When caring for someone with breast cancer, “busy” can be an understatement. Each caregiver’s situation is unique to them, but it’s more common than not to feel stressed, scared, and generally overwhelmed with balancing the unique challenges of it all. Know that you are not alone in this!
Due to various socio-economic reasons, being able to hire full-time help from formal caregivers such as home nurses is rare. A recent report by the National Cancer Institute found that 88% of the caregivers surveyed were actually relatives or friends. Statistics also showed that while caregivers are involved in their loved one’s care during hospitalization, providers don’t always ask questions or offer necessary support to the caregiver once their loved one is discharged.
Many people may be unaware of various resources that are available to them. We’ve put together a guide for our top four most requested resources from caregivers throughout the state. Quick tip: Save this article for easy access to the links if you’d like a reference list on the go!
Order a Free Newly Diagnosed Kit with a Caregiver Packet
Let’s face it, understanding the ins and outs of a breast cancer diagnosis isn’t easy. After a new diagnosis, you may be thinking, “What’s next?” VBCF’s free kits will provide a “road map” to guide you and your loved one along the journey.
- Customize a free Newly Diagnosed Kit for your loved one. Everyone is different, and so are their needs! You’ll have the option to add Caregiver resources. Even if this is not a new diagnosis, let us know what we can send you to help.
- Request a solo Caregiver Packet. Order the Caregiver folder by itself if a Newly Diagnosed kit has already been received.
- VBCF also offers Survivorship Kits. Help them thrive as they transition to life after treatment.
Find Financial, Legal, and Insurance Help
At least a quarter of the people in the survey experienced high financial strain. Finding the right resources for your unique situation can improve your quality of life and thus help you find the balance to move forward confidently with whatever challenges may arise.
- Check out VBCF’s Financial Resource Listings.
- Cancer & Careers provides resources related to working during treatment, returning to work, legal rights, understanding eligibility & benefits of the ADA and FMLA, and more.
- Triage Cancer provides a variety of tools to learn more about legal and financial issues related to cancer, including their cancer finances toolkit.
Set Up a Support System
Every person’s support system is just as unique as them. While some have large families and lots of folks to check in frequently, many are not as lucky. It is so important to be mindful of your own needs to avoid feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
- Find a Support Group for you or your loved one in our online directory. VBCF also lists groups specifically for Caregivers in our resources. Sharing experiences, hope, and understanding is one of the best ways to learn what tools work best for you.
- Talk to a Therapist. Reach out if you need help. Having a professional to help you navigate this difficult time can combat depression, anxiety, and allow you to find strength in the process.
- Get the Lend Them a Helping Hand app! Although people may reach out to offer help, it can be difficult to organize what’s offered to you during this difficult time. This free app can help!
- Visit HelpforCancerCaregivers.org to create your own personalized caregiving plan, including working in breaks for yourself and respite care.
Become an Advocate
After such a life-changing experience, many people want to learn more about how they can educate others and help bring an end to breast cancer once and for all. Here are just a few ways you can help!
- Become an Advocate! VBCF works year-round to advocate for improved public policies related to breast cancer and health care access. No experience is needed!
- Volunteer for the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation. From bundling educational materials to speaking at educational events, we’re always accepting new volunteers.
- Watch VBCF’s Webinars to learn more about various topics.
- Sign up for our E-Newsletter and our Print News.
We hope this blog is helpful! If you have any questions or need help finding a resource, please reach out to VBCF’s Operations & Resource Coordinator, Nikki Jennings, at nikki@vbcf.org or call us at 800-345-8223.
