’t invite women until they are 50 years old to get a breast screening, we thought the following could give you an insight as to how the disease can affect people’s lives before 50 and what resources are available to utilise. Even though it is more uncommon in younger women, it still exists and is important to be aware of.
Being told you have cancer at any age isn’t easy, however we acknowledge there comes a lot when being told at a younger age. It can be hard to tell other people, whether this be family members, friends or work colleagues or even your children. This can come with anxiety around reactions and how they will respond as well as managing your own worries about the diagnosis.
Available Resources
These worries can follow with the feeling of loneliness leading to isolation, maybe you’re the first person in your family to be diagnosed with breast cancer and feel as though you struggle to talk to those around you. Trek Stock offer social and practical support to adults facing cancer in their 20s and 30s. Please visit this page to learn more about their services and what they can offer and get connected today. https://www.trekstock.com/
A mentioned previously with getting a breast cancer diagnosis comes with the anxiety of telling your children about the diagnosis also. However, Fruit Fly Collective produces toolkits to support parents to talk about cancer with their children. You can find on their website parental support, resources for kids, professional support as well as many more resources. If this sounds like this could benefit you and your family click the link to visit their page. https://www.fruitflycollective.com/
Another resource that may be beneficial to any staff members within Premier Community is Health Assured. They are a comprehensive employee assistance program (EAP) that provides clinical expertise and 24/7 support services. This is a great organisation to consider if you have been affected by the disease or maybe someone close to home has been diagnosed therefore causing worries and stress for yourself. Please visit https://www.healthassured.org/ to get in touch today and get talking.
As well as all the above possibilities there are also potential worries of body image, treatment, fertility and younger women with a family history of breast cancer. We highly recommend visiting Breast Cancer Now’s page when you can further read about Breast cancer in younger women and further information.
