When Your Loved One Has Breast Cancer

Your loved one has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. In the midst of your turmoil of feelings, you may be wondering, "How can I help her?"

"She is going to need someone to be by her side, to go with her to the doctor appointments. Treat her like the person you know and love," recommends Sandra Kienitz, RN, CBPN-C, nurse navigator for Southwest's Kearney Breast Center. "Listening to her may be the most important thing you can offer."

"Pay attention to things that are more difficult for her," Sandra continues. "She may initially have trouble with bathing or dressing. She may be too fatigued at times to want to do her daily activities. She may have days of emotional pain, grief and rage. She may become self-conscious about the changes to her body. Look for ways to support her, and ask her what will help — her answer may change over time."

Southwest offers Breast Cancer Support Groups for breast cancer patients and their loved ones, including a group specifically for breast cancer patients under 40. Nurse navigators can also help patients and their families throughout their journey with cancer.

 Free! Download Southwest's "Understanding Breast Cancer" brochure (PDF).

Contact Us

Kearney Breast Center
200 NE Mother Joseph Place, Suite 420
Vancouver, WA 98665

360.514.6161 (Breast Center main number)
360.514.6164 (Nurse Navigator) or send email
360.891.2642 (Radiologists)
360.213.9955 or 503.808.9803 (Southwest Medical Group Surgical Specialists)
360.989.3494 (Southwest Medical Group Plastic Surgery)