Breast Cancer Support Aotearoa (BCSA) begins the year with the continuation of its ‘Cuppa and a Chat’ online support groups. Held on Zoom, the inaugural groups were so successful last year that Chair Liz Pennington is keen to continue and encourages women to join these informal sessions.
‘We welcome anyone with a lived experience of breast cancer (any age and stage of their journey) to participate in this peer-led online support group,’ says Liz. ‘The group provides a welcoming space to connect with others who share similar experiences, a place to give and receive support.’
Groups meet once a month on Zoom and there are sessions at 11am and 7pm on the day. The groups are facilitated by Liz and BCSA National Coordinator Jane Bissell, and information and schedules can be found on the BCSA website here: https://www.breastcancersupport.org.nz/news-and-events/
BCSA held the first training programme for its volunteer ‘Buddies’ in December 2023. The programme prepares our volunteers for their roles as peer supporters, working one-to-one with women newly diagnosed. BCSA is looking for more women who would like to train to become ‘Buddies’ and invites those interested to get in touch by emailing support@breastcancersupport.org.nz. The next training is scheduled for February 27 – 29 (online) with a further programme planned for early June.
