Online support for metastatic breast cancer patients

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) has launched its iSurvivor Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) email support programme as part of breast cancer awareness month in October.

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In addition to existing online support offerings and ground level support programmes for cancer patients, this programme is aimed at assisting and helping mostly MBC patients with their experienced challenges. 

Gerda Strauss, CANSA’s Head of Service said, “MBC cancer patients’ long-term diagnosis means that they live with many side effects and challenges daily.”

The limitations of their condition don’t always allow them to attend face-to-face support groups and so it’s important to offer something meaningful and helpful online.

With the help of experts and MBC patients, CANSA’s existing iSurvivor email support programme was re-written with a focus on the needs of MBC patients.

Patients will receive weekly emails over 16 weeks helping to guide and support them with regards to coping.”

“Novartis is proud to collaborate and partner with CANSA on this wonderful initiative to support Metastatic Breast Cancer patients during their journey. This digital patient support initiative, using email as the communication channel, is an excellent enhancement of CANSA’s support offerings. Especially during these times, it allows patients to gain support without risking harmful exposure,” stated Dr Gary Sopher, Medical Director Oncology, Novartis South Africa.

MBC patients can sign up for the support programme here and please share with any other patients who can benefit. Please also join CANSA for the MBC Webinar, 28 October 2020 at 6pm. Register at info@cansa.org.za to hear insights and about MBC from patients and medical professionals as guests.

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