Even for those who would not describe themselves as a “support group type of person,” talking with others after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be the first step in helping you cope with the uncertainties and anxieties that lie ahead. Whether you have just received a cancer diagnosis, or if you have been struggling for a while, everything might seem too overwhelming to consider how to manage the stress, discomfort, and worry that often are part of the diagnosis and treatment.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Bridget Simonin, works with oncology patients who may also have other chronic conditions, as well as breast cancer survivors and their families. “They may also have other issues, such as depression and anxiety, which can be the result of having been through the trauma of cancer or other life changing conditions,” she said. “Caregivers can sometimes need as much support as patients do. People don’t always realize they could be struggling as much as the patient.”
Simonin said she supports patients and their families, depending on their situation. “I’m here to offer emotional support services, and help people navigate within the healthcare system,” she explained. “I advocate for patients in different ways such as communicating with the healthcare team on their behalf, assisting with funding and other resources.”
She added that joining a support group can help overall recovery.
“A true support group is about the needs of its members; whether it is to listen to speakers talk about various topics related to cancer, or if it’s just a place for fellowship and finding support between members,” she said.
Joining one of many breast cancer support groups, which offer time and space for patients and family members to share feelings and anxieties in a caring environment with people in similar circumstances may help alleviate feelings of isolation.
Medical Director of Breast Cancer Services Dr. Colleen Silva said she often directs her patients to support groups, particularly just after their diagnosis, when it’s early on in their journey with cancer.
“It’s such an emotional roller coaster ride,” she said. “If a patient is struggling with what a surgery might look like or feel like, or what the recovery might be, finding a support group with other women can be so helpful. Everyone’s journey is unique, but there are a lot of common things, and a lot of basic questions that someone might not ask their doctor that can be talked about in a support group.”
She does hear patients say that they’re not “joiners,” but it’s still important for everyone to know the resources are available.
“Even though you don’t think you want to join anything now, you might find it helpful at some point to talk to others who have been through what you’re going through,” she said.
Dr. Silva said that Simonin has been working to revive a breast cancer support group called Reconstruction of a Survivor at UTMB for patients in all stages of their cancer journey. The group was established by a breast cancer survivor named Jennie Bennett, a math educator, author, and researcher from Houston. The group met regularly for many years and actively offered support services to women until the COVID pandemic shutdown. The mission of Reconstruction of a Survivor is primarily to allow women in treatment, survivors, and their families an opportunity to network and find fellowship with others.
“That group has dwindled away since COVID, but Bridget is working to revive it and through this article, we are hoping that people will see it,” Dr. Silva said. “We want people to know the group is still here, and it’s available as a resource to our community. We would really like to get it up and running again.”
Although Jennie Bennett died in in January 2024, the group is her legacy. “She supported us in building our legacy of helping women with breast cancer. We want to support hers by keeping this group going.”
UTMB is offering an in-person Breast Cancer Support group. Those who are interested can contact Bridget Simonin, LCSW at 832-505-0392 or email her at blsimoni@utmb.edu. Other in-person cancer support groups in the area include Cancer Crushers and a Women’s Cancer Support group for all types of cancer.
Simonin said that for information and guidance on survivorship, she directs the patients she works with to Susan G. Komen, the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, and the Breast Cancer Survivorship and Support at UTMB Overview.