Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't see your question below, click here to submit a question.
I've just found a lump, what should I do?
It is very important to have the lump evaluated by a medical physician. This involves a doctor's exam, a mammogram and if necessary, an ultrasound and then, if indicated, a biopsy. It is also important to have any unusual problems (such as nipple discharge) evaluated.
The BCRC has a program which provides vouchers for free mammograms to low-income women without insurance or medical coupons. To access this service, first contact a physician for a breast exam and obtain a Radiology Order Form from that physician. Once you have a Radiology Order Form, please call or visit our office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and we will speak with you regarding information and assistance in obtaining a mammogram voucher. If you have problems or questions, contact us at (253) 752-4222.
I've just been diagnosed.
The BCRC has many services that can assist you in your experience with breast cancer. These services can assist with some of your emotional, physical, social, financial and educational needs. A resource room with wigs, a support group and a library are just a few of these services. We are here for you. Please do not hesitate to call or come into our office. You can review our Programs and Services for detailed information or call the Center at (253) 752-4222.
Someone I know has just been diagnosed.
Staff are available to help you get help for your loved one and for you. For example, we have pamphlets and an extensive library that might assist you. We have also collected a large Online Resource Directory that you may find useful.
I'm looking for support services.
We are happy to meet with you to discuss what help you need and work to connect you to that help. For example, she can match you one on one with a volunteer breast cancer survivor to provide support during your treatment and recovery. You can also join our support group. You can review our Programs and Services for detailed information or call the Center at (253) 752-4222.
If you did not see your question above, you can ask the BCRC staff here
Internet Sites and Helpline Numbers
SusanLoveMD.com, The Website For Women
SusanLovemd.com welcomes all concerned about breast cancer and midlife issues. Here you will find the latest information, guidance and community resources.
http://www.susanlovemd.com
Accurate Breast Cancer Information from MCW
Accurate and timely breast cancer information from the Medical College of Wisconsin's HealthLink website. The site also contains a searchable index for other health and medical topics. Free subscription.
http://healthlink.mcw.edu/breast-cancer
Advanced Breast Cancer: A Guide to Living with Metastatic Disease
The only book on Breast Cancer that deals honestly with the realities of living with metastatic disease, yet offers hope and comfort.
Author Site: http://www.advancedbc.org
Book Purchase Site: http://oreilly.com/catalog/advbc
American Cancer Society
Contains information about the nature of Breast Cancer, causes, risk factors, and the latest strategies for prevention, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options.
http://www.cancer.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-227-2345
American Dietetic Association
Provides nutrition information, resources, and access to Registered Dieticians.
http://www.eatright.org
HELPLINE 1-800-366-1655
Artemis
John Hopkins Breast Cancer treatment Center e-zine with a wide range of information and links.
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/artemis
Avon's Awareness Crusade
Special site for Breast Cancer Awareness, screening services, and education. Includes message boards, press releases, and special events.
http://www.avoncrusade.com
BreastAdvice: All Your Breast Questions Answered
BreastAdvice contains over 90 articles written by experts who continually update and add new content. BreastAdvice was formed to offer a unique reference point on advice on breast shape, surgery, breast pain and more. All the information and advice you will need on breast health, cosmetic breast surgery, breastfeeding, choosing the right bra and making the best of your shape in one place.
http://www.breastadvice.co.uk
Breast and Cervical Health Program
Program provides free mammograms and Pap tests to income eligible women in Washington. Site provides information about services offered by WBCHP, current and archived news, and FAQs.
http://www.doh.wa.gov/wbchp/
Breast Cancer Center
This resource center has been created especially for those with Metastatic Breast Cancer and individuals that have been initially diagnosed with Stage IV cancer or who are facing a recurrence.
http://patientcenters.com/breastcancer
Breast Cancer Connections
Offers breast cancer information to patients and survivors of Breast Cancer
http://www.bcconnections.org
Breast Cancer Education Network
Links to discussions between leading medical specialists and breast cancer patients plus support information.
http://www.healthtalk.com/breastcancer
Breast Cancer Resource Center
Comprehensive guide to resources on Breast Cancer, including books, medical news, articles and information, message boards, links to related sites and more.
http://www.healingwell.com/breastcancer
BreastCancer.net
News and information on breast cancer, updated daily.
http://www.breastcancer.net
BreastCancer.org
Includes a talking dictionary that gives you the words you need to understand your breast cancer diagnosis and to ask for the treatments available. The caring and powerful voices of over 50 celebrities give woman words to live by plus much needed comfort and encouragement at the critical time when you can feel helpless and alone.
http://www.breastcancer.org
Cancer Care, Inc.
Staffed by social work professionals offering support services, education and information, referrals, and financial assistance.
http://www.cancercare.org
HELPLINE 1-800-813-4673
Cancer Fatigue
The Oncology Nursing Society explains what causes fatigue and offers practical advice for coping with it.
http://www.cancersymptoms.org
Cancer Information Network
Leading cancer information site for professional, patients and families. Includes full-text content from leading cancer publications.
http://www.cancernetwork.com
Chemotherapy and Beyond
Scott Hamilton's chemotherapy site offers the latest chemo information for cancer patients and their families, caregivers and friends.
http://www.chemocare.com
Cleaning For A Reason
Fighting cancer is difficult enough, but living with it is even tougher - and that's where the Cleaning for A Reason Foundation steps in. This newly formed nonprofit offers free professional housecleaning services to improve the lives of women undergoing treatment for cancer.
http://www.cleaningforareason.org
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-Information on Mammography
Provides toll-free hotline and information about Mammography and Breast Cancer, including the location of an FDA-certified mammography facility.
http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/mammography/index.html
FORCE: Facing our Risk of Cancer Empowered
Web-based support and information site for woman at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.
http://www.brca.com
Gerson Institute
Provides instructions, literature, and advice on where to learn about alternative therapies.
http://www.gerson.org
HELPLINE 1-619-267-1150
Harmony Hill Retreat Center
Offers free cancer retreats designed to give cancer patients the skills to cope with stress and tools to empower them to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges of cancer.
www.harmonyhill.org
Health Link On Breast Cancer
Information about the latest advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of breast cancer from physician specialists at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
http://www.healthlink.mcw.edu
Innovations in Breast Care
Innovations in breast health, mammograms and minimally invasive breast cancer diagnosis-featuring Mammotome.
http://www.breastinfo.com
Living Beyond Breast Cancer
Education organization committed to empowering all woman effected by breast cancer.
http://www.lbbc.org
HELPLINE 1-888-753-5222
MAID in the NORTHWEST
MAID in the NORTHWEST has partnered with Cleaning For A Reason to provide two women FREE cleaning every month for four months. We are limited as to the number we can support with this offer, so we are asking for your help. When you schedule cleaning and mention "Cleaning for a Reason." MAID in the NORTHWEST will fund a "Life Savings Account" that will be used to give even more women FREE house cleaning.
http://www.maidinthenw.com
Mautner Project for Lesbians with Cancer
A support organization for lesbians with cancer and their loved ones; information, resources in English or Spanish.
http://mautnerproject.org
HELPLINE 1-202-332-5536
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Overview and general information about breast cancer.
http://mskcc.org/mskcc/html/293.cfm
Mesothelioma Web
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lung caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma can have a dormancy period of up to 50 years; therefore, a person can be diagnosed with mesothelioma many years after they have been exposed. For more information about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, please visit:
www.mesotheliomaweb.org
National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations
New, Resources, support groups and volunteer information. Includes chat rooms and links to related sites.
http://www.nabco.org/
HELPLINE 1-800-719-9154
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
Nationwide network of support groups for cancer patients. Also check out the Cancer Survival Toolbox; audio tapes that can be listened to or read online to help cancer patients cope with daily challenges.
http://canceradvocacy.org
National Lymphedema Network
Provides education and guidance
http://lymphnet.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-541-3259
National Woman's Health Resource Center
http://www.healthywomen.org
HELPLINE 1-877-986-9472
Network of Strength
Support and information, created by woman with breast cancer, for anyone who has been touched by the disease
http://www.networkofstrength.org
HELPLINE 1-800-221-2141 Spanish: 1-312-986-9505
Nutritional Tips of Surviving Breast Cancer
Learn nutritional tips from a breast cancer survivor.
http://aimforherbs.com/breascanaw.html
Susan G Koman Breast Cancer Foundation
News, resources, support groups, events calendar, and volunteer information, includes chat rooms and links to related sites.
http://www.komen.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-462-9273
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
The largest national organization dedicated solely to funding clinical and/or genetic research in breast cancer.
http://www.bcrfcure.org
The John Hopkins Breast Cancer
Objective is to reduce the mortality and morbidity of breast cancer by providing patient education for all patients being treated for this disease.
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/breastcenter
The Lighthouse Community: People Helping People
TLC keeps you in touch with loved ones, friends, and others in your community when you are facing a catastrophic illness. your unique web page allows your community to e-mail a message, make discreet tax-deductible donations via Paypal or by check, and help with practical services. The Lighthouse Community, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization, is a free social support network for people who are struggling with catastrophic illnesses and the pending debt associated with them. (253)770-6094
http://www.thelighthousecommunity.org
Valley Cancer Institute
Researches, develops, and clinically applies the use of natural less toxic cancerocidal modalities. Located in Los Angeles, CA
http://www.vci.org
When Mommy or Daddy Get Cancer: A Cancer Parenting Program
Offered through the School of Nursing at the University of Washington. Patient educators are nurse clinicians experienced with working with families. The materials used in the program were carefully created by child specialists and nurse clinicians. (206)559-9671
http://www.son.washington.edu/research/grants/ShowAbstract.asp?ProjectID=882&Refer=FCN
"Who Holds The Mirror? Breast Cancer, Women's Lives And The Environment"
is a nationally traveling mural used to educate, and inspire action and dialogue about women's and community health, environmental and social justice. The mural seeks to make visible the sometimes invisible connections between breast cancer and numerous issues including:
http://www.whoholdsthemirror.com/zoo/index.html
Women's Cancer Resource Center of Oakland, California
Seeks to empower women with cancer to be active and informed consumers and survivors; to provide community for women with cancer and their supporters; to educate the general community about cancer; and to be actively involved in the struggle for a life-affirming, cancer-free society. Great resources, newsletters, and articles.
http://www.wcrc.org/index.htm
Women's Information Network Against Breast Cancer
To ensure that all individuals from all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds have rapid access to education, support, and information about breast cancer
http://www.winabc.org
Young Survival Coalition
Serves as a point of contact for young women living with breast cancer. YSC supports and educates young women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer.
www.youngsurvival.org
HELPLINE: 1-877-YSC-1011
SusanLovemd.com welcomes all concerned about breast cancer and midlife issues. Here you will find the latest information, guidance and community resources.
http://www.susanlovemd.com
Accurate Breast Cancer Information from MCW
Accurate and timely breast cancer information from the Medical College of Wisconsin's HealthLink website. The site also contains a searchable index for other health and medical topics. Free subscription.
http://healthlink.mcw.edu/breast-cancer
Advanced Breast Cancer: A Guide to Living with Metastatic Disease
The only book on Breast Cancer that deals honestly with the realities of living with metastatic disease, yet offers hope and comfort.
Author Site: http://www.advancedbc.org
Book Purchase Site: http://oreilly.com/catalog/advbc
American Cancer Society
Contains information about the nature of Breast Cancer, causes, risk factors, and the latest strategies for prevention, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options.
http://www.cancer.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-227-2345
American Dietetic Association
Provides nutrition information, resources, and access to Registered Dieticians.
http://www.eatright.org
HELPLINE 1-800-366-1655
Artemis
John Hopkins Breast Cancer treatment Center e-zine with a wide range of information and links.
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/artemis
Avon's Awareness Crusade
Special site for Breast Cancer Awareness, screening services, and education. Includes message boards, press releases, and special events.
http://www.avoncrusade.com
BreastAdvice: All Your Breast Questions Answered
BreastAdvice contains over 90 articles written by experts who continually update and add new content. BreastAdvice was formed to offer a unique reference point on advice on breast shape, surgery, breast pain and more. All the information and advice you will need on breast health, cosmetic breast surgery, breastfeeding, choosing the right bra and making the best of your shape in one place.
http://www.breastadvice.co.uk
Breast and Cervical Health Program
Program provides free mammograms and Pap tests to income eligible women in Washington. Site provides information about services offered by WBCHP, current and archived news, and FAQs.
http://www.doh.wa.gov/wbchp/
Breast Cancer Center
This resource center has been created especially for those with Metastatic Breast Cancer and individuals that have been initially diagnosed with Stage IV cancer or who are facing a recurrence.
http://patientcenters.com/breastcancer
Breast Cancer Connections
Offers breast cancer information to patients and survivors of Breast Cancer
http://www.bcconnections.org
Breast Cancer Education Network
Links to discussions between leading medical specialists and breast cancer patients plus support information.
http://www.healthtalk.com/breastcancer
Breast Cancer Resource Center
Comprehensive guide to resources on Breast Cancer, including books, medical news, articles and information, message boards, links to related sites and more.
http://www.healingwell.com/breastcancer
BreastCancer.net
News and information on breast cancer, updated daily.
http://www.breastcancer.net
BreastCancer.org
Includes a talking dictionary that gives you the words you need to understand your breast cancer diagnosis and to ask for the treatments available. The caring and powerful voices of over 50 celebrities give woman words to live by plus much needed comfort and encouragement at the critical time when you can feel helpless and alone.
http://www.breastcancer.org
Cancer Care, Inc.
Staffed by social work professionals offering support services, education and information, referrals, and financial assistance.
http://www.cancercare.org
HELPLINE 1-800-813-4673
Cancer Fatigue
The Oncology Nursing Society explains what causes fatigue and offers practical advice for coping with it.
http://www.cancersymptoms.org
Cancer Information Network
Leading cancer information site for professional, patients and families. Includes full-text content from leading cancer publications.
http://www.cancernetwork.com
Chemotherapy and Beyond
Scott Hamilton's chemotherapy site offers the latest chemo information for cancer patients and their families, caregivers and friends.
http://www.chemocare.com
Cleaning For A Reason
Fighting cancer is difficult enough, but living with it is even tougher - and that's where the Cleaning for A Reason Foundation steps in. This newly formed nonprofit offers free professional housecleaning services to improve the lives of women undergoing treatment for cancer.
http://www.cleaningforareason.org
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-Information on Mammography
Provides toll-free hotline and information about Mammography and Breast Cancer, including the location of an FDA-certified mammography facility.
http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/mammography/index.html
FORCE: Facing our Risk of Cancer Empowered
Web-based support and information site for woman at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.
http://www.brca.com
Gerson Institute
Provides instructions, literature, and advice on where to learn about alternative therapies.
http://www.gerson.org
HELPLINE 1-619-267-1150
Harmony Hill Retreat Center
Offers free cancer retreats designed to give cancer patients the skills to cope with stress and tools to empower them to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges of cancer.
www.harmonyhill.org
Health Link On Breast Cancer
Information about the latest advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of breast cancer from physician specialists at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
http://www.healthlink.mcw.edu
Innovations in Breast Care
Innovations in breast health, mammograms and minimally invasive breast cancer diagnosis-featuring Mammotome.
http://www.breastinfo.com
Living Beyond Breast Cancer
Education organization committed to empowering all woman effected by breast cancer.
http://www.lbbc.org
HELPLINE 1-888-753-5222
MAID in the NORTHWEST
MAID in the NORTHWEST has partnered with Cleaning For A Reason to provide two women FREE cleaning every month for four months. We are limited as to the number we can support with this offer, so we are asking for your help. When you schedule cleaning and mention "Cleaning for a Reason." MAID in the NORTHWEST will fund a "Life Savings Account" that will be used to give even more women FREE house cleaning.
http://www.maidinthenw.com
Mautner Project for Lesbians with Cancer
A support organization for lesbians with cancer and their loved ones; information, resources in English or Spanish.
http://mautnerproject.org
HELPLINE 1-202-332-5536
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Overview and general information about breast cancer.
http://mskcc.org/mskcc/html/293.cfm
Mesothelioma Web
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lung caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma can have a dormancy period of up to 50 years; therefore, a person can be diagnosed with mesothelioma many years after they have been exposed. For more information about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, please visit:
www.mesotheliomaweb.org
National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations
New, Resources, support groups and volunteer information. Includes chat rooms and links to related sites.
http://www.nabco.org/
HELPLINE 1-800-719-9154
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
Nationwide network of support groups for cancer patients. Also check out the Cancer Survival Toolbox; audio tapes that can be listened to or read online to help cancer patients cope with daily challenges.
http://canceradvocacy.org
National Lymphedema Network
Provides education and guidance
http://lymphnet.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-541-3259
National Woman's Health Resource Center
http://www.healthywomen.org
HELPLINE 1-877-986-9472
Network of Strength
Support and information, created by woman with breast cancer, for anyone who has been touched by the disease
http://www.networkofstrength.org
HELPLINE 1-800-221-2141 Spanish: 1-312-986-9505
Nutritional Tips of Surviving Breast Cancer
Learn nutritional tips from a breast cancer survivor.
http://aimforherbs.com/breascanaw.html
Susan G Koman Breast Cancer Foundation
News, resources, support groups, events calendar, and volunteer information, includes chat rooms and links to related sites.
http://www.komen.org
HELPLINE: 1-800-462-9273
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
The largest national organization dedicated solely to funding clinical and/or genetic research in breast cancer.
http://www.bcrfcure.org
The John Hopkins Breast Cancer
Objective is to reduce the mortality and morbidity of breast cancer by providing patient education for all patients being treated for this disease.
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/breastcenter
The Lighthouse Community: People Helping People
TLC keeps you in touch with loved ones, friends, and others in your community when you are facing a catastrophic illness. your unique web page allows your community to e-mail a message, make discreet tax-deductible donations via Paypal or by check, and help with practical services. The Lighthouse Community, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization, is a free social support network for people who are struggling with catastrophic illnesses and the pending debt associated with them. (253)770-6094
http://www.thelighthousecommunity.org
Valley Cancer Institute
Researches, develops, and clinically applies the use of natural less toxic cancerocidal modalities. Located in Los Angeles, CA
http://www.vci.org
When Mommy or Daddy Get Cancer: A Cancer Parenting Program
Offered through the School of Nursing at the University of Washington. Patient educators are nurse clinicians experienced with working with families. The materials used in the program were carefully created by child specialists and nurse clinicians. (206)559-9671
http://www.son.washington.edu/research/grants/ShowAbstract.asp?ProjectID=882&Refer=FCN
"Who Holds The Mirror? Breast Cancer, Women's Lives And The Environment"
is a nationally traveling mural used to educate, and inspire action and dialogue about women's and community health, environmental and social justice. The mural seeks to make visible the sometimes invisible connections between breast cancer and numerous issues including:
http://www.whoholdsthemirror.com/zoo/index.html
Women's Cancer Resource Center of Oakland, California
Seeks to empower women with cancer to be active and informed consumers and survivors; to provide community for women with cancer and their supporters; to educate the general community about cancer; and to be actively involved in the struggle for a life-affirming, cancer-free society. Great resources, newsletters, and articles.
http://www.wcrc.org/index.htm
Women's Information Network Against Breast Cancer
To ensure that all individuals from all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds have rapid access to education, support, and information about breast cancer
http://www.winabc.org
Young Survival Coalition
Serves as a point of contact for young women living with breast cancer. YSC supports and educates young women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer.
www.youngsurvival.org
HELPLINE: 1-877-YSC-1011
The Breast Cancer Resource Center does not make referral to any medical facilities or physicians.
Medical knowledge changes rapidly. In view of the possibility of human error or changes in the field of medicine, the Breast Cancer Resource Center cannot guarantee that the information contained herein is in every respect accurate and complete. The Breast Cancer Resource Center is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information found on this website with their doctor.
Medical knowledge changes rapidly. In view of the possibility of human error or changes in the field of medicine, the Breast Cancer Resource Center cannot guarantee that the information contained herein is in every respect accurate and complete. The Breast Cancer Resource Center is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information found on this website with their doctor.
Copyright © 2009 Breast Cancer Resource Center
This URL is http://bcrcwa.org/resources.html