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A diagnosis of breast cancer is often paired with difficult sensations, emotions and responses including fear, shock, numbness and disbelief, anger, betrayal, grief and sadness. In the midst of this emotional trauma, information must be gathered, often a new language of medical terms learned, treatment choices must be understood and difficult decisions must be made. Women often report being overwhelmed or at least intensely challenged to make sense of the medical maze. Information can help. Emotional support can help. It is important during the stressful time of a new diagnosis to give some thought to how you learn and how you can most easily receive emotional support. Who in your life can be present to help to gather information, hear medical conversations? If you are doing the data gathering yourself, what support do you need from breast cancer clinicians? This section of our web page is designed to provide you with general information about breast cancer and its treatment. We see the information here as a starting point to help you begin to understand the range of terminology, procedures, and treatments associated with breast care and breast cancer. With information such as this, we hope, as a patient, you will be more enabled to participate with your doctor in planning the best possible treatment; or as a friend or family member, you will be better able to support someone close to you who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. This section is intended as a source of information and educational resource to assist you in the dialogue with your physician. This information does not replace the expertise and clinical judgment of your physician. Each patient's situation must be evaluated individually by a medical team. It is important to discuss all information regarding your breast health and treatment options with your physician.
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