A Monthly Publication

Breast Cancer Reconstruction Support Group
By Sue Henry

 Keeping Abreast was established in September 2007 by two patients and a Breast Reconstruction nurse specialist at the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital. They recognised there is a great need for women, both newly diagnosed with breast cancer facing the possibility of mastectomy, and also women further down the line who are also considering reconstructive surgery, to be able to meet and talk to other women who have been through similar experiences.

  The support group in West Norfolk is held at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital every other month and is open to women who are considering immediate or delayed breast reconstruction. They are also attended by women who already have had surgery and those at various stages of reconstruction, including nipple reconstruction and related procedures.

Many of those attending will be happy to speak openly of their experiences and show the results of their surgery. Everyone is welcome to bring along a friend or relative for support.

Keeping Abreast meetings offer:

· An informal and relaxed atmosphere

· The opportunity to meet other  women facing the same issues

· Direct access to women who have already benefited from surgery

· Answers to questions from people with recent experience of issues you are facing

· Informative talks from professionals associated with breast reconstruction and general wellbeing

Our next meeting will take place Wednesday 3^rd February at 7 30pm in the Lecture Theatre, Medical Education Centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kings Lynn where there will be an informal evening of information and discussion on Breast Reconstruction and Lymphoedema by June Patterson, the Lymphoedema Nurse.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available.

Tel 01760 444291

www.keepingabreast.org.uk