Did you know that 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and 1 in 43 will die from the disease?
As we wrap Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, this is the perfect time to reach out for support and a reminder that breast cancer, and any type of cancer, is an issue that deserves year-round awareness.
Among the avenues:
Local and state resources
• Florida Breast Cancer Foundation (FBCF): Has an office in Miami and provides financial assistance for living expenses, medical items, and mammograms. It also offers statewide virtual support groups.
11900 Biscayne Blvd # 288, North Miami, FL 33181
Phone: (877) 644-3222
• Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute: Offers comprehensive and personalized cancer care. It has a Women’s Cancer Center that specializes in breast cancer treatment.
8900 N Kendall Dr, Miami, FL 33176
Phone: (786) 596-2000
• The Beautiful Gate Cancer Support & Resource Center: Offers support and resources for cancer patients, and a way for uninsured women to receive free mammograms.
Phone: (386) 220-5761
National organizations
Provides a wide range of resources, including information, support, and research.
9500 S Dadeland Blvd #710, Miami, FL 33156
Phone: (786) 535-7147
• Susan G. Komen:
Offers financial assistance programs for eligible individuals undergoing treatment and information on support resources.
Breast Care Helpline: 1-877-465-6636 or helpline@komen.org
• National Breast Cancer Foundation:
Hosts in-person and virtual support groups to connect patients and survivors.
Phone: (972) 248-9200
• Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF):
Provides case management to help patients navigate treatment and access financial aid.
Phone: (800) 532-5274
• CancerCare:
A national nonprofit that provides professional support services and referrals for financial assistance.
• The Pink Fund:
Offers financial assistance to cover health insurance premiums for those in active treatment.
• National Lymphedema Network:
Provides resources for lymphedema, including information on financial assistance and support groups.
Other resources
• National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program:
Provides access to free or low-cost screening exams to eligible women who are uninsured or underinsured.
• Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation:
Offers financial aid to qualified patients undergoing cancer treatment.
A national organization that provides financial assistance for things like co-pays, breast prosthesis, and medical bras.