Several organizations are making a significant impact on improving the health and wellness of Black women facing cancer. These groups not only offer support but also work to close the gap in healthcare disparities and provide vital resources to those in need.
Sisters Network Inc.
Sisters Network Inc. is a national organization with 22 survivor-run affiliate chapters across the country. Their mission is to improve Black women’s access to mammograms and quality breast cancer care, while also providing essential resources and education about the disease. The organization hosts various events, including an annual fundraising walk and educational webinars. On their website, they offer a breast cancer fact sheet, questions to ask doctors, and a glossary of relevant medical terms. Additionally, Sisters Network Inc. runs a financial assistance program for women undergoing treatment and offers free mammograms for underserved and uninsured women.
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Creating a Community That Was Needed
Founder Karen Eubanks Jackson established the organization after recognizing a lack of support for Black women with breast cancer. Her goal was to create a space where these women could find the assistance and community they deserve.
African American Breast Cancer Alliance (AABCA)
The African American Breast Cancer Alliance has been promoting breast health awareness in Black communities for over 30 years. The alliance produces culturally specific educational materials and offers programs like a virtual support group via Zoom for Black women and men diagnosed with breast cancer. They also host an annual retreat for female survivors of all backgrounds affected by any type of cancer.
Carrie’s TOUCH
Carrie’s TOUCH provides connection and support for Black women diagnosed with breast cancer. Their free app, **Survive and Thrive**, includes features like meditations, affirmations, access to support groups, and a directory of oncologists of color. They also offer financial resources and therapy options, creating a holistic support system for survivors.
Endometrial Cancer Action Network for African-Americans (ECANA)
ECANA is dedicated to supporting Black women diagnosed with endometrial cancer. They offer weekly virtual gatherings and share survivor stories and research updates on their website. Their educational section includes a glossary of key terms, an overview of diagnosis and treatment, and printable worksheets with questions to ask healthcare providers. ECANA aims to empower women to make informed decisions about their care.
For the Breast of Us (FTBOU)
For the Breast of Us provides a vibrant, supportive community for women of color battling breast cancer. They offer numerous ways to connect, including a **Breast Cancer Baddie Directory** and a private Facebook group. Women can also attend virtual or in-person events, follow their Instagram @forthebreastodus, and listen to their podcast, “Baddie 2 Baddie,” available on major streaming platforms.
SHARE Cancer Support
SHARE Cancer Support serves all women affected by breast, ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancers, with special programming designed for Black women. They offer monthly virtual support groups for Black women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and additional groups for women of African descent with ovarian or breast cancer.
Tigerlily Foundation
The Tigerlily Foundation works to ensure that women of color, especially those facing health disparities, are included in clinical trials for breast cancer treatments. Through their clinical trials initiative, they aim to increase the participation of women of color and provide tools to help them find the right trials. Their website offers an array of resources, including downloadable toolkits on self-advocacy, health literacy, and finding culturally competent care.
These organizations are doing vital work to support Black women in their cancer journeys, offering resources, education, and community to help close the gap in healthcare disparities.
