Girlfriends, did you know that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women of color? When one of our GIRLFRIENDS is diagnosed with breast cancer, it not only affects her, it affects all of us! Here at GIRLFRIENDS we are dedicated to providing hope, awareness, education, social, and emotional support to breast cancer survivors, their families, and the community.

Throughout the years, millions of women who have survived breast cancer have provided information to help us better understand what is most helpful in assisting them in their continued fight against this disease

As a breast cancer survivor, you have been given the divine opportunity to celebrate life boldly through mind, body & spirit!

Here are some very important suggestions!!

1. Visualize yourself strong, healthy, and vital. Bring this image to mind several times a day!
2. Your spirituality is an important part of your healing process. Use it to help you gain strength and stay focused.
3. Involve your family and close friends in your treatment and healing process! They are your advocates and your support systems. Allow them to be there for you! If this isn’t an option, join a support group. Get rid of toxic relationships.
4. Learn relaxation techniques, stress management techniques, and coping skills in a supportive group to manage the side effects of treatment and improve emotional well-being.
5. Use Affirmations – A single phrase or a quote to gain emotional comfort and control.
6. Develop a genuine, open and assertive relationship with your doctor. She/He is your key resource!
7. Consult a mental health professional if you are experiencing extended periods of depression and/or sadness.
8. Exercise!! This will build your energy, strength and will assist in the healing process!
9. LAUGH, LAUGH, LAUGH! It is by far the best medicine!!
10. Express your feelings honestly! Concentrate on what is best for you, don’t try to please others by hiding your true feeling to make others feel more comfortable.
11. Above all keep a positive attitude, and realize that it is OK to have some bad days….this too shall pass!!

Remember Girlfriends, you are beautiful, and deserving of everything this universe has to offer…so continue to celebrate life boldly through mind, body, & spirit!

Dr. Lia Knox Ivey
Psychologist
Licencesd Clinical Professional Counselor