March 2006

Hello, friend of Y-ME!

When breast cancer touches your life, it’s easy to focus entirely on the disease.  This month, we bring you information that will help you put yourself first.

Navigating breast cancer in the workplace - 84% of cancer survivors return to work within four years of their diagnosis.  Many want to know how a breast cancer diagnosis may affect health insurance coverage, finances and earning capacity.   Also, how much should you share with your employer and coworkers? >>Read more

Reclaim your body with exercise - Exercise is an area of your life where you can act to promote your health. Regular exercise will help you feel better -- and help you reclaim your body -- during or after treatment. If your workout bores you, or feels more like a punishment than pleasure… >>Read more

Find local support at your Y-ME affiliate
Get involved with your local Y-ME Affiliate!  Ten chapters across the country offer peer support, educational programs, local resources and advocacy initiatives (services vary by area). >>Find your Affiliate now.

Request a free packet on managing fatigue
This packet will help you understand cancer-related fatigue: what it is, what causes it and what you can do about it. Talking with your health care team and those who care about you is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. >>Order your hard copy packet  or read Y-ME’s brochure (PDF) 

What are you doing this Mother's Day?
Y-ME’s Walk to Empower and the Y-ME RACE are expanding to nine cities this Mother’s Day, May 14, 2006.  The events promise to inspire and empower all who attend. Honor survivors, commemorate your own diagnosis or remember a loved one. >>Join a team or sign up as an individual

 
Check out where we're walking in 2006

We asked about intimacy and you answered!
In last month’s poll, we asked how your sex life has been affected by breast cancer.  40% reported that it is worse.  One woman said, “I've tried lubricants but sex is still very painful. I feel alone and inadequate and I miss enjoying sex.”  Another 39% answered, “What sex life?”  However, reader Laura told us, “Two breasts, one breast or no breasts.... it doesn't matter. I have firsthand knowledge on how wonderful the new intimacy is.” >>Read her story 

We know intimacy may be problematic after a breast cancer diagnosis. Have an issue you'd like to discuss? Call Y-ME at 800-221-2141 and speak with someone who's been there.

This month, we ask you, "What are some ways you reconnect with yourself and your body?"  >>Submit your story and ideas

Submit your breast cancer and breast health questions, and a trained peer counselor will respond.

Consider making a donation to Y-ME.

Help get the word out about Y-ME's free resources by passing on Peer to Peer to family and friends.

Faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, would you:

A. Take better care of your body
B. Develop your spirituality
C. Fulfill lifelong dreams
D. Indulge yourself
E. Overindulge or self-destruct

Have a poll question you’d like to ask fellow Peer to Peer readers? Send your ideas to contact@y-me.org.

Spread cheer this spring with  cards from the Y-ME Card Shop. $1 from each card benefits Y-ME.

Purchase a gift from the Y-ME Store