March 24, 2005

Breast Cancer Survivor Group: One of a Kind in Minnesota
[Editor's note: co-facilitators Judi and Barbara, along with support group members, are available for interviews]

St. Paul, Minn., When Judi and Barbara began co-facilitating Women Facing Forward in October 2004, they were overwhelmed by the close connection that was quickly established among the group of breast cancer survivors.

Ranging in age from the early 30s to their 70s, this support group is comprised solely of women who are transitioning into life following cancer treatment and exploring the "new normal" after their lives have been changed by cancer. Here, they share their joys, fears, frustrations and triumphs on a number of topics ranging from re-entering the workplace post-cancer to spirituality discussions, body image concerns, recurrence anxiety, constant fatigue and relationship issues.

For Barbara, a psychologist and mother of three young children who recently celebrated her first anniversary being cancer-free, and Judi, a nurse, mother of two young adults and survivor of more than eight years, this survivors-only group shares a common bond in understanding issues they all endured as cancer patients, but also a bond after cancer when "the casseroles and cards stop coming."

The facilitators say that even as cancer survivors, there is continued stress and fear, especially when its time for their routine, annual mammograms.

Barbara's and Judi's stories represent the group of eight, or so, who meet every other Tuesday evening at Regions Hospital in St. Paul to discuss varying topics and enjoy the camaraderie of others who understand where they've been and hope to continue "facing forward" in life.

Women Facing Forward is free and welcomes women transitioning out of treatment or those who have completed treatment to join the support group.

To interview a Women Facing Forward support group member or attend a support group meeting, contact Jennifer Kovacich of Regions Hospital public relations at (651) 254-4726 or by pager at (651) 629-0411.