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Two Newry women have set up their own breast cancer support group after seeing how important listening to the experience of others helped them through their cancer journey. 'Breast Mates Newry' was launched recently following a meeting in the city.
After seeing how their own health and wellbeing improved through a six week art programme as part of the Southern Trust’s Personalised Cancer Care Project, Ann O’Brien and Catrina McBride, felt a specific group for those with or recovering from breast cancer would be hugely beneficial to the local area.
With the support of Caroline Hillen, SHSCT Personalised Cancer Care Project Officer and along with Maura McClean, Macmillan Engagement Lead for Northern Ireland their idea led to Ann and Catriona organising an engagement session to launch ‘Breast Mates Newry’ – an all-female group for those living with or beyond breast cancer. The event was funded by Macmillan Cancer Support in the Canal Court.
Ann and Catrina, who met each other in 2020 during the COVID pandemic, whilst going through Breast Cancer treatment, expressed how challenging and overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can be.
Catriona said “I know from personal experience that a breast cancer diagnosis can lead to people feeling very alone and meeting with others who are going through a similar experience and sharing information can really help.
Ann added “The ‘Create and Connect’ programme provided me the opportunity to meet others in a similar experience, hearing everyone’s personal story and build new friendships. It provided me with that all important peer support and I found it very helpful to me during my journey.
“Following on from participating in the programme, Catrina and I sought interest via social media for a Breast Support Group in the local area and so we jointly hosted an event with Macmillan Cancer Support, in the Canal Court in Newry on 14th June. We wanted to make sure everyone in the group had their voice heard in how the group moves forward.
“The event allowed us to do this – gathering insight into the ladies expectations of the group, what activities they would like to see the group involved in, and to discuss and agree the finer details of the group such as when, where and how often the group should meet”.
Catrina added “The event was very well attended demonstrating the need for a support group in the local area and we are thankful for all the positive feedback we have received.”
If anyone would like more information on the group or joining them at their regular meetings, Breast Mates Newry has a private Facebook page. Anyone wishing to join the group can message the Facebook page or contact Caroline Hillen, Macmillan Personalised Care Project worker at (028) 3756 2227.
