This Wednesday, we’re focusing on a part of wellness that is so important but sometimes overlooked while navigating the whirlwind of a breast cancer diagnosis: the power of advocating for yourself.
Advocating for yourself doesn’t mean having all the answers, being endlessly confident, or navigating everything on your own. It simply means honouring your needs, your values, and your voice - even on the days when speaking up feels hard. It’s about trusting that you are the expert in your own body and your own lived experience.
💗 Why self‑advocacy matters
When you advocate for yourself, you help shape a care experience that reflects who you are and what matters to you. This can mean:
- asking for clearer explanations
- seeking a second opinion
- saying when something doesn’t feel right
- requesting extra emotional, cultural, or practical support
- taking time to make decisions
- voicing what you need to feel safe and informed
These conversations can deepen trust with your treating team and empower you to make choices with greater confidence and clarity.
🌱 Small ways to strengthen your advocacy
You don’t need to be loud or forceful - advocacy can be gentle and supported:
- Bring a support person to appointments
- Write down questions beforehand
- Ask for information in the format you prefer (written, verbal, print, digital)
- Let your team know how you make decisions best
- Take space when you need to — it’s okay to say “I need time to think about this”
🔎 Questions to Ask Your Treating Team
We've compiled the following lists of questions designed to help you on the path to having your voice heard during appointments with your treating team as you navigate a breast cancer diagnosis. Click the link below:
💪Be your best advocate with your treating team
💬 A gentle reminder
Your voice should e an essential part of your health care plan. Give our Helpline team a call on 1800 500 258 if you're feeling stuck and are wanting to explore how you can best advocate for yourself during your breast cancer journey.
