A breast cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming, but you don’t have to make this journey alone. Numerous support networks and resources are available to help you navigate the emotional and psychological impact of the disease, treatment, and recovery. Below, we provide information about and links to a variety of resources and groups where you can find emotional support, financial assistance, medical information, and more.
Breast cancer is a complex topic. It can be difficult for cancer patients to get their heads around what their test results mean, what’s happening in their bodies, and what various treatment options involve. Rather than diving into countless hours of Googling, save time and ensure you’re getting quality information by accessing resources that are developed specifically for patients like you.
Most abnormal mammograms do not lead to cancer diagnosis. However, after any abnormal mammogram result, follow-up care is crucial to clarify what was seen on the mammography images and determine appropriate care. Follow up might include additional mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and/or biopsy. To better understand what this process looks like, we’ve created a helpful guide titled, “What Does Mammography Follow Up Involve?” that walks you through it.
There are many different types of breast cancer, which can present with different symptoms, progress differently, and require different interventions. Our Types of Breast Cancer Guide provides an overview of some of the most common forms of breast cancer, including information about symptoms, prognosis, and treatment. You can find a condensed “at-a-glance” version of this information in its corresponding infographic.
Clinical trials provide access to developing treatments. Enrolling in a clinical trial has both advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to discuss these with your doctor. Numerous resources exist for finding appropriate clinical trials. John Stoddard Cancer Center and Mercy One in Des Moines, as well as the University of Iowa, provide lists, sorted by cancer type, on their websites:
Getting help with the little things can really add up. Fortunately, Central Iowans are stepping up and offering their support for breast cancer patients in a variety of ways.
The John Stoddard Cancer Center, a service of UnityPoint Health in Des Moines, offers a variety of support groups, including both in-person and virtual options, for patients and their families. Those affected by breast cancer may benefit from offerings such as their Advanced and Recurrent Cancer Support Group, Caregiver Support Group, and Life Beyond Breast Cancer. You can find an up-to-date list of the John Stoddard Cancer Center’s support groups here.
Located on Level A of John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines, Empower Boutique and Salon is available to patients throughout their cancer journey. The shop offers low-cost headwear such as wigs, scarves, and turbans as well as no-cost salon services such as haircuts, shaving, and scalp massage.
Above + Beyond Cancer offers free exercise and wellness programs for patients at all stages of their cancer journeys as well as caregivers. Examples include aquatic exercise, meditation, nutrition, tai chi, walking, rowing, and more! Find community and support your healing process in a fun and supportive environment. You can view Above + Beyond Cancer's current calendar here.
Can Do Cancer is dedicated to improving the lives of breast cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy in the Des Moines and Ames areas. They do this by providing meals, house cleaning services, informational resources, and motivational support throughout the course of treatment. Patients who enroll with Can Do Cancer can request some or all of these services. The organization’s Patient Partners work individually with members to answer questions and serve as confidential resources throughout the chemotherapy journey. You can find answers to frequently asked questions about the program here or get started by enrolling here.
Cleaning for a Reason is a nonprofit organization operating throughout the U.S and Canada that offers home cleaning services to patients who are undergoing active cancer treatment. The organization lists Ames-based phClean as a participating provider. Learn more and apply for services (either for yourself or for a loved one) here: https://cleaningforareason.org/patients/.
Facing breast cancer is challenging, but with resources and support networks like these, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Iowa Radiology, we understand how overwhelming a cancer journey can be. That’s just one of the many reasons we focus on providing compassionate care, taking the time to fully answer patients’ questions and making them as comfortable as possible during their time with us. Feel free to browse our library of free resources as well as our blog, where you can find helpful information on a wide range of health topics.